Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

🍝 Mediterranean Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic & Herbs

✨ Description

This Mediterranean ravioli dish is all about freshness and balance. Tender ravioli are tossed with sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp asparagus, fragrant garlic, and a generous mix of herbs, all finished with extra-virgin olive oil and a touch of lemon. It’s light yet satisfying—perfect for spring dinners, meatless nights, or when you want something fast but special.

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🧺 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb (450 g) cheese or spinach ravioli (fresh or frozen)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed & cut into 1½-inch pieces

• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

• Zest of 1 lemon + 1 tbsp lemon juice

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or crumbled feta (optional)

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🔥 Instructions

1. Cook the ravioli
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté the vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).

3. Add asparagus
   Toss in asparagus and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

4. Add tomatoes & seasoning
   Stir in cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.

5. Combine
   Add cooked ravioli to the skillet. Toss gently with vegetables. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silky sauce.

6. Finish with herbs & lemon
   Remove from heat. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, basil, and parsley. Gently toss.

7. Serve
   Top with Parmesan or feta and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.

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🌿 Mediterranean Tips

• Use olive oil generously, not butter, for authentic flavor

• Fresh herbs are key—don’t skip them

• Lemon brightens the dish and balances the richness of ravioli

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I use frozen ravioli?
A: Yes! Just cook directly from frozen—no need to thaw.

Q: What ravioli filling works best?
A: Cheese, spinach-ricotta, or lemon-ricotta pair beautifully with Mediterranean flavors.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Use vegan ravioli and skip cheese or add dairy-free feta.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work great.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.