Are you ready for a warm and hearty dish? My Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is a comfort meal that delivers on flavor and nutrition. Packed with fresh spinach, savory sausage, and tender tortellini, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. In this post, I’ll take you through simple steps to make this delicious bowl of goodness and share tips to customize it to your taste. Let’s jump in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make a warm bowl of sausage spinach tortellini soup. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a rich flavor.
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 1 large carrot, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 medium zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 9 oz cheese tortellini (can use fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Now, let’s talk about why each ingredient matters. The olive oil gives a nice base and flavor. Italian sausage adds a hearty, savory taste. Onions and garlic bring depth and aroma. Chicken broth is the soul of the soup, providing richness. Diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness, while carrots and zucchini introduce texture and color. Fresh spinach gives a pop of green and nutrients. Cheese tortellini makes it filling and comforting. Herbs like oregano and basil round out the flavors, while salt and pepper enhance everything. Finally, Parmesan cheese adds a delicious finish that makes every bite better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Heating the olive oil and cooking the sausage
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage. Break it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is brown and cooked through. If there’s extra fat, drain it carefully.
2. Adding onion and garlic
Now, add 1 medium onion, diced, and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent and soft, which adds great flavor.
3. Combining broth and vegetables
Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 sliced carrot, and 1 chopped zucchini. Stir everything together. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporating herbs and seasonings
Once the pot simmers, add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Season the mix with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, until the veggies are tender.
Cooking the Tortellini
1. Cooking times for fresh vs. frozen tortellini
Stir in 9 oz of cheese tortellini to the soup. If you use fresh tortellini, it usually cooks in about 3 minutes. If frozen, check the package for the proper cooking time.
2. Adding spinach and final touches
After the tortellini are cooked, gently fold in 4 cups of chopped fresh spinach. Cook for 1 more minute until the spinach wilts. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Soup
Choosing the right sausage
Pick Italian sausage that suits your taste. You can choose mild or spicy. The sausage adds rich flavor and depth to the soup. If you prefer a lighter taste, stick to mild. If you enjoy heat, go for spicy.
Adjusting seasonings for flavor enhancement
Seasoning is key to a great soup. After cooking, taste and adjust the salt and pepper. If you want more flavor, add a pinch of oregano or basil. Fresh herbs can also add a nice touch.
Tips for cooking tortellini perfectly
Cook the tortellini based on the package instructions. If using fresh, it cooks fast. Frozen tortellini may take a bit longer. Always stir gently to avoid breaking them.
Presentation Tips
Serving suggestions with Parmesan cheese
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy texture and a rich flavor. It makes the soup look inviting too.
Pairing ideas for a complete meal
For a complete meal, serve with warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup. You can also add a simple salad for freshness. Enjoying it with friends or family makes it even better.
Variations
Customizing Ingredients
You can change this soup to fit your tastes. For vegetables, try adding bell peppers, kale, or even peas. Each adds a unique flavor and color. If you want a different pasta, use whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini. You can also swap in small shells or farfalle. For more protein, add beans or lentils. They boost nutrition and flavor, making the soup heartier.
Dietary Adjustments
To make this soup gluten-free, choose gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty options that cook just right. If you want a vegetarian or vegan soup, replace the sausage with mushrooms or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich taste. Lastly, skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese to keep it plant-based.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup fresh, cool it down first. Place it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well for this. Be sure to label the containers with the date. This will help you remember when you made it. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Tips
For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. If using bags, remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the soup for up to three months. For easy servings, consider freezing it in single portions.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a pot over medium heat. Stir it often to make sure it heats evenly. If the soup seems thick, add a little water or broth to loosen it. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQs
How long does Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup last in the fridge?
Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before sealing.
Can I use homemade broth for this soup?
Yes, you can use homemade broth. It adds great flavor. Just make sure it’s seasoned well. Homemade broth can make the soup taste even better.
What can I serve with Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup?
You can serve this soup with warm, crusty bread. A side salad also pairs well. These sides make a complete and satisfying meal.
How do I make the soup spicier?
To spice it up, use hot Italian sausage. You can also add red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors may deepen overnight!
This blog post covered how to make a delicious Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup. We explored the key ingredients, from olive oil to cheese tortellini. I shared step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and ways to customize the soup. You can even adjust it for dietary needs and learn how to store leftovers.
In short, this soup is easy and tasty. Enjoy making it your own!
