Garlic Basil Cream Tortellini with Spinach and Tomato
Indulge in this luxuriously creamy and comforting tortellini dish, where delicate cheese-filled pasta pockets meet a savory sauce enhanced by aromatic garlic and fresh basil. Complemented by vibrant spinach and succulent tomatoes, this dish promises a rich tapestry of flavors and textures perfect for any culinary occasion.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cheese Tortellini
1 lb (uncooked, fresh or frozen)
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons
Onion
1/2 (chopped)
Garlic Cloves
3 (minced)
Frozen Spinach
9 oz (thawed)
Tomatoes
1 cup (cubed and seeded)
Fresh Basil
1/4 cup (chopped or 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Whipping Cream
1 cup
Parmesan or Romano Cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
Instructions
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, keeping the tortellini warm.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 4 minutes until they become tender and lightly golden.
3
Incorporate the thawed spinach into the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4
Pour in the whipping cream and sprinkle with grated cheese. Allow the mixture to come just to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5
Stir in the cooked tortellini, ensuring all pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Heat thoroughly for 4 to 5 more minutes.
6
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Garlic Basil Cream Tortellini with Spinach and Tomato?
It is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring cheese tortellini in a creamy garlic and basil sauce, topped with spinach and tomatoes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What type of tortellini should I use?
You can use 1 lb of fresh or frozen cheese tortellini.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses cheese-filled pasta and no meat products.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach; just ensure you sauté it until it is fully wilted.
What kind of cream is used for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of whipping cream to create a thick, indulgent sauce.
How do I prepare the tomatoes?
The tomatoes should be seeded and cubed before being added to the dish.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, if you do not have fresh basil, you can use 1.5 teaspoons of dried basil leaves.
What cheese is best for the garnish?
Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese works best for both the sauce and the garnish.
How long do I cook the onion and garlic?
Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 4 minutes until they are tender and golden.
Do I need to thaw the spinach?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 9 oz of frozen spinach that has been thawed.
How long should the tortellini boil?
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
What is the best way to prevent the sauce from burning?
Reduce the heat to low after the cream and cheese mixture comes to a boil.
How do I ensure the tortellini is well-coated?
Stir the cooked tortellini into the skillet and heat for 4 to 5 minutes to allow the sauce to adhere.
Can I use olive oil for sautéing?
Yes, the recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the aromatics.
What aromatics are used in this dish?
This dish uses onion and three cloves of minced garlic for a deep flavor base.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a savory and creamy dish, though you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I substitute the whipping cream for a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner than if you use whipping cream.
How much salt and pepper is needed?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, adjusted to taste.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
While vegetarian, you could easily add grilled chicken or shrimp to this pasta.
What should I do with the tomato seeds?
The recipe recommends seeding the tomatoes to prevent excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
Is the basil added to the sauce or as a garnish?
Basil is typically stirred into the sauce to infuse its aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While designed for tortellini, the sauce would also pair well with ravioli or penne.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
It is not recommended to freeze the completed dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Cheese dishes.
Does this recipe contain any fiber?
Yes, the spinach and tomatoes provide dietary fiber, though specific nutritional values are not listed.
Is the garlic minced or sliced?
The recipe calls for 3 cloves of garlic to be minced.
How long does the entire cooking process take?
Including prep and cooking, the dish takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Should the tortellini be drained?
Yes, once cooked al dente, drain the tortellini well before adding it to the skillet.