Imagine a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece in just 20 minutes - this Cheese Tortellini with Spinach, Peas, and Brown Butter is your ticket to an instant gourmet meal that will make your taste buds dance! Creamy cheese tortellini nestled in a golden, nutty brown butter sauce, surrounded by tender spinach and sweet peas, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight dinner obsession. Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a delicious Italian-inspired meal, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Cheese tortellini
- Spinach
- Peas
- Butter
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, ensuring the water is generously seasoned with salt to enhance the pasta's flavor.
- 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 at the surface.
- While the tortellini cooks, prepare the brown butter sauce by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Continue cooking the butter until it turns a golden-brown color and develops a nutty aroma, being careful not to burn it. This process typically takes 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach and frozen peas to the brown butter, stirring gently to wilt the spinach and warm the peas through.
- When the tortellini are cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly from the boiling water into the skillet with the brown butter and vegetables.
- Gently toss the tortellini with the spinach, peas, and brown butter sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer the tortellini to serving plates and generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the rich brown butter sauce and the combination of tender tortellini, wilted spinach, and sweet peas.
Tips
- Salt your pasta water generously - it should taste like the sea to properly season your tortellini from the inside out.
- Watch your brown butter like a hawk! The difference between perfectly nutty and burnt is just seconds.
- Use fresh spinach for the brightest color and most vibrant flavor.
- Don't drain your tortellini in a colander - use a slotted spoon to transfer directly into the sauce, bringing a bit of pasta water with it to help the sauce cling.
- Grate your Parmesan cheese fresh for maximum flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal temperature and sauce consistency.
- For a protein boost, consider adding crispy pancetta or grilled chicken to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
