Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy recipe for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies! This vibrant dish combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh sautéed zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic onions, all coated in a herby marinara sauce. It’s a perfect meal for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a light lunch. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal vegetables, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of summer.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich cheese tortellini pairs perfectly with the herb-infused marinara and fresh veggies.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish at family gatherings or potlucks.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike, making dinner time enjoyable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this simple yet delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
• Sauté pan or deep skillet: Allows you to cook vegetables evenly while providing enough space to combine them with the tortellini.
• Cutting board & Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables safely and effectively.

Ingredients

An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, and 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 and Toppings

• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)
• 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

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini one minute shy of the package directions. While the water heats up, prep your 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 onion; sauté for 3 minutes.
3. Add corn; sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Toss in tomatoes; continue to sauté for another 3 minutes.
5. Finally, add zucchini and garlic; cook until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Drain Tortellini

While cooking the vegetables:
1. Drain the cooked tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Transfer cooked tortellini and marinara sauce into the pan with your sautéed veggies:
1. Cook on low heat while tossing gently until everything is well combined and heated through (about 1-2 minutes).
2. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to thin out the mixture.

Step 5: Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Toss in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with basil and parsley.
2. Mix until combined.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately:
Top individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor!

Enjoy your delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is simple and allows for a variety of delicious accompaniments. This dish can be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether as a light lunch or a hearty dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the tortellini perfectly.

Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that pairs well with the marinara sauce.

Grilled Vegetables

• Add a side of grilled vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.

Caprese Salad

• A classic Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze adds freshness to your plate.

Lemon Wedges

• Provide lemon wedges for squeezing over the tortellini. The acidity brightens up the dish beautifully.

Parmesan Crisps

• Crunchy parmesan crisps can add texture and an extra cheesy flavor to your meal.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To elevate your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your dish not only tastes great but also looks appealing.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish. Choose seasonal veggies whenever possible.

• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Cook tortellini just shy of the recommended time for a perfect texture that holds up in the pan.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference to enhance overall flavor.

• Add herbs last: Toss in fresh herbs like basil and parsley at the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant color and aroma.

• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta water aside; it can help loosen up the sauce if it gets too thick during cooking.

• Garnish generously: Finish off with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that complement this Italian favorite:

1. Roasted Broccoli
   Roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with garlic makes for a nutritious side that balances flavors.

2. Mixed Grain Salad
   A salad made from quinoa or farro mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing adds heartiness.

3. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices provide both color and nutrition alongside tortellini.

4. Spinach Artichoke Dip
   A creamy dip served warm with pita chips is perfect for dipping while enjoying your main course.

5. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and cheeses creates a delightful appetizer spread.

6. Zucchini Fritters
   Lightly fried zucchini fritters offer a crispy texture that enhances the summer veggie theme of your meal.

7. Cucumber Tomato Salad
   A refreshing salad featuring cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in olive oil adds brightness to your plate.

8. Herbed Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs provides a mild flavor base that pairs nicely without overpowering the tortellini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes.

• Skipping the Salt: Not salting the water for the tortellini can lead to bland flavors. Always add a generous pinch of salt to your boiling water.

• Overcooking the Veggies: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until tender to maintain their freshness and texture.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Forgetting to incorporate fresh herbs can limit the flavor profile. Use fresh basil and parsley for a burst of taste.

• Pasta Water Omission: Not reserving pasta water means you might miss out on achieving the ideal sauce consistency. Always save a bit before draining.

• Not Tossing Quickly Enough: Failing to toss everything together immediately after cooking can lead to uneven distribution of flavors. Mix everything while still hot for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I customize Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

You can easily customize this dish by adding different seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach, or even switching up the cheese tortellini filling.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute cheese tortellini with a vegan option and replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a plant-based alternative.

What is the best marinara sauce for this recipe?

A homemade marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs will elevate the dish. However, any store-bought marinara works well too!

How long does it take to prepare Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not just a delicious meal; it’s also versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences. Whether you want more veggies or different herbs, feel free to get creative. Give this refreshing dish a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!