Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eyes? Meet the Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini—a luscious Italian creation that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, zesty lemon, and aromatic dill. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Trust us, once you experience this vibrant dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen repertoire! Read on to discover how to make this culinary masterpiece and leave your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta's flavor.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and floating at the surface.
- While the tortellini are cooking, prepare the creamy sauce. In a large skillet, pour the heavy cream and place over medium heat.
- Zest the entire lemon directly into the cream, then squeeze the lemon juice into the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Chop the fresh dill finely and add to the cream mixture, stirring gently to distribute the herbs evenly.
- Season the cream sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Once the tortellini are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander, reserving a small amount of pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the drained tortellini directly into the skillet with the creamy lemon dill sauce, gently tossing to coat each pasta piece completely.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a small splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Transfer the tortellini to serving plates and garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while hot, with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill on top for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose Quality Tortellini: Opt for fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for the best flavor and texture. The quality of the pasta can elevate your dish significantly.
- Don’t Skimp on the Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Perfect the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of reserved pasta water. This will help you achieve a creamy, luscious texture that clings beautifully to the tortellini.
- Garnish Generously: Freshly grated Parmesan and an extra sprinkle of dill not only enhance the flavor but also make your dish visually appealing. Presentation matters!
- Pair with a Side: Serve your Creamy Lemon Dill Tortellini with a light salad or garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal that will satisfy all appetites.
- Make it Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply reheat it when you’re ready to cook the tortellini. Just remember to add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen it up.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
