Looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal? Look no further! This Balsamic Brown Butter Tortellini with Spinach and Hazelnuts is packed with flavor and sure to become a family favorite in no time.
## Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated tortellini
– 4 tablespoons of butter
– 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
– 2 cups of fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
## Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until butter turns a golden brown color, stirring constantly.
3. Add balsamic vinegar to the brown butter, and stir to combine.
4. Toss in spinach and hazelnuts, cooking until spinach is wilted.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat in the balsamic brown butter sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
## Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 14g
– Carbs: 40g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 4g
## Popular Questions:
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
– Yes, you can substitute frozen tortellini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I use instead of hazelnuts?
– You can use almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts as a substitute for hazelnuts.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
– Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
– You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to increase the protein content of this dish.
5. How long will this dish keep in the fridge?
– This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
– You can use red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives to balsamic vinegar.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
– To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini or pasta.
8. How can I enhance the flavor of this dish?
– Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor.
9. Can I use baby spinach instead of regular spinach?
– Yes, baby spinach can be used in place of regular spinach.
10. How can I make this dish more filling?
– You can add cooked bacon or sausage to make this dish more filling.
## Helpful Tips:
1. Toast the hazelnuts before adding them to the dish for extra crunch.
2. Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
3. Add a splash of cream or half-and-half for a creamier sauce.
4. Drizzle some extra balsamic glaze over the dish before serving for added flavor.
5. Experiment with different types of cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.
6. Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
7. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
8. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
9. Substitute the spinach with arugula for a peppery kick.
10. Customize with your favorite herbs, such as parsley or basil, for added freshness.
## Expert Secrets:
1. Brown the butter slowly to achieve a nutty, rich flavor.
2. Use a mix of baby spinach and arugula for a more complex taste profile.
3. Add a splash of white wine to the brown butter sauce for extra depth.
4. Finish the dish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
5. Roast the hazelnuts before chopping them for added depth of flavor.
6. Toss in some roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
7. Experiment with different types of tortellini, such as cheese or mushroom-filled.
8. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, for a pop of color.
10. Serve with a glass of red wine to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
