Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is a must for this dish! If you prefer a different flavor, try spinach or meat-filled tortellini. You can also use gluten-free options available at most stores.

Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor here. If you want a change, feel free to use avocado oil or vegetable oil, both of which work just as well.

Onion: I like using yellow onions for their sweetness, but you can swap them for red onions or shallots if that’s what you have. They will give a different but still tasty result.

Zucchini: Fresh zucchini gives a nice crunch. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash or bell peppers would be great substitutes.

Fresh Corn: If corn isn’t in season, you can use canned corn (just rinse it well) or omit it altogether. The dish will still be delicious.

Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma, but you can use dried basil if that’s all you have. Use about one teaspoon of dried for every tablespoon of fresh.

How Do I Sauté Vegetables to Perfection?

Sautéing vegetables can be quick, but you want them to be just right! Here’s how to do it:

• Start with a hot skillet. Preheat it on medium heat and then add olive oil.
• Cook tougher veggies first. Onions and zucchini need a bit more time, so cook those for a few minutes before adding softer ones like tomatoes.
• Add garlic last. It cooks quickly and can burn, so toss it in just before the other veggies are done.
• Use a gentle stir. Stir often but gently to keep the veggies from breaking apart too much.
• Cook until they’re bright in color and tender. This usually takes 5-7 minutes depending on the veggies.

Easy Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking, totaling around 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Tortellini:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.

3. Add the Zucchini and Corn:

Now, it’s time to add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Sauté it for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes slightly tender. Then, toss in the grape tomatoes and corn kernels, continuing to sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.

4. Combine with Tortellini:

Next, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the vegetables. Gently toss everything together and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Season and Serve:

Finally, stir in the fresh basil and season your dish with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer your colorful tortellini dish to a serving bowl. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables!

Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for frozen tortellini, as it may require a bit longer than refrigerated tortellini. Ensure they’re fully cooked and tender before proceeding with the recipe.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

You can customize this dish with any favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli are great additions and can be sautéed alongside the zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftover tortellini with vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

If you’d like to make this dish vegan, you can use plant-based tortellini and skip the Parmesan cheese. The recipe will still be delicious and packed with flavor! Just be sure to check the pasta package for any dairy ingredients.