This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables is a bright and colorful dish that’ll make your taste buds dance! Packed with tasty tortellini and fresh veggies, it’s quick to whip up on a busy night.
I love how you can mix and match veggies based on what you have at home. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy pasta? It’s a win-win! Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese for some extra yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I prefer using cheese tortellini for the creamy flavor it adds. You can easily swap it for spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different taste. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini options.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for sautéing, but you can use avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer. Both will work well and provide a different flavor profile.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness, but you can use shallots or leeks instead. If you want to skip onions, just add a bit more garlic for flavor.
Vegetables: Zucchini, tomatoes, and corn are colorful and tasty! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli instead if those are your favorites. Fresh or frozen veggies work well here.
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables adds tons of flavor, but timing is key. Each veggie cooks at a different rate, so it’s important to add them at the right time.
- Start with onions for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft.
- Next, add garlic for 30 seconds; it cooks quickly!
- Then add zucchini to soften, followed by tomatoes and corn for 3-4 minutes until they’re blistered and heated.
Season as you go to bring out the best flavors. This method ensures everything is perfectly cooked without being mushy!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal while still being delicious and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they are tender yet firm. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
3. Add Flavor with Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
Now, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften. Then, mix in the grape tomatoes and corn, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to blister and the corn is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Sauce:
Pour the marinara or tomato sauce into the skillet and stir everything together, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are warmed through and well-coated in the sauce.
6. Mix in the Tortellini:
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the cooked tortellini. Mix everything together until well combined.
7. Add Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle the chopped basil and parsley over the dish and toss lightly for a fresh touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your colorful, flavorful tortellini with sautéed vegetables!
This dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for dinner or even a hearty lunch!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, which might vary slightly in cooking time. Typically, frozen tortellini will take about 1-2 minutes longer to cook.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to customize the vegetable medley! You can substitute zucchini with bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach. Just keep in mind to adjust the cooking time slightly, as different veggies may cook at different rates.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sautéed vegetables and cook the tortellini in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and simply combine and reheat in a skillet when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce while reheating!
