Name: Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 450 g Italian sausage (Hearty and flavorful.); 1 onion onion, finely chopped ((about 150g)); 2 cloves garlic, minced ((about 6g)); 2 sticks celery, thinly sliced ((about 100g)); 2 carrots carrots, thinly sliced ((about 100g)); 400 g canned diced tomatoes (Adds sweetness and acidity.); 1 liter chicken broth (For a rich flavor.); 200 ml water (Adjust based on desired thickness.); 250 g cheese tortellini (Soft pasta filled with cheese.); 100 g fresh spinach (Last ingredient to add.); 30 ml olive oil (For sautéing.); 1 teaspoon dried basil (Popular herb for flavor.); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Adds depth of flavor.); Salt and pepper to taste (Adjust seasoning as needed.)

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of sausage tortellini soup on a cold February day. This comforting soup combines hearty sausage, soft tortellini, and a medley of vegetables for a delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 450g Italian sausage
– 1 onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6g)
– 2 carrots, thinly sliced (about 100g)
– 2 sticks celery, thinly sliced (about 100g)
– 400g can diced tomatoes
– 1 liter chicken broth
– 200ml water
– 250g cheese tortellini
– 100g fresh spinach
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 30ml olive oil

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the tortellini to the pot and continue to simmer for 7-8 minutes, or until the tortellini are cooked.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy bowl of goodness.

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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot, cooking until it’s nicely browned, using a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. This step will infuse your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma, setting the stage for the delicious soup to come.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is cooked through, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes or until the onion turns translucent, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced carrots and celery, allowing them to cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften. The vibrant colors and fresh scents will make your mouth water.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water. Stir the pot well to combine all the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and continue to simmer for another 7-8 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. The pasta will become plump and soak up the surrounding flavors.

Step 7: Add Fresh Spinach

Gently stir in the fresh spinach, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and adds a lovely green hue to the soup.

Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it hot in bowls and relish in the comforting warmth of each spoonful.

Notes

Serving Size and Yield

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for family meals or leftovers to enjoy later.

Storage Guidelines

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Freezer Storage

This soup can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Flavor Enhancements

For added depth of flavor, consider including a splash of red wine when adding the diced tomatoes. You can also toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Vegetarian Option

To make this soup vegetarian, replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it altogether, opting for more vegetables or beans for protein.

Customize to Your Taste

Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas can be delightful additions to this cozy soup.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a cooking technique utilized in this recipe to soften onions and garlic. This method enhances the flavors by cooking them in a small amount of oil over medium heat until they are translucent and aromatic.

Simmering

Simmering is employed after bringing the soup to a boil. The heat is reduced to allow the ingredients to cook gently, which develops the flavors without boiling off the liquid.

Boiling

Boiling is an essential step that occurs before simmering. This technique is used to rapidly cook the soup ingredients, ensuring even cooking and proper texture.

Stirring

Stirring is crucial throughout the cooking process, especially when combining ingredients or preventing them from sticking to the pot. This technique ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.

Seasoning

Seasoning involves the addition of dried herbs and salt to enhance the taste of the soup. It’s important to taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning, as personal preferences may vary.

Wilting

Wilting is used when adding fresh spinach to the soup. This technique quickly softens the spinach just before serving, retaining its vibrant color and nutrients.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage, for a lighter option.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s recommended to add tortellini fresh when reheating, as they may become mushy when frozen.

What vegetables can I add to the soup?

You can add a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or kale, to enhance the nutritional content and flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using plant-based broth along with additional vegetables for flavor.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm bowl of sausage tortellini soup to lift your spirits on a chilly day. This hearty dish combines savory sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious vegetables to create a meal that not only warms you up but also delights your taste buds. Whether shared with family or savored alone, it’s a comforting reminder that good food brings people together.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Tortellini Soup

Swap the Italian sausage for mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a variety of colorful veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a vibrant, meat-free meal.

Spicy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a spicy kick to the soup. Consider using spicy Italian sausage for an extra burst of flavor.

Cheesy Spinach Tortellini Soup

Incorporate a generous handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese just before serving. The cheese will melt and add creaminess, enhancing the soup’s richness.

Pesto Tortellini Soup

Stir in some basil pesto towards the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor. This will elevate the taste and provide a beautiful green hue to the soup.

Minestrone-Style Tortellini Soup

Add beans, small pasta, and seasonal vegetables such as green beans or corn. The combination of flavors and textures will create a hearty, minestrone-inspired dish.

Herby Tortellini and Vegetable Soup

Experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. This not only enhances the aroma but also elevates the overall flavor profile of the soup.