Tortellini with prosciutto in tomato sauce

Tortellini with prosciutto in tomato sauce: A simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a tasty meal that comes together quickly? Tortellini with prosciutto in tomato sauce is a perfect choice for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines the delicious flavors of pasta with prosciutto, garlic, and a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce. Plus, it's a dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal, making it ideal for both a family dinner and a gathering with friends.

A brief history of tortellini

Tortellini are stuffed pasta with a distinctive shape that carry with them a rich culinary tradition. The origin of these pasta is shrouded in mystery, but they are believed to have been created out of a desire to combine simple yet savory ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Fillings can vary from meat to cheese and vegetables, but prosciutto remains one of the most beloved options due to its rich and salty flavor.

Necessary ingredients

- 250 g tortellini with prosciutto (preferably fresh)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1.5 cups freshly prepared tomato juice (or quality canned)
- Fresh dill for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Ground pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

Useful tips and tricks for preparation

1. Choosing the tortellini: If possible, opt for fresh tortellini, as they will have a better texture and cook faster. If using dried tortellini, make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

2. The tomato sauce: If you want a richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste and a little sugar to balance the acidity. You can also experiment with various spices, such as basil or even chili flakes for a spicy sauce.

3. The garlic: The garlic should be sliced thinly to sauté evenly. Be careful not to leave it on the heat too long, as it can burn quickly.

4. Serving: Tortellini can be served with grated Parmesan on top, but for a fresher option, dill adds a note of freshness.

Step by step: Cooking tortellini with prosciutto in tomato sauce

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Check them occasionally!

2. Preparing the tomato sauce: In a medium skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as the taste will become bitter.

3. Adding the tomatoes: Pour the tomato juice into the skillet, add oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and becomes more concentrated, about 10 minutes.

4. Combining the ingredients: When the tortellini are ready, drain them well and rinse lightly under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Add the tortellini to the skillet over the tomato sauce and mix well, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.

5. Serving: Serve the tortellini warm, sprinkled with fresh dill, and if desired, add grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. You can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutritional benefits

Tortellini with prosciutto are a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, while prosciutto provides quality protein. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and cardiovascular benefits, and tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. This recipe can be a healthy option for a quick dinner, with a moderate calorie content of around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. The cooking time will change, so be sure to check them.

2. What other spices can I use?
Enjoy your meal! You can add fresh basil, chili flakes, or even herbes de Provence for a unique flavor.

3. How can I make the recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can replace tortellini with prosciutto with cheese or spinach-filled tortellini and exclude prosciutto from the recipe.

4. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The tomato sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can reuse it whenever you need a quick and tasty sauce.

5. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, perhaps a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with this recipe. Additionally, a flavored sparkling water or a cold herbal tea can be a wonderful choice.

Remember, cooking is an art, and each recipe can be customized to suit your tastes. I hope you enjoyed this tortellini with prosciutto in tomato sauce recipe and that it inspires you to explore more in the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!