Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe awaits you! This dish combines rich cheese tortellini with an array of fresh, sautéed vegetables, creating a vibrant and flavorful meal. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to summer gatherings, this pasta dish shines with the essence of summer produce and herby marinara sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Fresh Ingredients: Featuring seasonal veggies like zucchini and corn, it’s a refreshing choice.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy cheese tortellini appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as a main course or as a side; it fits any dining scenario.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of herbs, cheese, and sautéed vegetables ensures every bite is delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling tortellini quickly without overcrowding.
• Sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space for cooking veggies evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, it’s all coated in an herby marinara sauce. Quite easily a perfect summer dish!

For the Cheese Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini

For the Veggies

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped; about 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; about 1 Tbsp)

For the Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini for one minute less than the package instructions suggest. While waiting for the water to boil, you can prep your veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Corn

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet:
1. Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about three minutes.
3. Add in the corn kernels and sauté for an additional two minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini

Next:
1. Stir in the grape tomatoes and sauté them for three minutes until they soften.
2. Add sliced zucchini and minced garlic. Continue to sauté until all veggies are tender and many of the tomatoes have burst—this will take about six to eight minutes.

Step 4: Combine with Tortellini

While finishing up with the veggies:
1. Drain the tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of its cooking water.
2. Transfer both tortellini and marinara sauce into the pan with your veggie mixture.
3. Toss everything together over low heat until warmed through—about one to two minutes. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally:
1. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
2. Toss in 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
3. Serve immediately while hot, topping individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your vibrant Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, perfect for savoring those warm summer days!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful experience that highlights the freshness of summer produce. This dish can be enjoyed in a variety of ways to suit your taste and occasion.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread complements the flavors of the marinara sauce and adds a crunchy texture.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast and lighten up the meal.

Top with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkling additional fresh basil or parsley on top enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor, making it even more vibrant.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• For those looking for protein, grilled chicken can be served alongside or even on top of the tortellini for a heartier meal.

Drizzle Balsamic Reduction

• A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a sweet and tangy element that pairs beautifully with the veggies and cheese.

Offer Parmesan Cheese on the Side

• Providing extra parmesan allows guests to customize their servings, adding richness as desired.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Perfecting Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies ensures each bite is delicious. Follow these tips for best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies enhance the flavor profile and bring out the best in this dish.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just shy of package directions to keep it al dente.
• Adjust Marinara Sauce: Tailor the amount of marinara to your preference; too much can overpower the veggies.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to substitute or add other summer veggies like bell peppers or spinach for variety.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on herbs or cheese; they elevate the dish significantly.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoying this dish fresh keeps the flavors vibrant and enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – A classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds a healthy crunch.
3. Antipasto Platter – A mix of olives, cured meats, cheeses, and roasted vegetables offers variety and texture.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter brings summer flavors right to your table.
5. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar complements the richness of the tortellini.
6. Garlic Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach provides nutrients while enhancing your meal’s balance.
7. Italian Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks are perfect for dipping into leftover sauce from the tortellini.
8. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters made from zucchini further highlight summer produce while adding flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen veggies can compromise flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh summer vegetables for the best taste.

• Overcooking Tortellini: Cooking tortellini longer than necessary can make them mushy. Follow package directions closely and aim to cook them just shy of the recommended time.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to season your dish well with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste.

• Not Tossing Properly: Failing to toss the tortellini with the vegetables and sauce may result in uneven flavor distribution. Make sure everything is well combined for a delightful experience.

• Ignoring Pasta Water: Discarding all pasta water prevents you from adjusting the sauce consistency. Reserve some water to thin out the sauce if needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil as needed, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to customize your dish with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this main course nicely.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely! Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein if desired.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to prepare but also versatile and packed with fresh flavors. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Enjoy this delightful dish as a comforting meal any time!