Cheese Tortellini with Garden Vegetables
This quick and vibrant dish, perfect for a busy weeknight or a light meal, brings together the goodness of garden-fresh vegetables and delicious cheese tortellini. The combination of zucchini, mushrooms, and colorful bell peppers sautéed in butter, paired with creamy cheese tortellini, makes for a satisfying yet simple meal. Topped with fresh basil, this dish brings a touch of summer to your table all year round.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Margarine | 2 tablespoons |
| Zucchini, sliced | 1 medium |
| Fresh mushrooms, sliced | 5 ounces |
| Red bell pepper, diced | 1 medium |
| Yellow bell pepper, diced | 1 medium |
| Fresh basil, chopped | 1 tablespoon |
| Cheese tortellini | 1 package (usually 9 oz) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 491.7 kcal |
| Fat Content | 18.1 grams |
| Saturated Fat Content | 8.5 grams |
| Cholesterol Content | 56.1 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1109.7 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 67.4 grams |
| Fiber Content | 4.8 grams |
| Sugar Content | 18.3 grams |
| Protein Content | 17.9 grams |
Instructions
-
Heat the Butter and Margarine:
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of margarine over medium-high heat until the butter is fully melted and begins to bubble slightly. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and diced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet. Stir constantly and cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. -
Add the Sauce:
Lower the heat to low and add your preferred sauce (a light tomato or cream-based sauce works well). Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and the flavors to meld. -
Toss with Tortellini:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the cooked cheese tortellini (prepared according to the package instructions) to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the vegetable sauce. -
Finish with Fresh Basil:
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately, and enjoy the vibrant, delicious combination of cheese tortellini and garden-fresh vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Pasta Choice: While cheese tortellini is ideal for this dish, feel free to swap it out for other types of pasta, like ravioli or penne, depending on what you have on hand.
- Customizing Vegetables: Add or substitute other vegetables you enjoy, such as cherry tomatoes, spinach, or carrots, to personalize the dish.
- For Extra Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to mop up any extra sauce. It’s the perfect light dinner, but it can also be served as a side dish to grilled chicken or seafood.
This Cheese Tortellini with Garden Vegetables is a great way to enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal that’s both quick and easy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this colorful, nutritious, and satisfying dish!
