... Tortellini, Spinach and Basil Soup

With the exception of the stewed tomatoes, there are a lot of my favorite things in this soup.  Mushrooms, spinach, basil, cheese tortellini... yes, please!  And, as much of a fan that I'm not, the tomatoes add so much flavor to the soup that I definitely wouldn't leave them out.

I love the addition of the red pepper flakes.  I love it so much that I doubled the amount.  Spicy?  Yes.  A good decision?  Absolutely.

The bright color that the spinach and basil add is great.  Don't be afraid to bump up the amount of them either.  I did.

Freshly grated Parm is a must and, you know me, soup is always better with warm, crusty bread along side.

Tortellini, Spinach and Basil Soup
serves 8


1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 large garlic cloves, minced
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
1/4 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes
3 (15 ounce) cans chicken stock
1 (15 ounce) can stewed Italian-style tomatoes, undrained
1 (9 ounce) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 to 2 cups thinly sliced fresh spinach leaves
2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil (or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
garnish: freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

In a large heavy pan over medium heat, heat oil.  Add onion, garlic and mushrooms.  Saute until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.  Add crushed red pepper and saute for a few seconds until fragrant.  Add chicken stock and tomatoes; bring to a boil.  Add tortellini then return to a low boil and cook 5 minutes or until pasta is done.  Stir in spinach, and cook 1 to 2 minutes, then add fresh basil and simmer for a minute or two.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with freshly shredded Parmesan cheese.

Variation: It is nice to add 3/4 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed, crumbled, browned and drained.  Add to the soup when adding the vegetables.

Taylor's Notes:
This is one tasty soup!  And quick and easy, to boot!  I don't have much to note - just follow the directions and you'll be enjoying it in no time!


Enjoy!