Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This easy tortellini recipe features rich cheese-filled pasta combined with fresh, sautéed vegetables like zucchini, corn, and tomatoes, all enveloped in a herby marinara sauce. It’s a versatile meal suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The vibrant colors and flavors make it not just satisfying but visually appealing as well.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal veggies ensures great flavor and nutrition.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or side dish, it fits various occasions.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of cheese tortellini and marinara creates a deliciously rich taste.
- Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe is meatless, making it an excellent option for vegetarians.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you begin.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté pan: Provides ample space for cooking the vegetables without overcrowding.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, and it’s all coated in an herby marinara sauce. Quite easily a perfect summer dish!
For the Tortellini
- 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
For the Veggies
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped (1 1/2 cups))
- 2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs (about 2 cups))
- 2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes
- 2 medium (12 oz total) zucchini (sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced (1 Tbsp))
For the Sauce
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Topping
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
Step 1: Boil the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini one minute shy of the cook time according to package directions. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare your vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Corn
In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
1. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.
2. Add corn kernels and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini
Add grape tomatoes to the pan and sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
1. Then add sliced zucchini and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until veggies are tender and many of the tomatoes have burst—about 6 to 8 minutes more.
Step 4: Combine Tortellini with Veggies
While sautéing veggies, add your tortellini to the boiling water so they finish at the same time.
1. Drain the tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer cooked tortellini along with marinara sauce into the pan with veggies.
Step 5: Cook Together
Cook everything together while tossing gently for about 1 to 2 minutes until heated through. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the mixture.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in half of your parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley before serving.
Top individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies—a dish that brings flavor to your table all summer long!
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.
Fresh Herbs
- Basil and Parsley: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh basil and parsley over the dish for a burst of flavor and color.
Grilled Chicken
- Protein Boost: Adding grilled chicken pieces can transform this vegetarian dish into a heartier meal, perfect for meat lovers.
Crusty Bread
- For Dipping: Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Salad
- Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad tossed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the warm tortellini.
Wine Pairing
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
To ensure your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor and nutrition.
- Cook Tortellini Just Right: Follow package instructions but aim for al dente texture; it should have a slight bite.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Sauté Carefully: Avoid overcooking vegetables; they should be tender yet retain some crunch for best texture.
- Taste as You Go: Season gradually and taste frequently to achieve your desired flavor balance.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish right after cooking for the best texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds warmth and crunch, perfect for mopping up sauce.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing complement.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor alongside the tortellini.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet roasted peppers bring vibrant color and sweetness to the table.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers in vinegar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to rich tortellini.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds green goodness without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a delicious dish every time.
- Ignoring the cooking time: Not following the package instructions for the tortellini can lead to overcooked or undercooked pasta. Always check the time and taste for doneness.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many veggies at once, they won’t sauté properly. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect tender texture.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your dish adequately can make it bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Not saving pasta water: Discarding all the pasta water may hinder your sauce’s consistency. Reserve some to adjust the thickness of your marinara sauce if needed.
- Forgetting fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley bring vibrant flavor. Don’t skip adding them at the end for maximum freshness and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Keep for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.
Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.
Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?
Yes! Just cook it directly from frozen according to package instructions.
What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe?
Feel free to use any summer veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant depending on your preference.
Is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it a great choice for meatless meals!
How can I customize my Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?
Add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or experiment with different sauces for varying flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try for an easy summer meal that everyone will love!
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a vibrant and satisfying dish that celebrates the flavors of summer. This easy recipe combines rich, cheese-filled tortellini with fresh seasonal vegetables like zucchini, corn, and tomatoes, all tossed in a herby marinara sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep. The colorful presentation and delicious taste make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs)
- 2 cups grape tomatoes
- 2 medium zucchini (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley for topping
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini one minute less than package instructions.
- In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onion for about 3 minutes.
- Add corn and cook for another 2 minutes. Then add tomatoes and zucchini; sauté until tender.
- Drain tortellini, reserving some pasta water. Combine cooked tortellini with sautéed veggies and marinara sauce in the pan.
- Toss gently for 1-2 minutes until heated through; add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Season with salt and pepper, then mix in half of the parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
