Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This easy tortellini recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh, sautéed zucchini, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic onion, all enveloped in a herby marinara sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of seasonal produce! Ideal for family dinners or quick lunches, this dish balances flavor and nutrition effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilize seasonal veggies like zucchini and corn to create a vibrant plate that’s both tasty and nutritious.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side—it’s adaptable for any occasion!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love tortellini! The blend of cheese and veggies makes it appealing for all ages.
• Flavor Packed: With fresh basil and parsley, this dish bursts with flavor while remaining light and refreshing.

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Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini evenly without sticking together.
• Sauté pan: Provides enough surface area to cook the veggies quickly while allowing them to brown slightly for enhanced flavor.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon helps in tossing the pasta and veggies together seamlessly.

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 about 1 1/2 cups)
• 2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs; about 2 cups)
• 2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes
• 2 medium zucchini (sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced; about 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. Cook the tortellini according to package directions but stop one minute shy of the recommended time. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.
3. Add corn kernels; continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
4. Stir in grape tomatoes; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Finally, add sliced zucchini and minced garlic; sauté until tender—about 6 to 8 minutes.

(Note: During this step, add the tortellini to boiling water so both finish at the same time.)

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Veggies

Once cooked:
1. Drain the tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer drained tortellini into the pan with vegetables.
3. Stir in marinara sauce; toss gently until combined—about 1 to 2 minutes.
4. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Toss in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley before serving.

Serve immediately by topping each dish with remaining parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful experience that highlights the freshness of summer produce. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any occasion.

For a Light Lunch

• Pair with a simple green salad to add crunch and freshness. A lemon vinaigrette works well to complement the flavors of the tortellini.

As a Main Course

• Serve it warm as the centerpiece of your dinner table. Top with extra parmesan and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

For Meal Prepping

• Divide into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This makes it a perfect choice for busy days.

With Crusty Bread

• Accompany your meal with warm crusty bread or garlic bread. This adds a satisfying element perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.

As an Appetizer

• Serve in small portions as an appetizer at gatherings. Use toothpicks or small cups for easy serving and eating.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting this recipe involves attention to detail and thoughtful preparation. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a big difference in flavor. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Ensure you cook the tortellini according to package instructions but remove them a minute early for the best texture.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end of cooking. Each ingredient varies in saltiness, so it’s essential to check.

• Add Herbs Last: Toss in basil and parsley just before serving to keep their flavors vibrant and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

This dish pairs beautifully with various side options that enhance its overall appeal. Here are some great choices:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.

2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil that complements the flavors of tortellini wonderfully.

3. Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled lightly bring out their sweetness, adding depth to your meal.

4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing offers a nice contrast in texture to the tortellini.

5. Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, roasted asparagus brings a touch of sophistication while remaining light.

6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats provides variety that pairs well with Italian flavors.

7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers refreshing sweetness between bites of savory tortellini and veggies.

8. Spinach Salad: Tossed with nuts and feta cheese, this salad adds a nutrient-rich option full of flavor and crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the salt in boiling water: Not salting the water can lead to bland tortellini. Always add salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Sauté until tender but still crisp for better texture.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps create a smoother sauce. Always save some before draining.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish flat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using low-quality marinara: A good sauce makes a big difference. Choose a flavorful marinara for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Serve this dish with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just increase the cooking time according to package instructions.

How can I customize Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Feel free to add other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or spinach to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies stores well and is perfect for meal prep.

Can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute cheese tortellini with vegan varieties and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only quick and easy but also brimming with fresh flavors that celebrate summer produce. Enjoy customizing it to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion!