This tasty dish features cheesy tortellini tossed with colorful sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Who doesn’t love a meal that looks as good as it tastes? Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies. I like to toss in a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving—yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a rich, creamy flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use whole wheat or spinach tortellini. Gluten-free varieties are also available if you need them!
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but if you’re out, avocado oil or even butter work well too. Just keep in mind that butter adds more richness.
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers are perfect, but feel free to swap them with your favorites. Broccoli, asparagus, or even cauliflower can add a crunchy twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: They offer a burst of sweetness, but if not in season, canned diced tomatoes can substitute, or just use regular tomatoes chopped up. Just drain some liquid if they’re canned.
Corn: Fresh corn tastes sweet, but frozen corn is just as good and very convenient. You can also swap it for peas or cooked green beans for variety.
Garlic: Always better fresh, but garlic powder can be used if you’re in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty note. If you don’t have any, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Sauté Vegetables Without Overcooking Them?
Sautéing vegetables is all about timing and heat. You want them tender but still vibrant and crispy. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with medium heat to warm your oil before you add garlic. This prevents burning.
- Keep your veggies in a single layer to cook evenly. Don’t overcrowd the pan!
- Add denser vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers first. They need more time to become tender.
- Stir occasionally, but let them sit for a minute or two to get a nice color.
- Combine the softer veggies like cherry tomatoes and corn later, as they only need a few minutes.
Following these tips will help keep your veggies fresh and colorful in your tortellini dish!
How to Make Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 12 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and another 10 minutes sautéing the vegetables and bringing everything together. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the tortellini is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn because we want that lovely garlic flavor!
3. Add the Zucchini and Bell Pepper:
Next, toss in the diced zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender and have a nice color.
4. Include the Tomatoes and Corn:
Now, stir in the cherry tomatoes and corn. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened, adding a burst of freshness to the dish.
5. Combine Tortellini and Season:
Add the cooked tortellini to your skillet, gently tossing everything together. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to make it flavorful. Mix it well so each piece of tortellini is coated with those tasty veggies.
6. Finish with Parsley:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This will brighten up your dish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Tortellini with Sautéed Vegetables topped with grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables. Options like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms are great alternatives. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different vegetables may require longer or shorter sautéing.
What Can I Use Instead of Cheese Tortellini?
If you’re looking for a different option, you can use any pasta shape you enjoy! For a gluten-free alternative, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions of the substituted pasta.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or a little water to keep everything moist.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. You can also replace the tortellini with a vegan alternative if available. Enjoy your plant-based deliciousness!
