Tortellini Soup

My husband and I moved from Saint Louis to South Alabama. We lived in the area for 29 years, and while it was a wonderful home for our daughters and us, South Alabama is home to both of us. But, it’s been cold! When we arrived with the moving truck, it was 81 degrees in late December early January, and we were thrilled to escape the brutal winter of Saint Louis, but I can’t help to believe we brought the cold weather with us!

What’s better on a chilly evening than a hearty soup? I couldn’t wait to make tortellini soup, because our furnace is out, and it is so easy and delicious. The only side dish you will need is some good Italian bread slathered with butter and garlic. Try this soup if you haven’t decided what you would like to have for supper tonight. And especially if you are in an area experiencing cold temperatures. It will warm your bones up!

Much love,

Sandi

Tortellini Soup

• 1 lb. Italian sausage links, casings removed
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 48 ounce container chicken broth (I use low sodium)
• 1 large can San Marzano tomatoes mashed or pureed
• 1 large family size package refrigerated cheese tortellini (18 oz.)
• 1 package (5 oz.) fresh baby spinach
• 3/4 teaspoon dried basil or 2 teaspoons minced fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper (I typically add more)
• Crushed red pepper to your tasting
• Shredded parmesan cheese

Crumble the Italian sausage and cook with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion. Cook over medium heat until the sausage is cooked thoroughly. Add the garlic and cook about a minute longer. Stir in your chicken broth and tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

Add the tortellini; return to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; add the spinach, pepper, basil, and pepper flakes. Let it simmer until the spinach is wilted. Serve in a soup bowl and add the parmesan cheese.

Hint: I like to turn my soup down to simmer and let it simmer for a couple of hours if time permits. The flavors are so rich if you have the time, but it is delicious if you serve right away also.