Introduction
Ravioli with tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, and herbs is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the richness of cheese-filled ravioli with the bright, seasonal flavors of fresh vegetables.
This recipe offers a wonderful balance of savory and tangy notes, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
With vibrant asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes, this dish is full of color and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, mince
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
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the asparagus and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until tender but still vibrant green. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their juices.
The tomatoes will begin to blend with the other ingredients, creating a flavorful base for the ravioli.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic can burn quickly, so be sure to stir it in immediately and watch for any signs of it turning too brown.
Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Then pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly.
While the vegetables are simmering, cook the ravioli according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves boiling the ravioli in salted water for about 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Once the ravioli is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly into the skillet with the vegetables. Toss gently to coat the ravioli with the flavorful sauce and vegetables.
Finish by adding the lemon juice, fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well combined, ensuring.
that each piece of ravioli is coated with the aromatic sauce. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top for a rich and savory touch.
How to Make
To create this delicious dish, begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus for a few minutes until tender and vibrant, adding color and crunch to the dish.
Then, introduce the cherry tomatoes, which will provide sweetness and acidity, and allow them to cook slightly, releasing their natural juices.
The key to a flavorful base is the garlic, which should be sautéed just enough to release its fragrance but not so much that it turns bitter.
Season the entire mixture with salt and pepper, allowing the simple ingredients to shine through. Once the vegetables are tender and fragrant, pour in the chicken broth to create a light sauce that will coat the ravioli.
While the vegetables are simmering, prepare the ravioli. Cooking the ravioli is the easiest part—just drop them into boiling salted water and cook until they float to the surface.
Then, transfer them into the skillet to mingle with the vegetable mixture, allowing the ravioli to absorb the delicious sauce.
The final touch is to add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and balance out the richness of the ravioli.
Fresh basil and parsley add herbaceous freshness, while Parmesan cheese brings a salty, umami finish that pulls the dish together perfectly.
Variations
For a vegetarian option, you can easily swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water. This will keep the dish light while still offering a flavorful base.
If you’re looking for more protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the ravioli and vegetables beautifully.
Another variation is to use a different type of ravioli, such as spinach and ricotta or mushroom. These alternatives would provide a different flavor profile.
making the dish more versatile while still remaining delicious. You can also use frozen ravioli if fresh isn’t available, though the cooking time may vary.
For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing can give the dish a spicy kick.
You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or even rosemary, to tailor the dish to your tastes.
If you’re a fan of creamy sauces, consider adding a tablespoon of heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half to the skillet
along with the chicken broth. This will create a rich, velvety sauce that coats the ravioli beautifully.
Another option for adding extra flavor is to roast the asparagus and tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the skillet.
. This caramelization brings out their sweetness and adds a deeper depth of flavor to the dish.
If you’re looking for a dairy-free variation, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep the dish suitable for vegan diets. Nutritional yeast is also a great substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Lastly, you can experiment with adding other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach.
These options will not only change the flavor but also make the dish more colorful and nutrient-dense.
Tips
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Fresh basil, parsley, and garlic will bring vibrant aromas that elevate the dish. If you’re using pre-packaged ravioli, check for freshness, as older ravioli can lose their delicate flavor and texture.
To make the dish even quicker, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh asparagus and tomatoes.
Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen vegetables tend to cook faster.
For an extra burst of flavor, try toasting the Parmesan cheese before adding it to the dish. Simply sprinkle the cheese on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until golden and crispy, then add it to your ravioli.
If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of oil used or even skip the oil altogether, depending on your taste preferences. The chicken broth will provide enough moisture to cook the vegetables.
If you like a thicker sauce, let the chicken broth reduce for a bit longer before adding the ravioli. This will create a more concentrated flavor and a richer sauce that clings to the pasta.
To make this dish even more flavorful, consider marinating the asparagus and tomatoes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse them with even more flavor.
To prevent your ravioli from sticking together, be sure to stir them gently when adding them to the skillet. If you are cooking multiple batches of ravioli, you may want to keep them in a warm bowl with a bit of olive oil to prevent them from sticking.
Conclusion
This ravioli with tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, and herbs is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a way that’s both delicious and simple to make.
The combination of tender ravioli, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
With its light yet satisfying nature, it’s the kind of meal you can enjoy year-round. The variations and tips make it a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your preferences, ensuring it always meets your craving for a comforting yet fresh meal.