Hey fellow nutrition-seekers! I’m Juliette, and welcome to my little corner of the internet, where we celebrate the beautiful chaos of feeding families without losing our minds. I’m so excited to share one of our family’s all-time favorite sanity-saving nutrition solutions: Ravioli Soup!
I remember the first time I made Ravioli Soup. My youngest was going through a picky phase (again!), and I was desperate for a way to sneak in some veggies and protein without a battle. I had a package of frozen ravioli in the freezer and a can of diced tomatoes in the pantry. Suddenly, inspiration struck!✨
That first batch of Ravioli Soup wasn’t exactly gourmet, but it was a dinnertime nutrition win! The kids loved the cheesy ravioli, and I loved that they were actually eating vegetables. Now, years later, it’s become a staple in our house.
This Ravioli Soup has evolved into a customizable, nutrition-packed powerhouse. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover veggies, get a quick and nourishing meal on the table, and please even the pickiest eaters. If you’re a busy mom searching for simple nutrition ideas, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive in!💕
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Trust me, this Ravioli Soup ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this family-friendly soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This adds a little healthy fat and helps sauté the veggies. If I’m out, I’ll use avocado oil.
- 1 onion, chopped: Onions are a great source of antioxidants and add flavor!
- 2 carrots, chopped: Carrots bring sweetness and beta-carotene, which is great for eye health. My family gets extra nutrition when I add finely chopped carrots.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Celery adds a nice crunch and fiber.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a powerhouse of flavor and immune-boosting properties.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are the base of our soup and a good source of lycopene.
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option): Broth adds flavor and hydration. I always opt for low-sodium.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano adds a classic Italian flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Basil complements the oregano and adds another layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
- 1 (20-25 ounce) package of frozen ravioli: Cheese, spinach, or meat ravioli all work well! This Ravioli Soup proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive, especially if you use frozen ravioli.
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach: Spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Parmesan adds a salty, savory finish.
You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. This simple nutrition Ravioli Soup is a total win for busy weeknights. No worries if you don’t have fresh spinach – I use frozen for extra nutrients in my Ravioli Soup. Frozen spinach is just as nutritious and lasts longer!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Okay, fellow nutrition-seekers, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this simple and delicious Ravioli Soup. I promise it’s easier than it sounds!💕
- Sauté the veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This helps build a flavorful base for our Ravioli Soup.
- Add the tomatoes and broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken (or vegetable) broth. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Here’s where I used to struggle with my Ravioli Soup: I wouldn’t let it simmer long enough!
- Simmer for flavor: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Ravioli Soup usually takes about 30 minutes to simmer, but even 15 minutes makes a difference. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
- Add the ravioli: Gently stir in the frozen ravioli. Increase the heat to medium and cook until the ravioli are tender and heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the ravioli, or they might fall apart. Don’t worry if your Ravioli Soup looks a little thick – the ravioli will absorb some of the liquid.
- Stir in the spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrition. Your Ravioli Soup should smell nourishing by now.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the Ravioli Soup into bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. While your Ravioli Soup is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!
That’s it! Seriously, how easy was that? This Ravioli Soup recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. I’ve learned to adjust this Ravioli Soup recipe to suit our family’s needs, and it’s become a flexible, nutritious staple. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
How We Love to Eat This!
This Ravioli Soup is a dinnertime champion in our house! Here are a few ways we love to enjoy it:
- With a side of crusty bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth. The kids devour this nutritious Ravioli Soup when I serve it with warm, crusty bread.
- With a simple salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- As a cozy lunch: Leftover **Ravioli Soup** makes a fantastic and filling lunch. It reheats beautifully!
- For a potluck: This soup is always a hit at gatherings. I always get asked for the recipe!
- During the colder months: This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This **Ravioli Soup** is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast!
I like to present this Ravioli Soup in colorful bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh basil. It just makes it look extra appealing. The best part is, even my pickiest eaters will happily slurp down a bowl of this soup! When serving I like to add a side of sauteed green beans.
This nutritious Ravioli Soup reminds me of another family-healthy favorite, Turmeric Chicken Soup, for its simplicity and nutritional punch. Don’t toss those nutritious leftovers from your **Ravioli Soup**! Transform them into a delicious pasta sauce or a quick quesadilla filling for lunch.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I get it, fellow moms! You’ve got questions. Here are some of the most common ones I hear about this Ravioli Soup:
Is this Ravioli Soup really nutritious enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! The combination of veggies, protein from the ravioli, and vitamins from the spinach makes it a well-rounded meal. I often add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for an extra nutrition boost.
What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Ravioli Soup?
Start small! Offer a tiny spoonful alongside something they already love. You can also let them help you make the soup – kids are often more likely to try things they’ve helped prepare. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for Roasted Vegetable Soup, as well!
Can I meal prep this Ravioli Soup for busy weeks ahead?
Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Just make a big batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually get better as it sits!
Can I freeze this Ravioli Soup?
While you can freeze this **Ravioli Soup**, the texture of the ravioli might change slightly. If you do freeze it, I recommend undercooking the ravioli slightly before freezing.
Can I make this Ravioli Soup in a slow cooker?
Sure can! Sauté the veggies as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the ravioli and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What kind of ravioli should I use?
Any kind you like! Cheese ravioli is a classic choice, but spinach, mushroom, or meat ravioli all work well too. I’ve even used butternut squash ravioli for a fall-themed soup.
Can I add other vegetables to this Ravioli Soup?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out White Bean Soup, too!
Final Thoughts:
This Ravioli Soup has become a staple in our house because it’s simple, nutritious, and satisfying. It’s a dinnertime nutrition win that I can always count on, even on the busiest of nights.
Here are my Ravioli Soup Nutrition Hacks:
- Add extra veggies: Sneak in finely chopped veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an extra nutrition boost.
- Use whole wheat ravioli: If you can find it, whole wheat ravioli adds extra fiber.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for a heartier soup.
Here are a few family-tested variations:
- Creamy Ravioli Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer flavor. Find an amazing recipe at Creamy Ravioli Soup – Reluctant Entertainer.
- Spicy Ravioli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Ravioli Soup: Use vegetable broth and your favorite vegetarian ravioli. One-Pot Vegetarian Ravioli Soup – Peas and Crayons offers a simple and tasty version!
My son loves the creamy version, while my daughter prefers the spicy one! I encourage you to make this soup your own, experimenting with different flavors and ingredients until you find the perfect combination for your family. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do it! I hope you find success with this **Ravioli Soup**. It might even become one of your family’s favorite meals.
Ultimately, I want you to know that you’re doing great! Feeding a family is hard work, but with a few simple nutrition solutions like this Ravioli Soup, you can make it a little bit easier. I hope this Ravioli Soup recipe brings a little bit of sanity and nourishment to your busy life. Happy cooking! For another great recipe, check out Creamy Ravioli Soup | Easy Weeknight Recipes.💕
Ravioli Soup
This comforting Ravioli Soup is a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Tender ravioli simmered in a flavorful tomato broth with spinach and herbs make a hearty and satisfying dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.
- Add ravioli to the soup and cook according to package directions, usually about 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a dollop of ricotta cheese to each bowl before serving. You can also use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.