Spring Tortellini Primavera

Spring Tortellini Primavera is a vibrant pasta dish that celebrates the freshness of seasonal vegetables. It’s a light yet satisfying recipe featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed with a colorful mix of sautéed vegetables and finished with a zesty lemon-Parmesan touch. Perfect for a quick dinner or a springtime gathering, this dish is both wholesome and visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Seasonal: This recipe uses spring vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, and cherry tomatoes, offering a crisp and colorful combination.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
• Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables or add protein like chicken or shrimp to suit your tastes.
• One-Pan Simplicity: Everything cooks in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup.
• Light and Flavorful: The lemon juice and Parmesan cheese brighten the dish without overpowering the natural flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• Yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
• Cherry tomatoes
• Carrots, cut into matchsticks
• Green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Chicken stock
• Frozen cheese tortellini
• Shaved Parmesan cheese
• Fresh lemon juice

Directions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the red onion, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, carrots, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 7–8 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and add the frozen tortellini. Stir, cover, and simmer for 5–6 minutes until the tortellini is fully cooked.
6. Add lemon juice and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Creamy Option: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Extra Spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Different Cheese: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or feta for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

What is Tortellini Primavera?

Tortellini Primavera is a pasta dish featuring cheese tortellini and a mix of seasonal vegetables, usually tossed in a light broth or sauce.

Can I use fresh tortellini?

Yes, fresh tortellini works well in this recipe. Just reduce the simmering time as it cooks faster than frozen tortellini.

What other vegetables can I use?

You can use asparagus, peas, snap peas, spinach, or mushrooms depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, use vegetable broth and ensure the tortellini contains no meat-based ingredients.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of tortellini and vegetables may suffer after thawing.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Can I make it creamy?

Yes, a little heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone added at the end will create a creamy variation.

What herbs go well in this dish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme can be added for additional flavor and aroma.

Conclusion

Spring Tortellini Primavera is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings the best of the season to your table. With simple ingredients, flexible preparation, and vibrant presentation, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or served at a spring gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and ease of preparation.

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