This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables is a quick and tasty dish! You get soft, cheesy tortellini paired with fresh, colorful veggies like bell peppers and spinach. Yum!
It’s the perfect meal for busy nights! Just cook the tortellini and toss it with the veggies in a pan—dinner in no time! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yumminess. 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I love using refrigerated cheese tortellini because they’re quick to cook and flavorful. For a change, try using spinach or mushroom tortellini. If you’re going gluten-free, check for gluten-free tortellini options at the store.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice richness to the vegetables. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or even butter. Both work well for sautéing.
Onion & Garlic: These two ingredients bring base flavor. Yellow onions are ideal, but you can use red onions for a slightly sweeter taste. If you dislike garlic, just skip it or use garlic powder.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds great texture. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with summer squash or bell peppers. Both add a nice crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy. If out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a good alternative, but drain them first.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables So They’re Tender and Tasty?
Sautéing vegetables can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right! You want them tender but still slightly crisp. Here are my tips:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning, which can happen quickly with garlic and onions.
- Cook the onion first, as it takes longer to soften. Keep stirring to prevent sticking.
- Add garlic just before the other veggies to maintain its flavor—it cooks faster!
- For stir-frying zucchini, keep your pieces uniform in size for even cooking.
- Season as you go! A little salt and pepper while sautéing helps enhance the natural flavors of the veggies.
With these tips, your sautéed veggies will shine in this tortellini dish!
Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced or chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish comes together in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and another 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and combining everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set them aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While your tortellini is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma!
3. Add Zucchini, Tomatoes, and Corn:
Now, stir in the zucchini slices and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender. Add the cherry tomatoes and corn kernels next, cooking everything together for another 3 to 4 minutes. This will allow the tomatoes to soften and the corn to heat through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Combine Everything:
Once your vegetables are sautéed to perfection, it’s time to add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to combine, ensuring the tortellini is warmed through and coated in the delicious veggie mixture.
5. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh basil and parsley for that fresh flavor boost. Now, transfer your colorful tortellini and vegetable mix to a serving dish. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top to finish. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to enjoy fresh vegetables. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as frozen tortellini may take a few extra minutes to cook. No need to thaw; you can add them directly to boiling water!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can get creative with your veggies! Feel free to substitute zucchini with bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. Adding spinach or kale for extra greens is also a fantastic option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can! Opt for vegan tortellini (often available in stores or recipes online) and skip the Parmesan cheese. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of this dish!
