User:CameronMacek

This is an easy soup that can be made in 30-45 minutes in the evening.

1lb lean ground meat of your choice such as chicken, turkey, bison or lean beef (I used bison but I also added about 1/4 lb of hot turkey sausage) 4 cups low sodium beef broth (or chicken broth if using ground turkey or chicken) 1-2 cups water 1 28oz can diced tomatoes seasoned with garlic and basil or Italian style 1 large sweet onion, diced 5 stalks of celery, sliced 5 whole carrots, peeled and sliced 2 cloves of garlic pressed (using a garlic press) 1/4 tsp dried thyme (I don't measure so this amount is a guesstimate. Taste and add more if necessary) A dash or two of red pepper flakes (more or less depending on your level of "heat") 1pkg of refrigerated cheese tortellini such as Buitoni. Cook according to pkg directions. Set aside.
 * Sliced baby spinach and kale (read below for more info).

Brown the ground meat until cooked through. Add diced onion, celery, carrots, garlic, red pepper flakes and thyme. Stir until onion begins to cook a bit and become more translucent. Now add the can of diced tomatoes, stir and let simmer for about 3 minutes (if you wish). Next add the broth and water, let simmer until carrots and celery are tender. Pour hot soup over 4-6 tortellini spirals and sliced spinach and kale. Enjoy!

Don't be afraid of green leafy vegetables! Once you know how good they are for you, you won't want to skip adding them to everyday dishes...Check it out...
 * Kale and spinach are both WONDERFUL, dark, leafy green SUPER FOODS rich in phytonutrients! Read about all the benefits by clicking here for kale/spinach! OR here for a lesson in phytonutrients!

As a side note. Tortellini can be substituted for small amounts of whole grain pasta. I personally could have gone without the tortellini. I found out I'm not a big fan of it but some people love it and need that in their soups. Vary this in any way you wish. Make it yours. Add zucchini or mushrooms or peppers. Use cooked rice or quinoa to pour the soup over. Your suggestions are welcome. What would YOU add to make this soup your own?