Description
This Elegant Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is a delightful and effortless Italian dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Cheese ravioli is cooked to perfection and tossed with sautéed cherry tomatoes, crisp asparagus, fragrant garlic, and Italian herbs, then finished with butter and Parmesan cheese for a rich, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and fresh.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese ravioli
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or a mix of fresh thyme and basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fats & Finishing Touches
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese ravioli according to the package directions until tender but firm. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until they begin to soften and release juices.
- Add asparagus: Stir in the trimmed and cut asparagus pieces and sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until they are crisp-tender, maintaining a slight bite and bright green color.
- Incorporate garlic and herbs: Add the minced garlic, Italian herbs (or fresh thyme and basil), salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the seasoning melds with the vegetables.
- Combine ravioli and butter: Add the cooked ravioli into the skillet with the vegetables. Gently toss everything together, then add the unsalted butter. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the butter to melt and infuse the dish with richness.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the ravioli mixture, and toss lightly to combine. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving to add a fresh herbal note and vibrant color.
Notes
- For a dietary variation, substitute the cheese ravioli with whole wheat or gluten-free ravioli.
- Add protein such as cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- For extra depth, finish the dish with a splash of white wine or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
