Tortellini tomato soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe focuses on simplicity and speed, delivering a delicious and satisfying soup without hours of kitchen time. Forget complicated techniques and long ingredient lists; this version emphasizes ease and flavor.
What makes this Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe Easy?
This recipe prioritizes simplicity. We’re using readily available ingredients, minimal chopping, and a straightforward cooking method to ensure a quick and delicious result. No need for fancy culinary skills – just a simple, satisfying soup.
Ingredients for Easy Tortellini Tomato Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped (or 1 cup frozen chopped onion)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cheese tortellini (refrigerated, no need to cook beforehand)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)
Instructions: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Using frozen chopped onion saves even more time!
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Simmer the Soup: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini is heated through and tender. Avoid overcooking; the tortellini should be firm but not mushy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is classic, you can experiment with meat tortellini, spinach and ricotta tortellini, or even other small pasta shapes like ravioli. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the pasta type.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Ensure your tortellini filling is also vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare it according to the instructions, allow it to cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. A splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream adds richness. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This easy tortellini tomato soup recipe is a versatile and adaptable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
