Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini is a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the savory flavors of garlic and herbs with creamy Parmesan cheese, all wrapped around tender tortellini. Not only is it simple to make, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

Ingredients:

• 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 0.75 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided: 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 0.5 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from cooking tortellini)

Directions:

1. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Cook the Tortellini: Once boiling, gently add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Stir briefly to prevent sticking and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Prep the Ingredients: While the tortellini cooks, measure out the remaining ingredients. This ‘mise en place’ will help streamline the cooking process!
4. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the tortellini, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water using a mug or heatproof measuring cup. Set aside.
5. Drain the Tortellini: Carefully drain the tortellini in a colander, discarding the hot water.
6. Combine Ingredients: Return the hot, drained tortellini to the warm pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the extra virgin olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Toss and Coat: Using tongs or a spoon, gently toss everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated. If it looks a bit dry, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time, tossing as you go, until you achieve a light, silky coating.
8. Serve: Transfer the tortellini to serving dishes and sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

Serve this dish hot, straight from the pot, as a main course or as a side dish. Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top add a nice touch for presentation.

How to Store Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

If you have leftovers, let the tortellini cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help it regain its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

• Ensure you don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add more garlic powder or Italian seasoning if you like a stronger flavor.
• For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes.

Variation

For a veggie boost, you can add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even zucchini to the dish. Just sauté the vegetables in the olive oil before adding the tortellini and other ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package as cooking times may vary.

2. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
You can make a vegan version by using plant-based tortellini and substituting nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tortellini and sauce ahead. Just cook them, let them cool, store in the fridge, and reheat when ready to eat.

Easy Garlic Herb Parmesan Tortellini

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Print Recipe

A quick and delicious dish featuring tortellini with garlic, herbs, and creamy Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2.5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 0.75 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided: 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 0.5 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from cooking tortellini)

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, gently add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. While the tortellini cooks, measure out the remaining ingredients for efficiency.
4. Before draining the tortellini, scoop out about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside.
5. Carefully drain the tortellini in a colander.
6. Return the hot, drained tortellini to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
7. Toss everything together until the tortellini is evenly coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a light coating.
8. Transfer to serving dishes, sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

See also  Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste. Add red pepper flakes for heat or vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for a veggie boost.

• Author: boldtastedelicious_admin
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian