Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

Flavorful Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Fresh Herbs

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound fresh or store-bought ravioli
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the ravioli according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices.
  4. Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
  5. Season the tomato and asparagus mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet along with the reserved pasta cooking water. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped basil and parsley.
  8. Serve the ravioli with tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, and herbs immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  9. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
  10. Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

FAQs:

  1. What ingredients do I need to make Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs?
    • To make this dish, you’ll need ravioli (store-bought or homemade), cherry tomatoes (halved), asparagus spears (trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces), garlic (minced), fresh herbs (such as basil and parsley), olive oil, butter, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese (for garnish), and optionally, red pepper flakes or white wine for additional flavor.
  2. How do I cook the asparagus for this dish?
    • To cook the asparagus, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed and cut asparagus spears to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the other components of the dish.
  3. Can I use any type of ravioli for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can use any type of ravioli that you prefer or have on hand. Cheese-filled ravioli, spinach and ricotta ravioli, or even meat-filled ravioli work well with this dish. Choose a ravioli that complements the flavors of the tomatoes, asparagus, and herbs.
  4. How do I prepare the tomato and garlic sauce?
    • In the same skillet used for the asparagus, add a bit more olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in chopped fresh herbs (such as basil and parsley) just before adding the cooked ravioli and asparagus back to the skillet.
  5. Can I add protein to this dish, such as grilled chicken or shrimp?
    • Yes, you can certainly add protein to this dish to make it more substantial. Grilled chicken strips or shrimp are excellent additions. Cook the protein separately and add it to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic, just before adding the ravioli and asparagus. Adjust the seasoning as needed and serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

This dish is versatile and can be customized based on your preferences and available ingredients. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and ravioli fillings to create your perfect version of this flavorful meal!

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