This recipe features tasty tortellini tossed with colorful sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for any meal!
It’s amazing how such simple ingredients come together for a satisfying dish. I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. Who can say no to cheese, right? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. You can use fresh or frozen. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini.
Vegetables: Zucchini adds nice texture, but you could use bell peppers or asparagus instead if you prefer. Corn brings sweetness; frozen corn works just as well as fresh.
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are sweeter and burst with flavor. If out of season, use canned diced tomatoes; just drain them well before adding.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley give a bright taste. If you can’t find fresh, dried herbs can be used – just reduce the amount, as they’re more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich finish; you could also use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Get Perfectly Sautéed Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables is simple, but you want them to be tender yet still crunchy! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with medium heat to allow the onions to soften without burning.
- Add garlic shortly after the onions for a fragrant base; watch it closely! Too much heat can burn it in seconds.
- When adding veggies, cook them in this order: first onions, then zucchini and corn, finishing with tomatoes, as they cook faster.
- Remember to stir occasionally for even cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pan for best results.
- Season with salt and pepper at the end for the best flavor. Enjoy your colorful dish!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Tortellini:
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and sautéing the vegetables, plus a quick mix together. It’s a fresh and quick meal for any time of day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the zucchini slices and corn kernels. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. After that, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Combine with Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and add the marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine well, making sure the vegetables are coated with the sauce.
5. Mix in Tortellini and Herbs:
Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together to combine the flavors. Fold in the fresh basil and parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from heat and transfer the mixture to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra delicious flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful, colorful meal!
This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying lunch!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may vary from fresh tortellini.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this recipe by adding or substituting other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so they remain tender-crisp.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to keep them from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, use dairy-free tortellini and skip the Parmesan cheese. You can also replace the marinara with a plant-based sauce for a delicious vegan meal.
