This dish is a fun mix of tasty tortellini and colorful sautéed vegetables. It’s super quick to make and perfect for a busy day when you want something yummy!
Honestly, tossing in whatever veggies I have on hand makes it special. I often sneak extra bites while cooking—too good to resist! 😄
I love how simple this meal is. Just boil the tortellini, sauté the veggies, and mix—they’re best friends on a plate! Enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star of this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try whole wheat or spinach tortellini. For a gluten-free version, explore rice or lentil-based tortellini which are becoming more popular.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to your dish. If you’re out, any vegetable oil or butter will work as a substitute, but olive oil’s flavor can’t be beaten! I find it perfectly balances the veggies.
Zucchini: A great way to add texture and nutrients! If you don’t have zucchini, feel free to swap it with bell peppers or broccoli. Both will complement the other flavors beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their burst of juice when cooked is magical! If cherry tomatoes are not available, try diced regular tomatoes. Just remember to drain them a bit to avoid extra moisture in your dish.
Marinara Sauce: This brings the whole dish together. You can use homemade sauce if you have it, or even a store-bought sauce that you love. If you’re avoiding tomato, Alfredo sauce or pesto could also make for a unique twist!
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables is quick, but getting it right enhances their flavor and keeps them crisp. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with a hot skillet. Heat your olive oil before adding any ingredients to get that perfect sear.
- Add your vegetables in stages; softer veggies like onions should be sautéed first, while firmer ones like zucchini can follow.
- Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. Stir them occasionally so they cook evenly.
- Season as you go, adding salt and pepper to help bring out the flavors of the veggies.
- Cook until just tender; you want them to retain some crunch for great texture!
With these tips, your sautéed veggies will shine in the dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and about 20 minutes sautéing the vegetables and mixing everything together. It’s quick, colorful, and satisfying!
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 them according to the instructions on the package until they are al dente. After they’re done, drain them and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the zucchini and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s tender but still has a slight crispness.
3. Add More Flavor:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Mix in the Sauce & Tortellini:
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir everything together to combine the flavors. Allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the sauce warm up. Then, add the drained tortellini to the skillet and gently toss them with the vegetables and sauce until everything is well coated.
5. Finish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is mixed well, transfer the dish to a serving platter. You can garnish with extra fresh herbs and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy your warm, colorful Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package. The cooking time may be slightly longer, so check for that perfect al dente texture!
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
You can customize this recipe based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge! Bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, or carrots would all be great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for harder vegetables to ensure they cook through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry. Enjoy as a quick lunch or dinner!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, use vegan cheese tortellini and skip the Parmesan cheese. You could also enhance the flavor with nutritional yeast as a cheese substitute if desired. The veggies and marinara will keep it delicious!
