We hope everyone is having a great week! We’re actually on vacation, but that doesn’t mean you’re missing out. We still wanted to bring you all the Date Nite goodness. We’re so excited to be back on soups, and this tortellini bowl is such an easy win. No make-ahead or prep required, just simple steps that come together fast.
Since the recipe is lighter on prep, we added in a couple of extras: a fresh, healthy leftover idea (perfect for putting those veggies to good use) and a new playlist to set the mood. And because this wraps up Martini Month, we couldn’t resist finishing with a fall-inspired twist: the salted caramel espresso martini. It’s indulgent, balanced, and the perfect way to toast the change of season.
Even while we’re away, we love knowing we can share food, drinks, and little rituals that keep Date Nite special. Thanks for being here with us every week.
Kevin & Kate
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Creamy Tortellini Soup
Your Weekly Essentials
Everything you’ll need to make this meal — plus a few pantry staples you probably already have.
Turn your leftover veggies into something fresh! Learn how to make homemade juice without a juicer.
This week’s playlist: Sufjan Stevens’ The BQE—instrumental, layered, and perfect for Date Nite.
notes from the kitchen
Just a few kitchen tips to make the most of this week's ingredients and flavors.
1. No Espresso Machine?
For this week's cocktail, a moka pot on the stovetop makes a fantastic, budget-friendly espresso substitute. We’ll link our favorite so you can still enjoy this cocktail without an espresso machine.
2. Salted Caramel Syrup
We also recommend Monin’s salted caramel syrup for the best flavor and consistency for your espresso martini. It’s the one we use behind the bar, and it makes this martini shine. If you’d rather skip the salted caramel, simply leave it out for a traditional espresso martini, just know it will be less sweet. If you prefer a little balance, add a splash more coffee liqueur or simple syrup.
3. Mr. Black is our Go to
Mr. Black is our favorite coffee liqueur. We tested this week’s cocktail with both Mr. Black and Kahlúa, and we loved the deeper, true coffee flavor that Mr. Black delivered. It’s the one we keep behind the bar.
4. Cream or No Cream?
The broth is flavorful and hearty on its own, but if you prefer a lighter soup, feel free to skip the cream.
5. Prefer VEgetarian?
Skip the sausage for a simple vegetarian version. Add beans, potatoes, or extra veggies if you’d like more substance.
6. Plant-Based Perfection option
Swap the cheese tortellini for gnocchi, skip the cream, and bulk it up with beans, potatoes, or extra veggies for a cozy vegan bowl.
7. Thickening the soup is optional
The flour just adds a hint of thickness. Leave it out if you’d rather keep the broth lighter.
8. Don’t Rush the Veggies
Make sure the carrots and celery are cooked to your liking before adding the tortellini—everything else comes together quickly after that.
9. soup & Bread lover?
This soup is plenty hearty, but if you’re a bread-dipper, serve it with a rustic crusty loaf.
Heads up: We may earn a small commission on products we’ve linked here. We only recommend the real-deal favorites from our kitchen.
we hope you enjoy this week. and as always,
Keep the Plates Full and the Spark Alive
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