Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe: A Robust and Tasty Dish
### Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe: A Wholesome and Tasty Dish
As the temperatures drop and the nights become longer, there’s nothing more soothing than a cozy bowl of soup. One of the most comforting and delicious choices is a robust sausage and tortellini soup. This meal blends flavorful Italian sausage, soft tortellini, and an assortment of vegetables in a hearty broth, making it an ideal dish for brisk evenings. In this article, we’ll dive into the ingredients, cooking methods, and helpful suggestions to tailor this scrumptious soup to your liking.
#### Ingredients
To prepare a tasty sausage and tortellini soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– **1 pound Italian sausage** (mild or spicy, based on your preference)
– **1 medium onion**, chopped
– **2-3 cloves garlic**, minced
– **3-4 cups chicken or vegetable broth**
– **1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes** (with juices)
– **2 cups fresh or frozen tortellini** (cheese or meat-filled)
– **2 cups fresh spinach** (or kale)
– **1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs** (like basil, oregano, and thyme)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Olive oil**, for sautéing
– **Grated Parmesan cheese**, for serving (optional)
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Cook the Sausage**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, warm a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Incorporate the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sauté until browned and thoroughly cooked, around 5-7 minutes. Take the sausage out of the pot and set it aside, retaining the drippings in the pot.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring often to prevent burning.
3. **Combine Broth and Tomatoes**: Add the chicken or vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (including their juices). Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance the flavor.
4. **Reintroduce the Sausage**: Place the cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir in the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. **Stir in Tortellini**: Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, typically about 3-5 minutes, until they are tender and cooked through.
6. **Add Greens**: Just before serving, toss in the fresh spinach (or kale) and stir until it wilts. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Pair your hearty sausage and tortellini soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
#### Customization Tips
One of the greatest features of this soup is its adaptability. Here are some suggestions to modify the recipe to your preference:
– **Vegetarian Option**: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. You can boost the flavor by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
– **Incorporate More Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for increased nutrition and flavor.
– **Increase the Spice**: If you like it spicy, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the soup while cooking the onions.
– **Creamy Touch**: For a creamier texture, mix in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
– **Fresh Herb Addition**: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added at the end for a fresh burst of flavor.
#### Conclusion
Sausage and tortellini soup is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s suitable for any occasion, particularly during the colder seasons. With its rich tastes and satisfying components, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you adhere to the classic recipe or adjust it to your liking, this soup is a wonderful approach to warm up and nourish your body. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and delight in the comforting embrace of a homemade bowl of sausage and tortellini soup!