Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
An easy summer dish, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delight for any occasion. This recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh sautéed zucchini, vibrant tomatoes, sweet corn, and savory onion, all enveloped in a flavorful herby marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish brings the essence of summer right to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal veggies ensures maximum flavor and nutrition, making it a healthy choice for summer.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as chicken or shrimp.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape of tortellini and the bright colors of the veggies make the dish appealing to everyone.
- Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of cheese tortellini and fresh ingredients creates a hearty meal that’s both comforting and light.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté pan or deep skillet: Allows you to cook the vegetables thoroughly while providing enough space to mix in the tortellini.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for gently tossing ingredients without damaging the tortellini.
Ingredients
An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, 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 grape tomatoes (12 oz)
- 2 medium zucchini (12 oz total; sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced; about 1 Tbsp)
For the Sauce
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For Toppings
- 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: Prepare the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions but aim to finish one minute shy of the suggested time. This will allow for better texture when combined with vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes next; sauté for another 3 minutes.
5. Finally, add sliced zucchini and minced garlic; continue sautéing until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—about 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
While you’re finishing up with the veggies:
1. Add the tortellini directly into boiling water during step two if not already done.
2. Drain tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer drained tortellini along with marinara sauce into the vegetable mixture in your pan.
4. Toss gently until everything is well combined; cook for about 1-2 minutes more.
Step 4: Final Seasoning
Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Mix in 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese along with the fresh basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately by topping each portion with remaining parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your deliciously refreshing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, perfect for any summer gathering!
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Fresh Garden Salad
- A crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch to your plate.
Garlic Bread
- Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce, making every bite even more delicious.
Grilled Chicken
- For those who want extra protein, serve grilled chicken on the side. Its smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the tortellini and veggies.
Lemon Zest
- A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest over the dish brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
Crusty Italian Rolls
- Serve with crusty rolls that can be used to scoop up any remaining sauce on your plate – a true Italian tradition!
Parmesan Crisps
- Add a crunchy texture by serving parmesan crisps as a topping or side. They complement the cheese-filled tortellini perfectly.
How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
To make your cheese tortellini with summer veggies truly outstanding, consider these simple tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh zucchini, corn, and tomatoes enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish.
- Cook tortellini al dente: This gives your pasta the perfect texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like oregano or thyme to give an aromatic twist to your sauce.
- Add protein options: For variety, you can include chickpeas or white beans for added protein without meat.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best served hot right after cooking to enjoy its freshness and flavor.
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 great options:
-
Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
-
Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them until tender for a healthy side.
-
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice offer a hearty addition that’s flavorful and nutritious.
-
Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats provides a savory starter that complements the main dish well.
-
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled simply enhance the freshness of summer veggies already in your pasta.
-
Risotto: Creamy risotto makes for an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the lightness of tortellini.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing topped with croutons brings crunch and flavor contrast.
-
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with herbs offers a light yet satisfying option alongside the main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the salt: Forgetting to salt the water can lead to bland tortellini. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance flavor.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Sauté until just tender for that perfect crunch.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water helps thicken sauces. Always reserve some before draining your tortellini.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted veggies affects taste and texture. Choose fresh produce for vibrant flavors.
- Rushing the cooking process: Avoid multitasking during cooking time. Focus on each step to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Portion out servings for easier defrosting and reheating.
Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies that might help you.
What can I add to Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?
You can add proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, or more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
How do I make my Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To keep it meatless, focus on using seasonal vegetables and omit any animal products.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. Frozen tortellini may require a little extra cooking time.
How can I customize my Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?
Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish perfect for any summer meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences while keeping it healthy and delicious. Give it a try and enjoy fresh flavors!
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This vibrant recipe combines rich, cheese-filled tortellini with fresh sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, all smothered in a herby marinara sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies to cater to your taste, making it a family-friendly option everyone will love. Enjoy this comforting yet light meal that brings seasonal freshness to your table!
Ingredients
- 20 oz refrigerated three cheese tortellini
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 ears corn (kernels)
- 2 cups grape tomatoes
- 2 medium zucchini (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook tortellini according to package instructions, one minute shy of recommended time.
- In a sauté pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sauté the onion for 3 minutes.
- Stir in corn and cook for another 2 minutes, followed by tomatoes for an additional 3 minutes.
- Add zucchini and garlic; sauté until tender and tomatoes burst, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain the tortellini, reserving some pasta water, and mix into the vegetable mixture along with marinara sauce.
- Toss gently, season with salt and pepper, then stir in parmesan cheese and herbs before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
