When the weather turns chilly and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. One evening, as I rifled through my pantry, a brilliant idea sparked—why not bring together bright basil pesto, tender tortellini, and an array of fresh vegetables for a delightful twist on traditional minestrone? This Pesto Tortellini Soup, or Green Minestrone as I like to call it, has become my go-to recipe for those cozy nights in.
Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to whip up in just 30 minutes. With a nourishing blend of chicken or vegetable stock, sautéed greens, and only a handful of ingredients, it’s the ultimate answer to anyone looking to escape the hassle of fast food. Each spoonful brings a burst of freshness, while the tortellini gives it a satisfying heartiness that keeps me coming back for more. Join me as we dive into a bowl of comfort that feels like home, but is fun and exciting at the same time!
Why is Pesto Tortellini Soup special?
Comforting, Flavorful Bowl: The Pesto Tortellini Soup combines tender tortellini with a vibrant and delicious basil pesto that brightens every spoonful.
Quick and Easy: It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal for busy cooks.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies based on what you have on hand—adapt it to your taste!
Nourishing and Filling: With rich stock and wholesome vegetables, this soup is not just tasty but also satisfying.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for families or dinner parties, everyone will love the comforting flavors of this unique twist on minestrone.
For even more delightful soups, check out my collection of quick soup recipes.
Pesto Tortellini Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious bowl of goodness!
For the Soup Base
- Chicken or Vegetable Stock – 4 cups for a flavorful foundation.
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon to sauté your vegetables to perfection.
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped, for that aromatic base.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced, to add robust flavor.
- Celery – 1 stalk, chopped, for a nice crunch.
- Zucchini – 1 medium, chopped, to enhance the soup’s heartiness.
For the Veggie Medley
- Peas – 1 cup, these little gems add sweetness and color.
- Asparagus – 1 cup, chopped, bringing fresh spring vibes to the dish.
For the Finishing Touches
- Basil Pesto – 1/2 cup, the star ingredient for that vibrant flavor infusion in your Pesto Tortellini Soup.
- Tortellini – 9 ounces, the perfect bite-sized pasta that makes this soup filling.
- Lemon Juice – Juice of 1, for brightening up those rich flavors!
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, ensuring you can customize the soup to your liking.
How to Make Pesto Tortellini Soup
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Sauté the onions in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and stir, letting its aroma fill your kitchen before mixing in the celery, zucchini, peas, and asparagus. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender and bright in color.
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Pour in the stock, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. This will meld all the flavors together beautifully.
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Add the tortellini to the pot and simmer for 3-4 minutes until they are al dente and tender. Watch closely; you want them just right!
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Remove the pot from heat and stir in the basil pesto. Squeeze in the lemon juice for a delightful zesty finish. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Optional: Top with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Pesto Tortellini Soup (Green Minestrone) preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and sauté them in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (stock, sautéed vegetables) up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just add the tortellini and simmer for 3-4 minutes until tender. Remember to stir in the pesto and lemon juice just before serving; this step ensures your soup maintains its fresh flavor. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a comforting bowl with minimal effort!
Pesto Tortellini Soup Variations
Feel free to customize this delicious soup to match your taste buds and pantry staples!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute traditional tortellini with dairy-free alternatives made from chickpeas or lentils for a lighter option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a warm kick that enhances the soup’s vibrant flavors.
- Veggie Swap: Replace peas and asparagus with seasonal veggies like bell peppers or spinach, making use of what’s fresh and available.
- Protein Boost: Stir in grilled chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for added protein, transforming your soup into a satisfying meal.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile of your soup.
- Noodle Time: Go global by swapping tortellini for rice noodles or even quinoa, giving your soup an exciting texture variation.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream to create a luxuriously creamy finish to your soup.
- Citrus Zing: Experiment with different citrus by adding lime or orange juice for a refreshing twist that adds brightness to every spoonful.
What to Serve with Pesto Tortellini Soup?
When enjoying a warm bowl of Pesto Tortellini Soup, complement it with delightful sides that enhance its fresh, vibrant flavors.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for sopping up every drop of soup, plus the garlic adds a punchy flavor.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies provide a savory contrast that harmonizes wonderfully with the soup’s freshness.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites add a delightful saltiness and textural contrast; perfect for nibbling alongside.
For dessert, consider something light, like lemon sorbet. It cleanses the palate after the rich soup, echoing the zesty notes from the lemon juice.
- Lemon Sorbet: Its refreshing citrus flavor will cap off your meal with brightness.
Pairing these dishes with your Pesto Tortellini Soup makes for a comforting and satisfying culinary experience that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Pesto Tortellini Soup
- Fridge: Store any leftover Pesto Tortellini Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to retain freshness.
- Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to thin it if necessary.
- Avoid Refreezing: For the best taste and texture, avoid refreezing once thawed. Enjoy your delicious soup fresh each time!
Expert Tips for Pesto Tortellini Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and homemade pesto elevate the flavor; consider making your own pesto for a personal touch.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the tortellini just until al dente to maintain their texture; overcooking leads to mushy pasta.
- Customize Veggies: Swap out seasonal or leftover veggies for a personalized spin—don’t be afraid to get creative with this Pesto Tortellini Soup!
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding shredded chicken or beans to increase the protein content.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently for the best flavor melding; it’s worth the wait for those rich, comforting tastes.
Pesto Tortellini Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of stock should I use for Pesto Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! For a rich flavor, I recommend using chicken stock; however, vegetable stock works wonderfully too for a lighter, vegetarian option. Just ensure it’s low-sodium to control the salt levels better in your soup.
How should I store leftover Pesto Tortellini Soup?
To keep your delicious Pesto Tortellini Soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing; this helps maintain taste and texture.
Can I freeze Pesto Tortellini Soup, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top as it may expand. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to savor it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore its smooth consistency.
What if my tortellini ends up mushy in the soup?
Very common! To prevent it, always cook the tortellini just until al dente before adding it to the soup. If you find they are mushy after cooking, consider adding freshly cooked tortellini when reheating the soup instead of cooking it in the broth, giving you better results with that delightful bite.
Is this soup safe for people with gluten allergies?
Indeed! Just choose gluten-free tortellini and check your pesto to ensure it’s gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives now, so you can enjoy this comforting soup without worry!
How long does the pesto last in the refrigerator?
Homemade pesto typically lasts about 5-7 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container. If you notice it changing color or developing a strong smell, it’s best to toss it!
Delicious Pesto Tortellini Soup for a Quick Green Minestrone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the onions in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and stir, then mix in celery, zucchini, peas, and asparagus. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender and bright in color.
- Pour in the stock and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and simmer for 3-4 minutes until they are al dente and tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the basil pesto. Squeeze in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.