This easy tortellini dish combines tasty pasta with fresh sautéed vegetables. It’s colorful, quick to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
You can use whatever veggies you have on hand, and it’s a great way to sneak in some greens. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—yum! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is a great time-saver. If you’re in a pinch, you can use frozen tortellini, which works just as well! For a different twist, try spinach or whole wheat tortellini for added flavor and nutrition.
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a lovely flavor to the sauté. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil. Both work well without overpowering the dish.
Vegetables: The combination of onion, zucchini, tomatoes, and corn is fantastic. Feel free to substitute with what you have—bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach would also be great choices!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor, but you can use garlic powder as a substitute in a pinch. However, fresh is always better for maximum taste.
Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara, feel free to use pesto or a simple homemade tomato sauce. Depending on your preferences, a splash of cream could change things up nicely too!
How Do You Get Sautéed Vegetables Just Right?
Sautéing vegetables can make all the difference in flavor and texture. The goal is to achieve a nice golden-brown color while keeping them tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot pan and add your olive oil to ensure even cooking.
- Add onions first as they take longer. Sauté until they’re translucent. It’s about 3-4 minutes!
- Next, add the zucchini and cook until slightly soft; this usually takes 3-4 minutes.
- Finally, add quicker-cooking veggies like garlic and tomatoes, stirring frequently so they soften but don’t overcook.
This method enhances the natural sweetness of your veggies, making the dish even tastier!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil and parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight meal. Plus, it’s healthy with all those colorful veggies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm but cooked). When they are ready, drain them and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and just starting to turn golden.
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is slightly tender.
4. Mix in the Veggies:
Add the minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 3-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their juices. Your kitchen should smell amazing!
5. Stir in Sauce:
Now, pour in the marinara or tomato sauce and mix everything well. Let the sauce warm through for about 2 minutes.
6. Combine with Tortellini:
Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together so that the pasta is coated in the veggies and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all the flavors are just right.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from heat and garnish your dish with freshly chopped basil and parsley. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your delicious tortellini warm, and enjoy this quick, wholesome meal that’s colorful and full of flavor!
Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is a popular choice, you can use any type of tortellini you prefer, such as spinach or meat-filled varieties. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, use plant-based tortellini and skip the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. You can also season with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
Can I Prep the Vegetables Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Chopping the vegetables the night before or earlier in the day can save time when you’re ready to cook. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up on the stovetop. If it seems dry, adding a splash of water or extra sauce can help refresh it!
