Tortellini with pesto and broccoli

Indulge in the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean with our incredible Pesto and Broccoli Tortellini recipe. This quick and easy pasta salad is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and make lunch a breeze. The juicy tortellini, coated in a strong pesto sauce, are perfectly complemented by the tender broccoli florets. This dish strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor, making it the ideal choice for your on-the-go lunch packs. Prepare to be transported to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every delicious bite of this quick and flavorful meal!

Ingredients

140g tender broccoli, cut into short pieces
250g fresh tortellini
3 tbsp pesto (fresh if you can get it)
2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
8 cherry tomatoes, halved

Preparation steps

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the broccoli and cook for 2 minutes.
Then add the tortellini and cook for 2 minutes, or according to package instructions.
Drain everything and rinse gently under cold water until cool.
Put everything in a bowl.
Mix tortellini and broccoli with pesto, pine nuts and balsamic vinegar.
Add the tomatoes to the bowl.
Pour the salad into containers.
Cool the containers in the refrigerator.
Let the salad come to room temperature in the morning to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes and pesto.

Nutritional Information

kcal	fat	saturates	carbohydrates	Sugar	fiber	protein	Salt
573	26g	9g	64g	8g	5g	24g	1.58g

Equipment and tools

Knife
cutting board
Pot
Sieve
Mixing spoon
platter
Toaster or oven

Allergen information

This recipe contains the following allergens:

Tree nuts (pine nuts)
Gluten (tortellini)

Storage and leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or heat in a skillet until warmed through.

Health Benefits of Tortellini with Pesto and Broccoli

When it comes to delicious and filling meals, tortellini with pesto and broccoli is a standout choice. Not only does it fill your stomach and tantalize your taste buds, but it also comes with a number of health benefits that make it a nutritious option. Let’s dive into the health benefits offered by the ingredients in this delicious dish:

Tender broccoli

Tender stem broccoli takes center stage as one of the main ingredients in this recipe. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, this cruciferous vegetable offers numerous health benefits. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production in the body. In addition, broccoli contains fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The presence of sulforaphane, a potent compound found in broccoli, is believed to have anticancer properties that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Fresh tortellini

Using fresh tortellini gives this dish a satisfying texture and pleasant flavor. Tortellini, a type of pasta made from eggs filled with cheese or meat, provides carbohydrates, which are an important source of energy for the body. Despite their high calorie content, tortellini can be enjoyed in moderation and contribute to a balanced diet. It also offers a decent amount of protein, which is essential for the growth, repair and maintenance of body tissues.

Pesto

Adding pesto to Pesto & Broccoli Tortellini not only improves the taste but also provides a number of health benefits. Traditionally made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic and olive oil, pesto is a nutrient-dense sauce. Basil, the main ingredient, contains vitamin K and essential oils with potential antibacterial properties. Additionally, the heart-healthy monounsaturated fats in olive oil as well as the minerals and nutrients from nuts and cheese make pesto a flavorful and nutritious addition to this dish.

Roasted pine nuts

Using toasted pine nuts as a garnish offers both flavor and nutritional benefits. These small, crunchy nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pine nuts also provide important minerals such as manganese, magnesium and zinc, which contribute to optimal body function.

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balsamic vinegar

With its tangy flavor, balsamic vinegar adds a delicious touch to this recipe. Not only does it improve taste, but it also offers potential health benefits. Balsamic vinegar contains antioxidants that fight cell damage and inflammation. Some studies suggest that it may improve digestion, promote weight loss, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes halved and incorporated into this dish add both flavor and nutritional value. These bright red fruits are packed with vitamins A and C, which support healthy skin, vision and a strong immune system. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote heart health.