This tortellini dish is filled with cheesy goodness and paired with colorful sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s hearty yet light—perfect for any meal!
I love how quick and easy this meal is to whip up. Toss everything together, and you have a delicious dinner that feels fancy but is really just a delightful pasta party! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a rich flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using spinach or mushroom tortellini, both of which are delicious and give a nice twist to the dish.
Vegetables: Zucchini and green bell peppers are great choices here, but feel free to swap them out! You can use bell peppers in other colors like red or yellow for sweetness, or include vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.
Corn: While fresh corn is ideal, frozen corn works just fine. If corn isn’t available, you can use peas or diced carrots as a sweet alternative.
Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a nice touch of flavor. If you don’t have it, try substituting with basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Properly Sauté Vegetables?
Sautéing vegetables correctly can elevate your dish. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking. This will ensure your veggies cook quickly and stay crisp.
- Add the zucchini and bell pepper first, as they take a little longer to soften. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes.
- After they soften, add the garlic and corn, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is tender.
- Lastly, remember not to overcrowd the pan; it can cause the vegetables to steam instead of sauté!
How to Make Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, plus a little time for cooking the tortellini. It’s quick and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-6 minutes, until the tortellini are al dente. When done, drain the tortellini and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. This will get them nicely cooked and flavorful!
3. Add Garlic and Corn:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and corn into the skillet. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, making sure the corn is heated through and the vegetables are tender. The garlic will start to smell wonderful!
4. Combine with Tortellini:
Now it’s time to bring the tortellini into the mix! Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with your sautéed vegetables. Gently toss everything together to combine—you want all those delicious flavors to mingle.
5. Season:
To finish off your dish, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well so that the ingredients are evenly mixed and heated through.
6. Serve:
Transfer your colorful tortellini and vegetable mixture to a serving platter. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your warm, delicious Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, they’ll need a slightly longer cooking time than fresh tortellini, so adjust accordingly. No need to thaw them beforehand!
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Bell peppers can be swapped for other varieties like red or yellow, and you can replace zucchini with asparagus or spinach for a different flavor. Just ensure you sauté any firmer veggies a bit longer to soften them up.
How to Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat on the stove over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking, stirring often.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Sure thing! Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. Additionally, check that your tortellini is vegan, as some may contain dairy. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the vegetables without the cheese!
