Tortellini And Spinach Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup combining tender tortellini, fresh spinach, stewed tomatoes, and aromatic garlic, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and stir garlic in butter for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and tortellini; heat to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add chopped spinach and stewed tomatoes; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with Parmesan cheese to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots and celery when cooking the garlic. If you can't find fresh spinach, frozen spinach works well too; just ensure it's thoroughly thawed and drained. You can substitute cheese tortellini with meat tortellini for added protein or even use a gluten-free version if needed. This dish is perfect for using up leftover chicken from recipes like Chicken Milanaise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tortellini and spinach soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Stracciatella for a delightful Italian-themed dinner. This soup also makes a great starter for a larger meal like Oven Chicken Parmesan.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits; add a bit more chicken broth when reheating to restore its original consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid boiling to prevent overcooking the tortellini.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tortellini And Spinach Soup contains roughly 493 calories, with 18g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. Just add it towards the end of cooking to wilt it gently without losing its vibrant color and nutrients. If using fresh, about 4 cups should suffice, as it cooks down significantly.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, ensure that the tortellini is cheese-based and check for any meat ingredients in the canned tomatoes.
What can I add to make this soup more filling?
For a more filling soup, consider adding cooked beans such as cannellini or chickpeas. You can also include diced chicken or sausage if you're looking for extra protein. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the added ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).