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Delicious Easy Pesto Tortellini with vibrant ingredients ready in 15 minutes.

Pesto Tortellini

A quick and comforting meal made with cheesy tortellini tossed in vibrant pesto, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pack Cheese tortellini Spinach and ricotta tortellini works as well.
  • 1 jar Pesto Store-bought is fine, homemade is better.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream or half and half Optional for a creamier sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts better.
  • 1 clove Garlic Use if pesto is not garlicky.
Optional Ingredients
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Adds sweetness and color.
  • 2 cups Baby spinach Optional for added nutrients.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Adjust according to personal preference.
  • 1 cup Optional protein (chicken, shrimp) Use cooked protein for added heartiness.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Bring a big pot of water to a boil and salt it generously.
  2. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
  3. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of pasta water and set aside.
  4. Drain the tortellini and return it to the pot over low heat.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. Stir in the pesto, starting with a generous spoonful and adding more until desired sauciness.
  2. If a creamy texture is desired, pour in a splash of cream and stir until everything is well coated.
  3. Add the grated parmesan and a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
Final Touches
  1. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
  2. Taste and finish with black pepper; add more salt only if necessary.

Notes

Best enjoyed immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water, milk, or cream.