Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine.

4. Incorporate the Tortellini:

• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then add the tortellini and Italian seasoning. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook according to the tortellini package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they are tender.

5. Add the Spinach:

• Stir in the fresh spinach (or kale) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted.
• Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Sausage and Tortellini Soup:

1. Choose Your Sausage: For a flavorful kick, opt for spicy Italian sausage, or keep it mild if you prefer a more subtle taste. You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
2. Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just add a little extra broth when reheating, as the tortellini may absorb some of the liquid.
4. Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more tortellini or reduce the amount of broth. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can be added during cooking for extra flavor, or sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for a burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its savory flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that you can whip up in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. So grab your ingredients, cozy up, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious homemade soup!