Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This easy tortellini recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh sautéed zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and onion, all enveloped in a flavorful herby marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners, summer gatherings, or quick lunches, this dish stands out with its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Fresh Veggies: Incorporating zucchini, tomatoes, and corn adds a nutritious boost while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add protein like chicken or shrimp for extra heartiness.
• Perfectly Sauced: The herby marinara coats every piece of tortellini, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: The blend of cheese and veggies appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you will need some essential kitchen tools. These will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
• Sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the tortellini while reserving some pasta water for sauce consistency.

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))
• 3 cloves garlic (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 Garnish

• 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. Cook the tortellini one minute shy of the package instructions.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add corn kernels and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Incorporate grape tomatoes next; sauté for about 3 minutes until they start to burst.
5. Finally, add sliced zucchini and minced garlic; cook until veggies are tender—around 6 to 8 minutes total.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

1. While cooking veggies, add the tortellini to boiling water to finish cooking.
2. Drain the tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer cooked tortellini along with marinara sauce into the pan with vegetables.
4. Toss gently until everything is heated through—about 1 to 2 minutes—and add reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season your dish with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with fresh basil and parsley before serving.
3. Serve immediately topped with remaining parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal. This dish can be customized in various ways to enhance its appeal and cater to your guests’ preferences.

As a Main Course

• Serve the tortellini as the centerpiece of your meal. The rich flavors make it satisfying enough on its own, especially when topped with extra parmesan.

With a Salad

• Pair with a light arugula or spinach salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple vinaigrette will complement the dish nicely without overpowering it.

Alongside Garlic Bread

• Offer warm garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.

In a Bowl

• For a casual serving option, serve the tortellini in bowls. This allows guests to enjoy every bite comfortably, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with additional fresh basil and parsley for an aromatic finish. This not only enhances the look but also boosts flavor.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make sure your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh veggies: Fresh zucchini, corn, and tomatoes will enhance flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned options.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow package instructions closely and cook just shy of the recommended time for the best texture.
• Add pasta water: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed. It helps bind the dish without losing flavor.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for added complexity in flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to personal preference to suit your palate.
• Serve immediately: For best results, serve right away while everything is hot and fresh to enjoy maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender; they add a nice crunch.
3. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables that complements the tortellini beautifully.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic before roasting; these provide a savory element to your meal.
5. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned generously with garlic and parmesan cheese create a hearty side.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: Refreshing cucumbers mixed with juicy tomatoes dressed lightly in olive oil makes for a cooling side dish.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini offer both texture and flavor that pair well with the main dish.
8. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light salad made from quinoa mixed with chopped vegetables and herbs adds protein while maintaining freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, even minor oversights can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Rushing the prep: Failing to prep your veggies before cooking can lead to unevenly cooked ingredients. Always have everything chopped and ready.

• Overcooking tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow the package instructions and check for doneness a minute early.

• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning the dish will lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add flavor and brightness. Don’t skip the basil and parsley; they elevate the dish significantly.

• Using low-quality marinara: A good marinara sauce makes all the difference. Choose a high-quality brand or make your own for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is best consumed within 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute or add any seasonal vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or spinach.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This cheese tortellini dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I add protein to Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be wonderful additions if you’re looking for extra protein.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. The combination of fresh veggies and rich cheese creates a satisfying meal perfect for summer. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to make it your own!