Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful dish for warm weather, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies combines rich tortellini with vibrant vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The blend of fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes makes it a standout choice for any occasion. You can serve it as a main course or a side, showcasing the best of summer produce.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Step 1: Boil the Tortellini
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
• Step 4: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Fresh Salad
• Garlic Bread
• Grilled Vegetables
• Parmesan Crisps
• Wine Pairing
• Extra Herbs
• How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?
• What other vegetables can I add?
• How can I make this dish spicier?
• Is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal veggies enhances the flavor and nutritional value, ensuring each bite is deliciously satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Pair this dish with your favorite protein, or enjoy it as a meatless option; it adapts beautifully to your preferences.
• Flavor-Packed: The herby marinara sauce adds depth while the combination of cheeses in the tortellini creates a creamy texture that elevates the entire meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors and colorful presentation of this dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create this flavorful dish smoothly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures your cooking experience is enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to perfection, allowing enough space for them to move freely.
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample cooking surface for sautéing vegetables evenly while accommodating the addition of tortellini.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of veggies, making prep work quick and easy.

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!

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 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))
• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce ((half of a 24 oz jar))
• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)
• 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 to cook tortellini. Cook the tortellini one minute shy of the package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil, you can prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté 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 softened.
3. Stir in corn and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes; sauté for around 3 minutes until they begin to burst.
5. Incorporate sliced zucchini and minced garlic; cook until veggies are tender (about another 6 to 8 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

While you’re sautéing veggies:
1. Add the tortellini to the boiling water once ready.
2. Drain the cooked tortellini while reserving about a quarter cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer drained tortellini along with marinara sauce into the pan with veggies.
4. Toss everything together gently over low heat until heated through (about 1 to 2 minutes).
5. If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste:
1. Toss in half of the shredded parmesan cheese along with fresh basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately by topping individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, bursting with flavor and perfect for any summer meal!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can elevate your dining experience, making it both colorful and satisfying. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments.

Fresh Salad

• A light arugula or spinach salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce while adding a savory flavor.

Grilled Vegetables

• A medley of grilled bell peppers, asparagus, and eggplant complements the tortellini with smoky notes.

Parmesan Crisps

• Homemade or store-bought parmesan crisps provide a crunchy contrast to the soft tortellini.

Wine Pairing

• A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the veggies and cheese, making for a delightful pairing.

Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for an aromatic finish.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To achieve the best results with your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a notable difference in flavor.
• Adjust cooking times: Ensure that tortellini are cooked al dente for the best texture.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding some reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Serve immediately: This dish tastes best when served right after cooking while everything is warm and vibrant.
• Customize toppings: Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch or substitute cheese types based on preference.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Complementing your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Caprese Salad: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a classic Italian starter.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus adds a healthy green touch that pairs beautifully.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and bread makes for an exciting shareable side.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn enhances the summer vibe and complements the dish’s flavors.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and diced veggies offers a delightful contrast in texture.
6. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers bring freshness and sweetness to balance the savory elements of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be straightforward, but common mistakes can affect your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the prep: Not chopping vegetables ahead of time can lead to overcooked tortellini. Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook.
• Overcooking tortellini: Boiling the tortellini too long makes them mushy. Follow package directions closely and aim to undercook by one minute.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned dishes lack flavor. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper after combining ingredients.
• Using old veggies: Freshness matters in this dish. Ensure all vegetables are fresh for the best taste and texture.
• Not saving pasta water: Discarding pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Reserve some before draining the tortellini.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning out servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce as needed, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just cook them according to package instructions without thawing first.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus based on your preference or seasonal availability.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the vegetable sauté.

Is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies healthy?

This dish is relatively healthy! It combines whole ingredients such as veggies and cheese-filled pasta, making it nutritious and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful and versatile dish perfect for warm days. You can customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs. Give it a try; you might just find your new go-to summer meal!