Creamy Vegetable Tortellini Soup

Creamy Vegetable Tortellini Soup is a comforting, quick, and flavorful dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy broth. It is the perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight meal that brings the warmth of Italian-inspired cuisine to your table.

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This easy-to-follow recipe yields four generous servings, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner. With its rich texture and savory blend of Italian herbs, this soup is sure to become a household favorite during the cooler months.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion (diced), 2 carrots (peeled and sliced), 2 celery stalks (sliced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 zucchini (diced), 1 cup baby spinach (packed)
• Tortellini: 9 oz (250 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• Broth & Cream: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
• Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Garnish: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2

Stir in garlic and zucchini; cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes), until just tender.

Step 5

Lower heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream, milk, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 6

Add spinach and simmer until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8

Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a large soup pot and a wooden spoon for stirring. Proper preparation with a sharp knife and cutting board is key, and a ladle is essential for serving the soup while keeping the tortellini intact.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra protein, you can add a can of drained white beans when you add the tortellini. If you prefer different greens, substitute kale or chard for the spinach. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and vegan-friendly tortellini.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs exceptionally well with a side of crusty bread for dipping and a glass of crisp white wine to complement the creamy broth.

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Ladle your hot soup into rustic bowls and enjoy a meal that is as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether it's a quiet night in or a quick dinner for guests, this tortellini soup always delivers comfort in every spoonful.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Add them directly to the simmering broth without thawing and cook for 1-2 minutes longer than the package directions indicate.

→ How do I make this soup vegan?

Use plant-based tortellini, substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for the heavy cream and milk, and omit the Parmesan garnish or use a vegan alternative.

→ Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

You can prepare the vegetable base ahead, but add the tortellini and cream just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and the cream from separating when reheated.

→ What vegetables can I substitute or add?

Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or green beans. Kale and Swiss chard work well in place of spinach. Use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand for flexibility.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini will absorb liquid, so add extra broth or cream when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Cream-based soups don't freeze well as they can separate and become grainy. If you plan to freeze, prepare the soup without the cream and dairy, then add those ingredients fresh when reheating.