Introduction
Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a light, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. This recipe combines tender cheese ravioli with fresh, sautéed asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant garlic. The dish is brightened with a splash of lemon juice and brought together with fresh herbs like basil and parsley, topped with Parmesan cheese for a rich finish. This fresh and vibrant pasta dish is ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
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
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 ounces of cheese ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain the ravioli and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the 1 pound of asparagus (cut into 2-inch pieces) and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender-crisp but still bright green.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Garlic
- Add the 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Combine Ravioli and Vegetables
- Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the sautéed vegetables and sauce.
Step 6: Add Herbs and Parmesan
- Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the herbs and cheese are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve the ravioli hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- You can also add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Cooking Notes:
- Asparagus: Make sure not to overcook the asparagus. You want it to maintain a slight crispness and bright green color.
- Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Lemon Juice: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your preference. It adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the vegetables and cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: Serve this ravioli with a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Pair with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the vegetable and herb mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply cook the ravioli and combine with the pre-cooked vegetables.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cooked sausage to the dish.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a fresh and vibrant dish that brings together the flavors of tender ravioli, crisp asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant garlic, all enhanced with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. Whether served on its own or with a side salad or bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite