images

Christmas Tortellini & Spinach Soup

I made this soup for the first time in the summer, but when I saw its bright red and green colors, the first thought that occurred to me was this would make a perfect first course for Christmas dinner.

—MARIETTA SLATER JUSTIN, TX



START TO FINISH: 25 MIN. • MAKES: 6 SERVINGS


2 cans (14 1/2 ounces each) vegetable broth

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini or tortellini of your choice

1 can (15 ounces) white kidney or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) Italian diced tomatoes, undrained

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

3 cups fresh baby spinach

3 tablespoons minced fresh basil

1/4 cup shredded Asiago cheese

1. In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Add the tortellini; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Stir in beans, tomatoes, salt and pepper; return to a simmer. Cook 4-5 minutes longer or until tortellini are tender.

2. Stir in spinach and basil; cook until spinach is wilted. Top servings with cheese.