When the chill of winter begins to settle in, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, nourishing soup. This spinach mushroom tortellini soup is a perfect recipe to keep you cozy and satisfied. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also packed with flavors that blend seamlessly to create a delightful culinary experience. Here’s how you can bring this comforting dish to your dining table.
Ingredients List
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes
- 1 pound of cheese-filled tortellini
- 5 ounces of fresh spinach, washed
- 1 cup of heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until they are soft and the edges start to brown.
- Sprinkle the thyme, basil, and oregano over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the broth and the diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Adding Tortellini and Spinach
- Increase the heat to bring the soup back to a gentle boil. Add the tortellini, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.
- Add the spinach, allowing it to wilt in the hot soup.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream or milk to make the soup creamy.
- Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
🌟 Note: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can also add chopped carrots or celery when you add the mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the rich broth.
Variations and Tips
- Meat Version: Add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- Vegan: Substitute cheese tortellini with a vegan version and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Thickness: If you want a thicker soup, blend half of the soup after cooking and mix it back in.
🔍 Note: This soup can be easily adapted to what you have on hand. Feel free to substitute any fresh greens for spinach or try different herbs to match your taste.
Nutritional Information
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also quite nutritious:
| Serving Size | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cup | 250 | 12g | 28g | 10g |
This delightful spinach mushroom tortellini soup captures the essence of comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture, combined with the hearty chunks of tortellini, mushrooms, and the slight bitterness of spinach, creates a symphony of flavors that can warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is versatile enough to suit different dietary preferences while keeping you nourished and satisfied. The simplicity of preparation belies the depth of its flavors, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and culinary experts alike.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
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Yes, you can! The soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in a microwave when ready to serve. Remember to add the cream or milk and fresh spinach when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have tortellini?
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Any stuffed pasta like ravioli or agnolotti can be substituted. Alternatively, you could use penne or rotini pasta for a different texture, though these won’t have the stuffing.
Can I freeze this soup?
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You can freeze it before adding the cream or milk and spinach. Once cooled, transfer the soup to freezer-safe containers. When you want to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat and add the cream and spinach fresh.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
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Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free pasta or even rice noodles. Ensure the broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What are good side dishes to serve with this soup?
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Ideally, you would serve this soup with a slice of crusty garlic bread, a fresh green salad with a vinaigrette, or a side of roasted root vegetables to complement the earthy flavors of the soup.
