Garlic Shrimp Tortellini
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a bowl of pasta that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Enter Garlic Shrimp Tortellini—a delightful dish that brings together the richness of cheese tortellini, succulent shrimp, and a medley of vibrant peas. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the warmth of home cooking with the elegance of a restaurant favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Garlic Shrimp Tortellini is a keeper for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a beautiful and satisfying dish that feels indulgent. The combination of garlic and shrimp offers a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese tortellini. Plus, the addition of peas adds a pop of color and nutrition, making it a well-rounded meal. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Ingredient List
To create this delicious Garlic Shrimp Tortellini, gather the following ingredients:
- 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups peas, fresh or frozen
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large pot: For boiling the tortellini.
- Large skillet: To sauté the shrimp and garlic.
- Colander: For draining the tortellini.
- Wooden spoon: To stir and combine the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Garlic Shrimp Tortellini, Made Easy
Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this flavorful Garlic Shrimp Tortellini.
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the thawed cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Once you’ve flipped the shrimp, add the minced garlic, salt, dried thyme, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and the shrimp are fully cooked.
Step 4: Combine with Peas and Tortellini
Add the peas to the skillet and stir them in, cooking for another minute. Then, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your Garlic Shrimp Tortellini warm. You can garnish it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tailor It to Your Diet
This Garlic Shrimp Tortellini recipe is versatile and can be easily adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:
- Vegetarian: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or extra peas.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortellini.
- Dairy-free: Opt for dairy-free tortellini and skip any cheese garnishes.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Testing Timeline
This Garlic Shrimp Tortellini can be tested in various time frames to ensure perfection:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Storage & Reheat Guide
If you have leftovers (if you can resist!), here’s how to store and reheat your Garlic Shrimp Tortellini:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam it back to life.
Ask the Chef
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Garlic Shrimp Tortellini?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Is it okay to add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serve with These
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving your Garlic Shrimp Tortellini with:
The Takeaway
Garlic Shrimp Tortellini is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together flavors and textures in a way that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its fast preparation time and simple ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let the deliciousness of Garlic Shrimp Tortellini become a staple in your home!
Garlic Shrimp Tortellini
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the thawed cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over.
- Once you’ve flipped the shrimp, add the minced garlic, salt, dried thyme, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic is fragrant and the shrimp are fully cooked.
- Add the peas to the skillet and stir them in, cooking for another minute. Then, gently fold in the cooked tortellini, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and serve your Garlic Shrimp Tortellini warm. You can garnish it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or extra peas.
