This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies is a colorful and tasty dish! You’ll love the cheesy tortellini paired with fresh, vibrant veggies like bell peppers and spinach.
It’s so simple to whip up! Just boil the tortellini, sauté the veggies, and combine them. Dinner sorted in no time! I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top—who doesn’t love extra cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: The star of this dish! I like using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can use frozen tortellini; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Zucchini: A great choice for adding veggies! If you don’t have zucchini, summer squash works well too. For a crunchier texture, try bell peppers or snap peas.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color! You can replace them with diced regular tomatoes. If you love a bit of zing, try using sun-dried tomatoes, which would give a different flavor profile.
Corn: Fresh or frozen works here. If corn isn’t available, try peas or diced carrots for a pop of color and sweetness.
Fresh Herbs: I love the freshness that basil and parsley bring! If you’re short on time, you can use dried herbs—about a teaspoon each of dried oregano or Italian seasoning can work in a pinch.
How Do I Sauté Veggies Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies is key in this recipe to bring out their flavors and maintain a nice texture. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning while cooking the onions first to create a flavorful base.
- Cook the garlic quickly after the onion; it can burn easily, changing its taste.
- Add denser veggies, like zucchini, first to give them a head start before adding softer ones like tomatoes.
- Keep stirring gently to ensure even cooking. Veggies should be tender but still bright and fresh.
By following these tips, your sautéed veggies will shine in your tortellini dish!
How to Make Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-10 oz) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or whole if small
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced or chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce (optional for light coating)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare and cook the tortellini and another 10 minutes to sauté the veggies and mix everything together. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Tortellini:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the Zucchini:
Now, stir in the zucchini slices and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
4. Mix in the Corn and Tomatoes:
Next, add the corn kernels and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, mixing gently until the tomatoes soften slightly but still hold their shape.
5. Combine Everything:
If you’re using marinara or spaghetti sauce, stir it in now, making sure the veggies are well coated. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together.
6. Season and Garnish:
Season your delicious mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Finally, remove from heat, add the fresh basil and parsley, and stir them in.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to serve! Place the tortellini with sautéed veggies on plates or in a large bowl. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and enjoy this colorful, veggie-packed meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for frozen tortellini, which might differ slightly from refrigerated ones. They typically need a bit longer to cook!
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
You can customize this dish with your favorite veggies! Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time based on the ingredients you choose to ensure everything is cooked perfectly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can use vegan tortellini and skip the cheese garnish. Consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Also, make sure any sauces used are plant-based!
