Smart Recipe Kitchen

2026-05-11

This quick pasta dinner feels rich without needing many ingredients. Serves 4.

Ingredients:

• 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 3 cups baby spinach
• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions, then reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Stir in the peas, spinach, half-and-half, pesto, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
4. Add the cooked tortellini, Parmesan, and lemon juice. Toss gently, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
5. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.

Why it works:

The pesto gives instant flavor, while the tortellini provides enough richness to make the meal feel complete.

Timing:

Prep 10 minutes, cook 15 minutes, total about 25 minutes.