Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This easy tortellini recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with sautéed zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and onions, all enveloped in a flavorful herby marinara sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a light lunch, this meal is perfect for any occasion and showcases the best of seasonal produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal vegetables enhances the flavor and nutrition of your meal.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side; it pairs well with various proteins.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is meatless, catering to vegetarians without sacrificing taste.
• Family Favorite: Cheese tortellini is loved by kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table is happy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• 12-inch Sauté Pan or Deep Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Used for boiling tortellini; ensures even cooking in ample water.
• Sauté Pan or Deep Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and combining ingredients; provides enough space to toss everything together easily.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta while reserving some pasta water for later use.

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 grape tomatoes (12 oz)
• 2 medium 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)

To Finish

• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)
• 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 one minute shy of the package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil, you can prep and cook your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Corn

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
Add corn kernels and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini

Next, add grape tomatoes to the pan.
Sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
Then add sliced zucchini and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—approximately 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

While vegetables are cooking, add tortellini to boiling water.
Once cooked, drain it while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Transfer drained tortellini along with marinara sauce to the pan with veggies.
Cook and toss gently until everything is well combined—about 1 to 2 minutes. If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin out the mixture.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Toss in half of the parmesan cheese along with fresh basil and parsley.
Serve right away, topping each serving with remaining parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal. This dish can be customized in various ways to suit your taste and occasion.

For a Casual Family Dinner

• Pair the tortellini with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Add some garlic bread on the side, perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve the dish in smaller portions, perhaps alongside a cup of chilled gazpacho for a vibrant summer meal.
• Consider adding sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

For Meal Prep

• Pack individual servings in airtight containers to enjoy throughout the week. This dish holds up well in the fridge.
• Top each serving with fresh herbs just before eating for added flavor and freshness.

At a Potluck or Gathering

• Present the dish in an attractive serving bowl, garnished with extra herbs and cheese for visual appeal.
• Offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make sure your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Cook tortellini al dente: This ensures they maintain their shape and texture when mixed with the veggies and sauce.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish. Look for seasonal produce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta water aside; it can help thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick when mixing.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Complementing your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is easy with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings something special to your meal.

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a classic Italian starter.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled to perfection add smoky flavors that pair beautifully.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread spread with garlic butter makes an excellent choice for dipping into marinara sauce.
4. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the rich tortellini.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Simply seasoned asparagus roasted until tender offers a sophisticated touch to your dinner table.
6. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and brightness, making it an ideal summer side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Tortellini – Cooking tortellini for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package instructions and cook just until al dente.
• Skipping the Seasoning – Not seasoning your dish can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
• Using Old Vegetables – Fresh veggies make a significant difference in taste. Choose vibrant, firm vegetables for the best results.
• Not Prepping Ingredients First – Improper prep can slow you down. Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook to keep things moving smoothly.
• Ignoring Pasta Water – The reserved pasta water adds starchiness that helps sauce adhere better. Don’t forget to save it before draining the tortellini!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can add bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus for more variety and flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini instead of regular ones, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the veggies and tortellini ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful summer meal that’s both easy and satisfying. Its versatility allows for endless customization based on what veggies you have on hand. Give it a try, and enjoy a burst of fresh flavors!