If you’re craving a vibrant dish that’s bursting with sunshine flavors, you absolutely have to try this Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of pillowy three cheese tortellini and a colorful medley of fresh summer vegetables like sweet corn, juicy grape tomatoes, and tender zucchini. The dish is quick to prepare, comforting, and visually stunning, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or a lovely meal to share with friends. Each bite is a celebration of textures and tastes that will make you fall in love all over again with simple, seasonal cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe shines because of its straightforward, fresh ingredients. Each element adds its own magic, from the creamy cheese tortellini to the super-sweet corn and the herbaceous brightness of fresh basil and parsley. Together, they create a perfectly balanced dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
- 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini: The star of the dish, these provide a creamy, cheesy base that’s both tender and satisfying.
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps to gently cook the veggies while infusing everything with subtle fruitiness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1 1/2 cups): Offers a sweet, mellow foundation when sautéed.
- 2 ears corn, kernels cut from cobs (about 2 cups): Adds bursts of natural sweetness and a lovely crunchy texture.
- 2 cups (12 oz) grape tomatoes: Bring juicy, tangy notes and vibrant color to the dish.
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick: Provide a tender freshness that balances the richer flavors.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp): Infuses the recipe with aromatic depth and a punch of flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce: Ties everything together with a luscious, herby tomato base.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and lifting each ingredient’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the tortellini beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Offers a fragrant herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Contributes a fresh, slightly peppery kick and lovely green color.
How to Make Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. This step ensures the tortellini is well seasoned and maintains its delicate texture. Cook the refrigerated three cheese tortellini just until they’re almost done – you want them tender but still holding their shape to avoid overcooking later. While the water heats, it’s the perfect moment to prep those gorgeous summer veggies.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat, then add the chopped yellow onion. Sauté until it becomes soft and slightly caramelized, releasing those delicious sweet notes. Next, toss in the fresh corn kernels, halved grape tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the veggies are tender but still vibrant, celebrating the natural colors and textures of summer. Keep stirring gently to create a harmonious blend of aromas and flavors.
Step 3: Combine
Drain the tortellini, saving a bit of the pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Add the tortellini and marinara sauce right into the sauté pan with your cooked summer vegetables. Toss everything together over gentle heat – this allows the flavors to mingle and the sauce to coat each cheese-filled morsel perfectly. If the mixture seems thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you get that perfect saucy consistency.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Now comes the magical finishing touch. Season the dish generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle half the parmesan cheese throughout and fold in the fresh basil and parsley. Their bright, herbaceous notes provide an uplifting layer of flavor. Serve each portion topped with a little extra parmesan, adding a salty, nutty crunch that makes every forkful truly special.
How to Serve Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, fresh garnishes are a must! Chopped fresh basil and parsley not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful burst of green that looks stunning against the colorful veggies. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of more parmesan cheese finish off the plate perfectly, making it irresistibly welcoming.
Side Dishes
This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete but complement the flavors. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some crunchy garlic bread would add refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, roasted asparagus or steamed green beans seasoned with lemon zest provide a fresh garden touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a large colorful bowl, letting everyone dig in and enjoy the vibrant colors and inviting aromas. For a dinner party, place individual portions in shallow wide bowls and garnish each with a sprig of basil and a twist of black pepper. Try layering the tortellini mixture in clear glass baking dishes with alternating veggies and cheese for a pretty presentation before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop beautifully after resting overnight, so your next meal will taste even better. Just make sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best freshness and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Spread the cooled Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe into a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to keep the tortellini tender and the veggies vibrant.
Reheating
Carefully reheat the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This technique helps maintain the saucy consistency and prevents the tortellini from sticking. You can also microwave leftovers, just be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly and avoid cold spots.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh for this recipe?
While fresh summer vegetables give the best flavor and texture for this Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe, you can use frozen if necessary. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before sautéing to avoid excess moisture diluting the sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it features cheese tortellini and no meat. If you want to keep it vegan, you would need to substitute the tortellini and parmesan for plant-based alternatives, and perhaps adjust the sauce accordingly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free cheese tortellini and confirm your marinara sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the fresh veggies and herbs are naturally free from gluten, making this dish very adaptable.
What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers without drying them out?
The best method is to gently reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water, broth, or olive oil to keep everything moist. Microwaving works too, but watch closely to prevent drying.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu would be wonderful additions. Add cooked protein just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy evening yet special enough to share with loved ones. The fresh summer vegetables and creamy cheese tortellini come together in such a beautiful way that you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation all season long. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and eating this as much as I do!
Print
Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese Tortellini with Summer Veggies is a vibrant and satisfying 30-minute meal combining tender three cheese tortellini with fresh summer vegetables like corn, zucchini, and grape tomatoes, all tossed in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with parmesan and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 oz. refrigerated three cheese tortellini
- 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 zucchini, sliced into half moons about 1/4-inch thick
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp)
- 1 1/4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated three cheese tortellini and cook until almost done, approximately 3-4 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion, corn kernels, grape tomatoes, zucchini slices, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Tortellini and Vegetables: Drain the tortellini, reserving some pasta cooking water. Add the tortellini and marinara sauce to the sautéed vegetables in the pan. Stir to combine and cook briefly for about 2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and integrate flavors.
- Season and Serve: Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in half of the shredded parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, and parsley. Serve the dish garnished with the remaining parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh herbs like basil and parsley can be adjusted to taste for a more personalized flavor.
- Using refrigerated tortellini shortens cooking time; if using frozen, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with vegetarian hard cheese if desired.
