This easy tortellini dish is perfect for a quick dinner! With tasty pasta and colorful veggies like bell peppers and spinach, it looks as good as it tastes.
Honestly, I love how fast it comes together. Just toss everything in the pan, and you’ve got a delicious meal ready in no time. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both simple and fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I love using cheese tortellini for its creamy texture. If you prefer something different, you can substitute with spinach or mushroom tortellini, or even fresh pasta like fettuccine for a different twist.
Vegetables: The zucchini gives a nice crunch. You can switch it up and use bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just make sure to cut them evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Olive Oil: I suggest olive oil for sautéing because it adds a lovely flavor. However, you can substitute it with avocado oil or even butter for a richer taste.
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use any tomato sauce you like. A jarred pesto can give it a nice flavor, or if you’re short on time, a simple drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan can work well too!
How Do You Sauté the Veggies Perfectly?
Sautéing veggies is key to bringing out their flavors and not overcooking them. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning oil or garlic. Add oil and let it get hot but not smoking.
- Add onions first since they take longer to soften. Stir occasionally until they’re translucent.
- Introduce garlic just before the other veggies to avoid burning it. This makes the dish flavorful!
- When adding zucchini, corn, and tomatoes, stir only occasionally to give them a nice sear while keeping their crunch. A total of 5-7 minutes should do.
Following these tips will ensure your veggies retain their delicious flavors and textures! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 ear of corn, kernels removed (or 1 cup frozen corn)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Time Needed:
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. You can have a delicious meal ready in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Usually, this takes about 3-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set them aside in a bowl.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Now, stir in the sliced zucchini, corn kernels, and halved tomatoes. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the veggies to be tender but still colorful and vibrant, so avoid overcooking.
5. Mix in the Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce, and give everything a good stir to combine. Let this simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together nicely.
6. Combine with Tortellini:
Add the drained tortellini back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the tortellini with the sauce and veggies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the top. This will add a wonderful aroma and taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm tortellini dish right away, optionally topping it with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra delicious finish. Enjoy your colorful and hearty meal!
This easy tortellini with sautéed veggies is not only vibrant in color but packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen tortellini; just increase the cooking time according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them until they’re tender and heated through, then follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
How Can I Customize the Veggies?
Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand or your preferences! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli would all make great additions. Just be mindful of the cooking time for different vegetables to ensure they all remain vibrant and tender.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or a bit of extra sauce to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian since it uses cheese tortellini and plenty of vegetables! Just make sure to check that your marinara sauce is also vegetarian-friendly if that’s a concern for you.
