Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Prosciutto and Peas
Indulge in this rich and creamy Parmesan Tortellini recipe, where delicate cheese-filled pasta enveloped in a luscious cream sauce comes alive with the savory notes of crisp prosciutto and the sweetness of fresh peas. This dish is not only quick to prepare, making it perfect for a romantic dinner at home, but it also delivers a burst of flavor with each bite. Impress your loved ones with this elegant yet easy-to-make entree, perfect for date nights or special occasions. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a truly enchanting meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini
2 (9-ounce packages, cooked according to package instructions)
butter
3/4 (cup)
heavy cream
1 (cup)
prosciutto ham
5 (slices, julienned)
frozen peas
1/2 (cup, thawed)
parmesan cheese
1 (cup, grated)
ground black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese-filled tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2
While the tortellini is cooking, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
3
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it is frothy and begins to bubble.
4
Carefully add the drained tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them in the melted butter.
5
Pour in the heavy cream and add the julienned prosciutto. Stir the mixture gently to combine, cooking for about 5 to 8 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6
Next, fold in the thawed peas and the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Season generously with ground black pepper to taste.
7
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Prosciutto and Peas?
It is a rich and indulgent pasta dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini in a luscious cream sauce with savory prosciutto and sweet peas.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two 9-ounce packages of refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini.
How should I cook the tortellini?
Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
What is the base of the creamy sauce?
The sauce is made from a combination of melted butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
How much butter is used in this dish?
This recipe uses 3/4 cup of butter to create a rich and frothy base for the sauce.
What kind of meat is included in this tortellini recipe?
The recipe includes 5 slices of prosciutto ham, which should be julienned into thin strips.
Do the peas need to be fresh?
No, you can use 1/2 cup of frozen peas, provided they are thawed before being folded into the sauce.
What type of cheese should I use?
Use one cup of grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting consistency.
How do I season this dish?
The recipe suggests seasoning generously with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
How long does it take to thicken the sauce?
Once the heavy cream and prosciutto are added, cook the mixture for about 5 to 8 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, it is a quick meal that can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes.
Is this dish appropriate for special occasions?
Absolutely, its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it perfect for date nights or romantic dinners.
What side dishes go well with this tortellini?
It is recommended to serve this dish with a fresh side salad.
What beverage pairs well with this meal?
A glass of white wine is an excellent pairing for this creamy Italian dish.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?
You can use dried tortellini, but ensure you adjust the boiling time as it usually takes longer to reach al dente than refrigerated versions.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While not explicitly stated, the use of 18 ounces of tortellini typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Heavy cream provides the richest texture, but you could use half-and-half for a lighter version, though the sauce may be thinner.
What does 'julienned' mean for the prosciutto?
Julienned means to cut the prosciutto into long, thin strips similar to matchsticks.
When should I add the Parmesan cheese?
Add the Parmesan cheese at the very end along with the peas, stirring until it is fully melted.
Should I salt the pasta water?
Yes, the instructions specify bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil to season the pasta as it cooks.
How do I know when the butter is ready in the skillet?
The butter is ready when it is melted, frothy, and begins to bubble over medium heat.
Can I add extra garnish?
Yes, you can garnish the finished dish with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
Is this recipe considered Italian cuisine?
Yes, with ingredients like tortellini, prosciutto, and Parmesan, it is firmly rooted in Italian culinary traditions.
Can I use frozen peas without thawing them?
It is best to thaw them first to ensure they heat through evenly without watering down the cream sauce.
What is the texture of the final sauce?
The final sauce is luscious, creamy, and thick enough to coat the tortellini beautifully.
Can I substitute prosciutto with another meat?
Cooked pancetta or bacon could be used as a substitute, though prosciutto offers a unique delicate saltiness.
How do I prevent the tortellini from breaking?
Gently toss the tortellini when adding them to the skillet and stir the mixture carefully to keep the pasta intact.
Does this recipe contain many ingredients?
No, it is a relatively simple recipe with an ingredient count of 7 items.
How should I serve this dish?
Serve it immediately after removing from heat to ensure the sauce remains creamy and the pasta stays hot.
Can I add other vegetables?
While not in the original recipe, spinach or sautéed mushrooms would complement the creamy Parmesan base well.