This dish features tasty tortellini mixed with vibrant sautéed vegetables. It’s colorful, fresh, and super quick to whip up for dinner or lunch!
I love how the veggies add crunch and flavor to the soft tortellini. Plus, it makes me feel like I’m eating healthy while enjoying every bite! Who doesn’t love a little pasta joy? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works well here. If you can’t find tortellini, try other stuffed pasta like ravioli or even some lighter options like penne or farfalle. Just remember to adjust cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with avocado oil or even butter for a different taste.
Zucchini: While zucchini is great for this dish, yellow squash or eggplant can make nice alternatives. Just make sure they’re diced to similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Bell Pepper: I love using red bell peppers for their sweetness. If you prefer, green peppers give a more tangy bite, but yellow or orange bell peppers will add sweetness too. You can also use any other peppers you enjoy!
Cherry Tomatoes: If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, regular tomatoes diced up will work fine. For a sweeter option, try sun-dried tomatoes.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Without Burning Them?
Sautéing vegetables can be a bit tricky, but with the right method, you’ll get perfectly cooked veggies every time! Here’s how to do it:
- Always start with medium heat. This gives you control to avoid burning.
- Heat your olive oil until it shimmers, but don’t let it smoke.
- Add harder vegetables first, like zucchini and bell peppers. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
- Then add softer veggies like cherry tomatoes and corn. They only need a few minutes; just enough until the tomatoes release their juices and garlic becomes fragrant.
- Stir occasionally. This keeps everything cooking evenly and prevents sticking.
Remember, if you’re not sure, taste as you go. You’ll get the hang of it and find the perfect timing for your favorite veggies!
How to Make Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes boiling the tortellini, followed by sautéing the vegetables and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and colorful dish that’s sure to satisfy!
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 instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become colorful.
3. Enhance With More Flavor:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, corn, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes. You want the garlic to become fragrant and the tomatoes to soften just a bit.
4. Combine Everything Together:
Now, it’s time to bring the dish together! Add the drained tortellini to the skillet, gently tossing it with the sautéed vegetables. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables warm. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini, bell pepper, or cherry tomatoes for other vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the vegetables you choose to ensure everything is cooked through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep the dish moist while warming it up.
Can I Freeze Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best flavor and texture.
