Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful and vibrant dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh, sautéed zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic onions. Coated in a herby marinara sauce, it’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: Seasonal veggies bring vibrant flavors and colors to your plate, making it appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is perfect for meatless meals, satisfying even non-vegetarians with its hearty flavors.
• Easy Cleanup: One-pan cooking means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Prepare your kitchen by gathering the essential tools listed below.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta while ensuring plenty of room for movement.
• Sauté pan: Provides ample surface area for cooking vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, speeding up prep time significantly.

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 Toppings

• 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. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to package directions but stop one minute shy of recommended time. While waiting for the water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.

Step 3: Add Corn

Next, add the corn to the pan and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add grape tomatoes to the pan and sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 5: Cook Zucchini and Garlic

Stir in sliced zucchini and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until veggies are tender and many tomatoes burst open—this should take about 6 to 8 minutes.

During this step is when you should also add the tortellini to your boiling water so that they finish cooking at roughly the same time.

Step 6: Drain Tortellini

Once cooked, drain your tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Transfer the drained tortellini into the pan with vegetables along with marinara sauce. Toss everything together until heated through—about 1 to 2 minutes. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help thin out the sauce.

Step 8: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Stir in 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, along with basil and parsley. Serve immediately topped with remaining parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is all about enhancing the fresh flavors of this delightful dish. You can enjoy it in various ways that add a personal touch and elevate your dining experience.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the tortellini directly from the skillet for a relaxed family meal. This allows everyone to help themselves, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Elegant Dinner Party

• Plate the tortellini in individual bowls and garnish with extra basil and parsley. A sprinkle of parmesan adds a touch of sophistication for your guests.

Picnic Style

• Pack the tortellini in mason jars for an easy picnic lunch. Layer the pasta with veggies and sauce, making it easy to eat outdoors.

Leftover Lunches

• Store any leftovers in airtight containers for a quick lunch option. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies truly perfect, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bite is delicious and satisfying.

• Choose fresh veggies: Using fresh, seasonal vegetables enhances flavor and texture, making your dish vibrant and appealing.

• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on both the tortellini and vegetables while cooking to maintain their ideal texture. Tender yet firm is key!

• Use quality marinara sauce: Opt for a homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara sauce to elevate the overall taste of your dish.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can enhance your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread complements the flavors of marinara beautifully.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light salad that pairs well with cheesy tortellini.

3. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus adds depth while keeping things light.

4. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the cheese.

5. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers add color and sweetness, enhancing the summer vibe.

6. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, artichokes, and cured meats for a flavorful addition that can be enjoyed alongside tortellini.

7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini as a bed for your cheese tortellini.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the salt in boiling water: Not salting your pasta water can lead to bland tortellini. Always add salt to enhance flavor during cooking.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the veggies for too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them, aiming for tender but still crisp textures.

• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means you might miss out on creating a silky sauce. Reserve at least 1/4 cup before draining the tortellini.

• Neglecting fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the flavors. Fresh basil and parsley elevate the dish, so don’t skip them!

• Using too much marinara sauce: Overloading with sauce can overpower the other ingredients. Stick to 1 1/4 cups for balance, adjusting if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of olive oil or water in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies:

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, frozen cheese tortellini works well! Just cook it according to package instructions without thawing.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add different veggies like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute cheese tortellini with a vegan variety and use plant-based cheese options as well!

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or proteins. Enjoy its comforting flavors as a quick summer dinner or lunch, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices!