Kale, Sausage & Tortellini Stew

Ingredients

• 3-4 cups chopped kale
• 16 ounce package fresh or frozen cheese Tortellini
• 2 Tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped onion
• sprinkle of ground black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1/4 lb to ½ lb Sweet Italian Sausage removed from the casing
• 2-3 cups tomato puree
• 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 3-4 cups low-sodium chicken stock

Preparation Steps

1. Rinse the kale well under cool running water. Remove the large stem and discard. Rough chop the kale into 2 inch pieces, then set aside.
2. Bring 2 quarts water to a boil in a stockpot. Add Tortellini and cook according to package directions, drain then set aside.
3. Add 2 Tablespoons olive oil to a Dutch oven or stockpot. Heat lightly then add the celery, carrots & onion. Stir and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies are just about tender. Add a sprinkle of ground black pepper & chopped garlic then stir for 1 minute. Add the sausage, stir over medium high heat until well browned. Add tomato puree, salt, Italian Seasoning & chicken stock. Bring to a boil then turn to simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add kale and simmer an additional 5 minutes. Turn off the heat then add cooked Tortellini, stir to blend.

Serve this hearty family meal with a dark green leafy salad! Enjoy!!!