Tortellini With Bacon

You can make this up for dinner when you only have 30 minutes. It is easy to make and , yes, it is delicious.

 

  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled and minced
  • pinch of salt and pepper
  • 4-5 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 1 tbsp. flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup half and half cream
  • 2 pgs. cheese tortellini
  • 1/2 – 3/4 cup grated Asiago cheese

In a fry pan, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer to paper towelling to drain. In the same fry pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until the soft (just a few minutes). Now add the flour and cook  stirring constantly for 30 seconds.

Whisk in the milk and cream slowly and add the tortellini and slowly bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring often, until thickened. Remove from the heat, add the bacon and half of the cheese.

Pour into a 2 quart casserole and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Place under the broiler for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Salad and warm rolls and  you have a meal fit for royalty – your family.

Chicken Tortellini Bowl

I seem to be on the side of working mothers and fathers, with busy lives and not much time to fuss and bother, with weekday dinners. Here is another snap to make and also very tasty. Add a slice or two of garlic toast, small salad and, of course, a glass of Pinot Gris (well chilled, naturally).

  • 2 x 9 oz. pkg frozen cheese tortellini (I said it would be fast)
  • 2 cups each broccolini and cauliflower florets
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes (spicy or Italian herb)
  • 1/2 cup dried tomato pesto
  • 1  9 oz. pkg of roasted/grilled chicken breast strips, thawed
  • Shaved asiago cheese

In a large 4 quart pot, cook tortellini as directed, add the broccolini and cauliflower for the last 4 minutes of cooking. Drain and return to the pot.

Stir in the undrained tomatoes, pesto and chicken. Cook, occasionally stirring until heated through.

Put into bowls, add the cheese and Voila! you did it again. Take a bow! Yummy!