Low Sodium Pesto Tortellini
Delight in the vibrant flavors of Low Sodium Pesto Tortellini, a wholesome and heart-healthy twist on a classic favorite. This quick and easy recipe combines tender cheese tortellini with a homemade pesto made from fragrant fresh basil, unsalted sunflower seeds, and a touch of lemon juice for a zesty kick—all without added salt. Tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, this dish is a colorful, nutrient-packed meal that comes together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this low sodium recipe ensures you can enjoy a delicious pasta experience guilt-free. Serve it warm with an optional sprinkle of Parmesan for extra indulgence!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Cheese tortellini
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cup Unsalted sunflower seeds
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.5 cup Olive oil
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7 to 9 minutes, until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, unsalted sunflower seeds, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and black pepper. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
With the processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Once the tortellini are cooked, drain them and place them back in the pot. Add the cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves to the warm tortellini.
Pour the prepared pesto over the tortellini and gently toss until everything is evenly coated and the spinach begins to wilt slightly.
Serve immediately, and enjoy your low sodium pesto tortellini with an optional sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2196 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 157.7 g | 202% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.3 g | 182% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 149 mg | 50% | |
| Sodium | 1239 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 142.2 g | 52% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.5 g | 41% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.7 g | ||
| Protein | 61.0 g | 122% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 939 mg | 72% | |
| Iron | 7.2 mg | 40% | |
| Potassium | 954 mg | 20% | |
*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.
