This easy tortellini dish is packed with cheesy goodness and colorful sautéed veggies. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
I love how the soft tortellini combined with crunchy veggies makes each bite exciting. Plus, it takes just minutes to cook. Who doesn’t want dinner on the table fast? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is great for this dish, but any tortellini type works. Try meat or even spinach tortellini to change up the flavors!
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or butter can be good alternatives.
Vegetables: Zucchini adds a nice texture, but you can swap it for bell peppers, spinach, or kale. Fresh or frozen corn are both fantastic, depending on what’s available!
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley bring brightness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work—just use less, as they’re more concentrated.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara saves time, but homemade sauce can add an extra personal touch. For a twist, try pesto or alfredo sauce!
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables is key to ensuring they are tender and flavorful. Follow these simple steps for great results:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat before adding oil; this helps vegetables cook evenly.
- Start with onions as they take longer to cook. Sauté until they are soft and slightly translucent.
- Add garlic after the onions; it cooks quickly, so you only need about a minute for it to become fragrant.
- Add denser veggies, like zucchini, first. Let them cook a bit before adding softer ones like tomatoes for even cooking.
With a little attention, you’ll have beautifully cooked vegetables bursting with flavor!
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- For the Sautéed Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a super quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until it becomes fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables:
Next, throw in the zucchini slices, cherry or grape tomatoes, and corn kernels. Stir everything together and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Combine with Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well to combine. Let the sauce heat through for a minute or two, ensuring everything is well mixed.
5. Mix in Tortellini:
Add the drained tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the tortellini with the sauce and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the freshly chopped basil and parsley. Serve your delightful dish warm, garnished with extra herbs if you like!
Enjoy this vibrant, easy-to-make tortellini dish full of fresh vegetables and bright flavors!
FAQ for Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen tortellini! Simply cook it according to the package instructions. Frozen tortellini may need an extra minute or two to become tender, so keep an eye on it.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
The beauty of this dish is its versatility! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, asparagus, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they are nicely sautéed!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the tortellini moist while microwaving or reheating on the stove.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is vegetarian as is! For a vegan version, simply substitute the cheese tortellini with a plant-based version and use tomato sauce without added cheese. Enjoy the same deliciousness while keeping it plant-based!
