Description: This vibrant and flavorful ravioli dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Plump cheese ravioli are tossed with tender-crisp asparagus, sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and a medley of bright, aromatic herbs. A light and lemony chicken broth sauce binds everything together, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a special occasion. It’s a vegetarian-friendly delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (about 1 pint)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (vegetable broth for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (vegan Parmesan cheese alternative for a vegan option)
- 1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated cheese ravioli (or spinach and ricotta ravioli, or your favorite flavor; gluten-free ravioli for dietary restrictions)
Preparation:
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Thoroughly wash the asparagus, cherry tomatoes, basil, and parsley. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Chop the fresh basil and parsley, keeping them separate. Grate the Parmesan cheese (if using). Have the chicken broth, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper readily available. Having everything prepped and ready to go ensures a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions. Typically, this will take about 3-5 minutes, or until the ravioli float to the surface and are tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Once cooked, drain the ravioli immediately and gently set aside. Drizzling a little olive oil over the drained ravioli will prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Sauté the Asparagus
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering (but not smoking), add the asparagus pieces. Sauté the asparagus for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite and not become completely soft. This ensures they add a pleasant texture to the final dish.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Garlic
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet with the asparagus. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. The garlic should become fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly reduce. The lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the richness of the ravioli and vegetables.
Step 6: Combine Ravioli, Vegetables, and Sauce
Add the cooked and drained ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables and sauce. Gently toss to combine, ensuring that the ravioli are evenly coated with the sauce and vegetables. Be careful not to break the ravioli while tossing.
Step 7: Add Herbs and Parmesan
Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the Parmesan cheese has melted slightly. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma to the dish, while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory element.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the ravioli hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, if desired. A grind of fresh black pepper also adds a nice finishing touch.
Why you will love this recipe
This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tangy lemon creates a vibrant and delicious dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it to your liking by using different types of ravioli, vegetables, or herbs.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: It’s a satisfying vegetarian meal that can be easily adapted to be vegan.
- Elegant Yet Simple: It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a casual meal but elegant enough to serve to guests.
- Customizable: You can add a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for added substance. The sauce is light and refreshing, making it the perfect complement to the rich ravioli.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is relatively inexpensive to make, especially if you use seasonal ingredients.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. The flavors are accessible and appealing, and the presentation is beautiful.
- Healthy and Nutritious: It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients from the vegetables and herbs, and the ravioli provides a good source of carbohydrates and protein.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time, making it even easier to get dinner on the table. The ravioli can also be cooked ahead of time and reheated in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad and crusty bread.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and acidity.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added crunch.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a complete meal.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat for those who enjoy a little spice.
- Consider serving with a side of roasted garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a more substantial meal, add some cooked sausage or ground beef to the sauce.
- Serve with a glass of chilled rosé wine on a warm summer evening.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the ravioli. Follow the package instructions carefully to ensure they are cooked al dente.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to your liking.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but use half the amount.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
- To prevent the ravioli from sticking together, drizzle them with olive oil after draining.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
- Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftover ravioli in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion
This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe to be a rewarding and delicious experience. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a memorable meal that your family and friends will love! This is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore the joys of cooking and the pleasure of sharing good food with the people you care about. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the ease of preparation makes this dish a weeknight staple, while the elegant presentation makes it suitable for a dinner party. The combination of tender ravioli, crisp-tender asparagus, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all bathed in a light and lemony sauce, is simply irresistible. Enjoy!
Question and Answer:
- Question 1: Can I substitute the cheese ravioli for something else?
- Answer: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of ravioli. Spinach and ricotta ravioli would be a great vegetarian alternative, or you could try meat-filled ravioli for a heartier meal. Gluten-free ravioli is also an option for those with dietary restrictions. The key is to choose a ravioli that complements the flavors of the vegetables and sauce.
- Question 2: I don’t have fresh herbs on hand. Can I use dried herbs instead?
- Answer: Yes, you can definitely use dried herbs as a substitute for fresh herbs. However, keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor than fresh herbs, so you’ll need to use less. As a general rule, use about half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs. So, instead of 1/4 cup of fresh basil, use about 2 tablespoons of dried basil.
- Question 3: Can I add protein to this dish?
- Answer: Yes, adding protein is a great way to make this dish even more substantial. Grilled chicken or shrimp would be excellent choices. You could also add some cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the sauce for a heartier flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try adding some chickpeas or white beans for added protein and fiber.
- Question 4: How long can I store leftovers, and how should I reheat them?
- Answer: Leftover ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either warm them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them. If using a skillet, add a little olive oil or chicken broth to prevent the ravioli from sticking. If using a microwave, cover the ravioli with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
- Question 5: Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Answer: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by making a few simple substitutions. First, use vegan ravioli (there are many delicious vegan ravioli options available). Second, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Finally, replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative, or simply omit it altogether. With these substitutions, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying vegan ravioli dish.
