Pesto Tortellini is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of cheese-filled tortellini with the vibrant, aromatic taste of pesto. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fresh and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pesto Tortellini recipe is the epitome of simplicity and freshness. The combination of soft cheese tortellini and the bold, herby pesto sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re craving a light dinner or a comforting meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
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2 cups cheese tortellini
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1/4 cup pesto sauce
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Fresh Parmesan cheese for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Toss the cooked tortellini in the pesto sauce until well-coated.
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Garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2 servings
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove with a small splash of olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pesto?
Yes, homemade pesto will take this dish to the next level! You can use fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil to make your own pesto sauce.
2. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or spaghetti if you prefer.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the pesto sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce while tossing the pasta.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, to make this dish heartier.
5. Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient option and works perfectly for this dish. Just make sure to choose a high-quality pesto for the best flavor.
6. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This dish is already vegetarian, but you can enhance the flavors by adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms.
7. Can I freeze this dish?
While pesto doesn’t freeze as well with pasta, you can freeze any leftover pesto separately and use it in future recipes. Just store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month.
8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
For the best taste and texture, it’s best to make this dish fresh. However, you can cook the tortellini and store it separately from the pesto sauce, then toss everything together just before serving.
9. Can I use a different type of cheese in the tortellini?
Yes, you can use any cheese-filled tortellini, such as ricotta or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan, to suit your preferences.
10. Can I add nuts to the pesto?
Yes, you can add toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds to the pesto for extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Pesto Tortellini is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy evenings. The combination of cheesy tortellini and fresh pesto creates a light yet hearty meal that’s full of flavor. Whether you make it as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this easy, fresh, and delicious recipe!
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Pesto Tortellini
Pesto Tortellini is a quick and flavorful pasta dish that combines cheese-filled tortellini with the vibrant, aromatic taste of pesto. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights when you need something fresh and satisfying. With its bold pesto sauce and comforting cheese tortellini, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
2 cups cheese tortellini
1/4 cup pesto sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
-
Toss the cooked tortellini in the pesto sauce until well-coated.
-
Garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Notes
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, microwave or heat on the stove with a small splash of olive oil.
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Homemade pesto can elevate the flavor of this dish even further. If using store-bought pesto, choose a high-quality brand for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Main Course, Quick Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
