Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe awaits you! This delightful dish combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh, sautéed summer vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner on warm days. The vibrant colors and flavors make it not only appealing but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual family meals to lively gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal veggies, this dish bursts with flavor and nutrition.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy tortellini and colorful vegetables, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or add protein to customize this dish.
• Herbaceous Flavor: The addition of fresh basil and parsley elevates the taste, making each bite refreshing.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini evenly without overcrowding.
• 12-inch sauté pan: Perfect for sautéing the veggies while providing enough surface area for even cooking.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface helps keep your workspace organized while prepping ingredients.

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 Vegetables

• 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)

For Seasoning

• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)

For Garnish

• 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

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the tortellini one minute shy of the package directions. While waiting for water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in corn and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Incorporate sliced zucchini and minced garlic; sauté until veggies are tender and some tomatoes burst (about 6-8 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Drain the cooked tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Add both the tortellini and marinara sauce into the pan with vegetables.
3. Toss everything together over low heat until heated through, about 1-2 minutes; add reserved pasta water if needed to thin.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley.
3. Serve immediately, topping each serving with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your flavorful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies—a delightful meal that captures the essence of summer!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a delightful experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil over the dish for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and a nice visual appeal.

Grated Cheese

• Parmesan: Offer extra grated parmesan on the side for those who enjoy a cheesy touch.
• Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled cheese options can add a tangy contrast to the tortellini.

Salad Pairings

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve with a light mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
• Caprese Salad: A classic caprese with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the meal beautifully.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
• Crusty Italian Bread: Offer slices of crusty bread as an accompaniment for additional texture.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies involves attention to detail in cooking and seasoning. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh seasonal veggies not only taste better but also enhance the dish’s color and nutrition.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini just until al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate flavors.
• Add Pasta Water Wisely: Use reserved pasta water sparingly to achieve desired sauce consistency without it becoming too watery.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

When planning a meal around Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, consider these complementary side dishes that enhance your dining experience.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic pair well with the tortellini’s flavors.
2. Grilled Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant adds variety and nutrients.
3. Simple Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing offers a crisp contrast.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers provides great variety.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a flavorful appetizer.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with lemon zest bring brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies to new heights.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Many cooks overlook the importance of cooking tortellini just shy of the package instructions. This keeps them firm and prevents them from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Sautéing Vegetables Too Long: Overcooking vegetables can lead to a loss of texture and flavor. Aim for tender veggies while still maintaining some bite for a delightful contrast.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on an easy way to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve a bit to create that perfect creamy texture.
• Underseasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for the best results.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and brightness. Don’t skip them; they are key to making your dish come alive.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes! Just cook according to package instructions, adding them directly into boiling water without thawing.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize! Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus work beautifully alongside zucchini and corn.

How do I make this dish lighter?

You can reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese options for a lighter version of this delicious meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer and tastes great even after being reheated.

Can I add protein to the dish?

Yes! Consider incorporating grilled chicken, turkey, or sautéed shrimp for added protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for warm summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying—give it a try!