Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This recipe for soup with ravioli offers a delightful twist on classic comfort food. It's the perfect blend of hearty and healthy, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks, and adaptable to your favorite flavors. Let's dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
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Simmer the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
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Add Greens and Spices: Stir in the spinach, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
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Cook the Ravioli: Add the cheese ravioli to the soup. If using fresh ravioli, cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and tender. If using frozen ravioli, follow package directions, adding a minute or two to ensure they are fully cooked in the soup.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This comforting soup is best enjoyed immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Soup with Ravioli:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Ravioli: Both work wonderfully! Fresh ravioli cooks faster, while frozen ravioli requires a bit longer simmering time. Always refer to the package instructions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Boost the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the onions.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Delicious Variations:
- Tomato Basil Ravioli Soup: Use tomato and basil flavored ravioli for an even more intense flavor.
- Mushroom and Spinach Ravioli Soup: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the spinach for an earthy twist.
- Meat Lover's Soup: Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the soup for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350 (depending on ravioli and additions)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This soup with ravioli recipe is a simple yet delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking that’s quick, tasty, and satisfying. Enjoy this delicious dish – a perfect quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite!