This colorful tortellini dish is packed with tasty sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. It’s a simple meal that looks as good as it tastes!
I love how the veggies add freshness and crunch to the soft tortellini. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens, plus it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings richness to the dish. You can swap it out for spinach or meat-filled tortellini based on your taste preferences or dietary choices. Fresh tortellini will give a nice texture.
Vegetables: Zucchini and bell peppers add color and crunch, but feel free to mix it up! Broccoli, asparagus, or carrots are wonderful substitutes. Fresh veggies are best, but frozen ones work too.
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide sweetness and juiciness. If they’re not in season, use canned diced tomatoes drained, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder—just adjust the amount since it’s stronger.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness. If you don’t have it, basil or cilantro can be great substitutes, adding their unique flavors.
How Do You Get the Vegetables Just Right Without Overcooking Them?
Getting the vegetables tender yet still crisp is key. Sautéing is a great method as it retains their texture and color. Here’s how:
- Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This ensures even cooking.
- Add the zucchini and bell peppers first since they take longer to soften—sauté for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Then, add the cherry tomatoes and corn with the garlic. Cook for just 3-4 minutes. You want the tomatoes to burst but not get mushy.
Remember to keep stirring gently. This will help everything cook evenly and prevent burning. Enjoy the bright colors and fresh smells of your veggies! You’ve got this!
How to Make Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables in just about 30 minutes!
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, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top. Once done, drain the tortellini in a colander and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, grab a large skillet and add the olive oil, heating it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, toss in the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still a little crisp.
3. Add More Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes, stirring regularly, until the tomatoes soften and everything is mixed well.
4. Combine and Season:
Once the vegetables are cooked, gently stir in the drained tortellini with the sautéed veggies in the skillet. Toss everything together so the tortellini gets coated with the oil and veggies. Add the chopped parsley, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all up!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, take the skillet off the heat and serve your delicious dish hot! Garnish with more parsley and some grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your tasty Tortellini With Sautéed Vegetables!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of tortellini, such as meat or spinach-filled. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions for the type you choose. Ensure they’re fully cooked and tender before adding them to the sautéed vegetables.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use another cooking oil like avocado, canola, or grapeseed oil. Each has a different flavor profile, so choose one that complements the dish to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or oil to help loosen the pasta if it seems dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli. Just be mindful of cooking times; harder vegetables may need a bit longer to sauté until they’re tender.