Description
Golden, crispy cheese tortellini tossed with garlicky spinach, bright lemon zest, and a shower of Parmesan — a quick and irresistible weeknight pasta that delivers pure comfort with a citrusy twist.
Ingredients
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook tortellini in salted boiling water according to package directions, about 3–4 minutes. Drain and pat dry slightly.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add tortellini in a single layer and cook until golden and crispy on both sides, about 5–6 minutes total.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring to coat.
5. Toss in baby spinach and cook until just wilted.
6. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until everything is evenly coated.
7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
8. Serve warm with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
For extra crispiness, use a cast iron skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan.
Top with toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: crispy tortellini, lemon spinach pasta, parmesan tortellini, pan fried tortellini, easy pasta dinner