Tomato Tortellini Soup

Chef #1116714's Note:

Hearty tomato soup with meat or cheese tortellini The soup is a meal in itself, serve with crusty italian bread or rolls

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 10

• 1 large onion
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 2 stalks celery , chopped
• 2 red peppers , chopped
• 2 cups baby spinach or 2 cups frozen spinach
• 2 cups diced tomatoes or 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 8 cups low sodium chicken broth
• ½ tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon dried hot chili peppers (or more to taste)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaf , torn
• 2 cups tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. In a large post saute the onions and garlic until transparent. Add celery, red pepper, tomatoes and corn; cook for about 3 minutes.
2. Add tomato sauce and chicken stock; bring to a boil. Turn down to a simmer; add the spinach, salt, pepper and dried spices. Let this cook for a few minutes so the spinach wilts.
3. Add the fresh basil and the tortellini; let cook for about 10 minutes more or until the pasta is cooked.
4. Garnish with Parmesan cheese (optional).