Shrimp Tortellini: A Combo of Succulent Shrimp, Pasta, and Veggies
This dish is an exciting, flavorful, and easy meal to prepare, perfect for weeknights or special weekend dinners. The tortellini's fun, ring-shaped pasta with its delightful surprise of cheese or other fillings makes it a joy to eat. Shrimp, with its quick cooking time, blends beautifully with the textures and flavors of the creamy tortellini, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes. It's a fantastic dish that feels elevated but is actually simple to prepare—great for casual family dinners or even when entertaining friends.
Did You Know?
Shrimp is an excellent source of protein and low in calories and fat. Tortellini, a ring-shaped pasta originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is traditionally filled with cheese, meats, or vegetables. It pairs exceptionally well with seafood like shrimp, creating a balanced and delicious meal. The versatility of shrimp and tortellini allows for endless customization, making them staples in many kitchens around the world.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
-
Cook the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Personal Tip: Slightly undercook the tortellini by a minute or two if you'll be tossing it later with the sauce to avoid mushy pasta. -
Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Personal Tip: Shrimp cook fast, so keep an eye on them. Overcooking can make them rubbery. -
Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened and the spinach is wilted.
Personal Tip: Adding the spinach toward the end keeps it from overcooking and losing its vibrant color. -
Combine and Toss
Add the cooked tortellini and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Personal Tip: To create a light sauce, add a splash of pasta water to the skillet as you toss the ingredients together. -
Serve
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of fresh flavor.
Personal Tip: Garnish with more fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Sugars: 5g | Total Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 800mg | Fiber: 4g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money:
-
Shrimp Alternatives: Use chicken breast or firm white fish like cod or tilapia as a substitute for shrimp to fit your preferences or budget.
-
Vegetable Options: Swap or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and variety.
-
Frozen Shrimp: Buying frozen shrimp is often more economical than fresh. Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator for ease of use.
-
Herb Choices: If fresh basil isn’t available, use dried basil or substitute with parsley or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
-
Cheese Substitutes: Use Romano or Asiago cheese for a unique taste instead of Parmesan.
-
Pasta Choices: Don’t limit yourself to tortellini; this dish works well with any pasta type such as penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat options for a healthier spin.
-
Bulk Buying: Purchase pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and pasta in bulk to save money and ensure you always have ingredients on hand.
-
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
-
Flavor Enhancers: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth when cooking the vegetables for added depth of flavor.
-
Meal Prep: Prepare the shrimp and vegetables in advance to save time when you’re ready to cook. This makes for an even quicker dinner on busy nights.
Let's Learn About Tortellini
Tortellini, a traditional Italian pasta, hails from the Emilia-Romagna region, and is shaped like small rings or “navel” shapes. This pasta is typically filled with cheese, meats, or vegetables and is a staple in Italian cuisine. Tortellini are usually served in broth or with a light sauce. The dough is made from eggs and flour, and the pasta is filled by hand or by machine in large production settings. When shopping for tortellini, look for labels that indicate natural ingredients, and check if the pasta contains any artificial preservatives. Tortellini comes in various colors—green versions are often made with spinach, and red versions with tomato paste, adding visual variety to this delightful pasta.