This easy tortellini dish is a delightful blend of cheesy pasta and fresh veggies. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner!
I love how colorful the veggies make the dish—it’s like a rainbow on my plate! Plus, it tastes amazing with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Who can resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its creamy filling. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free pasta or even cauliflower tortellini—it’s just as tasty!
Zucchini: This veggie adds a lovely mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can substitute with bell peppers or even spinach for a different twist.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and crunchy, but using frozen corn is totally fine too. Just make sure it’s thawed! Canned corn can work, but it may be a bit softer.
Basil: Fresh basil brightens the dish! If you can’t find it, feel free to use dried basil—just remember to use less since dried has a stronger flavor.
Tomato Sauce: I like marinara for its consistency and flavor. However, a store-bought pasta sauce or even a homemade version can work great. For a lighter option, you could also use crushed tomatoes.
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies ensures they stay bright and flavorful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the veggies evenly. Medium heat works well.
- Add onions first, cooking until they soften before adding sturdier veggies like zucchini and corn.
- Keep stirring, so all the veggies cook evenly without burning. You want them tender but still a bit crisp!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it can steam instead of sauté. If you have too many veggies, consider cooking them in batches.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly sautéed vegetables that are the star of your dish!
How to Make Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9-10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley or additional basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes cooking the tortellini and 15 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes. The tortellini should be tender but firm to the bite. Drain the cooked tortellini and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Onions:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. This will give a nice flavor base to your veggies.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, sliced zucchini, and corn kernels. Sauté everything together for around 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the zucchini to be tender but still have a little crunch. Then, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and burst with juices.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the cooked tortellini back into the skillet. Pour in the tomato sauce and gently toss everything together to combine. Make sure the tortellini and veggies are thoroughly mixed and heated through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then turn off the heat.
5. Finish and Serve:
Gently stir in the sliced fresh basil to give it that lovely fresh flavor. Transfer your tortellini and veggies to a serving dish and garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy this colorful, veggie-packed dish!
This recipe is quick, fresh, and bursting with flavor from the sautéed veggies and fragrant herbs. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions. It usually takes a few minutes longer than fresh tortellini, so keep an eye on it while cooking. Just be sure to drain it well before adding to the veggies!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this dish with a variety of vegetables! Consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times based on the veggies you choose to ensure they’re tender yet crisp.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the cheese tortellini with vegan tortellini available at many grocery stores. Additionally, use a plant-based tomato sauce and skip the cheese toppings. The veggies and herbs will still pack plenty of flavor!
