Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful dish, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is perfect for warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. This recipe showcases rich cheese tortellini combined with fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs. It’s a versatile meal that suits various occasions, from casual family dinners to summer gatherings. With its vibrant colors and flavors, this dish truly stands out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal veggies, this recipe celebrates the flavors of summer while providing nutrients for a healthy meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it works beautifully for lunch or dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the cheesy tortellini paired with colorful veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Easy Cleanup: Made in just one pan, this recipe minimizes the mess and simplifies your cooking experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the tortellini quickly while ensuring it’s perfectly cooked.
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients gently without damaging them.

Ingredients

An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, and 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 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

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions but one minute short of the recommended time. While waiting for water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Corn

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion; sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in corn; continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini

Next:
1. Add grape tomatoes; sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Stir in sliced zucchini and minced garlic; cook until vegetables are tender and many tomatoes burst (approximately another 6 to 8 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

When your tortellini is ready:
1. Drain it while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer the drained tortellini along with marinara sauce into the sauté pan with vegetables.
3. Toss everything together over low heat for about 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin.

Step 5: Season and Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies—it’s bound to be a new favorite!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can elevate your meal and bring out the fresh flavors of summer. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing side.
• Spinach Salad: Toss baby spinach with sliced strawberries, almonds, and a light vinaigrette.
• Greek Salad: Use cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy contrast.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread complements the cheesy tortellini perfectly.
• Focaccia: Soft and flavorful focaccia can be great for dipping in marinara sauce.
• Breadsticks: Lightly seasoned breadsticks add a fun touch to your meal.

Enhance with Extra Toppings

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love heat, sprinkle some on top before serving.
• Extra Parmesan: Grate freshly made parmesan over each plate for a cheesy finish.
• Fresh Herbs: Add more basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition; opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions but aim to cook slightly less than suggested for the best texture.
• Add More Herbs: Incorporating extra herbs like oregano or thyme can deepen the flavor profile.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some cooking water; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces like pesto or Alfredo for varied tastes.
• Make it Ahead of Time: This dish can be prepped earlier in the day; just reheat gently before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Complement your Cheese Tortellini with these delicious side dishes that enhance the meal experience.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled until tender, perfect for summer vibes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized Brussels sprouts add a unique flavor contrast.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the fresh veggie theme; grill or boil as preferred.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or rice alongside veggies for hearty sides.
5. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini mirror the dish’s ingredients beautifully.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cheeses, olives, and cured meats is great for variety.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit mix balances the savory flavors of tortellini.
8. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can serve as a delightful side that echoes Italian cuisine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s final outcome.

• Timing: Cooking the tortellini too long can make them mushy. Always check the package instructions and cook them a minute shy of their recommended time.
• Overcooking Veggies: Sautéing vegetables for too long can lead to loss of flavor and nutrients. Aim for tender veggies that still have some crunch.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning your dish is a common mistake. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for a well-balanced flavor.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish. Don’t skip the basil and parsley; they add freshness and brightness that complements the tortellini.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save pasta water means missing out on an excellent way to adjust sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth to a pan over medium heat; stir often until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, here are some common ones answered!

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini! Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

What vegetables work best with cheese tortellini?

Zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, and asparagus are great choices. Feel free to mix in your favorites!

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies vegan, use dairy-free tortellini and omit parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the veggies and tortellini earlier in the day and combine them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its fresh ingredients. It’s versatile and allows for customization based on your preferences—feel free to swap veggies or herbs as you like! Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week.