Tortellini with meat in onion and garlic sauce

Tortellini with Meat in Onion and Garlic Sauce

Are you dreaming of a dish that entices you with intense flavors and a velvety texture? Let me introduce you to a delicious recipe for tortellini with meat in onion and garlic sauce, which is not only easy to prepare but will also bring a touch of elegance to your plate. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or to impress friends at a casual meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history: Tortellini has its origins in Italian culinary tradition, and the combination of meat with rich sauces is a true delicacy. Over the years, each family has contributed its own touch, resulting in a variety of recipes that have become appreciated worldwide.

Ingredients:
- 1 box of meat tortellini (approximately 250 g)
- 1/2 red onion (approximately 75 g)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 can of peeled tomatoes (approximately 200 g)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 glass of dry white wine (approximately 150 ml)
- Grated Parmesan for serving

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the red onion and crushing the garlic cloves. It is important for the onion to be cut evenly so it sautés uniformly. The crushed garlic will release the intense aroma we want in the sauce.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This is the stage where the base flavors of the sauce develop.

3. Adding the garlic: Once the onion is sautéed, add the crushed garlic. Sauté it together with the onion for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it, as garlic becomes bitter if cooked too long.

4. Deglazing with wine: Pour the glass of white wine over the onion and garlic. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the sauce begins to reduce. This step will add depth of flavor to your sauce.

5. Preparing the tomato sauce: While the wine reduces, puree the peeled tomatoes with a blender or food processor until you get a smooth paste. You can also use fresh tomatoes if you prefer, but make sure to peel them and remove the seeds for a smoother texture.

6. Combining the ingredients: Add the tomato paste to the skillet along with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste by adding more salt or spices if desired.

7. Cooking the tortellini: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes between 3 and 5 minutes, depending on the type of tortellini. Make sure not to overcook them to maintain the perfect texture.

8. Finishing the dish: When the tortellini are ready, drain them and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Add them to the skillet over the onion and garlic sauce. Gently stir to coat them evenly with the sauce. Let them cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes to heat through.

9. Serving: Serve the tortellini with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top. A slice of fresh bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. I recommend a glass of dry red wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors on your plate.

Practical tips:
- If you don't have meat tortellini on hand, you can use cheese tortellini or even ravioli. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.
- Add vegetables to the sauce, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a more colorful and healthy version.
- If you want a spicy kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, but make sure to peel them and remove the seeds.
- What other spices can I use? You can experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Is it possible to make meat tortellini at home? Absolutely! You can make the pasta dough and your favorite filling, but this requires more time and patience.

Nutrition:
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Tortellini provides a good source of protein, while the tomato sauce is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and onion and garlic contribute to the aroma and health benefits of the dish.

In conclusion, tortellini with meat in onion and garlic sauce is a dish that combines tradition with comfort, making it perfect for any occasion. I invite you to let yourself be carried away by its flavors and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!