If you are searching for a delightful and fresh pasta experience, this Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe is a total winner. Combining tender cheese-filled ravioli with crisp asparagus, sweet cherry tomatoes, and the bold flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, this dish offers a wonderful balance of textures and vibrant tastes. It’s a quick and impressive meal that feels light yet satisfying, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or sharing with friends on a sunny weekend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each playing an important role to build the layers of flavor and texture in your dish. From the bright acidity of lemon juice to the fresh green crunch of asparagus, every component adds a touch of magic.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing that gives a rich, silky coating to vegetables and ravioli.
- Asparagus: Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture and green vibrancy that brightens the plate.
- Cherry tomatoes: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness and color contrast.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with an aromatic zest that wakes up the flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Chicken broth: Creates a light, savory sauce that brings everything together smoothly.
- Lemon juice: Adds a refreshing citrus note to balance richness.
- Fresh basil: Gives a fragrant herbal touch that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a clean, bright flavor for freshness and garnish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that binds the flavors deliciously.
- Refrigerated cheese ravioli: The comforting star of the dish, filled with creamy cheese to delight every bite.
How to Make Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Cook the ravioli
Begin by cooking the refrigerated cheese ravioli according to the package instructions. Drain them carefully and set aside so they’re ready to absorb all the fresh flavors in the following steps.
Step 2: Sauté the asparagus
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus pieces and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they turn tender-crisp. This step ensures the asparagus keeps a satisfying bite and a lovely bright color that makes the dish pop.
Step 3: Add tomatoes and garlic
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Let them cook together for 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and become juicy, releasing their natural sweetness into the skillet.
Step 4: Create the sauce
Pour chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, stirring gently. Bring this mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for 2 minutes, which will reduce slightly and create a light, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the ravioli.
Step 5: Combine with ravioli
Gently add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables and sauce. Toss carefully to coat the pasta without breaking it, ensuring every piece is dressed in the delicious mixture of juices, herbs, and melted flavors.
Step 6: Finish with fresh herbs and cheese
Stir in the chopped fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the herbs become fragrant and the cheese melts slightly, rounding out the dish with a rich, savory finish.
Step 7: Serve hot
Plate the ravioli and vegetables while warm, topping with extra Parmesan cheese if you like. It’s a simple presentation that lets the natural colors and aromas shine.
How to Serve Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle extra fresh basil or parsley on top along with some freshly cracked black pepper. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few curls of Parmesan add beauty and boost the flavors further.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon works beautifully as a refreshing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this ravioli in shallow bowls to capture the sauce elegantly, or layer it with roasted cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan for a colorful plate. You can even arrange the asparagus tips decoratively on top to add a gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its fresh flavors and textures.
Freezing
Although fresh ravioli and vegetables freeze best separately, you can freeze this prepared dish if needed. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave at medium power. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid overheating to keep the ravioli tender and the vegetables crisp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ravioli instead of refrigerated?
Yes, frozen ravioli works great; just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. Make sure to thaw them slightly before adding to the skillet for even cooking.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a perfect substitute. You could also use water with a bit of added salt and lemon juice for flavor.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
You can make it vegan by choosing dairy-free ravioli and replacing Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor.
How do I keep the asparagus crisp?
To maintain the asparagus’s crispness, cook it over medium-high heat just until tender-crisp, and avoid overcooking in subsequent steps. Adding it toward the end of the cooking process also helps preserve its texture.
What herbs work best in this recipe?
Fresh basil and parsley are fantastic here because they add brightness and freshness. You can experiment with thyme or oregano for a slightly different herbaceous note that complements the garlic and tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe is truly a gem to have in your repertoire. It’s easy, fast, and packed with fresh flavors that feel both satisfying and light. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner or impressing guests, this dish brings joy and color to the table every time. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful harmony of tastes that make it one of my all-time favorites!
Print
Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious and vibrant ravioli dish combines tender cheese-filled pasta with fresh asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and a fragrant blend of garlic and herbs. Sauteed in olive oil and finished with a light lemon and chicken broth sauce, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Main 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
Instructions
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until tender. Drain the ravioli and set aside.
- Sauté Asparagus: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until they become tender-crisp, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Add halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and the garlic is fragrant.
- Simmer with Broth and Lemon: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
- Combine Ravioli and Vegetables: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables and gently toss everything together to coat the pasta in the sauce evenly.
- Finish with Herbs and Cheese: Stir in the chopped fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the cheese has melted slightly.
- Serve: Serve the ravioli hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary (use about 1 teaspoon each).
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking garlic and tomatoes.
- Fresh ravioli can often be found in the refrigerated section of many supermarkets.
- To save time, use pre-minced garlic or garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
