Food recipes banana bread recipe dinner ideas chocolate chip cookie recipe meatloaf recipe chili recipe pancake recipe french toast recipe lasagna recipe allrecipes chicken breast recipes alfredo sauce recipe beef stew recipe chicken recipes chicken salad recipe easy dinner ideas ground beef recipes mac and cheese recipe old fashioned recipe sugar cookie recipe

Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

by

Introduction

This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat. Packed with fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, tender asparagus, and fragrant garlic, this vegetarian recipe is a delightful blend of taste and health. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers!

Ingredients

For the Dish:

  • 1 lb ravioli (cheese or spinach, fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

For Serving:

  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Ravioli:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the ravioli according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes for fresh ravioli or slightly longer for frozen).
  • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the ravioli aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Toss in the cherry tomatoes and asparagus. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and the tomatoes are soft.

3. Combine the Ravioli and Vegetables:

  • Reduce the heat to low. Gently add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables.
  • Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

4. Add Fresh Herbs:

  • Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

5. Serve and Garnish:

  • Plate the ravioli and vegetables.
  • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve with a lemon wedge on the side for added brightness.

Cooking Tips

  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
  • Swap Veggies: Try substituting asparagus with green beans or zucchini for a seasonal twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ravioli for a celiac-friendly version.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~340 kcal
  • Protein: ~12 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~45 g
  • Fat: ~12 g
  • Fiber: ~5 g

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use vegan ravioli and skip the Parmesan cheese, or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

2. What type of ravioli works best?

Cheese, spinach, or mushroom ravioli pair wonderfully with the fresh vegetables and herbs in this dish.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a simple yet impressive dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Leave a Comment