Creamy Saffron Tortellini Makes For A Delectable Pasta Delight

Tortellini with saffron cream sauce is a luxurious and tantalizing pasta dish that exudes elegance and flavor. The delicate cheese-filled tortellini is bathed in a velvety saffron-infused cream sauce, creating a harmonious marriage of textures and tastes. The saffron threads impart a subtle earthy and floral aroma, while adding a beautiful golden hue to the sauce. The richness of the cream complements the slight tanginess of the saffron, resulting in a creamy and indulgent sauce that clings lovingly to each tender tortellini. Garnished with fresh herbs, this dish becomes a masterpiece of both taste and presentation. Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased as a show-stopping entree for special occasions, tortellini with saffron cream sauce is sure to delight and impress with its luscious and captivating flavors.

What You Need

1 package (approximately 16 ounces) of fresh or frozen cheese-filled tortellini

1 cup heavy cream

1/4 teaspoon saffron threads

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

What To Do

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. If using fresh tortellini, it usually takes around 2-3 minutes to cook, while frozen tortellini may take around 4-6 minutes. Drain the cooked tortellini and set them aside.

Prepare the Saffron Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in the heavy cream for about 5-10 minutes to allow the saffron’s flavor and color to infuse the cream.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add the Saffron Cream: Pour the saffron-infused heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir gently to combine, and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Season the Sauce: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the saffron cream sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Combine the Tortellini and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the saffron cream sauce in the skillet. Gently toss the tortellini in the sauce until they are evenly coated.

Serve and Garnish: Transfer the saffron cream tortellini to serving plates or a large serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor and color.

Enjoy this indulgent and flavorful tortellini dish, with its creamy saffron-infused sauce that will elevate your pasta experience to a whole new level of deliciousness. Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine for a perfect and memorable meal. Bon appétit!