Are you ready to indulge in a bowl of comfort that’s both creamy and healthy? Our Healthy Creamy Tortellini Soup made in a slow cooker is the perfect answer to chilly evenings and busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delightful Italian-inspired dish that warms the soul and satisfies your cravings. Imagine the rich flavors of cheese tortellini mingling with fresh spinach and hearty vegetables, all simmered to perfection while you go about your day. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a wholesome meal that your whole family will love. Dive into this culinary delight and discover how effortless it is to enjoy a deliciously creamy soup without the guilt!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheese tortellini
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse the spinach under cold water and set aside. Open the can of diced tomatoes and have your cheese tortellini ready.
- In a slow cooker, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth, ensuring the onions and garlic are submerged.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes to the slow cooker, including the juice. Stir gently to combine with the broth, onions, and garlic.
- Next, add the 2 cups of cheese tortellini to the mixture. Stir to ensure the tortellini is evenly distributed in the broth.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to start with a small amount, as you can always adjust the seasoning later.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the tortellini to cook through.
- About 15 minutes before the cooking time is complete, add the 1 cup of spinach to the slow cooker. Stir it in gently to ensure it wilts evenly in the soup.
- Once the cooking time is up, check the tortellini for doneness. If they are tender, proceed to the next step. If not, let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- After the tortellini is cooked, stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream. This will give the soup a rich, creamy texture. Mix well until the cream is fully incorporated.
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the Healthy Creamy Tortellini Soup hot, garnished with additional spinach or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onion and mince your garlic the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge so they’re ready to go when you start cooking.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap out spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard, which can add different flavors and nutrients to your soup.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey sausage to the slow cooker along with the tortellini. This will enhance the protein content and make it even more filling.
- Seasoning Matters: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Cream Alternatives: If you want to lighten the dish further, consider using half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. This will still give you that creamy texture without the extra calories.
- Serve with Style: Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 75mg