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Spinach Pesto Tortellini with Parmesan Crumbs

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Spinach Pesto:
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For the Tortellini:
  • 1 lb (450 g) cheese or spinach-filled tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • Salt, for boiling water
  • For the Parmesan Crumbs:
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper
  • For Garnish:
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or spinach leaves

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini) until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  • Make the Spinach Pesto: In a food processor or blender, combine spinach, basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth and creamy. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Prepare the Parmesan Crumbs: In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and toast, stirring often, until golden brown and crisp (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  • Combine Tortellini and Pesto: In a large pan, gently heat the spinach pesto over low heat. Add the cooked tortellini and toss to coat evenly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
  • Serve: Divide the pesto-coated tortellini among serving plates. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan crumbs and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan.