Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful meal awaits with this Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh zucchini, sweet corn, and juicy tomatoes, this dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The rich cheese tortellini pairs wonderfully with the herby marinara sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Vibrant Flavors: Fresh vegetables add a burst of color and taste to your plate.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or side, ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy tortellini and colorful veggies, making it an excellent family meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables while being deliciously satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini to the perfect tenderness.
• Deep skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the vegetables evenly and allowing enough space to toss everything together.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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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 Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)

For the Vegetables

• 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 grape tomatoes (about 12 oz)
• 2 medium zucchini (sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced, about 1 Tbsp)

For Garnish

• Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)
• 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 one minute shy of the package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil, continue prepping your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about three minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Corn

Add the corn kernels to the skillet. Sauté together for another two minutes until they start to soften slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes

Next, add the grape tomatoes to the pan. Sauté them for about three minutes until they begin to burst open.

Step 5: Cook Zucchini and Garlic

Add sliced zucchini and minced garlic into the mix. Continue sautéing until all vegetables are tender and many of the tomatoes have burst—this should take around six to eight minutes.

During this time is also when you should add your tortellini to boiling water so they finish cooking simultaneously.

Step 6: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

Once done cooking, drain the tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Transfer both the drained tortellini and marinara sauce into the skillet with veggies. Cook gently while tossing everything together until thoroughly combined—about one to two minutes. If necessary, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.

Step 7: Season & Garnish

Season your dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste preferences. Toss in half of your parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately while hot! Top individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor.

Enjoy your delightful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a delightful experience. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it perfect for any summer meal or gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With a Fresh Garden Salad

• A light and crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich tortellini.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil and parsley on top just before serving to enhance the flavor profile and add freshness.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft tortellini.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tart flavor that beautifully contrasts the savory elements of the dish.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for seasonal vegetables to ensure optimal flavor and nutrition.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely to achieve the perfect texture; this helps them hold up in the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency without adding extra liquid.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; adjusting salt and pepper can elevate the overall flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing different types of cheese for added depth; mozzarella or ricotta can be great additions.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing sides with your Cheese Tortellini enhances the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad: A classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil makes for a refreshing side.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a smoky flavor that complements the dish’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and herbs, then roast them for a colorful and nutritious side.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a crunchy element to balance the meal.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer an alternative texture and complement the cheesy tortellini well.
6. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon is a healthy option that adds protein to your meal.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice and veggies, they provide an attractive presentation alongside your tortellini.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and juiciness that pairs perfectly with summer dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Always taste as you cook and adjust seasonings accordingly.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long will lead to mushiness. Follow the package instructions closely and set a timer.
• Not using fresh veggies: Using wilted or old vegetables can diminish flavor and texture. Choose fresh produce for optimal results.
• Neglecting pasta water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the tortellini. Reserve some before draining and add if needed for creaminess.
• Serving cold: Cheese tortellini is best enjoyed warm. Ensure it’s served immediately after cooking for the best experience.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

To make this dish, cook tortellini according to package instructions while sautéing your chosen veggies in olive oil. Combine everything with marinara sauce and serve topped with cheese.

Can I customize my Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. You can also swap marinara for pesto for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A light vinaigrette would complement the flavors nicely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow storage guidelines above to keep it fresh.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying!