A week away & a rainy day favorite

Well - this week we were away for business in Syracuse, NY where Spring has yet to make an appearance and there were many a dreary day during the 4 day trip.

Of course, there was no cooking at the hotel during the trip, but the weather had me thinking of my favorite rainy day dinner - my Tortellini Chowder.   This VERY quick & easy dish really hits the spot when it's a little cold out and you want a meal to feel warm and cozy.

BEFORE

You can tell by the photo that most of the meal consists of pre-packaged items. This serves the double purpose of making it an easy dish to prepare, while also allowing me to keep most of the items on-hand to be used at the drop of a hat.

The items I keep on-hand include frozen veggies & potatoes, chicken stock and refrigerated tortellini.  In addition milk & a nice smoked gouda cheese are needed to round out the ingredients.

AFTER

All of those ingredients come together to make a creamy, smoky yummy chowder that is so satisfying, Drew requests the meal at least once a month.

Make it for yourself on the next rainy day:

Ingredients:

• 28 ounces chicken stock
• 15 ounce package loose-pack frozen vegetables (broccoli, corn, carrots etc)
• 9 ounce package of refrigerated cheese or meat filled tortellini
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 1 pack/box (9oz) Seasoned Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Herbs - thawed in microwave
• 1 tablespoon snipped fresh basil
• 1 cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese plus a little extra to top off each bowl while serving. 

Preparation:

1. In a large saucepan, combine broth and frozen vegetables and bring to a boil.
2. Stir in tortellini and return to boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered, about 4 minutes or just until vegetables are tender.
4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine 1 cup of milk with all the flour and whisk until combined. 
5. Add milk/flour mixture and remaining 1 cup of milk to the broth. Add roasted potatoes.
6. Cook and stir until thickened and bubble. Cook 1 minute more and then turn off heat.
7. Add in cheese and fresh basil. 
8. Stir until cheese melts.
9. Season to taste with fresh ground pepper.