This colorful dish features tender tortellini tossed with fresh, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a quick meal!
I love how easy it is to make, and the veggies add a yummy crunch. Sometimes I sprinkle cheese on top, because who can resist a little extra cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works best for this dish. If unavailable, you can substitute with other filled pastas like ravioli. Gluten-free options are also available if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and juiciness. If you’re out of cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can be great alternatives.
Zucchini: This veggie adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have zucchini, try using yellow squash or even asparagus for a different flavor!
Bell Peppers: Any color will work, but I love using a mix for visual appeal. If bell peppers aren’t on hand, celery or carrots can add a nice freshness.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and delightful, but canned or frozen will do just fine. If using canned, make sure to drain it before adding.
Parsley or Basil: I usually opt for fresh parsley, but basil gives a refreshing twist. Dried herbs can work too, just reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables correctly is key to this dish. You want them tender yet crisp. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Use medium heat to make sure the garlic and onion don’t burn.
- Start with garlic and red onion; sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers next. Keep stirring to cook evenly.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they lose rawness but still have a nice crunch.
- Timing is crucial! The goal is vibrant veggies, not mushy ones.
How to Make Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (12-16 oz) tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep work and around 15-20 minutes cooking everything up. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or a bit longer for frozen. After cooking, drain them and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and soft. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
3. Add Remaining Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the diced zucchini, bell peppers, and corn to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still have a little crunch. It’s all about balancing those textures!
4. Combine Tortellini and Vegetables:
Once the vegetables are ready, gently add the cooked tortellini into the skillet. Toss everything together until the tortellini and vegetables are well mixed. Be careful not to break the tortellini!
5. Season:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine and heat for another 1-2 minutes so the tomatoes warm up and the flavors meld together. Yum!
6. Serve:
Finally, transfer your delicious tortellini and vegetable mix to a serving bowl. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy your tasty and colorful meal!
Enjoy your delicious Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as necessary, depending on how quickly they cook. For instance, mushrooms may need a bit longer than bell peppers.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
What Type of Tortellini Should I Use?
You can use either fresh or frozen tortellini, and both will work well in this dish. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw; just cook them according to the package instructions straight from the freezer!
