One day I'll make Mario Batali's marvelous tortellini in brodo. But, that requires making the tortellini from scratch, plus cooking an intense all-day broth. That will be an experience, I'm sure. But, I'm not up to that right now. Instead, I used ready made tortellinis and stock. This is a good tasting meal, that most people enjoy eating. And the fact that it's incredibly quick and easy certainly recommends it for those moments when preparing a meal seems downright demoralizing. It's also a recipe that lets you improvise and add the ingredients that you like. I added some leftover chicken, but Italian sausage would be good too. Or leave meat out and enjoy a perfect vegetarian meal.
This is my submission to Presto Pasta Night, which was started by the wonderful Ruth at Once Upon A Feast. Each Friday Ruth has a recap of wonderful pasta recipes from bloggers from all over the world. So, do stop by and check it out.
I used chopped basil, baby spinach, slivered carrots and sweet red bell pepper. But, any vegetables would be fine.
Tortellini Soup
This is just a suggestion. Make it the way you want.
1 package of ready made cheese tortellini
about 8 cups chicken or vegetable stock
about 1/2 cup slivered carrots and red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped basil
2 handfuls baby spinach or arugula
1 cup chopped cooked chicken (optional)
salt and pepper
1/2 cup grated parmesan
Cook the tortellini according to package directions. As the water for it is coming to a boil, prepare your vegetables and herbs, and heat the stock to a simmer. Add the chicken to the stock and simmer for about 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. When the pasta is done and drained, add it, the vegetables, herbs, and parmesan to the soup. Serve immediately.
How come your soups always look fantastic: healthy and vibrant! Mine all look like glop.
Tis is really gorgeous. I'll have to have a look at Mario Batali's marvelous tortellini in brodo but I don't have time for that now either.
Posted by: MyKitchenInHalfCups | March 19, 2008 at 03:12 AM
Did you start with fresh, dried, or frozen tortellini? I often keep filled pasta in my pantry, and find that fresh is best, but there is good-quality dried pasta on the market now, too.
Posted by: Lydia (The Perfect Pantry) | March 19, 2008 at 05:18 AM
"This is just a suggestion. Make it the way you want."
Heh, the best cooking instructions I've seen in a long time, maybe ever.
I'm going to add this to all my recipes as an ingredient from now on!
Meow, kitty mama.
Posted by: whaleshaman | March 19, 2008 at 08:18 AM
This is the kind of soup that I'd end up eating a few bowls full, so fresh and nutritious. I'm with mykitcheninhalfcups, my soups never look as fresh and pretty as yours!
Posted by: Callipygia | March 19, 2008 at 01:19 PM
Looks good! I like to have a package of cheese tortellini in the fridge/freezer to make quick and tasty pasta dishes with.
Posted by: Kevin | March 19, 2008 at 05:31 PM
That soup looks delicious. I will have to try it sometime.
Posted by: Karen Jo | March 19, 2008 at 10:29 PM
I'm with everyone else...great soup! It's perfect for our cold and rainy weather. Who says Spring is here?! Thanks for sharing with Presto Pasta Night.
Posted by: Ruth | March 21, 2008 at 04:54 AM
ooohyes please, that looks delicious. it reminds me of that luscious wonton soup you once made -- that i still have to make!
Posted by: aria | March 21, 2008 at 08:10 PM
What vibrant colors for a soup...looks great.
Posted by: peabody | March 22, 2008 at 01:13 AM
That's gorgeous and so "clean" looking!
Posted by: Glenna | March 22, 2008 at 03:59 AM