cheese tortellini with creamy tomato and spinach sauce
Haley Hose
Ingredients
- Cheese Tortellini
- Fresh Spinach
- Diced Tomatoes
- Heavy Cream
- Olive Oil
- Garlic Cloves, Minced
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Fresh Basil Leaves
- Parmesan Cheese, Grated
- Fresh Mozzarella Slices
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Chopped
- Vegetable Broth
- Nutritional Yeast (for a cheesy flavor without actual cheese)
- Italian Seasoning
Remember to include these ingredients in your recipe content for better search engine optimization (SEO). Use relevant keywords like "cheese tortellini," "creamy tomato sauce," and "spinach" throughout the text.
Steps
## Cheese Tortellini with Creamy Tomato and Spinach Sauce: A Delicious Recipe
### Introduction
Cheese tortellini is a classic pasta dish that combines tender cheese-filled circles with a flavorful sauce. By adding a creamy tomato and spinach sauce, this recipe elevates the traditional Italian comfort food to new heights. This step-by-step guide will help you create a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for dinner or a special occasion.
### Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) cheese tortellini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (475ml) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (85g) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- ½ cup (36g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup (40g) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
### Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini
1. **Cook the Tortellini**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 3-5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. **Sauté Onions and Garlic**: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
#### Step 2: Create the Sauce
1. **Add Tomatoes and Spinach**: Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
2. **Blend in Cream and Cheese**: Slowly stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
#### Step 3: Combine and Serve
1. **Combine Tortellini and Sauce**: Add cooked tortellini back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece of pasta evenly. Cook for an additional minute or so if necessary, ensuring that the cheese melts and the flavors meld together.
2. **Garnish and Plate**: Transfer the cheese tortellini with creamy tomato and spinach sauce to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch. Serve hot.
### Tips
- Ensure your tortellini is cooked al dente; overcooking can result in mushy pasta.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sauté some minced mushrooms or bell peppers before adding the onions and garlic.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
### Conclusion
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of cheese tortellini with a rich, creamy tomato and spinach sauce. The result is a delicious dish that's perfect for sharing or enjoying as a cozy meal at home. With its SEO-friendly keywords and clear instructions, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable Italian culinary experience.