Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe

Looking for a quick yet flavorful dinner? This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs recipe is the perfect choice! It combines the comforting goodness of cheese ravioli with the fresh and vibrant flavors of roasted asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic. Finished off with a zesty lemon kick, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re craving a light meal or a hearty pasta dish, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity.

The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner when you’re short on time but still want something packed with flavor. The balance of textures from the ravioli, tender asparagus, and juicy tomatoes, along with the garlic and herb-infused sauce, will make this dish a hit with your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

2. Packed with Fresh Flavors

The combination of fresh asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs makes every bite burst with bright, flavorful goodness.

3. Perfectly Balanced

The ravioli offers a rich, cheesy base that pairs beautifully with the crisp asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful garlic, creating a satisfying meal.

4. Customizable

Feel free to swap out the herbs or add extra vegetables to suit your tastes. You can also try different types of ravioli like spinach, mushroom, or butternut squash for variety.

5. Light Yet Hearty

This dish is light enough for a warm weather meal but hearty enough to leave you feeling full and satisfied, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Asparagus (ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chicken broth
• Lemon juice
• Fresh basil (chopped)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• Refrigerated cheese ravioli (20 ounces)

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version of this dish.
• Add Protein: For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
• Different Cheese Ravioli: Try using ravioli filled with spinach, ricotta, or even butternut squash for a different twist on the flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the ravioli cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it begins to soften. Add the cherry tomatoes and garlic to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice, stirring again. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Combine with Ravioli

Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the ravioli to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Parmesan

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is evenly coated and the cheese begins to melt.

Step 6: Serve

Divide the ravioli mixture among plates, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: Be sure to cook the ravioli just until they float to the top of the water. Overcooking can result in mushy ravioli.
• Use Fresh Asparagus: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh asparagus. If you must use frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end for extra richness.
• Customize the Herbs: Feel free to use different herbs based on what you have on hand. Thyme, oregano, or even a bit of rosemary could also work well.

How to Serve

This dish can be served as a main course for dinner, accompanied by a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a more hearty meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover ravioli and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may intensify after sitting in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next day!

Freezing

Although this dish is best served fresh, you can freeze the cooked ravioli and vegetable mixture separately. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ravioli?

Yes, you can use frozen ravioli, just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package. You may need to cook it a little longer than refrigerated ravioli.

2. Can I use another type of pasta?

While ravioli is the ideal choice, you can substitute any other pasta, such as penne or farfalle, if you prefer.

3. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian version of this dish.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the dish for more flavor and texture.

6. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Sun-dried tomatoes would be a great alternative to fresh tomatoes. Just be sure to chop them finely and soak them in a little water or broth to rehydrate them.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare most of the components ahead of time, such as cooking the ravioli and vegetables, but it’s best to combine and serve the dish fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

8. What kind of ravioli should I use?

Cheese ravioli is a classic choice for this dish, but feel free to experiment with other fillings like spinach, mushroom, or butternut squash ravioli for a twist.

9. How do I know when the asparagus is cooked?

Asparagus should be tender but still have a little bite to it. You can test it by piercing a piece with a fork – it should easily slide through but not be mushy.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the ravioli with gluten-free ravioli or your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Conclusion

This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a delightful, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of fresh ingredients. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal with a balance of textures and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the combination of cheesy ravioli, crisp asparagus, and juicy tomatoes – a perfect plate of comfort and freshness in one!

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