This dish features yummy tortellini tossed with colorful sautéed veggies. It’s a perfect way to enjoy pasta while sneaking in some healthy greens!
I love how quick and easy this meal is. Just boil, sauté, and you’ve got a tasty dinner! Plus, it’s a great way to clean out the fridge. Who doesn’t love a win-win? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star of the dish! You can use fresh or frozen, depending on what you have on hand. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try filling it with spinach or meat.
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers add color and crunch. If you don’t have these, feel free to swap with broccoli, spinach, or bell pepper. Seasonal veggies can also work great!
Corn: Fresh corn is best in summer, but frozen or canned will do just fine. I personally prefer fresh for its sweetness, but during other seasons, frozen is super quick!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic touch to the veggies. If you’re out of fresh, garlic powder is a handy substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon instead.
Parmesan: Grated Parmesan cheese is optional but gives a lovely umami flavor at the end. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the milk.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Like a Pro?
Sautéing vegetables is key to keeping them tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to ensure it doesn’t smoke.
- Add your tougher vegetables first, like zucchini and bell pepper, and give them about 5-7 minutes to soften. Stir occasionally so they cook evenly.
- Next, add the garlic and softer veggies like cherry tomatoes and corn. This prevents them from getting mushy before the others are ready.
- Cook everything together just until the tomatoes soften, around 2-3 minutes, while stirring to mix all the flavors.
With these tips, your vegetables will be deliciously sautéed every time!
How to Make Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days, but still feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside. It’s okay if they stick a little; the flavors will come together in the skillet!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini, green bell pepper, and red onion. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become nice and tender. Stir them occasionally so they cook evenly and don’t burn!
3. Add More Flavor:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, and corn. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. Your kitchen should start smelling wonderful!
4. Combine Tortellini with Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the cooked tortellini to the skillet! Sprinkle everything with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together so that the tortellini gets coated in all those tasty flavors and heat through.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious tortellini warm, and don’t forget the optional topping of grated Parmesan cheese if you want a little extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use any flavor of tortellini you like, such as spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it’s cooked properly.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all work well for sautéing the vegetables.
How Do I Store Leftover Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorites, like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just be sure to adjust the sautéing time so that all the vegetables cook until tender but not overdone.
