Instant Pot Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Cream is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender tortellini with fresh spinach and a luscious cream broth, all cooked effortlessly in one pot. This delightful soup brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine and the convenience of modern cooking, making it a family favorite.
Recipe Origins
Tortellini, a staple of Italian cuisine, hails from the Emilia-Romagna region, specifically Bologna. Traditionally stuffed with meat or cheese, these little pasta pockets have a long-standing history dating back to the 12th century. The art of crafting tortellini has been passed down through generations, symbolizing family gatherings and shared meals. Over time, variations have emerged, adapting to local ingredients and tastes, leading to delightful soups that showcase the pasta’s comforting nature.
Unique Ingredients
What sets this soup apart is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of fresh spinach brings a vibrant green hue and a nutritious boost, while the cream adds a velvety richness that envelops the tortellini like a warm hug. The use of garlic and onion creates a fragrant base that enhances the dish, while a splash of Parmesan cheese at the end elevates it to gourmet status. Each bite is a celebration of simplicity and decadence, a dish that warms the soul.
Cooking Technique
The Instant Pot revolutionizes the cooking process, allowing you to create this delightful soup in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. By sautéing the aromatics before adding the broth and tortellini, you unlock layers of flavor that develop beautifully under pressure. This technique not only saves time but also ensures that each ingredient retains its integrity and contributes to the overall deliciousness of the soup. It’s the perfect example of how modern cooking can honor traditional flavors while making meal preparation accessible and enjoyable for busy home chefs.
Instant Pot Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Cream
Description
This comforting tortellini soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, featuring creamy goodness and vibrant spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Instant Pot Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Cream
Instructions
Preparing the Base
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Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' mode. Once hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and toss in one diced onion and three minced garlic cloves. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.Scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot as you stir will add extra flavor later! -
Add the Vegetables
Stir in two diced carrots and two celery stalks, chopped. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.Feel free to throw in any leftover veggies you have on hand—this soup is super forgiving!
Building the Flavor
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Incorporate Broth and Seasonings
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, and add one teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.To enhance the flavor, let the broth come to a simmer before moving on to the next step. -
Add the Tortellini
Add 2 cups of refrigerated tortellini to the pot. Stir gently to ensure they are submerged in the broth.Using fresh tortellini will yield the best texture, but frozen works in a pinch—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
Cooking Under Pressure
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Seal and Cook
Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to 'Sealing.' Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' and set the timer for 3 minutes.The pot will take some time to come to pressure, so don’t fret if it takes a few minutes longer!
Finishing Touches
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Quick Release and Add Spinach
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by carefully moving the valve to 'Venting.' After the pressure has released, open the lid and stir in 4 cups of fresh spinach until wilted.The spinach adds not just color but a nutritional boost—don’t skip it! -
Stir in Cream
Finally, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir until combined. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.For a lighter version, feel free to substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Serving the Soup
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Garnish and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal!
Note
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini; if using frozen, no need to thaw.
- For added depth, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil before adding other ingredients.
- Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or use chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Incorporate Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil for an aromatic twist.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- To enhance creaminess, use half-and-half or a plant-based alternative for dairy-free options.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
