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Creamy Basil Pesto Cheese Tortellini Pasta with Corn

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Creamy Basil Pesto Cheese Tortellini Pasta with Corn is a quick, comforting vegetarian dish featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed in a creamy pesto sauce with sweet corn, bell peppers, and Parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 500 g cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
  • 2 tbsp basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep all produce. Dice red pepper and slice shallot. If using fresh corn, remove kernels from cob.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook for 2–3 minutes or until tender. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large non-stick pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shallots and bell pepper; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in basil pesto, sour cream, corn, and reserved pasta water. Mix until smooth and combined.
  5. Add cooked tortellini and half the Parmesan to the pan. Gently toss to coat the pasta in the sauce.
  6. Divide between bowls and garnish with remaining Parmesan. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Homemade pesto brings extra freshness and flavor.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding more reserved pasta water if needed.
  • Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.

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