Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy tortellini recipe, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion. This dish is coated in an herby marinara sauce, making it a perfect meal for warm summer days. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both delightful and versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh veggies and marinara sauce brings vibrant flavors that highlight the best of summer produce.
• Family-Friendly: Cheese tortellini is a favorite among kids and adults alike, making this dish perfect for family dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables or your favorite herbs to make it your own!
• Nutritious Option: Packed with fresh veggies and protein from cheese tortellini, this dish offers a balanced meal that’s satisfying and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini perfectly while allowing ample space for them to cook evenly.
• Sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides enough surface area to sauté veggies without overcrowding, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently without damaging the tortellini or vegetables.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful dish:

For the Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini

For the Vegetables

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped, about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs, about 2 cups)
• 2 cups grape tomatoes (about 12 oz)
• 2 medium zucchini (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 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

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions but stop one minute shy of the suggested time. This allows them to finish cooking later when combined with the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat, add:
* The olive oil until hot.
Then add:
1. The chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
2. Add corn kernels and continue sautéing for another 2 minutes.
3. Stir in grape tomatoes; sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Finally, add zucchini and minced garlic. Cook until veggies are tender and some tomatoes burst, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

While the veggies are cooking:
1. Add the tortellini to the boiling water (if not already done).
2. Drain the cooked tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer both drained tortellini and marinara sauce into the pan with veggies.
4. Gently toss everything together on medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Toss in half of the parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately, topping each individual serving with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your deliciously prepared Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful experience that combines the freshness of summer produce with the rich flavors of cheese. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad can complement the cheesy tortellini perfectly. Use mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a wonderful contrast. The buttery flavor and crunch will add a satisfying touch to your dish.

Top with Extra Herbs

• For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving. This will elevate the dish’s freshness and aroma.

Include Grilled Chicken

• Add slices of grilled chicken on top for protein. This will make the dish heartier and more filling while still keeping it light and fresh.

Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction can add a sweet and tangy layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of your meal.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Cook tortellini al dente – This ensures that they maintain their shape and texture when mixed with the veggies and sauce.
• Sauté veggies properly – Make sure to sauté until tender but not mushy; this retains their vibrant colors and nutrients.
• Reserve pasta water – Keep a bit of pasta water on hand. It helps adjust the sauce consistency without diluting flavors.
• Season generously – Don’t forget to season your dish well. Salt and pepper enhance all ingredients’ natural flavors.
• Use fresh herbs – Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving brightens up the dish immensely.
• Serve immediately – Enjoy your tortellini right after cooking for the best texture and flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad – A refreshing combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, drizzled with olive oil. Perfect for summer!
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender provide a great crunch alongside tortellini.
3. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds smoky flavors that complement cheesy pasta.
4. Cucumber Mint Salad – This cool salad brings a delightful contrast in temperature and taste, perfect for hot days.
5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters offer a tasty twist that pairs beautifully with tortellini.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn enhances summer vibes; simply boil or grill it for a classic side dish.
7. Herbed Quinoa – A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs can be a nutritious addition that balances out your meal.
8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – These crispy potatoes are easy to prepare and make for an indulgent side option that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the vegetable prep: Preparing your veggies ahead of time can save you valuable minutes. Chop and measure everything before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking the tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions and taste test a minute earlier than suggested.

• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients elevate this dish. Check the freshness of your vegetables and herbs before you begin to ensure maximum flavor.

• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish adequately. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper levels for optimal flavor.

• Ignoring pasta water: Reserving pasta water is key for creating a silky sauce. Use it to adjust sauce consistency instead of adding more marinara directly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place cooled tortellini in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or reserved pasta water in a pan over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, frozen cheese tortellini works well! Just add an extra minute to the cooking time when boiling.

What vegetables can I substitute?

Feel free to swap out zucchini or corn for your favorite summer veggies like bell peppers or spinach!

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, use plant-based cheese tortellini and omit the parmesan cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for added flavor.

Is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, saving you time throughout the week.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes, adding cooked chicken or turkey would enhance the protein content while keeping it delicious!

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors that celebrate the season. This versatile dish allows for numerous customization options, from different vegetables to additional proteins. Give it a try today!