Squash & Kale Tortellini Soup

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a crisp October day, especially when it’s filled with cozy fall flavors. This Squash & Kale Tortellini Soup brings together tender butternut squash, nutritious greens, and cheesy tortellini in a savory, herb-filled broth for a satisfying and delicious meal. It’s the perfect way to make the most of seasonal produce while keeping dinner simple and fuss-free. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, this cozy soup is ideal for chilly evenings, slow weekends, or whenever you’re craving a little comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients for Squash & Kale Tortellini Soup:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil- A kitchen staple, extra virgin olive oil provides a flavorful base for this soup while helping the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness.

Yellow Onion- Yellow onion adds a savory foundation to the broth, bringing a subtle sweetness as it cooks. Try to dice it into small, even pieces to help it soften evenly.

Celery- Celery adds a fresh, slightly earthy flavor that gives the soup more depth without overpowering the squash or tortellini. It also contributes a little crunch and contains water, fiber, and various vitamins. Be sure to slice the stalks evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Butternut Squash- The star of this fall-inspired soup, adding a naturally sweet, creamy flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory herbs and cheesy pasta. Cut the squash into bite-sized cubes so the pieces become tender in the broth without falling apart too quickly.

Italian Seasoning- A blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, Italian seasoning brings warmth and fragrant, savory flavor to every spoonful. Adding it before the broth allows the herbs to bloom in the warm oil, helping their flavors infuse the entire soup. If you love a more herb-forward broth, you can always add a little extra to taste.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth- Broth gives the soup its comforting, savory base and ties all the ingredients together. It also helps the squash become tender while allowing the herbs to infuse the soup as it simmers. For a lighter option, choose a lower-sodium broth so you can control the salt level yourself.

Cheese Tortellini- Cheese tortellini turns this soup into a hearty, satisfying meal, with little pockets of cheesy goodness in every bowl. Adding the tortellini toward the end is key: it cooks quickly and can become too soft if left simmering for too long. Follow the package directions and cook just until tender for the best texture.

Kale Leaves- Kale adds a lovely pop of green, a slightly earthy flavor to this cozy soup. It’s a nutrient-rich leafy green that provides vitamins K, A, and C, along with fiber. Finely chop the leaves so they soften quickly and are easy to enjoy in every spoonful. Stir them in alongside the tortellini near the end to preserve their color and keep them from becoming overly soft.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 Yellow Onion (medium, diced)
• 2 stalks Celery (sliced)
• 2 cups Butternut Squash (peeled, seeds removed, cubed)
• 1 1/2 tbsps Italian Seasoning
• 8 cups Chicken Broth
• 10 1/2 ozs Cheese Tortellini
• 2 cups Kale Leaves (finely chopped)

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and squash. Cook, occasionally stirring, until the onions begin to soften, about five to seven minutes.
2. Stir in the Italian seasoning and add the broth. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Cook the soup at a low simmer until the vegetables are tender, for about 10 to 12 minutes.
3. Add the tortellini and the kale and cook for another three to five minutes, stirring to combine. Divide evenly between bowls and enjoy!

Notes:

• Leftovers- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days.
• Serving Size- One serving is approximately two cups.
• More Flavor- Add fresh garlic.
• Additional Toppings- Parmesan cheese, fresh basil.

Health Insights:

• Vitamins and Minerals- This recipe is packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals. The butternut squash and kale contribute to the high levels of Vitamin A and Vitamin K. The chicken broth and cheese tortellini provide essential minerals like calcium and phosphorous. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining good health, supporting immune function, bone health, and blood clotting.
• Dietary Fiber- The recipe includes ingredients like butternut squash, kale, and celery, which are known for their high fiber content. Dietary fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system, it aids in preventing constipation, and can help in managing weight by promoting feelings of fullness.
• Healthy Fats- The extra virgin olive oil in this recipe is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and provide nutrients that help develop and maintain your body’s cells. Olive oil is also associated with inflammation reduction and better heart health.