Spinach and Tomato Creamy Tortellini

A couple of weeks ago, I told a friend of mine I was in the mood for some really good pasta.  She told me she recently made a delicious pasta called tortellini.  She also said if she were to make it again, she would add more spice and spinach.  I told her to send me her recipe (found on Pinterest) so I could try it out.  Well, I added a few more seasonings, some spice, and CHICKEN!  The whole family really enjoyed it, so I am sure your family will too!  I am also uploading a recipe for Oven Baked Parmesan tomato bites.   Happy cooking everyone!

Recipe: Spinach and Tomato Creamy Tortellini

Ingredients: 

1 (20 oz) pkg three cheese tortellini (feeds a family of 4)
2 Tbsp canola oil or olive oil
2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup chopped fresh spinach
1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon onion flakes
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
black pepper and season all to taste
Red pepper flakes to taste
Cooked chicken cut in cubes

Directions:
1. Cook tortellini according to directions on the package. 

2. While the tortellini is boiling, chop the spinach roughly.

3. Heat a large skillet using medium heat.  Add 2tbsp of oil and put the two teaspoons of minced garlic into it. Saute it for about 1-2 minutes.  

4. Add into the skillet the diced tomatoes (undrained), spinach, seasoning, red pepper flakes, and dried basil, and onion flakes.

5. Cook and stir over medium high heat until the mixture begins to bubble.

6. In another bowl, combine the flour and half-and-half. Whisk until fairly smooth.

7. Add the creamy mixture into the the skillet along with the Parmesan cheese.

8. Heat through and reduce the heat to medium low and continue to stir and cook until it thickens, about 5 minutes.

9. Add the drained tortellini and mix together gently.

10. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix in well. 

 

Serve with garlic bread and enjoy!

 

Recipe: Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Photo from Pinterest

Ingredients: 

Tomatoes

Parmesan Cheese

Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder (to taste) 

Olive Oil

Oregano

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
2. Place tomatoes cut-side up on a baking sheet. Top with Parmesan, oregano, salt, pepper., and garlic powder.  Drizzle with oil and bake until the tomatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

3. Serve and enjoy!