Description
This comforting and nourishing soup brings a sense of balance to any busy schedule. By simmering aromatic vegetables like carrots and celery with a rich, herbaceous broth and a whisper of smoked paprika, you create a satisfying meal without heavy techniques. Finished with fresh kale and a light touch of milk and parmesan, this plant-forward recipe feels like a warm hug, ensuring you feel energized and well-nourished after a long day.
Ingredients
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
6 carrots, chopped into half-moons
4 celery stalks, chopped
6.5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 package (10-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
5 cups kale, chopped with stems removed
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onions, garlic, and fennel seeds until fragrant.
Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the carrots, celery, tomato paste, dried herbs, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini.
During the last 10 minutes, stir in the kale, milk, and parmesan cheese.
Cook until the tortellini is tender and the kale is wilted.
Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini may soak up broth over time; add a splash of water or broth when reheating if needed. To keep the tortellini from getting too soft, do not overcook after adding.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 15mg