This Tomato Tortellini Soup is warm and comforting, packed with tender tortellini and a rich tomato base. It’s a perfect dish for chilly days or anytime you need a little cozy vibes!
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make. Just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer! I like to enjoy mine with some crunchy bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use canola or vegetable oil for a neutral option.
Onion: A small onion adds depth to the soup. If you prefer milder flavors, use shallots or green onions instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (about 1/8 teaspoon per clove) can work, but fresh is always tastier.
Tomato Base: Crushed tomatoes provide a thick texture. You can swap this with diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes, though you’d need to blend them for a smoother soup.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian, but chicken broth adds richer flavor. Both work well depending on your preference.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use spinach or meat-filled varieties. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini or pasta.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor. Herbs like parsley or even spinach are good alternatives if basil isn’t available.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
To maximize flavors in your Tomato Tortellini Soup, follow these simple tips:
- **Sauté the Aromatics**: Cook the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This releases their natural sweetness and depth.
- **Simmer is Key**: Once you add the broth and tomatoes, let the soup simmer. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- **Add Fresh Ingredients Last**: Stir in fresh basil just before serving to keep its bright flavor intact.
Following these steps will ensure your soup is vibrant and delicious. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Tomato Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups tomato base (crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Tortellini Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This brings out the sweet flavor in the onion.
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not browned.
3. Combine the Base:
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce) and the broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
4. Season the Soup:
Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Now it’s time to add the tortellini! Toss them into the pot and cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they are tender.
6. Final Touches:
Once the tortellini are cooked, stir in the chopped fresh basil. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed—add more salt or pepper if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy this warm, comforting dish alongside crusty bread.
This Tomato Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out—perfect for any day of the year!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Tortellini?
Absolutely! There are many gluten-free tortellini available on the market, or you can substitute it with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil—just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley or spinach can add a nice flavor too!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.