This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a fresh, vibrant dish that brings together tender ravioli with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of asparagus, and the fragrance of garlic and fresh herbs. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9-12 oz) fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese, spinach, or your favorite filling)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
Step 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 and slightly longer for frozen. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s tender-crisp. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Combine the Ravioli and Asparagus
Add the cooked ravioli and asparagus back into the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic. Gently toss everything together to coat the ravioli in the tomato and garlic mixture. If the dish seems a bit dry, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Season and Add Herbs
Stir in the lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, add the chopped basil or parsley and give everything one last toss.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the ravioli hot, garnished with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Ravioli Options: You can use any type of ravioli for this recipe, including cheese, spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled ravioli. Fresh or frozen ravioli works equally well.
- Asparagus: Make sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before cooking. You can blanch it quickly in the same water as the ravioli if you prefer a softer texture.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or thyme work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite herbs to complement the flavors.
Variations
1. Creamy Ravioli with Tomatoes and Asparagus
For a creamy version, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after adding the tomatoes. Let the cream simmer for a minute before tossing in the ravioli and asparagus.
2. Lemon Butter Ravioli with Asparagus
Instead of olive oil, use butter for a richer flavor, and increase the lemon zest and add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
3. Spicy Ravioli with Tomatoes and Asparagus
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
Substitute the fresh cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes and add a handful of baby spinach to the dish. Sauté the spinach for just a minute until wilted before serving.
Keto Version and Low-Carb Adjustments
For a keto-friendly version, replace the ravioli with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option. You can also use keto ravioli made with almond flour dough or other low-carb pasta substitutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen ravioli?
Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly in this dish. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage make excellent additions to this dish. Cook the protein separately and stir it into the ravioli before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sautéed vegetables ahead of time and cook the ravioli just before serving. Reheat the vegetable mixture in a skillet, then toss with freshly cooked ravioli.
This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender ravioli, crisp asparagus, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant garlic creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress!