Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings (450g)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (approx. 1 cup/150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (950 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (5 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (2.5 ml) (optional)
  • 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini (255g)
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped (140g)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, usually 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
  5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.