Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is the ideal dish for those warm, sunny days when you crave something light yet satisfying. This vibrant meal brings together rich cheese tortellini and a medley of fresh summer veggies like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn, all enveloped in herby marinara sauce. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, this recipe effortlessly combines flavor and nutrition, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of sautéed veggies and cheese tortellini makes each bite delicious.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with seasonal vegetables, it’s a nutritious option for the whole family.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm as a main course or cold as a refreshing pasta salad.
• Vegetarian Delight: A meatless meal that still feels hearty and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini perfectly without overcrowding.
• Sauté pan: Ideal for evenly cooking the vegetables and combining all ingredients together.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your veggies efficiently.
• Colander: Useful for draining the tortellini without losing any delicious pasta water.

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 – 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)

Additional Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves (minced – about 1 Tbsp)
• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 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 tortellini according to package directions but stop one minute short of the recommended time. While you’re 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; sauté for 3 minutes until soft.
3. Add corn; sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in grape tomatoes; continue to sauté for another 3 minutes.
5. Finally, add zucchini and minced garlic; cook until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—about 6 to 8 more minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

While sautéing vegetables:
1. Add the tortellini to the boiling water during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Drain tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer drained tortellini along with marinara sauce into the pan with your cooked veggies.
4. Toss gently over low heat until everything is well combined—about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper according to your taste:
1. Toss in half of the parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately with remaining parmesan on top of individual portions.

This delightful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy but also bursting with flavors that celebrate summer! Enjoy this dish hot or cold, making it great for any occasion!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not just about the dish itself; it’s about enhancing the experience with delightful accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caprese Salad – Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing addition.
• Garden Salad – A mix of greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the tortellini beautifully.

Add a Side of Bread

• Garlic Bread – Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Focaccia – This soft and flavorful bread pairs wonderfully with the herby flavors in the dish.

Serve with Wine

• White Wine – A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh veggies and cheese.
• Rosé – A light Rosé can add a fruity note that balances the savory elements.

Top with Extra Herbs

• Fresh Basil or Parsley – Additional herbs can brighten up each serving visually and flavor-wise.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle these on top for an added kick.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and freshness. Here are some tips to help you achieve just that.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavors and textures in your dish.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente – This prevents it from becoming mushy and allows it to hold up against the veggies.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables – Keeping them slightly crisp adds a nice texture contrast to the tender tortellini.
• Adjust Marinara Sauce Consistency – If too thick, add pasta water gradually until you reach your desired sauce consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Complementing your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is simple when you choose the right side dishes. Here’s a list of delicious options that pair perfectly.

1. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and complements summer flavors well.
2. Roasted Bell Peppers – These sweet peppers bring color and sweetness to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli – A classic veggie side that adds nutrients and bright green color.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter – Featuring olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a flavorful appetizer spread.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini offers an additional veggie twist while keeping it light.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn pairs nicely, especially in summer when it’s at its peak freshness.
7. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil provides a crunchy contrast to tortellini.
8. Lemon Herb Quinoa – A fluffy side dish that enhances the overall meal experience without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your vegetables properly can lead to a bland dish. Always add salt and pepper during cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini longer than the package recommends can make them mushy. Follow the instructions closely and cook them just until al dente.
• Not using fresh veggies: Using frozen or old vegetables may compromise taste and texture. Opt for fresh, in-season summer veggies for the best results.
• Ignoring pasta water: Discarding all pasta water means losing a useful ingredient. Reserve some to adjust sauce consistency and enhance flavor.
• Rushing the sautéing process: Cooking vegetables too quickly can prevent them from becoming tender and flavorful. Take your time to sauté each ingredient adequately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, checking until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

Can I use other types of tortellini?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with different fillings like spinach or meat tortellini based on your preference.

How can I customize my Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

You can add other seasonal veggies like bell peppers or asparagus. Adjust herbs according to your taste for added flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it does not contain meat. Just ensure your marinara sauce is also vegetarian.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings or quick family dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize it with seasonal produce, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy the freshness!