Are you ready to indulge in a vibrant burst of flavors with a dish that screams summer? Our Cherry Tomato Basil Tortellini Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the taste of Italy right to your kitchen! With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family or guests with this delightful combination of creamy cheese tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Dive into this culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and floating.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their natural juices.
- Drain the cooked tortellini, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water if needed to help create sauce consistency.
- Transfer the tortellini directly into the skillet with tomatoes and garlic. Gently toss to combine and coat the pasta.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the pasta.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cherry tomatoes and basil. The quality of your ingredients can elevate this dish from good to unforgettable.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini while cooking. They should be tender but not mushy—typically, they are ready when they start to float.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the tortellini, reserve a bit of the cooking water. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Add a Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it right after tossing the tortellini with the sauce to maintain the perfect texture.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh basil at the end! A generous sprinkle not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
