Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

Introduction

Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a delightful meal that effortlessly combines fresh flavors and vibrant colors. When I first served this dish, it was an instant hit with my family. The juicy cherry tomatoes paired with tender asparagus and savory cheese ravioli created a harmony of textures and flavors. It’s a recipe that feels fancy but is so easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated cheese ravioli

Instructions

1. Cook the Ravioli:

• Prepare the ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

1. Cook the Asparagus:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp.

1. Add Tomatoes and Garlic:

• Add cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavors.

1. Combine Everything:

• Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the vegetables and sauce. Stir in the basil, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

1. Serve:

• Serve hot with additional Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 350 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve in wide bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.
• Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added richness.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh, high-quality ravioli for the best taste. If unavailable, frozen ravioli can also work.
2. Trim the woody ends of the asparagus to ensure tender pieces.
3. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat in the dish.
4. Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but still vibrant.
5. Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor and creaminess.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Addition: Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy bacon for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the dish vegetarian.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh thyme or oregano for a twist on the flavor profile.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan ravioli and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative.
• Alternative Vegetables: Include zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a comforting dinner.
• Add a simple dessert like fruit sorbet or panna cotta to round out the meal.
• Use as a side dish for grilled salmon or roasted chicken.
• Enjoy with a sparkling water infused with lemon or lime.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
• Freezing: While the assembled dish doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze cooked ravioli and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   Yes, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
2. What other types of ravioli work with this recipe?
   Spinach and ricotta or mushroom ravioli are great alternatives.
3. Can I use frozen asparagus?
   Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
4. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
   Vegetable broth, white wine, or even water with a pinch of salt can work as substitutes.
5. How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
   Add a little olive oil to the boiling water and stir occasionally while cooking.
6. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free ravioli to make the recipe gluten-free.
7. Can I add cream to the sauce?
   Yes, a splash of heavy cream can make the sauce richer.
8. What wine pairs well with this dish?
   A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.
9. How can I make the dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
10. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
    You can prep the vegetables and cook the ravioli ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and heat just before serving.

Conclusion
Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a quick and easy recipe that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this dish will impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. Try it tonight and savor every bite!