Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This easy tortellini recipe combines rich cheese-filled pasta with fresh, sautéed vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn, all enveloped in a flavorful herby marinara sauce. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal veggies, this recipe is a great way to incorporate healthy produce into your meals.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy tortellini and colorful veggies appeal to both adults and kids, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
• One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one pan, reducing cleanup time without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies successfully, you’ll need the right tools. These basic kitchen gadgets will help ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini perfectly without overcrowding.
• Sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing vegetables and mixing everything together seamlessly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.

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 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 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

Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions but stop one minute short of the recommended time. While this is happening, you can prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Corn

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
* Add chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they soften.
* Stir in corn kernels and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini

Next, add grape tomatoes to the skillet.
* Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they begin to burst.
* Incorporate sliced zucchini and minced garlic; cook until all vegetables are tender—about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

While the veggies are cooking, drain your tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
* Transfer drained tortellini into the pan with veggies.
* Pour in marinara sauce and toss everything together over medium heat until well combined—roughly 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Toss in half of the shredded parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
Serve immediately topped with the remaining parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not just delicious but also embodies seasonal freshness. Enjoy it as part of your summer meal plan!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is a vibrant dish that shines on its own but can be enhanced with a few simple serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the tortellini.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze add a classic Italian touch.

Add Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the herby marinara sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia topped with rosemary makes for a delightful side that enhances the meal’s Italian theme.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want to indulge even more.
• Basil Pesto: A dollop of basil pesto can add an extra layer of flavor when spooned over each serving.

Wine Pairing

• Chardonnay: A chilled Chardonnay balances the richness of the cheese and complements the fresh veggies nicely.
• Sangiovese: This red wine pairs well with Italian dishes and enhances the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make your cheese tortellini with summer veggies truly outstanding, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose the freshest vegetables available to enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini just until al dente for the best bite and to prevent mushiness.
• Herbs Matter: Fresh basil and parsley brighten up the dish; don’t skip them!
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water handy; it helps adjust sauce consistency without thinning out flavors.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus based on what you have on hand.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste before adding salt and pepper. This allows you to balance flavors perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving cheese tortellini can be enhanced by pairing it with delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted in olive oil adds crunch and flavor without overwhelming the main dish.
2. Italian Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables create an appetizing starter.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with tomato and basil mixture offer a fresh appetizer that matches well.
4. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of seasonal veggies provide a smoky contrast that pairs beautifully.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing makes for a classic complement.
6. Oven-Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy zucchini fries are fun to eat and maintain a healthy vibe alongside tortellini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, a few common mistakes can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Skipping the salt in boiling water: Not salting the water can lead to bland tortellini. Always add salt to enhance the flavor.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long makes them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and cook just until al dente.
• Neglecting to prep vegetables ahead of time: Chopping veggies while cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Prep all vegetables before starting to ensure they are cooked perfectly.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce: A subpar sauce can affect the entire dish’s taste. Opt for a high-quality marinara for better flavor.
• Not using fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrancy of fresh ones. Always use fresh basil and parsley for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the tortellini fresh and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or olive oil and stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

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

What vegetables can I add to Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or even asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make a vegan version of Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, substitute cheese tortellini with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prep all ingredients ahead and store them separately. Combine and cook when you’re ready.

What is the best way to serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Serve it hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a light summer meal or as a side dish at gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!