Hearty Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup

This delicious soup is a comforting blend of Italian flavors with sausage, vegetables, and tortellini, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Ingredients

1	lb lean Italian sausage, casings removed
1	large onion, diced
2	garlic cloves, crushed
¾	cup red wine
3	cups stock (I use beef)
2	carrots, peeled and finely diced
2	zucchini, finely diced
10	fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
2	cups cups canned chopped tomatoes
10	ounces ounces fresh tortellini (I prefer four cheese for this dish)
	freshly shaved parmesan cheese (optional topping)

Instructions

• 1. In a large saucepan, sauté the Italian sausage over medium heat for 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula. If using very lean sausage, consider adding a touch of cooking spray.
  2. Add the diced onion and crushed garlic, and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the red wine and allow it to cook for 2 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate and flavors infuse.
  4. Stir in the beef stock, finely diced carrots, zucchini, chopped basil, and canned tomatoes. Reduce the heat, cover loosely, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. Add the fresh tortellini to the pot and cook for 2-5 minutes, ensuring the pasta is tender yet not overcooked.
  6. Once done, remove the soup from heat and ladle into bowls. Optionally, garnish with freshly shaved parmesan cheese for added richness.

Jul 20, 2024