Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings together the richness of four cheese tortellini, fresh pesto, and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. With its delightful flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Veggies
• For Cooking
• For the Tortellini
• How to Make Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
• Step 3: Roast the Vegetables First Phase
• Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Garlic
• Step 5: Roast Until Tender
• Step 6: Cook the Tortellini
• Step 7: Combine Everything Together
• Step 8: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Extra Pesto
• As a Salad
• With Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Best Side Dishes for Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Reheating Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies?
• Can I customize my Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies?
• Is Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies healthy?
• Can I use homemade pesto in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of roasted veggies and pesto enhances the cheesy tortellini for a delicious taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies based on what you have on hand or in season.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh vegetables, this meal is a great way to boost your veggie intake.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this colorful and satisfying pasta dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies, you will need some basic kitchen tools. Using the right equipment will ensure your cooking process is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet allows for even roasting of your vegetables without spilling.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini; it should provide enough space for them to cook evenly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board makes chopping your veggies safe and efficient.

Ingredients

This recipe features a delicious array of ingredients that highlight the natural flavors of each component.

For the Veggies

• 2 medium zucchini, ends trimmed, sliced into half moons
• 2 medium yellow squash, ends trimmed, sliced into half moons
• 1 red bell pepper, diced into 3/4-inch squares
• 1/2 large red onion, diced into 3/4-inch squares
• 8 oz. button mushrooms, sliced fairly thick
• 1 (10.5 oz) pkg. grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

For Cooking

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Tortellini

• 1 (20 oz) pkg. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 4 cups (4 oz) fresh spinach
• 2/3 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
• Finely shredded parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is perfect for getting those veggies tender while allowing them to caramelize slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables First Phase

Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven after this time.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Garlic

Add the halved tomatoes and minced garlic to the baking sheet with roasted veggies. Toss them together before returning them to the oven.

Step 5: Roast Until Tender

Continue roasting for another 10 minutes or until all vegetables are tender. Once done, remove from oven and add fresh spinach, tossing everything to combine.

Step 6: Cook the Tortellini

While the veggies are roasting, cook your tortellini according to package directions in a large pot of boiling water. Drain once cooked.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Pour drained tortellini into a large mixing bowl. Add in the roasted veggies along with pesto. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, then toss until well combined.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve warm topped with finely shredded parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor! Enjoy this colorful plate of Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies as a satisfying dinner option that’s both healthy and delicious!

How to Serve Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

Serving tortellini with pesto and roasted veggies is a delightful way to impress your family or guests. This dish is not only vibrant but also versatile, allowing for various serving styles to suit any occasion.

Family Style

• Serve the tortellini in a large bowl, letting everyone help themselves. This approach encourages sharing and makes for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate the tortellini in individual servings, topping each with freshly grated parmesan. This method adds a touch of elegance to your meal presentation.

With Extra Pesto

• Drizzle additional pesto over each serving or offer it on the side. This option allows guests to enhance their dish according to their taste preferences.

As a Salad

• Allow leftovers to cool and toss them with fresh greens for a delightful pasta salad. This creates a refreshing option for lunch or a light dinner.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve the dish alongside slices of crusty bread. The bread is perfect for scooping up the flavorful pesto and roasted veggies, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

To ensure your tortellini with pesto and roasted veggies turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.
• Cook tortellini al dente: Follow package instructions carefully to achieve the perfect texture; overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Customize veggies: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference.
• Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein if desired, making this dish even heartier.
• Experiment with spices: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick to the dish.
• Serve immediately: Enjoying this meal while it’s hot ensures optimal flavor and warmth in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

Pairing side dishes with tortellini can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this lovely pasta dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly, offering a crunchy contrast to the tender tortellini.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides freshness that balances the richness of pesto.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a touch of elegance and complements the roasted veggies beautifully.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that echoes the Italian theme.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of color and sweetness, making it an enjoyable side during summer months.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette offers brightness and helps cut through the richness of the dish.
7. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil makes for a flavorful appetizer before diving into the main course.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For those looking for low-carb options, zucchini noodles provide a light alternative while still being veggie-packed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies, it’s important to steer clear of common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Veggies: If you cook the vegetables for too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them in the oven and remove them as soon as they are tender.
• Using Cold Tortellini: Adding cold tortellini to the dish can cool down your meal. Make sure to cook it while the vegetables roast so everything stays warm.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoned veggies can lead to a bland dish. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall flavor.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can ruin your meal. Always opt for fresh pesto and seasonal veggies for the best taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient has a different cooking time. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies?

To make this dish, roast a variety of colorful vegetables while cooking store-bought tortellini. Toss everything together with fresh pesto for a quick meal.

Can I customize my Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or even switch out the pesto for a different sauce to suit your taste.

Is Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and provides carbs from tortellini, making it a balanced meal option.

Can I use homemade pesto in this recipe?

Yes! Homemade pesto adds a fresh flavor that elevates Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies even further.

Final Thoughts

Tortellini with Pesto and Roasted Veggies is not only delicious but also flexible for customization. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or what’s in season. Give this easy dinner a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights!