This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies is a colorful and yummy dish. The tender tortellini pairs perfectly with fresh veggies like bell peppers and zucchini, making it a tasty choice for any meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just cook the tortellini, toss in the veggies, and you’re good to go. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something delicious! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini for its wonderful flavor and texture. You can also opt for other filled pasta shapes like ravioli or use whole grain tortellini for a healthier twist.
Olive Oil: A key for sautéing veggies! If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil works great too, or you can even use butter for a richer taste.
Onion: Yellow onion gives a nice sweetness. If you want a milder flavor, you could use shallots or green onions instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work; just use about 1/4 teaspoon.
Zucchini: It adds great texture! You could replace it with bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli if those are more to your liking.
Corn: Fresh corn tastes the sweetest, but canned or frozen corn are easy, quick alternatives. Just make sure to drain canned corn well.
How Do I Cook Sautéed Veggies Perfectly?
Cooking veggies right can really enhance the dish. The goal is to sauté until just tender while keeping some crunch. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat to get it warm but not smoking.
- Sauté the onion first to release its sweetness, followed by garlic to avoid burning.
- Add veggies like zucchini next, letting them cook until just tender, around 4-5 minutes.
- Finally, add softer veggies like tomatoes to mix in without overcooking them.
These steps will help you achieve colorful and delicious veggies every time!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
For the Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to have a delicious pasta dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes until it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch. After that, toss in the cherry tomatoes and corn kernels. Stir everything gently, letting the tomatoes soften for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Now, pour in the tomato sauce and mix everything well so the veggies are fully coated. Allow it to cook for another couple of minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Combine Everything:
Finally, add the drained tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce and veggies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil for an aromatic touch. Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your colorful and delightful meal!
This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors and nutrients. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
FAQ About Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Veggies
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. Frozen tortellini may take a few extra minutes to cook, so keep an eye on them until they float to the top of the boiling water.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, broccoli, or even asparagus work great in this dish. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly depending on the vegetable’s tenderness!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply use vegan tortellini and substitute the cheese sauce with a plant-based alternative. You can also use olive oil instead of any butter or non-dairy cream sauces.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through.
These answers should help you make the most out of this delicious dish! Enjoy cooking!
