This dish is a quick and tasty way to enjoy tortellini with fresh veggies! You’ll love how the pasta and colorful vegetables come together for a bright meal.
Adding sautéed peppers, zucchini, and spinach makes it feel special without much fuss. It’s a cheerful plate that’s perfect for lunch or dinner—no one will complain!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the heart of this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini. They’ll work great and add different flavors!
Vegetables: I love using zucchini and cherry tomatoes, but feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli work well too. Just use whatever veggies you have on hand!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice richness. If you need a substitute, try avocado oil or grapeseed oil. They have a milder flavor but work just as well for sautéing.
Fresh Herbs: I use basil and parsley for brightness. Don’t have fresh herbs? Dried can work in a pinch—just be cautious with the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Can I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing your vegetables is key to getting great flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large skillet for even cooking. Heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add the onions first as they take longer to soften. Sauté for about 3 minutes.
- Then, add garlic briefly—about 30 seconds—so it doesn’t burn.
- Add your denser vegetables like zucchini next, then the softer ones like tomatoes and corn later.
- Mix and sauté until they are tender but still crisp, about 4-5 minutes for zucchini and 3-4 for the others.
This method ensures you get vibrant, flavorful veggies in your dish. Enjoy the cooking process!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 340 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just half an hour, you’ll be ready to serve a colorful and tasty meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, gently add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente (usually about 3-4 minutes). After cooking, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Zucchini:
Next, toss in the sliced zucchini and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes. You want the zucchini to be tender but still maintain a bit of crunch!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes and Corn:
Now, add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook these together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften but still hold their shape. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little salt and pepper to taste!
5. Combine with Tortellini:
Once your vegetables are cooked to perfection, add the drained tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to combine. If you’d like, you can stir in marinara or tomato sauce to give it a nice coating.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped basil and parsley over the top. Toss everything together once more to mix in the fresh herbs. Serve warm, and if you want an extra touch of flavor, top each plate with grated Parmesan cheese!
This simple, vibrant dish combines tender tortellini with sautéed fresh vegetables, enhanced by herbs and a touch of tomato sauce for a light and tasty meal. Enjoy your delightful creation!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, simply cook it according to the package instructions. No need to thaw beforehand—just add a minute or two to the cooking time as needed.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Other great options include bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just adjust the cooking times slightly based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is perfectly tender!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Definitely! To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based tortellini, skip the Parmesan cheese, and check that your marinara sauce is dairy-free. The dish will still be bursting with flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if it seems dry.
