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Lemony Olive Oil Tortellini Recipe

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3.9 from 38 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Lemony Olive Oil Tortellini is a light, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed with extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan, and fragrant herbs. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or a refreshing summer meal, offering bright citrus notes combined with rich olive oil and cheese.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, plus more as needed

Cheese & Herbs

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

Seasonings

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until tender but still firm. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
  2. Prepare the Lemon-Garlic Oil: While the pasta cooks, heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned, to avoid bitterness.
  3. Add Lemon Elements: Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice into the skillet with the garlic oil to infuse bright citrus flavor into the base of the sauce.
  4. Toss Tortellini in Sauce: Add the drained tortellini directly into the skillet. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the lemon-garlic oil mixture.
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Pasta Water: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the tortellini and gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time while tossing gently to form a light, silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
  6. Finish with Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped parsley, fresh basil, black pepper, and salt to taste, mixing well to combine all flavors harmoniously.
  7. Serve Immediately: Plate the tortellini and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and additional lemon zest if desired. Serve while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest and freshest flavor in the dish.
  • Add baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed asparagus to incorporate extra vegetables and enhance nutritional value.
  • For a boost of protein, serve with grilled chicken or white beans alongside the pasta.
  • If the sauce is too thick, use additional vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to thin it out gently.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
  • Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of water or olive oil to keep the tortellini moist and prevent drying out.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/lemony-olive-oil-tortellini-recipe/