This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies is a fun and colorful dish! Soft tortellini pairs perfectly with bright, crisp vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for a tasty meal.
It’s quick to make and a great way to sneak in some veggies! I love tossing in a sprinkle of cheese at the end—because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here! You can use any other filled pasta if you prefer something different, like ravioli or gnocchi. If you’re avoiding carbs, try zucchini noodles instead!
Vegetables: Zucchini, onion, and tomatoes bring flavor and color. Feel free to swap them out; bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli work great too. Use seasonal veggies for freshness!
Marinara Sauce: This gives flavor and moisture. You can substitute with pesto for a different twist, or a simple olive oil and lemon zest if you want it lighter.
Basil: Fresh basil adds a refreshing taste. If you don’t have it, try parsley or even a pinch of dried Italian herbs for a different flavor.
How Do I Cook Tortellini Without Overcooking It?
Cooking tortellini perfectly is key! Follow these simple steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking. Check the cooking time on the package.
- Start checking for doneness a minute early. The pasta should be tender but still hold its shape—this is called al dente!
- Once done, drain immediately and avoid letting it sit in the water, as this can make it mushy.
Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to add your personal touch! I like to mix in a handful of spinach for extra nutrition at the end. Happy cooking!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, whole or halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear of corn)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the tortellini and another 10 minutes sautéing the veggies and mixing everything together. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set them aside while you prepare the veggies.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, stir in the sliced zucchini and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until it’s slightly tender.
3. Add Tomatoes and Corn:
Now, it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes, fresh corn kernels, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the corn is heated through, creating a delightful mix of colors and textures!
4. Combine with Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well, allowing it to warm up for about 2 minutes. This will bring all the flavors together beautifully!
5. Mix in Tortellini:
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together to make sure the tortellini are well coated with the sauce and veggies. This is where it all comes together!
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the chopped basil, and season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste. Remove the skillet from heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your colorful tortellini warm, garnished with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal and feel good about those wholesome veggies!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well. Just cook them according to the package instructions—add a minute or two to the cooking time if they’re still firm when you check for doneness!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms make great additions. Just ensure they cook quickly so everything is tender and perfect at the same time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or sauce if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Use vegan cheese tortellini, omit the Parmesan, and replace the marinara sauce with a vegan alternative. You’ll still enjoy a delicious and hearty dish!
