Description
This vibrant and flavorful ravioli dish combines tender four cheese ravioli with sautéed asparagus, sweet grape tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, all tossed with toasted walnuts and finished with a touch of balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Ravioli
- 1 (20 oz) pkg. refrigerated four cheese ravioli
Sautéed Vegetables
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1 lb thin asparagus, woody ends trimmed, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 1 (10.5 oz) pkg. grape tomatoes, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
Additional Ingredients
- 2/3 cup Fisher walnuts, chopped and toasted
- 1/4 cup minced fresh basil
- 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated four cheese ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Oil and Butter: While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil and melt butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat, preparing to sauté the vegetables.
- Sauté Asparagus: Add the chopped asparagus to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until the asparagus becomes tender yet still crisp.
- Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Add the halved grape tomatoes and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 1 minute, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly and the garlic to become fragrant.
- Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar: Pour in the balsamic vinegar and toss everything together, cooking for just a few seconds to blend the flavors and slightly reduce the vinegar.
- Combine with Ravioli: Transfer the cooked ravioli into a large serving bowl. Add the sautéed asparagus and tomato mixture on top.
- Add Herbs and Walnuts: Stir in the chopped toasted walnuts, fresh basil, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then gently toss everything together to combine evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the top and serve the dish warm immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to trim woody ends from the asparagus as they can be tough and unpleasant to eat.
- To toast walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried if fresh are unavailable, but use less (about one-third the amount).
- For a vegan version, omit the butter and parmesan cheese, and substitute with plant-based alternatives.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the ravioli.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian