Minestrone with Cherry Tomatoes, Tortellini and Sausage

I am on a bit of a soup kick right now.  In my world, soup accomplishes two things:  it allows me to clean out the vegetable drawers in my refrigerator and, more importantly, it provides me with comfort.  It's been a tough year so far.  As the temperatures begin to rise and we are all able to spend a bit more time out of doors, I am hoping that my spirits too will lift.  In the meantime, I will continue to make soup!

Minestrone with Cherry Tomatoes, Tortellini and Sausage

2 tsp canola oil
1 c chopped onion
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 c chopped carrots
1/2 c chopped parsnips or turnips
5-6 c chicken stock
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper
1 1/2 c cherry tomatoes, halved
1 c dried cheese tortellini
1/4 c grated parmesan, romano or asiago
2 c baby spinach or chopped spinach, kale or collard greens (remember to remove the rib before chopping)
4-6 oz diced cooked sausage or salami

Coat pan with nonstick spray and add oil.  Saute onions and garlic until softened.  Add carrots, parsnips or turnips, stock, tomato paste, basil, salt and pepper.  Bring to a boil and simmer for around 12 minutes, until vegetables are just tender.  Stir in cherry tomatoes, tortellini and half of the cheese.  Cover and simmer until tortellini is cooked.  Add leafy greens and sausage and cook for a further 2-3 minutes.  Adjust consistency by adding more stock if necessary.  Garnish with remaining cheese.