Thread:Kateeo/@comment-33239770-20190317055133

Ingredients 
 * 2 quarts chicken stock (I used 3T Better Than Bouillon Chicken Stock Base in 2 qts. water)
 * 8 oz package cream cheese at room temperature
 * 1 tsp. cumin
 * 1 tsp. oregano
 * 2 cans (14.5 oz.) Italian style diced tomatoes
 * 20 oz. package refrigerated (fresh) cheese tortellini (I love the tri-color tortellini in this.)
 * 2 – 8 cloves garlic, chopped (I like lots of garlic.  Adjust according to your taste.)
 * 16 oz. package fresh spinach
 * Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, stir cream cheese into chicken stock until it has melted and the liquid is smooth and creamy. (I use a stick blender.)

Add cumin, oregano, and tomatoes. (See note below.*)  Simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let flavors develop.

Add tortellini and set timer for 7 minutes. (Check instructions on your tortellini package; your cooking time instructions may vary.)

After about 2 minutes, (depending on your tortellini instructions), start stirring in handfuls of spinach and the garlic.*  Spinach should cook for approximately 4 minutes. Time it so the tortellini and spinach are done at the same time.

Top with freshly ground black pepper and serve hot.


 * Note:  You may wish to add the garlic when you add the cumin, oregano, and tomatoes, if you want it to cook longer and have the flavor blend more.  I've started throwing it in near the end, usually right after or with the spinach.  Garlic is healthier when lightly cooked, and I like it this way.  Your choice!

Also, if you don't have or don't want to use a stick blender, cube the cream cheese first, and you can go ahead and add the cumin, oregano, and tomatoes (and garlic, if you wish) at the beginning and simmer for about 30 minutes.

I find this to be is a very forgiving recipe, so feel free to play around with amounts and ingredients. You can add chicken. You can top it with shredded parmesan cheese. Let your imagination and your taste buds guide you.



I hope you enjoy it!  