Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

An easy and vibrant dish, Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is perfect for warm weather meals. This recipe combines rich cheese-filled tortellini with fresh summer vegetables, all coated in a delicious herby marinara sauce. It’s a delightful option for family dinners, lunch gatherings, or potlucks, showcasing the best of seasonal produce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: It features seasonal vegetables like zucchini and corn, providing a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a hearty side dish, it’s sure to please both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
• Flavorful Sauce: The herby marinara sauce elevates the dish, tying all the ingredients together in a savory hug.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults will love the cheesy tortellini and colorful veggies.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling tortellini while providing space for cooking without overflow.
• Deep skillet or sauté pan: Allows ample room to sauté vegetables evenly without crowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

• 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini

For the Vegetables

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1 1/2 cups)
• 2 ears corn, kernels cut from cobs (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes
• 2 medium (12 oz total) zucchini, sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp)

For the Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce (half of a 24 oz jar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Garnishing

• 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Step 1: Boil the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini one minute shy of the package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil, you can prep the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a deep skillet or sauté pan:
1. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add corn and continue sautéing for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in tomatoes; cook for another 3 minutes.
5. Finally, add zucchini and garlic; sauté until veggies are tender and many tomatoes have burst—around 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Tortellini with Vegetables

1. Drain the cooked tortellini but reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Transfer tortellini to the skillet with vegetables along with marinara sauce.
3. Toss everything together over medium heat until warmed through—about 1 to 2 minutes.
4. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Stir in 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese along with basil and parsley.
3. Serve immediately with remaining parmesan sprinkled on top of individual servings.

Enjoy your delicious Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies!

How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Cheese tortellini with summer veggies is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will make your dish shine.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad pairs wonderfully, adding a crisp texture and freshness.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the tortellini perfectly.

Topped with Extra Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh basil or parsley on top for an aromatic finish and vibrant color.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce, making every bite satisfying.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• Pack individual servings for a picnic; they taste great cold or at room temperature, perfect for outdoor dining.

How to Perfect Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

To ensure your cheese tortellini with summer veggies turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and corn will provide vibrant flavors and textures that canned or frozen options cannot match.

• Cook tortellini al dente: Follow package instructions closely and cook the tortellini just shy of being fully cooked for the best texture in the final dish.

• Reserve pasta water: Save some pasta water before draining. It can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if it becomes too thick.

• Season generously: Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the cooking process to build layers of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

Pairing side dishes with cheese tortellini can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes a classic accompaniment, perfect for dipping into leftover sauce.

2. Caprese Salad: This salad made of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds a refreshing taste that balances the richness of the tortellini.

3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

4. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers add vibrant color and a hint of sweetness to your plate.

5. Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables provides interesting textures and flavors as starters.

6. Quinoa Salad: This healthy option brings nutty flavors and additional nutrients that pair well with cheesy pasta dishes.

7. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while maintaining simplicity in flavor.

8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after the rich tortellini dish, providing a sweet conclusion to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies can be delightful, but common mistakes can hinder the experience.

• Ignoring Ingredient Prep: Failing to chop and measure ingredients before starting can delay cooking. Prepare everything in advance for a smoother process.
• Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente texture for the best results.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the dish.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Freshness matters! Using old vegetables or expired marinara sauce won’t provide the vibrant flavors you want. Check your ingredients beforehand.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Discarding all the pasta water removes a great source of flavor and consistency. Save some to adjust sauce thickness if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies.

How do I make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies vegan?

You can make this dish vegan by using plant-based tortellini and omitting cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, spinach, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy for added nutrition and flavor.

What is the best type of marinara sauce to use?

Using a homemade marinara sauce allows for more control over flavors. However, any store-bought variety works well if it’s fresh and flavorful.

How can I customize Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies?

You can customize this recipe by changing spices, adding protein like grilled chicken or turkey, or using different types of cheese based on your preference.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to cook. Just assemble and cook when needed.

Final Thoughts

Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for various tastes. Its combination of fresh vegetables and rich tortellini makes it perfect for summer meals. Feel free to experiment with different veggies or herbs based on what you have on hand!