Tortellini with Pesto
Tortellini with Pesto is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring small, ring-shaped stuffed pasta (typically filled with meat or cheese) tossed in a vibrant green sauce made from fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, it's a beloved staple celebrated for its rich, aromatic flavors.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is relatively high in carbohydrates from the pasta and fats from the pesto's olive oil and cheese, while also providing a good amount of protein from the pasta filling and Parmesan. A typical serving contains roughly 500-700 calories, offering key nutrients like calcium, iron, and healthy monounsaturated fats.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 6 mg |
| Vitamin K | 40 mcg |
| Folate | 80 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the combination showcases a marriage of two iconic Italian culinary traditions: the intricate stuffed pasta of Emilia-Romagna and the fresh, herbaceous pesto sauce from neighboring Liguria. Nutritionally, the basil in pesto is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, adding a fresh, nutrient-dense element to the hearty pasta.
