Savory Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale

Introduction:
This Savory Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale is a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. The rich, savory flavors of Italian sausage pair beautifully with tender tortellini and hearty kale, creating a well-balanced and satisfying soup that’s both filling and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Hearty and flavorful: Packed with protein, greens, and delicious pasta.
• One-pot meal: Easy to prepare and minimal cleanup.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins or vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier soup)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart into small pieces with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base:
   • Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato paste. Stir to combine. Add the dried basil and oregano. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Add the Tortellini and Kale:
   • Stir in the tortellini and kale. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the kale has wilted. If using frozen tortellini, allow for additional cooking time according to package directions.
5. Finish the Soup:
   • Stir the cooked sausage back into the pot. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Success:

• Sausage: You can use mild, spicy, or even chicken sausage based on your preference.
• Tortellini: Both fresh and frozen tortellini work well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetables: You can substitute spinach or Swiss chard for kale if desired.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add a can of cannellini beans for extra protein.
• Creamier Version: For a richer, creamier soup, add more heavy cream or stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup without the tortellini for up to 3 months. Add the tortellini after thawing and reheating to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup.

FAQ:

• Can I make this soup ahead of time?
  Yes, you can make the soup in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat and serve. For best results, add the tortellini when you reheat it to avoid sogginess.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, any type of stuffed pasta like ravioli or even small pasta shapes can be used as a substitute for tortellini.

Preparation Time:

• 10 minutes for prepping ingredients.

Cook Time:

• 30 minutes for cooking and simmering.

Total Time:

• 40 minutes (including prep and cooking).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

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Closing Notes:
This Savory Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale is a warm and nourishing dish that’s perfect for the colder months. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and easy to customize. Enjoy creating this dish and sharing it with loved ones!