Trader Joe's Pesto Tortellini Recipe

This Trader Joe’s Pesto Tortellini is a quick and easy recipe, which is made with fresh tortellini and pesto. It’s the perfect 15-minute meal, ready in about 15 minutes.

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Trader Joe’s Pesto Tortellini Ingredients

2 boxes fresh tortellini; I get the kind that comes in the refrigerated section, each box is 10 oz. (I used one spinach and one cheese, but you could use all the same kind)
1/3 c fresh pesto
S & P to taste
fresh basil, julienned (optional)
1/2 c fresh parmesan, grated

How To Make Trader Joe’s Pesto Tortellini

Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually for just 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface.
Drain and dress: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving a small amount of the pasta water. Return the tortellini to the warm pot and add the pesto. Stir gently to coat all the pasta.
Add cheese and serve: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

Trader Joe's Pesto Tortellini Recipe — Trader Joe’s Pesto Tortellini Recipe

Recipe Tips

What kind of tortellini is best? Refrigerated tortellini is key for a quick meal. A mix of cheese and spinach tortellini adds nice color and flavor, but any variety you enjoy will work.
Can I make this a full meal? Absolutely. To add some protein, toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans.
How can I make the sauce creamier? For an even creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of the starchy pasta water. The pasta water is a fantastic, simple way to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Can I add vegetables? Yes, this is a great base for adding veggies. Halved cherry tomatoes, a few handfuls of fresh baby spinach (stirred in at the end to wilt), or some sun-dried tomatoes would all be delicious.

What To Serve With Pesto Tortellini

This is a satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs well with simple sides.

Warm, crusty garlic bread
A simple Caesar salad or a caprese salad
Roasted broccoli or asparagus

How To Store Pesto Tortellini

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served fresh, as the pasta will absorb the sauce as it sits. You can refresh leftovers with a little extra olive oil.

Pesto Tortellini Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes. You will just need to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, which will likely be a few minutes longer than for fresh tortellini.

Can I make my own pesto?

Yes, homemade pesto is delicious and would elevate this dish even further. If you have fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, it’s easy to whip up in a food processor.

Why is my pesto sauce oily?

Pesto is an oil-based sauce and can sometimes separate. To help it emulsify and become creamier, vigorously stir it with a splash of the hot, starchy pasta water.