Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and delightful dish to prepare, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies brings together rich cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful herby marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, light lunches, or cozy family dinners. The combination of vibrant veggies and cheesy pasta creates a colorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with fresh veggies like zucchini, corn, and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice for a healthy meal.
• Flavorful Sauce: The herby marinara sauce enhances the dish with rich flavors that complement the cheese tortellini perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot or cold; it’s great as a main course or a side dish for gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty pasta dish, making mealtime stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must for boiling tortellini efficiently without overcrowding.
• 12-inch sauté pan: Ideal for evenly cooking the vegetables while providing enough space for tossing ingredients together.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, making prep work quicker and safer.

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!

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• 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))
• 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

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the tortellini according to package directions but remove them one minute early.
3. While waiting for the water to boil, prep your vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a 12-inch sauté pan or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the corn and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the grape tomatoes and cook for an additional 3 minutes until they start to burst.
5. Finally, add sliced zucchini and minced garlic; sauté everything until tender—around another 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

1. Drain the tortellini while reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer the drained tortellini into the pan with sautéed veggies.
3. Pour in the marinara sauce; toss gently until everything is well combined—about 1 to 2 minutes.
4. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serve

1. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Toss in half of the parmesan cheese along with chopped basil and parsley.
3. Serve immediately topped with remaining parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

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

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious marinara sauce. Simply spread butter and minced garlic on slices of baguette, then toast until golden.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the flavors by garnishing each serving with additional fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette pairs well with this dish. It balances the richness of the tortellini.

Drizzle with Pesto

• For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle homemade or store-bought pesto over the tortellini before serving. It adds a nutty taste that complements the cheese.

Add Protein

• To make it heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. This transforms it into a more filling main course.

Pair with Wine

• A chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, enhances the entire meal experience. The acidity complements the rich flavors beautifully.

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How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To get the most out of your Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, follow these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and texture compared to frozen or canned options.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just until al dente for optimal texture; they will continue cooking when mixed with veggies.
• Customize Marinara Sauce: Consider adding red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to your marinara sauce for an extra kick.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
• Mix Thoroughly: Toss all ingredients well in the pan to ensure every piece of tortellini is coated in sauce and herbs.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve right after cooking. This dish is best enjoyed fresh!

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal featuring Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears add a nice crunch and earthy flavor that complements tortellini.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a savory contrast that pairs well with the dish.
4. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are packed with flavor and offer a fun twist on summer vegetables.
5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, cured meats, and marinated vegetables create an appealing appetizer before your main course.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled or boiled, adding sweetness that enhances your summer meal theme.
7. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes tossed in garlic and parmesan bring heartiness to your dinner table.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add sweetness after your savory main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the dish’s final taste and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping ingredient prep: Failing to chop vegetables before cooking can lead to uneven cooking. Always prepare your veggies in advance for consistent results.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and cook just until al dente for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Underseasoning can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to elevate your dish.
• Not using fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the dish’s flavor. Fresh basil and parsley add vibrant taste, so opt for them whenever possible.
• Rushing cooking time: Quick cooking may lead to undercooked veggies. Take your time sautéing vegetables until they’re tender for optimal flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a delicious pasta dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini combined with fresh summer vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and corn.

How long does it take to make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy option for dinner.

Can I customize the vegetables in Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any seasonal veggies you enjoy. Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus work well too.

What type of marinara sauce is best for this recipe?

A good quality store-bought marinara works great, but homemade sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Choose one that matches your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Enjoy this comforting dish as a main course or serve it alongside your favorite salad!