Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This quick and easy recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with vibrant, fresh vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn. Tossed in a herby marinara sauce, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal. With its colorful ingredients and satisfying flavors, this dish is bound to become a summer favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This cheese tortellini dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal vegetables, this recipe embraces the flavors of summer while providing essential nutrients.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish at barbecues and gatherings—it’s sure to please everyone!
• Flavorful Marinara Sauce: The herby marinara sauce adds depth and richness to the dish without overpowering the fresh veggies.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and colorful veggies, kids will love this meal just as much as adults.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly while providing enough space to combine all ingredients.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring precision without damage to countertops.

Ingredients

An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, 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 (12 oz) grape tomatoes
• 2 medium (12 oz total) 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)
• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)

For Topping

• 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

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Add tortellini and cook one minute shy of package directions.
3. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a 12-inch sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion; sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in corn; continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes; cook for about 3 minutes.
5. Mix in zucchini and minced garlic; sauté until veggies are tender and tomatoes burst—this should take around 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Drain tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer cooked tortellini along with marinara sauce into the pan with veggies.
3. Toss everything together over medium heat until warmed through—about 1 to 2 minutes—adding reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Toss in half of the parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley before serving.
2. Divide among plates and top each serving with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can elevate this delightful dish to new heights. Here are a few creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Family Style

• Serve the tortellini in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a casual dining atmosphere that is perfect for summer gatherings.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the tortellini with warm garlic bread for a deliciously comforting meal. The crispy texture complements the tender tortellini beautifully.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Enhance the freshness by sprinkling additional chopped basil and parsley on top just before serving. This adds color and brightness to the dish.

Alongside a Salad

• A crisp green salad makes a great side. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

As Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them cold or reheat them for an easy lunch the next day, maintaining their flavor and charm.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is all about attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible. They add vibrant flavor and nutrition to your dish.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente – Follow package instructions but aim for al dente, as this texture holds up better when mixed with sauce and vegetables.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Save some pasta water before draining. It can help adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Customize Veggies – Feel free to substitute or add any seasonal veggies you enjoy, such as bell peppers or spinach, to make it your own.
• Add Protein – For those who want extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Garnish Creatively – Use edible flowers or colorful microgreens as garnishes to make your meal visually stunning.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caprese Salad – Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction make a refreshing side.
2. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly grilled asparagus tossed in olive oil brings out its natural sweetness and adds crunch.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper offer a savory contrast to the tortellini.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter provides a classic summer taste that matches perfectly with this dish.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and dill is crisp and refreshing against rich tortellini.
6. Pesto Zoodles – Spiralized zucchini tossed in pesto create a low-carb option that pairs wonderfully with cheesy flavors.
7. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats adds variety and excitement to your meal presentation.
8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes – Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic offer heartiness that balances well with the lightness of summer veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping ingredient prep: Not preparing your veggies beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Chop and measure everything before you start cooking.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long makes it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Not seasoning properly: Lack of salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Season at every step, especially when cooking veggies and after combining with sauce.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A subpar sauce can ruin the flavor. Choose a high-quality marinara or make your own for better results.
• Inadequate heat while sautéing: Cooking vegetables at too low a temperature can prevent them from browning. Make sure your pan is hot enough to sauté effectively.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheese tortellini with summer veggies can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It will remain good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm throughout. Use a microwave-safe container.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well! Just follow package instructions for cooking time.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant for even more flavor and nutrition!

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use vegan cheese tortellini and omit parmesan cheese. Substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Is this recipe meal-prep friendly?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in portions for easy lunches or dinners during the week.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to taste. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer dinners or quick lunches, making it a must-try!