Low-Point Creamed Spinach Tortellini Recipe
Introduction:
Discover a delightful blend of flavors and textures with our Low-Point Creamed Spinach Tortellini, a comforting dish perfect for those following the Weight Watchers (WW) plan. This recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with creamy spinach sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Ideal for lunch or dinner, our Creamed Spinach Tortellini offers a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and dairy, making it a wholesome choice for your mealtime cravings. Follow our detailed guide to prepare this delicious dish and enjoy a guilt-free culinary experience.
Benefits of Creamed Spinach Tortellini:
Creamed Spinach Tortellini provides:
- Vegetable Serving: Incorporates nutrient-rich spinach into the meal, adding vitamins A, C, and K.
- Protein Source: Tortellini filled with cheese provides a satisfying protein component.
- Creamy Texture: Offers a creamy sauce without heavy cream, using lighter dairy options for a healthier twist.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 6 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons light cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Spinach Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Add chopped spinach leaves to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until spinach wilts and reduces in volume, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add low-fat milk (or almond milk), light cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well until the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese melt and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Tortellini and Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the spinach cream sauce. Toss gently to coat the tortellini evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Remove from heat and divide the Creamed Spinach Tortellini among serving plates. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 16g
SmartPoints (WW):
- Each serving of Creamed Spinach Tortellini is approximately 8 SmartPoints® on the WW plan, based on the ingredients listed. Adjust SmartPoints® values based on specific brands and ingredient variations.
Additional Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute cheese-filled tortellini with spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for a meatless version.
- Ingredient Variations: Experiment with different types of tortellini such as whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit dietary preferences.
- Meal Prep: Prepare the spinach sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the tortellini fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the creamy goodness of our Low-Point Creamed Spinach Tortellini, crafted to satisfy your cravings while supporting your Weight Watchers journey. This dish offers a delightful combination of cheese-filled tortellini and nutrient-rich spinach, enveloped in a creamy sauce that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, our Creamed Spinach Tortellini promises to impress with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Embrace the versatility of spinach in cooking and savor every bite of this delicious and satisfying meal!