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 adaptations, it suits various dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Tuscan herbs creates a delightful taste that warms your soul.
- Versatile Options: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegan or gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love tortellini! This soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Comforting Meal: Packed with creamy goodness and hearty vegetables, it’s ideal for cold winter nights.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing this Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup easy and enjoyable. Below are essential tools to help you create this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing plenty of space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot and helps combine flavors effectively.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for a balanced flavor profile in your soup.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (8 oz.) package organic cheese tortellini
- 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
Creamy Elements
- 1 cup organic heavy cream
- 1 cup organic kale, chopped
- 3-4 mini red sweet peppers, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 Tbsps organic tomato paste
Fresh Ingredients
- 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: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Base
Add the flour to the pot. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until well combined. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
Step 3: Add Tortellini and Seasoning
Once the base is smooth, add the cheese tortellini along with Tuscan Marry Me Blend and sea salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Creaminess
Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream. Stir well until fully incorporated into the soup.
Step 5: Add Kale and Tomatoes
Fold in the chopped kale and cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is warmed through.
Step 6: Finish with Lemon
Remove from heat and squeeze half a lemon into the soup. Stir well before serving.
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup will surely become a favorite in your household—enjoy every comforting spoonful!
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Serving Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone at the table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this comforting dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a burst of flavor and color.
Topped with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Adding freshly grated parmesan cheese on top enhances the richness of the soup and provides a lovely salty contrast.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Garnished with Lemon Zest
- Citrus Twist: A little lemon zest on top brightens the dish and adds a refreshing note to the creamy soup.
Accompanied by a Salad
- Mixed Green Salad: Pairing the soup with a light mixed green salad balances the meal, offering crunch and freshness.
In a Bread Bowl
- Bread Bowl Presentation: For a fun twist, serve the tortellini soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an impressive presentation.
How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is easy with these helpful tips. Follow them to enhance flavor and texture.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and ripe tomatoes will elevate the taste significantly compared to canned options.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your preference for that perfect balance.
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Cook Tortellini Separately: To avoid overcooking, consider cooking tortellini separately and adding them just before serving.
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Add More Veggies: Throw in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
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Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding tortellini back in.
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Store Properly: If making ahead, store tortellini separately from the soup base to maintain texture when reheating.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
When enjoying your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, pairing it with complementary side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options:
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Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Toast it until golden brown for extra crunch.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce drizzled with Caesar dressing pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while providing a sweet contrast to the savory soup.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for a refreshing appetizer that complements the soup’s flavors.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer alongside this hearty meal.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides variety and richness to your dining experience.
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Simple Quinoa Salad: Lightly dressed quinoa salad brings texture and nutrients without overpowering the meal.
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Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese offer an indulgent side that’s perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to a delicious outcome.
- Using the wrong type of tortellini: Always choose fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for the best texture and flavor. Dried tortellini may not cook properly in the soup.
- Skipping the herbs: Herbs are crucial for flavor. Don’t omit them! Use a good-quality Tuscan herb blend to enhance the soup’s taste.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Taste as you go! Seasoning can vary based on broth used, so adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Adding dairy too early: If you’re using heavy cream, add it towards the end of cooking. This prevents curdling and keeps the soup creamy.
- Neglecting vegetable prep: Chopping vegetables uniformly ensures even cooking. Take time to prepare your ingredients well for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just leave space at the top for expansion.
Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then heat soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup.
Can I make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix an extra tablespoon of flour with broth before adding it to the pot.
Can I use frozen tortellini in my Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works great and doesn’t require thawing beforehand.
How long does it take to make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not only cozy and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Try this comforting recipe today—your family will love it!
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish to warm your soul on chilly days. This delightful soup combines tender cheese tortellini with a medley of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh kale, and aromatic Tuscan herbs, all enveloped in a creamy tomato base. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile, easily adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s not only delicious but also family-friendly—making it an ideal choice for even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup that promises to bring smiles to your dining table.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Garlic cloves
- Organic cheese tortellini
- Chicken or vegetable stock
- Organic heavy cream
- Kale
- Sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in flour for about 1 minute before gradually adding chicken or vegetable broth while mixing to avoid lumps.
- Once smooth, add cheese tortellini, Tuscan herbs, and sea salt; bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until fully combined.
- Add kale and cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice into the soup before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
