Tortellini Zuppa Toscana
Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes
A comforting Italian soup featuring tender tortellini and rich flavors.
This Tortellini Zuppa Toscana is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that warm the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup brings together the rich taste of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and tender tortellini.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Packed with delicious flavors that will please everyone.
The Essence of Zuppa Toscana
Zuppa Toscana is a beloved Italian soup that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Traditionally made with hearty ingredients, this dish showcases the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy broth. Each spoonful offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
The use of tortellini in this recipe adds a unique twist while enhancing the dish's heartiness. These stuffed pasta pieces soak up the flavors of the broth, creating a satisfying experience with every bite. By incorporating fresh spinach, this soup not only becomes more nutritious but also adds a beautiful pop of color, making it visually appealing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to serve on a chilly evening, Tortellini Zuppa Toscana fits the bill perfectly. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want it spicier? Simply add red pepper flakes! Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the sausage for mushrooms or a meat substitute.
The soup is also a wonderful choice for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal even on your busiest days. Just reheat and serve, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Tortellini Zuppa Toscana experience, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots. These accompaniments not only complement the soup but also provide a perfect way to soak up the delicious broth. A simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can also be a refreshing side that balances the richness of the soup.
For an extra touch, offer a selection of toppings such as additional grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. These toppings allow each guest to customize their bowl, enhancing their dining experience and adding an interactive element to the meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 package (9 oz) tortellini, fresh or frozen
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Combine all ingredients for a hearty meal!
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Add Tortellini and Spinach
Add the tortellini and spinach, cooking until the tortellini is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your warm and hearty soup!
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Tortellini Zuppa Toscana can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to store the tortellini and soup separately if possible. This prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft when reheating.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If you find the soup has thickened too much, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
This Tortellini Zuppa Toscana not only satisfies the taste buds but also boasts a range of nutritional benefits. The inclusion of spinach adds vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals such as iron and calcium. These nutrients contribute to overall health, supporting everything from bone health to immune function.
The Italian sausage provides protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth, while the heavy cream adds a creamy richness that enhances the flavor. By enjoying this soup as part of a balanced diet, you can indulge in its deliciousness while still meeting your nutritional needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works great in this recipe.
→ Is there a vegetarian option?
You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but for best quality, it's recommended to freeze it without the cream and add it when reheating.
Tortellini Zuppa Toscana
A comforting Italian soup featuring tender tortellini and rich flavors.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Warm & Hearty Dishes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 package (9 oz) tortellini, fresh or frozen
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the tortellini and spinach, cooking until the tortellini is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g