Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup Simple Delight

Craving a warm bowl of comfort? Look no further than this Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup. It’s rich, smooth, and bursting with flavor. In just a few easy steps, you can create a delicious meal that warms the soul. I'll guide you through the simple process, from sautéing garlic to crafting the perfect broth. Ready to elevate your soup game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- 1 medium onion, finely diced

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

- 4 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 package (9 oz) fresh cheese tortellini

- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

- Additional fresh basil leaves for garnish

To make a great Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup, you need a few key ingredients. First, the olive oil and aromatics set the base. Olive oil adds richness. Onions and garlic provide a flavor punch.

Next, you must include base ingredients. Crushed tomatoes create a rich soup. Vegetable broth gives depth and warmth. Heavy cream adds that creamy texture we crave.

Tortellini is the heart of the soup. Choose fresh cheese tortellini for the best taste. Fresh basil leaves bring a burst of freshness.

Lastly, think about optional garnishes. Grated Parmesan cheese makes it special. Extra basil leaves add color and flavor.

Gather these ingredients, and you'll be ready to make a delightful soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Initial Preparation

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes. You want the onion soft and clear.

3. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it, so it does not burn.

4. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and dried basil. Stir them in well and cook for another minute. This helps the herbs share their flavors.

Developing the Soup Base

1. Carefully pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir everything together.

2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to deepen and mix.

Final Cooking Steps

1. Reduce the heat to low. Now, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Mix it well until it blends into the soup.

2. Add the fresh cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, about 3-5 minutes, until they are tender.

3. Once the tortellini are cooked, fold in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Taste the soup and add sea salt and black pepper as needed.

4. Serve the soup hot in bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil if you want a fresh touch. Enjoy this creamy tomato basil tortellini soup with crusty bread for dipping!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Preparing the Soup

To make the best creamy tomato basil tortellini soup, you must focus on the onion and garlic. Start by heating the olive oil in a heavy pot. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking. Add the diced onion and sauté for about five minutes. Stir often until the onion is soft and clear. This step brings out the sweet flavor of the onion.

Next, add in the minced garlic. Cook it for one to two minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Burnt garlic tastes bitter.

Simmering is also key for a rich flavor. After adding the crushed tomatoes and broth, bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend well. The heat helps the herbs release their oils, making the soup fragrant and tasty.

Service Enhancements

When serving your soup, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping and adds comfort to every bowl.

For presentation, ladle the soup into bowls while it is hot. Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a nice salty flavor. You can also add extra fresh basil leaves for color and freshness. A drizzle of olive oil on the top just before serving can make it look extra special.

Variations

Different Types of Tortellini

You can switch up your tortellini for more fun. Try different fillings, like meat or veggies. Cheese-filled tortellini adds a creamy texture, while spinach or mushroom-filled options boost flavor. If you need a gluten-free choice, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer options made from rice or chickpeas. These alternatives keep the dish tasty and safe for everyone.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can also change some ingredients to fit your needs. If you want a dairy-free soup, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These options still make the soup rich and creamy. For the broth, you can swap vegetable broth for chicken broth based on your taste. Both give the soup a nice base and depth. Just remember to taste as you go to keep the flavors balanced.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy tomato basil tortellini soup fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you're not eating it soon, freezing is a great option. Transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers with the date.

Reheating Instructions

When it's time to enjoy your soup again, the best method to reheat it is on the stove. Pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir it often to ensure even heating. If you use a microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.

To keep the tortellini from becoming mushy, add the tortellini to the soup only in the last few minutes of reheating. This way, they maintain their texture and stay delicious. Enjoy each bowl as if it were freshly made!

FAQs

Common Questions About the Recipe

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day. To prepare, follow the recipe steps, but stop before adding the tortellini. Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. When you are ready to enjoy it, reheat the soup, then add the tortellini. This keeps them from getting too soft.

How long does the creamy tomato basil soup last in the fridge? This soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in a sealed container. If you want it to last longer, consider freezing it. Just remember to follow the reheating steps later.

Nutritional Information and Diet Considerations

Calorie count and nutritional benefits This creamy tomato basil tortellini soup has about 400 calories per serving. It provides vitamins A and C from the tomatoes and basil. The tortellini adds protein and carbs, making it a filling meal.

Suggestions for lightening the recipe To make this soup lighter, you can use low-fat cream instead of heavy cream. You can also swap the tortellini for veggie pasta or whole grain options. This will reduce fat and calories while keeping it tasty.

Substitutions and Allergies

Alternatives for common allergens If you have a dairy allergy, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free tortellini or skip it altogether. You can add more veggies for extra flavor.

Tips for making the soup diet-friendly Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini to boost nutrition. This adds fiber without many calories. You could also cut back on oil by using a non-stick pot for sautéing.

This blog post outlined how to make a creamy tomato basil soup. We covered key ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and tortellini. I shared step-by-step instructions, tips for cooking, and serving ideas. You can play with variations and substitutions to fit your taste. Storing and reheating properly keeps leftovers fresh and tasty.

Enjoy this comforting soup for any occasion. Experiment with flavors and share it with those you love. Your kitchen will smell amazing and your taste buds will thank you!