This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables is a vibrant dish packed with colorful veggies and tasty cheese-filled pasta. It’s quick to make, perfect for a busy weeknight!
I love how the mix of fresh vegetables adds crunch and flavor. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes? It’s like a delicious hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I like using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its juicy filling. If you can’t find this, frozen tortellini or even fresh pasta works well. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color to the dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good substitute. Drain them well before using. You can also swap them with bell peppers for a different flavor.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is a winner here, but yellow squash or eggplant can also fit if you’re looking for variety. Just chop them to a similar size for even cooking.
Corn: Either fresh or frozen corn adds a nice crunch. If corn isn’t your favorite, try using peas or diced bell peppers instead. They’ll equally liven up the dish!
Basil: Fresh basil gives a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh basil, consider dried herbs or parsley as tasty alternatives.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing veggies like a pro is all about the heat and timing! Here’s how to keep them tender and vibrant:
- Use medium heat – it allows veggies to cook evenly without burning.
- Start with onions; they take longer to cook. Add them first, then garlic.
- Keep stirring – this promotes even cooking and prevents sticking. Only add the zucchini and corn after the onions are nice and soft.
- Cook until they’re just tender but still colorful, around 5-7 minutes. This keeps them flavorful and nutrient-rich!
Enjoy your cooking! This dish is not only easy but also customizable to your taste. 😊
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 (9 to 10 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook. So, in just around 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and colorful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente (usually around 3-5 minutes). Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s aromatic.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the sliced zucchini, corn kernels, and halved tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet still full of color. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Tortellini and Vegetables:
Now, gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently to combine and heat through for about 1-2 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil, which adds a delightful freshness to the dish. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like!
Enjoy this light and colorful tortellini dish that perfectly balances the creamy pasta with fresh vegetables! It’s quick, delicious, and great for any night of the week! 😊
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cooking times may vary slightly. Make sure they are cooked until al dente before adding them to the skillet.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to experiment! Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli would also work great. Just ensure that you cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Keep in mind that some veggies may require a slightly longer cooking time, so add them accordingly!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the vegetables and cook the tortellini ahead of time! Just toss everything together when you’re ready to serve. If making it all in advance, it’s best to combine them right before serving to keep the tortellini from sticking together and the veggies fresh.
