This Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies is a quick and tasty meal. With cheesy pasta and colorful veggies, it’s as bright as your day! Plus, it takes hardly any time to cook!
If you’re like me, you love meals that are ready in a flash. Toss everything in a pan, and you’ve got a delicious dish to enjoy at home or impress your friends. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I love using cheese tortellini for its creaminess. You can try spinach or meat-filled tortellini for different flavors. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free varieties available in stores.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and zucchini add great freshness. You can substitute zucchini with bell peppers or asparagus, based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Adding broccoli or spinach also works well!
Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch; frozen corn is a great substitute when fresh isn’t available. If you don’t like corn, consider peas or chopped green beans.
Marinara Sauce: I usually go for a store-bought marinara for simplicity, but homemade sauce can elevate the dish. For a lighter option, skip the sauce and use a drizzle of olive oil instead.
How Do I Sauté Veggies Without Burning Them?
Getting the veggies right is key for this recipe. Here’s how to make sure they’re tender and flavorful without burning:
- Start with medium heat to allow the veggies to cook evenly.
- Always add onions first, as they take longer to soften. Cook until they are translucent before adding garlic.
- When adding zucchini and other veggies, stir frequently to prevent them from sitting too long in one spot, which helps avoid burning.
- If the veggies start to brown too quickly, lower the heat and add a splash of water or broth to create steam that aids in cooking.
Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and another 10 minutes sautéing the veggies and combining everything. Quick, simple, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
First, bring 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 (usually about 3-5 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
While the tortellini is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the wonderful aroma.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes until it’s slightly tender. After that, add the corn kernels and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the tomatoes soften up a bit.
4. Combine and Season:
Now, it’s time to combine the cooked tortellini with the veggies in the skillet. Pour the marinara sauce over everything, and gently stir to mix all the wonderful flavors together. Keep it on the heat for another minute or two until warmed through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a touch of color and flavor. Serve this vibrant dish warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Tortellini with Sautéed Veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well. Just cook them according to the package instructions, adding a minute or two if needed to ensure they’re heated through before draining.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms all make great additions. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is perfectly tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in a skillet with a splash of water or in the microwave, stirring often for even heating.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the cheese tortellini with a vegan version, and use a plant-based marinara sauce. You can also skip the cheese garnish or use a vegan cheese alternative for a delicious vegan dish!
