Description
Succulent Tuscan tortellini weaves Italian countryside magic into a comforting pasta experience. Cheesy, herb-infused goodness invites you to savor classic Mediterranean flavors with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Liquids:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare tortellini according to package guidelines, ensuring al dente texture. Transfer to a separate bowl and reserve.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over moderate temperature, introducing minced garlic and allowing it to release its aromatic essence for approximately 90 seconds.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and tender spinach leaves into the fragrant mixture, gently sautéing until spinach softens and wilts gracefully.
- Stream heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, creating a harmonious liquid base. Whisk thoroughly to integrate ingredients and encourage a gentle simmer.
- Allow sauce to gradually condense and thicken, developing rich consistency over 3-4 minutes of careful monitoring.
- Introduce grated Parmesan, stirring elegantly to meld flavors. Season delicately with salt, freshly cracked pepper, and aromatic Italian seasoning blend.
- Reunite reserved tortellini with the creamy sauce, delicately tossing to ensure each pasta pillow receives an even, luxurious coating.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with vibrant fresh basil leaves for a final touch of culinary elegance.
Notes
- Swap heavy cream for lighter alternatives like half-and-half or coconut milk to reduce calories and make the dish more diet-friendly.
- Boost protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans directly into the sauce for a more substantial meal.
- Create a vegetarian version by replacing chicken broth with vegetable broth and ensuring the tortellini is meat-free.
- Use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead of dried Italian seasoning to intensify the Tuscan flavor profile and add brightness to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg