This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables dish is a colorful mix of tender pasta and fresh veggies. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal!
I love how the veggies add a nice crunch to the soft tortellini. Plus, you can toss in whatever you have on hand—it’s a great way to clean out the fridge! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using fresh spinach or mushroom tortellini instead. You can also use frozen tortellini if you’re short on time—just cook it according to the package instructions.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor, but you can substitute with avocado oil or butter if you prefer. Each oil contributes a different taste, so pick what suits your palate!
Vegetables: The zucchini and corn are versatile! Feel free to swap them out for bell peppers, asparagus, or snap peas based on your preference or what you have at home. Broccoli or spinach are also great additions.
Basil: Fresh basil enhances the dish beautifully. If it’s not available, dried basil works in a pinch, but use less as it’s more potent. Some people also enjoy parsley or oregano for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings richness, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Ensure the Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini requires a little attention to avoid overcooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a large pot of salted water—it should taste like the ocean! This helps enhance the flavor of the pasta.
- Once the water is boiling, add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking. Set a timer for the cooking time indicated on the package.
- When the timer goes off, taste one tortellini to check for doneness. You want it al dente, which means it should be cooked through but still have a slight bite.
- Once ready, drain the tortellini and don’t rinse it—this helps the sauce cling better later.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked tortellini every time!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9 to 10-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 20 minutes to make, including boiling time for the tortellini and prepping the vegetables. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights!
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 according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add More Veggies:
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender yet still has a good crunch. Then, stir in the cherry tomatoes and corn. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
4. Flavor it Up:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, pour in the marinara or tomato sauce and stir everything together to coat the vegetables.
5. Combine Everything:
Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together gently so the tortellini is nicely coated in sauce and all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Heat through for another minute or two.
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the delicious mixture to a serving dish, garnish with extra basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Enjoy this colorful, easy, and tasty tortellini dish with sautéed vegetables! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works well—just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions, which may vary slightly from fresh tortellini. Usually, you’ll want to boil it until it floats to the surface and is tender.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This recipe is very versatile! You can add bell peppers, asparagus, spinach, or even broccoli. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring all vegetables remain crisp yet tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! The recipe is already vegetarian, and to make it vegan, simply substitute the cheese tortellini with a vegan version and omit the Parmesan cheese. Use a marinara sauce that doesn’t contain any animal products, and you’re all set!
