Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is an inviting, vibrant dish perfect for hot days. This recipe highlights the joy of fresh summer produce paired with rich cheese tortellini. It’s a versatile meal ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even a quick lunch. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this dish brings the essence of summer to your table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Tortellini
• For the Vegetables
• For the Sauce
• How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Step 1: Boil the Tortellini
• Step 2: Sauté the Onions
• Step 3: Cook Corn and Tomatoes
• Step 4: Add Zucchini and Garlic
• Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
• Step 6: Season and Serve
• How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Pair with Garlic Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Incorporate Grilled Chicken
• Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
• Top with Extra Herbs
• Serve with Wine
• How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?
• What veggies can I substitute in this recipe?
• How do I make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies gluten-free?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sautéed zucchini, corn, and tomatoes enhances the cheesy tortellini with fresh summer flavors.
• Vegetarian Delight: A meatless option that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs to match your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone will enjoy their meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
• 12-inch sauté pan: Ideal for cooking the vegetables evenly while providing enough space for tossing in the tortellini.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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

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

For the Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• 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 directions. While waiting for the water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Heat the olive oil.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Cook Corn and Tomatoes

Add corn to the skillet:
1. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Then add grape tomatoes and continue cooking for another 3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Zucchini and Garlic

Stir in sliced zucchini and minced garlic:
1. Sauté until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—about 6 to 8 minutes.
2. During this time, add the tortellini to your boiling water so they finish cooking simultaneously.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once cooked, drain the tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water:
1. Transfer drained tortellini into the pan with veggies.
2. Add marinara sauce and toss everything together until well combined—about 1 to 2 minutes.
3. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Toss in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
2. Serve immediately, topping each serving with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy this delightful Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies as a refreshing choice for any occasion!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and vibrant meal. This dish can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors and presentation.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the tortellini. Serve warm, brushed with butter and minced garlic.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch. Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes for a light side that balances the meal.

Incorporate Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken strips can elevate your dish, adding protein and smoky flavor. Season with herbs to match the Italian theme.

Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze

• A balsamic glaze drizzled over the top provides a sweet and tangy contrast. It enhances both taste and visual appeal.

Top with Extra Herbs

• An extra sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds vibrant color and freshness. Herbs elevate the overall dish while enhancing its aroma.

Serve with Wine

• Pairing with a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, can enhance your dining experience. The wine’s acidity works well with the cheese and veggies.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To make your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies truly exceptional, consider these simple tips.

• Cook tortellini al dente: This ensures the pasta has the right texture and won’t become mushy when combined with the sauce.

• Use seasonal veggies: Fresh, in-season vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes offer better flavor and nutrients, making your dish more enjoyable.

• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor balance.

• Add cheese at the end: Stirring in parmesan just before serving ensures it melts slightly without losing its texture, enhancing every bite.

• Reserve pasta water: Keeping some pasta water allows you to thin out the sauce as needed without losing flavor.

• Serve immediately: For best results, serve this dish hot right after preparation to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with Cheese Tortellini can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Caprese Salad: A combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic reduction makes a bright complement.

2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a savory touch that pairs well with the richness of tortellini.

3. Italian Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables for a variety of flavors and textures.

4. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters add an extra veggie element while being deliciously satisfying.

5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is perfect for summer meals; grill or boil for a sweet addition to your plate.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of cheese tortellini while providing hydration on warm days.

7. Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with pesto offers an herbaceous bite that enhances Italian flavors.

8. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and vitamins alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and cook it just shy of the recommended time.

• Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Failing to chop and measure vegetables before cooking can result in uneven cooking. Prep all your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process.

• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish. Always save a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

• Using Stale Herbs: Old herbs lose flavor, diminishing your dish’s taste. Always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact in your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly for a well-balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until warmed completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, frozen cheese tortellini works well! Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

What veggies can I substitute in this recipe?

Feel free to swap zucchini or tomatoes with bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus based on your preference.

How do I make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free tortellini available at many grocery stores. Adjust other ingredients accordingly if needed.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the veggies and sauce ahead, then cook the tortellini when ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors from fresh seasonal ingredients. It’s perfect for summer lunches or dinners, and you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this delightful recipe a try; you’ll love its versatility!