Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked cheese tortellini, nestled among vibrant, crisp vegetables and enrobed in a luxuriously creamy sauce that promises to transport you straight to an Italian kitchen. This isn't just another pasta dish—it's a symphony of flavors and textures that transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking for a quick yet impressive dinner, this Tortellini in Sour Cream and Fresh Vegetable Sauté is about to become your new weeknight obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and floating.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add diced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Drain the cooked tortellini, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Add the tortellini to the vegetable skillet.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in sour cream, gently coating the tortellini and vegetables. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to create a smoother consistency.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to warm through but not break down completely.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss all ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately in warm pasta bowls. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality tortellini and ripe, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- Don't Overcook Vegetables: Keep them crisp-tender for maximum texture and nutritional value.
- Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Reserve some pasta water to help create a silky, smooth sauce if needed.
- Low and Slow with Sour Cream: Add sour cream on low heat to prevent curdling and ensure a creamy consistency.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking for perfectly balanced flavors.
- Timing is Key: Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking to ensure a smooth, stress-free preparation.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish's visual appeal and add a fresh flavor note.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 386kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
