Low Fat Tortellini with Pesto
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Low Fat Tortellini with Pesto—a lighter take on a classic Italian favorite that's perfect for a quick and wholesome weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender low-fat or whole wheat cheese tortellini with a fresh, nutrient-packed pesto made from aromatic basil, baby spinach, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan. A splash of low-sodium vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty finish, while the use of pine nuts (or wallet-friendly walnuts) brings subtle nuttiness to the dish. Ready in just 20 minutes, this healthy tortellini recipe is ideal for busy schedules yet impressive enough to serve guests. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra decadence! Perfect keywords: low-fat tortellini, healthy pesto recipe, quick dinner ideas, vegetarian pasta dishes, basil spinach pesto.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz Cheese tortellini (low-fat or whole wheat)
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup Baby spinach
- 1 clove Garlic
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tbsp Pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
- 1 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp Low-sodium vegetable broth
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
Add the tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil, baby spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, olive oil, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.
Pulse the mixture in the food processor until it is smooth and creamy. If the pesto is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of vegetable broth until the desired consistency is reached.
Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
Add the pesto to the hot tortellini, tossing gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and give it one final toss to brighten the flavors.
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1101 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 39.9 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.0 g | 55% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 59 mg | 20% | |
| Sodium | 2144 mg | 93% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 142.5 g | 52% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.8 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.6 g | ||
| Protein | 41.3 g | 83% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 540 mg | 42% | |
| Iron | 9.8 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 759 mg | 16% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
