This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables is a yummy dish that brings pasta to life! The tender tortellini pairs perfectly with colorful, fresh veggies for a meal that’s both tasty and pretty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star of this dish, adding a rich flavor and a hearty texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free tortellini. You can also substitute with another type of pasta like fusilli or penne.
Olive Oil: This oil enhances the flavor of the veggies. If you’re looking for a twist, avocado oil or even unsalted butter can work well. Just keep an eye on the heat with butter as it can burn easily!
Fresh Vegetables: The combination of corn, zucchini, and tomatoes offers freshness. If you can’t find fresh corn, frozen corn works too. Other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can be great additions or substitutes.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of flavor. If you only have dried herbs, use about a tablespoon of dried basil instead. Fresh herbs, however, really bring this dish to life!
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing is a simple technique but key to getting the flavors from your vegetables to shine. Here are some tips:
- Start with a medium-high heat to allow the vegetables to cook quickly and retain their crunch.
- Add your onions first, as they take longer to soften. Cook until they are translucent before adding the rest.
- Next, add vegetables that take longer to cook (like corn and zucchini) and stir often to avoid sticking or burning.
- Finally, add garlic at the end since it cooks quickly and can burn, leaving a bitter taste.
Following these steps will help you achieve deliciously sautéed veggies for your tortellini dish!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9 to 10 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear of corn)
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup marinara or tomato sauce (optional, for light coating)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s both wholesome and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. When they’re tender, drain them and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which takes about 3 minutes.
3. Add More Veggies:
Now, stir in the corn kernels, halved tomatoes, and sliced zucchini. Keep cooking and stirring often until the vegetables turn tender and the tomatoes start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Flavor It Up:
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet, cooking for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. If you’d like, stir in the marinara sauce gently to give everything a light coating.
6. Finish and Serve:
Gently toss everything together and allow it to heat through for about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the fresh basil and parsley.
7. Ready to Enjoy:
Serve warm and garnish with additional basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your vibrant and satisfying dish!
This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables is a delightful, colorful treat that’s simple enough for any night of the week. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for frozen tortellini, as the cooking time may be slightly longer—typically around 1-2 minutes more. Make sure they are tender before draining.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Recipe?
You can customize the dish with a variety of vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, asparagus, or broccoli would all make great additions. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, swap the cheese tortellini for a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese. You can also use a vegan marinara sauce for added flavor.
