Creamy Sun-dried Tomato Tortellini Soup

This creamy tomato soup highlights spinach as the primary brain food and a hint of cayenne pepper.  Spinach has nutrients in it that are linked to better brain function and helping dementia such as lutein, folate, and beta-carotene. Cayenne pepper has many health benefits including anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Ingredients

6 cups milk
3 oz fresh spinach
17 oz frozen cheese filled tortellini (I used plain and multi-colored)
1 jar (8 oz) oil packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and pureed
5 white sauce balls (recipe provided below)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 Tablespoons lemon juice
4 fresh tomatoes, diced
salt and pepper to taste
4 dashes cayenne pepper

In large pot, place all ingredients. Stir until thickened and heated through. Serves 6-8.

White Sauce Balls

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 lb butter or margarine, softened
2 Tablespoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Mix. Shape into 1-1/2 inch balls and freeze on cookie sheet. Put in zip lock bag when frozen. Can use to make sauces and soup bases.