Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful meal that truly encapsulates the essence of summer. This vibrant dish combines rich cheese tortellini with fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a savory marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of summer veggies adds a refreshing taste that complements the cheese tortellini beautifully.
Versatile Dish: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the veggies, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this tasty dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies efficiently, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Necessary for boiling the tortellini quickly and efficiently.
Sauté pan or deep skillet: Ideal for cooking the vegetables evenly while allowing space for tossing in the tortellini.
Cutting board and knife: These are essential for chopping vegetables safely and accurately.

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 Veggies

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion (chopped – about 1 1/2 cups)
2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs – about 2 cups)
2 cups grape tomatoes (12 oz)
2 medium zucchini (sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick)
3 garlic cloves (minced – about 1 Tbsp)

For the Sauce

1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
Salt (and freshly ground black pepper)

For Toppings

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 for one minute less than the package instructions suggest. While waiting for the water to boil, you can prepare and cook your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in corn and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Zucchini

Add grape tomatoes to the pan:
1. Sauté them for about 3 minutes.
2. Then add zucchini slices and minced garlic.
3. Cook until all veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—this should take around 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Tortellini and Sauce

While cooking veggies:
1. Drain the cooked tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Add drained tortellini along with marinara sauce to your veggie mixture.
3. Toss everything together over medium heat until warmed through—about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste:
1. Stir in half of your parmesan cheese along with basil and parsley.
2. Serve right away, topping each portion with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies as a refreshing meal suitable for any summer gathering!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Serving Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh and vibrant meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair it with Garlic Bread

Garlic bread adds a crunchy texture and complements the savory flavors of the tortellini. Simply toast slices of baguette with garlic butter for the perfect side.

Top with Grilled Chicken

For those who want extra protein, grilled chicken breast pairs beautifully. Slice it and place it on top of the tortellini for added flavor and heartiness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.

Serve with a Side Salad

A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini.

Add a Splash of Lemon Juice

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors in your dish, giving it a zesty kick that complements the summer veggies perfectly.

Drizzle with Balsamic Reduction

A drizzle of balsamic reduction over your serving will add sweetness and acidity, enhancing all the flavors in this delightful meal.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To ensure your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh seasonal vegetables for maximum flavor and nutrition. The quality of ingredients will greatly impact your dish.
Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook your tortellini just shy of al dente. It will continue cooking when tossed with the veggies and sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water when draining tortellini. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in other summer veggies like bell peppers or spinach depending on what you have on hand or prefer.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil make for a refreshing side that matches well.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears provide a smoky flavor that balances nicely with creamy tortellini.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic summer side that adds sweetness and texture alongside your cheesy pasta dish.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A cold salad made from quinoa, cucumbers, olives, and feta brings a nutritious option full of flavor.
Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters add crunch and pair wonderfully with the soft cheese-filled tortellini.
Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies creates an inviting spread that’s great for sharing.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can provide a sweet contrast to savory dishes while keeping things refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Preparing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be a breeze, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the vegetable prep: Not preparing your veggies beforehand can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to chop and slice them before starting.
Overcooking the tortellini: If you cook the tortellini for too long, they can become mushy. Follow the package directions closely and remove them a minute early.
Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can hinder the sauce’s consistency. Always reserve about 1/4 cup before draining.
Ignoring seasoning: Underseasoning can make your dish bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
Using old ingredients: Fresh veggies make a huge difference. Avoid using wilted or spoiled vegetables for the best taste.
Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or cheese on top can lessen your dish’s visual appeal and flavor. Always finish with a sprinkle of parmesan and herbs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

You can use any seasonal veggies like bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach. Feel free to customize based on what you have!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add protein to Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for summer lunches or dinners, allowing you to enjoy fresh seasonal produce. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins!

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Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

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

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Description

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that captures the flavors of summer in every bite. This delightful recipe features rich cheese tortellini tossed with fresh zucchini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a delectable marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with color and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
2 ears corn (kernels cut from cobs)
2 cups grape tomatoes
2 medium zucchini (sliced)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Boil the tortellini in a large pot of salted water until just under al dente.
In a sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened.
Stir in corn and cook for an additional two minutes before adding grape tomatoes and zucchini.
Sauté until the veggies are tender; then add minced garlic.
Drain tortellini (reserve some pasta water) and combine with sautéed vegetables and marinara sauce in the pan. Heat through.
Season with salt and pepper, mix in half of the parmesan cheese along with fresh herbs before serving.

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