Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful dish, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is perfect for warm weather dining! This recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh summer vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn, all bathed in a delicious herby marinara sauce. It’s not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this vibrant meal that celebrates the flavors of summer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish cooks in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal veggies, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy produce into your meals.
• Flavorful Sauce: The herby marinara sauce enhances the overall taste while keeping it light.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or as a side dish; it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and colorful veggies, kids will love this dish too!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini effectively without overcrowding.
• 12-inch sauté pan: Provides ample space to cook vegetables evenly while allowing for easy tossing with the pasta.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps in mixing everything well.

Ingredients

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
• 2 ears corn, kernels cut from cobs (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp)

For the Sauce and Seasoning

• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For Garnishing

• 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 tortellini one minute shy of the package instructions. As you wait for the water to boil, prepare your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in corn and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
4. Add grape tomatoes and sauté for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Introduce zucchini and minced garlic; cook until all vegetables are tender and many tomatoes have burst—about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Everything Together

While the vegetables are cooking:
1. Add tortellini to boiling water per package directions.
2. Drain tortellini when done but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Transfer cooked tortellini into the pan with sautéed veggies along with marinara sauce.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

Cook everything together:
1. Toss gently until tortellini is heated through—about 1 to 2 minutes.
2. If needed, add reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before stirring in half of the parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Serve immediately:
Top individual servings with remaining parmesan cheese and enjoy your flavorful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is a vibrant and delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal. Whether for a casual lunch or a festive dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the tortellini.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve the cheese tortellini on its own for a hearty meal. The combination of cheese and veggies makes it filling and satisfying.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for an aromatic finish that complements the dish beautifully.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an indulgent touch. The crispy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy tortellini.

With Grated Cheese

• Offer extra grated parmesan at the table to allow guests to customize their servings according to their tastes.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To ensure your cheese tortellini turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Selecting fresh vegetables will bring out the best flavors in your dish and add vibrant colors.

• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini just until al dente; this keeps them firm and prevents them from becoming mushy as they mix with the sauce.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water before draining; adding a splash can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.

• Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt and pepper can make a significant difference in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Complementing your cheese tortellini with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant grilled until smoky add depth to the meal.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a comforting side that pairs well with any pasta dish.

4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while maintaining a nice crunch on the plate.

5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed lightly with olive oil gives a sweet flavor that complements the savory tortellini.

6. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your dish.

7. Caesar Salad (Dressing on Side): Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing can be served alongside for those who enjoy classic flavors.

8. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini as a light side that echoes the main dish’s veggie theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Timing Mistake: Overcooking the tortellini can result in a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions closely and aim to cook them just shy of the recommended time.

• Bold Neglecting Seasoning: Underseasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to add salt and freshly ground black pepper; taste as you go!

• Bold Skipping Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can affect the sauce’s consistency. Always set aside some water before draining the tortellini—it helps create a creamy texture.

• Bold Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley add brightness. If you skip them, your dish may lack depth. Always include them right before serving for maximum flavor.

• Bold Wrong Cooking Order: Adding ingredients in the wrong order can lead to unevenly cooked veggies. Follow the recipe’s sequence carefully for balanced cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies or have specific questions, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions:

Can I use other types of tortellini?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of tortellini, such as spinach or mushroom varieties for added richness.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat-based broth if used and focus on using vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef options.

What other vegetables work well in this dish?

You can add bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach for extra nutrition and variety. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it perfect for meal preps throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This versatile dish allows for customization—feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in season or your personal favorites. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh summer meal that everyone will love!