Creamy Basil Tomato Tortellini
Indulge in this delectable Creamy Basil Tomato Tortellini, a light yet flavorful dish that perfectly combines the rich taste of cheese tortellini with a fresh basil and tomato sauce. This quick and easy recipe, inspired by The Healthy Heart Cookbook, is not only nutritious but also bursting with vibrant flavors. The addition of aromatic herbs like garlic, basil, and oregano elevates the meal, while a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a delightful finish. Perfect for a cozy night in or a healthy weeknight dinner, this offer serves two and comes together effortlessly, making it the ideal choice for busy cooks.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
cheese tortellini
9 ounces (cooked according to package instructions)
no-salt-added tomato sauce
8 ounces (ready to use)
garlic clove
1 (crushed)
dried basil
1/2 teaspoon (ready to use)
dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon (ready to use)
Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon (grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm.
2
In a small saucepan, combine the no-salt-added tomato sauce, crushed garlic clove, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
3
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4
After 5 minutes, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5
To serve, transfer the luscious sauce to a bowl and gently add the cooked tortellini, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy basil sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Basil Tomato Tortellini?
It is a light yet flavorful dish that combines cheese tortellini with a fresh sauce made from tomatoes, basil, and oregano.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is inspired by The Healthy Heart Cookbook and uses nutritious ingredients like no-salt-added tomato sauce.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve two people.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for nine ounces of cheese tortellini.
What are the main herbs used for seasoning?
The dish is seasoned with dried basil and dried oregano.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
The sauce should simmer for approximately 5 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld.
What kind of tomato sauce should I use?
The recipe recommends using eight ounces of no-salt-added tomato sauce.
How much garlic is required?
You will need one crushed garlic clove for this recipe.
Is there cheese in the sauce?
Yes, one tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese is stirred into the sauce until melted and smooth.
How do I prepare the tortellini?
Cook the cheese tortellini according to the instructions on the package and then drain it.
Is this a vegetarian dish?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe is vegetarian.
How do I start the cooking process?
Begin by cooking the tortellini and then combine the tomato sauce, garlic, and herbs in a small saucepan.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
Yes, while the recipe calls for dried basil, fresh basil can be used for a more vibrant taste.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to toss the cooked tortellini in the sauce until the pasta is evenly coated.
Is this recipe quick to prepare?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy meal that is ideal for busy weeknights.
What heat setting should be used for the sauce?
Bring the sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low to simmer.
Should the saucepan be covered while simmering?
Yes, cover the saucepan after reducing the heat to low for the 5-minute simmer.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 6 main ingredients: tortellini, tomato sauce, garlic, basil, oregano, and Parmesan cheese.
Can I add extra salt to this recipe?
The recipe suggests no-salt-added sauce, but you can adjust seasonings to your taste after the sauce is finished.
Is this dish Italian-inspired?
Yes, the combination of tortellini, tomato, garlic, and herbs makes it a classic Italian-style meal.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic clove should be crushed before being added to the sauce.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, as long as you cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
What makes the sauce creamy?
The addition of grated Parmesan cheese helps create a smooth and creamy texture.
How should I keep the tortellini warm?
Once drained, set the pasta aside in a warm spot while you finish preparing the sauce.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for one fresh garlic clove.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors of cheese and tomato sauce typically appeal to children.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the ingredients can easily be doubled if you need to serve four people instead of two.
What if I don't have dried oregano?
You can substitute with Italian seasoning or simply increase the amount of basil.
What is the source of this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by The Healthy Heart Cookbook.
Should I serve this dish immediately?
Yes, it is best enjoyed immediately after tossing the pasta with the warm sauce.