Description
A vibrant and comforting pasta dish featuring cheese tortellini tossed with sautéed summer vegetables, fresh basil, and a splash of lemon for a light seasonal meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz / 500 g) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions (about 3–5 minutes). Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
2. In a wide skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped zucchini and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for about 3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to burst and the spinach wilts.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
6. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and gently toss everything together to create a light sauce.
7. Remove from heat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, sprinkle with chopped basil, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
For added protein, toss in grilled lamb strips or chickpeas.
You can make this dish dairy-free by skipping the Parmesan or using a plant-based cheese alternative.
Use the freshest seasonal vegetables available for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg