Best Easy Tortelli di Zucca Mantovani Recipe

Sweet butternut squash, amaretti, and mostarda fill these delicate Mantuan pasta parcels. A vegetarian mediterranean classic that balances sweet and savory for a memorable family dinner.

Cook 70 min Difficulty NORMAL 320 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • butternut squash 2 lbs
  • amaretti cookies 8 pieces
  • egg 2 pieces
  • all-purpose flour 2.5 cups
  • mostarda 2 tbsp
  • Parmigiano Reggiano 0.5 cups
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • nutmeg 0.25 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 50 g 63%
Protein 9 g 11%
Fat 8 g 23%
Serving size 200g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Roast the butternut squash at 375°F for 45 minutes until very soft and slightly caramelized; allow it to cool, then mash thoroughly.

  2. 2

    Mix the mashed squash with crushed amaretti cookies, mostarda, Parmigiano Reggiano, 1 egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to form a smooth filling.

  3. 3

    Make the pasta dough by combining all-purpose flour, 1 egg, a pinch of salt, and enough water to bring together. Knead for 8 minutes until elastic, then let rest for 20 minutes covered.

  4. 4

    Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is very thin (about 1/16 inch). Cut into 3-inch squares and place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each, moistening the edges to seal into tortelli shapes.

  5. 5

    Cook the tortelli in gently boiling salted water for 3–4 minutes; drain carefully. Briefly sauté in melted butter, then serve topped with extra Parmigiano Reggiano.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The centerpiece of this Tortelli di Zucca Mantovani recipe is the butternut squash, which forms the sweet, creamy filling. Paired with amaretti cookies and mostarda, it delivers the signature sweet-savory balance of this classic Mantuan pasta.
Q. What step is most important for achieving perfect flavor and texture?
Roasting the butternut squash at the start is crucial. This cooking action concentrates its natural sweetness and removes excess moisture, ensuring the filling is flavorful and not watery. Also, mixing the filling thoroughly with the other ingredients guarantees a smooth, harmonious taste.
Q. How can I avoid overcooking or undercooking the tortelli?
Gentle boiling is key. Cook the tortelli just 3–4 minutes; overcooking can cause them to break, while undercooking leaves the pasta tough. Watch for them to float and taste one for a tender yet slightly toothsome texture before draining.
Q. How many calories per serving and what is the carbohydrate-to-protein ratio?
Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal. Carbohydrates make up about 63% of the calories (50g per serving) while protein contributes 11% (9g per serving), with fat accounting for 23%.
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