Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer. This easy tortellini recipe combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh, sautéed vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, all coated in a herby marinara sauce. It’s perfect for warm weather dining, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal. The vibrant colors and flavors make this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal veggies enhances flavor and nutrition, making each bite refreshing.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish at summer barbecues and gatherings.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy tortellini and colorful vegetables.
Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t weigh you down.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Colander

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini evenly while keeping the cooking time accurate.
Sauté pan or deep skillet: Provides ample space to cook all the vegetables without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

An easy tortellini recipe! Made with rich cheese tortellini, fresh sautéed zucchini, tomatoes, corn, and onion, and 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 (1 1/2 cups)
2 ears corn, kernels cut from cobs (about 2 cups)
2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes
2 medium (12 oz total) zucchini, sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick
3 garlic cloves, minced (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 water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
Stir in corn and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
Add tomatoes; sauté for another 3 minutes until they start to burst.
Mix in zucchini and garlic; cook until veggies are tender—about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

Drain the cooked tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Transfer drained tortellini and marinara sauce into the pan with veggies.
Toss gently over medium heat until heated through—about 1 to 2 minutes.
If too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss in 1/4 cup parmesan cheese along with basil and parsley.
Serve immediately, garnishing individual portions with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. This dish can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its taste and presentation.

Fresh Herb Garnish

Basil and Parsley: Sprinkle extra chopped basil and parsley on top for an aromatic finish.

Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch that complements the dish.

Salad Pairing

Caprese Salad: A light caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds a refreshing touch.

Grated Cheese

Parmesan Flakes: Offer additional grated parmesan cheese for those who love an extra cheesy flavor.

Lemon Zest

Zesty Finish: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the dish and enhances its summer appeal.

Wine Pairing

Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the tortellini and veggies.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

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

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also retain more nutrients, creating a healthier meal.
Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking. Al dente tortellini holds up better in the sauce.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking for balanced flavor.
Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water can help thin out your sauce while adding flavor. Always reserve some before draining.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus based on your preference.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve this dish right after combining everything to enjoy it fresh and hot.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing sides with your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can elevate the meal further. Consider these delicious options:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and roasted until tender, asparagus adds a nutritious crunch.
Simple Green Salad: A mix of greens dressed lightly in olive oil balances the richness of the tortellini.
Grilled Vegetable Platter: Assorted grilled vegetables provide smoky flavors that complement the dish nicely.
Antipasto Skewers: Skewers with olives, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella add a fun appetizer element.
Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness that pairs well with the savory tortellini.
Crusty Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and are easy to prepare alongside the main dish.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can offer a contrast in temperature while keeping with Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking cheese tortellini with summer veggies can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here’s how to avoid them:

Incorrect Cook Time: Cooking the tortellini too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always check the package instructions and cook them one minute shy of the suggested time.
Not Prepping Ingredients First: Failing to prep your veggies in advance can delay your cooking process. Chop all vegetables before you start cooking to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many veggies at once can cause steaming instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture.
Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold marinara sauce or refrigerated tortellini directly to a hot pan can disrupt cooking times. Allow ingredients to come closer to room temperature for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Cheese tortellini with summer veggies lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Portion cheese tortellini with summer veggies into freezer-safe containers.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding cheese tortellini with summer veggies:

Can I use frozen cheese tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen cheese tortellini. Just add an extra couple of minutes to the boiling time for best results.

What other vegetables work well in cheese tortellini with summer veggies?

Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make cheese tortellini with summer veggies gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be excellent additions for a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is an easy yet delightful dish that showcases fresh seasonal produce. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether by adding different vegetables or proteins. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that captures the essence of summer!

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Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

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Author: Jessica
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a vibrant and delicious dish that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of summer. This quick and easy recipe features rich three cheese tortellini tossed with an array of fresh, sautéed vegetables including zucchini, tomatoes, and corn, all brought together by a herby marinara sauce. Ideal for warm weather dining, family gatherings, or a speedy weeknight meal, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy the delightful combination of cheesy goodness and fresh veggies that will leave everyone craving more.

Instructions

Boil a large pot of lightly salted water. Cook tortellini one minute shy of package directions.
In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onion for 3 minutes until softened.
Add corn and sauté for another 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and cook until they burst (about 3 minutes).
Mix in zucchini and garlic; cook until all veggies are tender (6 to 8 minutes).
Drain tortellini (reserving some pasta water) and add to the skillet with veggies along with marinara sauce. Toss gently over medium heat until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste; mix in parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian