Sausage and Tortellini Stew

Tonight’s delectable and satisfying dinner, and possibly lunch tomorrow:


1 lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
5 cups beef broth
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 large carrot, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 Tbsp basil
2 Tbsp oregano
10 oz purchased fresh tortellini
Fresh grated Parmesan cheese for serving

In a large pot over medium high heat, add the sausage, breaking up with the back of a spoon. Once cooked through, transfer sausage to a plate with a slotted spoon.

Add onion and garlic to the pan and cook until tender. Return sausage to the pot. Add broth, tomatoes, tomato sauce, zucchini, carrot, bell pepper, basil and oregano. Simmer until all vegetables are tender, about 35-40 minutes. Add tortellini to the soup and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Season soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowl and serve with Parmesan cheese.

Yields 6 servings.