This tasty dish features plump tortellini mixed with colorful sautéed veggies. It’s quick to make and so colorful, it’s like eating a rainbow!
I love how the veggies add a nice crunch and fresh taste. Plus, it’s great for cleaning out the fridge—just toss in whatever you have on hand! Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Use fresh cheese tortellini for a soft texture and rich flavor. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works just fine. You can also try other pasta shapes if you’re in the mood for something different!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for sautéing. It adds a lovely taste, but feel free to swap in canola or avocado oil if you need a higher smoke point or prefer a milder flavor.
Zucchini: Besides zucchini, other vegetables like yellow squash or asparagus can be great replacements! They add a similar texture and taste, making the dish versatile.
Bell Pepper: While I love red bell peppers for their sweetness, green ones can add a nice crunch. You can also use other colors or even substitute with a bit of shredded cabbage for a different twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes give a burst of flavor. If they aren’t in season, use canned diced tomatoes for ease. Just make sure to drain them well.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch. A little goes a long way, so adjust to your taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice finishing touch. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without the lactose.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Sautéed?
Sautéing vegetables brings out their flavors, but to get them just right, follow these simple tips:
- Start with a hot skillet. Heating the oil before adding veggies helps them cook evenly.
- Cut vegetables into similar sizes. This way, they cook at the same rate and no one piece gets overcooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. Giving them enough space helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Stir occasionally. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t stick.
- Cook until just tender but still crisp. You want them to maintain some bite to balance the softness of the tortellini.
Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and about 15 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything. It’s quick, healthy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain the water and set the tortellini aside. You want it nicely cooked, so it’s ready to mix with the veggies!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and beginning to soften.
3. Add More Flavor:
Now, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook everything together for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This allows the tomatoes and corn to soften, and the garlic will start to smell amazing!
4. Combine Everything:
Next, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, making sure the tortellini is nicely coated with the sautéed veggies. Season with salt and pepper to taste to bring out all the flavors.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly chopped parsley. This adds a lovely freshness to the dish. Serve the tortellini warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your colorful and tasty meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose—harder veggies like carrots may require a bit more time.
What Should I Do If I Only Have Frozen Tortellini?
No problem! Just boil the frozen tortellini in salted water according to the package instructions. They typically cook in the same amount of time as fresh tortellini. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot, and drain once they float to the top!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Just use vegan tortellini and skip the Parmesan cheese, or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. You can also add more herbs and spices to enhance the flavor while keeping it plant-based!
