Spring Green Tortellini with Spinach and Basil Pesto

This vibrant and fresh pasta dish is a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of spring. Made with tender cheese tortellini, nutrient-rich spinach, and a flavorful basil pesto, it’s both comforting and refreshing. Ideal for quick lunches or weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together in minutes and is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 20 minutes
• Rich in flavor from the combination of cheese-filled pasta and herbaceous pesto
• A great way to incorporate leafy greens into your meal
• Easily customizable with proteins or extra vegetables
• Delicious served warm or as a cold pasta salad

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini
• Fresh baby spinach
• Basil pesto
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In the final 30 seconds of cooking, add the spinach to the pot to wilt.
4. Drain the tortellini and spinach and return them to the pot.
5. Stir in the basil pesto and mix gently until everything is well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 5 minutes
• Cooking time: 8 minutes
• Total time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost
• Mix in cherry tomatoes, steamed broccoli, or roasted bell peppers for more color and texture
• Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer, creamier version
• Use arugula or kale instead of spinach for a different green flavor
• Try sun-dried tomato pesto or a spinach pesto for a unique twist

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, enjoy cold as a pasta salad.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can this be served cold?

Absolutely. It makes a delicious cold pasta salad—perfect for picnics or meal prep.

What kind of pesto should I use?

A traditional basil pesto is ideal, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like arugula, kale, or sun-dried tomato pesto.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Ensure that the Parmesan cheese is made with vegetarian rennet or substitute with a plant-based cheese.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, peas, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely. The cheesy tortellini and mild pesto flavor are generally appealing to kids.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the tortellini and pesto may suffer upon thawing.

How do I prevent the tortellini from sticking?

Drain the pasta and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil if you’re not serving it immediately.

What can I serve with this dish?

A light salad, garlic bread, or grilled vegetables pair nicely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving or enjoy it cold.

Conclusion

Spring Green Tortellini with Spinach and Basil Pesto is a delicious, versatile dish that brings a burst of freshness to your table. Whether served hot for dinner or cold as a quick lunch, it offers convenience, flavor, and plenty of room for customization. Give this simple yet satisfying recipe a try and enjoy the best flavors of spring in every bite.

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