Ingredients:
- 1 package of fresh tortellini
- 200 grams of speck, thinly sliced
- 150 grams of your favorite cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino work well)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook them, as tortellini can become mushy if left in boiling water for too long. Drain the cooked tortellini and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the sliced speck to the skillet and cook until it becomes slightly crispy, stirring occasionally. This should take around 5-6 minutes.
4. Once the speck is crispy, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together, allowing the flavors to mingle. If needed, you can add a small amount of pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
5. Grate your preferred cheese over the tortellini and speck mixture. Parmesan or Pecorino are excellent choices as they add a delightful tanginess to the dish.
6. Lastly, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the pasta and give it a final toss. The heat from the pasta will slightly wilt the basil, releasing its aromatic flavors.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve your tortellini with speck and cheese immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine.
8. Enjoy your savory creation!
Tortellini with Speck and Cheese: A Flavorful Combination
Tortellini is a versatile pasta that can be dressed in a multitude of ways, but the combination of speck and cheese provides an explosion of flavors for your taste buds. The smokey and salty notes from the speck are perfectly complemented by the richness of the cheese, creating a symphony of taste in every bite.
Preparing this dish is quick and easy, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your tortellini to a gourmet level.
Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and indulge in the savory delights of tortellini with speck and cheese! Your taste buds will thank you.