This easy tortellini dish is a colorful mix of tasty pasta and fresh veggies. It’s quick to make and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
I love how the veggies add crunch and color, making it great to eat. Plus, you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand—talk about a win-win!
Just boil the tortellini, sauté the vegetables, and mix. It’s done in no time, and you’ll have a yummy meal that’s both filling and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I recommend using cheese tortellini for a creamy texture. You can also swap it for spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini for a different flavor, or even use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Vegetables: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and corn are great, but feel free to mix it up! Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach would work too. If some veggies aren’t in season, frozen ones are a good alternative!
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or another cooking oil can work just fine.
Basil: Fresh basil really enhances the dish, but dried basil can also be used. Just remember to use less, about one-third the amount, since dried herbs are stronger.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables for the Best Flavor?
Sautéing vegetables might seem simple, but there are a few steps that can make them shine! Here’s how:
- Start with a hot pan. This helps vegetables cook evenly and get a nice color.
- Cook onions and garlic first. They take longer to soften, and doing this allows their flavors to develop before adding the other veggies.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. This can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. If you have too many veggies, cook them in batches!
- Stir occasionally. This ensures they cook evenly, but don’t stir too frequently—allowing them to sit slightly helps with browning.
With these tips, you’ll have sautéed vegetables that are not only flavorful but also vibrant and crunchy!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, whole or halved
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes boiling the tortellini while you sauté the vegetables, and then just combine it all together for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it’s nice and soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells delightful.
3. Add the Zucchini:
Now it’s time to add the zucchini! Toss the slices into the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is just tender. You want it to keep a little crunch.
4. Throw in the Tomatoes and Corn:
Next up, toss in the cherry tomatoes and corn. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, just until the tomatoes start to soften. This will add color and flavor to your dish!
5. Combine Everything:
Now for the final touch! Gently add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together so that the pasta gets coated in all those yummy flavors. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Finish with Fresh Basil:
Remove your skillet from the heat and sprinkle the fresh basil over the top. Give it a gentle mix to distribute the basil throughout the dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate up your tortellini with sautéed vegetables, and if you wish, top with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra boost of flavor. Dig in and enjoy your vibrant, hearty meal!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen tortellini! Just cook it according to the package instructions, which may require a few extra minutes, and then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this dish based on what’s in your fridge! Broccoli, bell peppers, spinach, or even carrots would all make tasty additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly for harder vegetables like carrots.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sautéed vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the veggies, add the tortellini, and mix everything together!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or water to help restore moisture and prevent the dish from drying out.
