Pesto Tortellini
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
15 mins
-
Total Time
20 mins
-
Servings
6
-
Calories
542 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Italian
Pesto Tortellini
Description
The recipe begins by cooking fresh tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Reserving some pasta water allows for adjusting the consistency of the pesto sauce. The pesto is then combined with toasted pine nuts and half of the grated Asiago cheese in a warm pot, tossing the cooked tortellini to coat thoroughly. This gentle warming helps the cheese melt slightly and the flavors meld while keeping the pasta tender.
The toasted pine nuts add a crunchy textural contrast and deepen the nutty flavor inherent in the pesto. Asiago cheese provides a sharp, savory character that complements the fresh herbs and garlic typically found in pesto. The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and add a mild spicy note to brighten the dish.
This pesto tortellini can be served immediately and makes a flavorful lunch or dinner. It pairs well with light salads or grilled vegetables and can be customized by adjusting the pesto amount or cheese to taste.
Ingredients
- 20 ounces tortellini fresh
- 1 cup pesto sauce , click for homemade pesto
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts , toasted
- 1 cup Asiago cheese , grated and divided
- red pepper flakes optional, crushed
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to packages directions for al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce. Drain well and return to the pot.
- Over low heat, toss together the pesto sauce with pine nuts and half of the asiago cheese. If needed, add a small amount of pasta water to thin the pesto.
- When warmed through, transfer to serving dishes and top with additional asiago cheese and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
- If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or ratings section.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 542 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 542kcal | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 15% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 30g | 46% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 51mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 1064mg | 44% |
| Potassium | 35mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 964IU | 19% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 398mg | 40% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.