Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the ultimate cozy meal for those chilly months—it’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with flavor! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is loaded with tender tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, Tuscan herbs, fresh kale, and rich tomato goodness. With options for slow cooking, vegan, and gluten-free diets, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Tuscan herbs offers a burst of flavor in every spoonful.
- Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and filling.
- Versatile Options: Easily modify the recipe to be vegan or gluten-free without sacrificing taste.
- Kid-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, kids will love this soup!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the cooking process. Having everything ready makes it easier to whip up this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly and providing ample space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot while ensuring even mixing.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock/broth
- 3 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 Tbsps Tuscan Marry Me Blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
For the Soup
- 1 (8 oz.) package organic cheese tortellini
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1 cup organic kale, chopped
- 3-4 mini red sweet peppers, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 Tbsps organic tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
- 1/2 lemon, freshly-squeezed
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Stock and Flour
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously until well combined.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Mix in the Tuscan Marry Me Blend and sea salt. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Tortellini
Add the tortellini to the pot. Cook according to package instructions until tender.
Step 6: Stir in Cream and Veggies
Stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale, sweet peppers (if using), tomato paste, and cherry tomatoes. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Finish with Lemon
Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these suggestions will enhance the meal.
With Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping.
- Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette can soak up the delicious soup.
Topped with Fresh Ingredients
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy soup beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
As a Main Course
- With Grilled Chicken: For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken breast.
- Stuffed Peppers: Pair with stuffed mini sweet peppers for an extra veggie boost.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and tomatoes will enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more flour or reduce the broth slightly.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and herbs according to your palate for optimal flavor.
- Control Creaminess: For lighter soup, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or use a dairy-free alternative.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for soaking up soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil adds a refreshing crunch.
- Caprese Salad: Layered mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies offer additional nutrients and flavors that complement the soup well.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds texture and is an excellent source of protein.
- Cheesy Spinach Dip: Served warm with tortilla chips, this dip makes for a comforting side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup even better. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
-
Skipping the sauté – Failing to sauté garlic and vegetables first can lead to a bland soup. Always start by cooking these ingredients to enhance flavor.
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Not using fresh herbs – Using dried herbs instead of fresh can reduce the soup’s aromatic quality. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant taste that’s essential for Tuscan cuisine.
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Overcooking the tortellini – Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and add it just before serving for the best texture.
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Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning at the end may leave your soup flat. Always sample and add salt or spices as needed.
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Using low-quality broth – A subpar broth can compromise the entire dish. Opt for high-quality chicken or vegetable stock for richer flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
- Best used within 1-2 months for ideal flavor and texture.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have more questions about making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use spinach or other filled varieties based on your preference.
How can I customize this soup?
Feel free to add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also adjust the herbs according to your taste.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and flavorful ingredients make it appealing for kids of all ages.
How do I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
For a thicker consistency, mix in more flour or cornstarch slurry before adding the cream. This will help achieve that desired creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and customizable. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe has you covered. Try adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to match your family’s taste!
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for cozy nights, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. This rich and flavorful soup features tender tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh kale, all enveloped in a creamy broth infused with Tuscan herbs. With its quick preparation time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock/broth
- 3 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 Tbsps Tuscan Marry Me Blend
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 (8 oz.) package organic cheese tortellini
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1 cup organic kale, chopped
- 3–4 mini red sweet peppers, chopped (optional)
- 1–2 Tbsps organic tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved or whole
- 1/2 lemon, freshly squeezed
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Slowly whisk in the broth and flour, stirring continuously until combined.
- Add the Tuscan blend and salt; simmer on low for 5 minutes.
- Incorporate tortellini; cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in cream, kale, cherry tomatoes, and tomato paste; simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
