This easy tortellini dish is a colorful mix of pasta and sautéed veggies. It’s quick to make and oh-so tasty! Just imagine a bowl of cheesy tortellini with fresh, crunchy vegetables.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s a great way to use up those veggies waiting in your fridge. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. I love the creamy texture it brings. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using spinach or chicken tortellini instead.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for cooking veggies. However, you can use avocado oil or even grapeseed oil if you prefer a different flavor.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have zucchini, bell peppers or asparagus work well, too.
Cherry Tomatoes: They provide a pop of sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute.
Basil: Fresh basil adds great flavor. In a pinch, you can use dried basil; just remember that dried herbs are stronger, so use less.
How Do You Make Sure Veggies Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking veggies just right is key for this dish. You want them tender but not mushy! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with onions, as they take longer to soften. Sauté them until translucent.
- Add minced garlic next to enhance the aroma – just cook for 30 seconds to avoid burning.
- Then, toss in zucchini, tomatoes, and corn. Cooking these together for 5-7 minutes gives you perfect texture and taste.
Keep stirring to allow even cooking, and taste as you go! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Dish:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking, making the total time about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the tortellini and set them aside while you prepare the veggies.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This base will give great flavor to your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the sliced zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels to the skillet. Sauté all the veggies together for 5-7 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender and the tomatoes to soften a bit.
4. Mix in the Sauce:
After the veggies have cooked, pour in the marinara or tomato sauce. Stir everything together well and let it warm through, cooking for about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Tortellini with Veggies:
Now, add the cooked tortellini into the skillet with the sautéed veggies and sauce. Gently toss everything together until the tortellini are well-coated and heated through.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then stir in the chopped fresh basil and give it one last mix. Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with extra basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your colorful and flavorful creation!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may differ slightly from refrigerated versions. No need to thaw before boiling; cook them straight from the freezer!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have zucchini or cherry tomatoes, feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just make sure the cooking times are similar so everything is cooked perfectly!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tortellini and sauté the veggies ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through and then mix together!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
