This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies dish is a colorful and tasty meal that comes together quickly! With tasty cheese-filled tortellini and a mix of fresh veggies, it’s sure to please.
Making this is a breeze! I love how you can use whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights, and honestly, who doesn’t love pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini gives a creamy and rich flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use spinach or mushroom tortellini. For a gluten-free version, check out gluten-free tortellini options available in stores.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and helps to sauté the veggies. If you’re out of olive oil, you can substitute it with canola oil or avocado oil for cooking, both work well.
Onion: A small onion brings sweetness. Shallots could be a great substitute for a milder taste. You could even skip it if you prefer.
Zucchini: Adds texture and freshness. Feel free to replace it with bell peppers or even spinach if you want a different taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These enhance the dish with juicy bursts. If unavailable, diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can be delicious alternatives.
Garlic: This adds great flavor. If you’re not a garlic fan, you can omit it or use garlic powder in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure My Veggies Are Perfectly Sautéed?
The cooking technique for sautéing veggies is crucial to keep their flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet before adding oil. This ensures the veggies sear nicely.
- Cook onions first until soft, then add garlic for a rich aroma. Don’t add garlic too early to avoid burning.
- Next, toss in heartier veggies like zucchini and corn—they take longer to cook. Stir often!
- Add softer veggies, like tomatoes, toward the end so they maintain their shape and juiciness.
Following these steps will give you perfectly sautéed veggies that not only taste great but also look colorful on your plate! Happy cooking!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
-
For the Pasta:
- 1 (9-12 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
-
For the Sautéed Veggies:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal when you want something easy yet delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or slightly longer for frozen. Drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the veggies.
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will give a lovely base flavor to your dish.
3. Add Garlic and Veggies:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the zucchini slices and corn kernels to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and cooked through.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Now, toss in the cherry tomatoes and the Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the drained tortellini to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Toss everything together gently to combine and make sure the tortellini is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your dish with fresh chopped basil for a burst of flavor. Serve the pasta warm, and if you like, top it off with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch! Enjoy your colorful and vibrant meal!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Can I Use Other Types of Veggies in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli work great in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on how long each veggie takes to soften.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Tortellini?
If tortellini isn’t available, you can substitute it with any other pasta of your choice, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to cook it al dente and adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the sautéed veggies and cook the tortellini ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or microwave, combining them just before eating!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tortellini and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
