Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful dish, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is perfect for warm days. This recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh summer vegetables like zucchini, corn, and tomatoes. Coated in a herby marinara sauce, it’s not only a vibrant meal but also versatile enough for lunch or dinner gatherings. With its fresh flavors and quick preparation time, this dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful: The combination of sautéed veggies and creamy tortellini creates a deliciously satisfying meal that bursts with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile: Ideal as a main course or side dish, it can easily be adapted by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish, making it perfect for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather the essential tools for preparing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies. Having everything ready will make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
• Deep skillet or sauté pan: Allows for even cooking of vegetables while providing ample space to mix the tortellini and sauce.
• Cutting board & Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.

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)
• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)

For the Topping

• 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 according to package instructions but stop one minute shy of the recommended cook time.
3. While waiting for the water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion; sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in corn; continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes; sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Mix in sliced zucchini and minced garlic; cook until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst (approximately 6-8 minutes).
6. At this point, add the tortellini to boiling water so they finish cooking at the same time.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain the tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer drained tortellini along with marinara sauce into the skillet with veggies.
3. Toss gently over low heat until combined and heated through (about 1-2 minutes). If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Toss in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with basil and parsley.
3. Serve immediately topped with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your flavorful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies as a wonderful addition to your summer meal repertoire!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can transform a simple meal into a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this vibrant dish.

Pair with Fresh Garden Salad

• A light and crisp salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the tortellini.

Add Garlic Bread

• Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce and adds a comforting touch to the meal.

Sprinkle Extra Herbs

• Top your dish with additional fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic burst that enhances flavor and presentation.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken seasoned with Italian herbs. It pairs well with the cheese and veggies.

Include a Fruit Salad

• A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like watermelon, berries, or citrus balances the savory flavors of the pasta.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an even better outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Make sure to cook the tortellini just slightly less than package directions to keep them firm and prevent mushiness.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your marinara sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional summer vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan just before serving elevates both taste and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To complete your meal featuring Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a classic Italian side.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a hearty accompaniment full of flavor.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Marinated zucchini grilled until tender brings out its natural sweetness while matching the dish’s theme.
5. Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with pesto, tomatoes, and cheese offers a burst of flavor that enhances your meal.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy dip served warm makes for an indulgent starter before enjoying your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, some common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the salt in boiling water: Not salting the water when cooking tortellini can lead to bland pasta. Always add a generous pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Sauté until they are just tender and still vibrant in color for the best texture.

• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve about 1/4 cup before draining.

• Adding cheese too early: Mixing in all the parmesan at once may result in uneven distribution. Reserve some cheese for topping to ensure every serving is flavorful.

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the dish but can be overlooked. Don’t skip these; they add essential freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place tortellini in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover tortellini with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies:

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini! Just cook according to package instructions, adding a minute or two if needed.

What vegetables work well with tortellini?

Feel free to experiment! Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus also pair wonderfully with Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute cheese tortellini with plant-based alternatives and omit parmesan cheese or use vegan cheese options instead.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients beforehand and store them separately until you’re ready to cook for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only delicious but also highly versatile. This recipe allows for customization by incorporating various seasonal vegetables or adjusting herbs based on your preference. Enjoy making this easy summer dish that’s perfect for any occasion!