Creamy Tomato Basil Ravioli Easy and Flavorful Dish

If you're in the mood for something rich and comforting, Creamy Tomato Basil Ravioli is the answer. This simple dish combines fresh flavors with easy steps, making it perfect for any home cook. I’ll guide you through selecting the right ingredients, creating a tasty sauce, and even offer storage tips. With just a few ingredients, you can impress your family or enjoy a cozy meal alone. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Ravioli

To make this dish, you need the following ingredients:

- 12 oz fresh or frozen cheese ravioli

- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (14 oz) crushed plum tomatoes

- 1 cup heavy whipping cream

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh basil leaves, for garnishing

Each ingredient plays a key role. The cheese ravioli adds a creamy and cheesy flavor. The onion and garlic bring depth to the sauce. Crushed tomatoes provide a rich base. Heavy cream makes the sauce luscious and smooth. Fresh basil adds a nice touch of brightness.

Recommended Cheese Ravioli Types

You can use various types of cheese ravioli. Look for:

- Ricotta and spinach ravioli

- Four cheese ravioli

- Plain cheese ravioli

Fresh ravioli often taste better. However, frozen ravioli can be just as yummy. Check your local store for options.

Optional Garnishes and Additions

Feel free to get creative! Here are some tasty ideas:

- Extra fresh basil for garnish

- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

- Toasted pine nuts for crunch

- A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet touch

These garnishes can elevate the dish. They add flavor, texture, and a bit of flair. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect combination!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Ravioli

First, cook the ravioli as the package says. If you use fresh ravioli, it will take less time. For frozen, it may take a few extra minutes. When they are done, drain them well. Make sure to let any extra water fall off.

Preparing the Tomato Basil Sauce

In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add one small, finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about five minutes until it is soft and clear. Then, add three cloves of minced garlic. Keep stirring for one to two minutes. You want the garlic to smell good, not brown. Next, pour in one can of crushed plum tomatoes and one cup of heavy whipping cream. Stir it all well. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about five minutes. This helps the flavors mix together. Then, add one teaspoon of dried basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Combining Ravioli and Sauce

Now, gently fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce. Make sure the ravioli get coated well. Let them cook in the sauce for two to three minutes. This helps them soak up the flavors. After that, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the sauce rich and creamy. Finally, serve the ravioli in bowls. Top each bowl with fresh basil leaves. This adds color and a nice aroma. Enjoy your creamy tomato basil ravioli!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Sauce

To make a great sauce, start by using quality tomatoes. I like crushed plum tomatoes. They add a rich taste. Sauté the onion until soft, then add garlic. This makes the base full of flavor. Simmer the sauce gently after adding cream. This helps the flavors mix well. Don’t rush this step; let it bubble lightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Always taste as you go. Adjust the herbs based on your liking. Fresh basil is a nice touch at the end.

Cooking Tips for Ravioli

When cooking ravioli, follow the package instructions closely. This ensures they stay tender. Use plenty of water and salt it well. A big pot helps them cook evenly. Stir gently to avoid sticking. Once cooked, drain them well but don’t rinse. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick. Keep the cooked ravioli warm while you finish the sauce.

Best Cheese Choices

For this dish, Parmesan cheese is a must. It adds depth and creaminess. Grate it fresh for the best taste. You can also try a mix of cheeses. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch, while ricotta adds creaminess. Just remember, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to about half a cup for balance.

Variations

Substituting Ravioli Fillings

You can change the ravioli filling to fit your taste. Try spinach and ricotta cheese for a fresh twist. For a meatier option, use sausage or chicken. You can also use mushroom or butternut squash for a veggie delight. These swaps keep the dish interesting and flavorful.

Cream Sauce Alternatives

If you want a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. For a vegan option, use coconut milk or cashew cream. You can also add a splash of white wine for depth. This will change the flavor but still keep it creamy and delicious.

Adding Protein Options

To add protein, consider cooked shrimp or grilled chicken. Both options blend well with the sauce. For a vegetarian choice, toss in some chickpeas or lentils. Adding these proteins makes the meal more filling and nutritious.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store any leftover creamy tomato basil ravioli in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. Make sure to cool the ravioli before sealing it. This helps prevent extra moisture.

Freezing and Reheating Ravioli

You can freeze the ravioli too. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a pan over low heat. You can also microwave it, but stir often to heat evenly.

Best Practices for Leftovers

For the best taste, store the sauce and ravioli separately. This keeps the ravioli from getting too soft. When ready to eat, mix them together during reheating. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of cream or water. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious. Enjoy your leftovers!

FAQs

How to make homemade ravioli?

To make homemade ravioli, you need flour, eggs, and water. Start by mixing flour and eggs until you get a dough. Knead it well for about 10 minutes. Roll the dough thinly using a pasta maker or a rolling pin. Cut squares or circles, and fill them with your favorite cheese or meat. Seal the edges using a bit of water. Cook them in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes. Fresh ravioli taste great with any sauce.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought sauce. It saves time and still tastes good. Look for a sauce with fresh ingredients. A marinara or creamy tomato sauce works well. Just heat it before adding your cooked ravioli. This option is great for busy nights when you want a tasty meal fast.

What sides pair well with creamy tomato basil ravioli?

Several sides go well with creamy tomato basil ravioli. Here are some great choices:

- Garlic bread for a crunchy texture.

- A simple green salad with vinaigrette for freshness.

- Roasted vegetables for added flavor and color.

- Steamed asparagus or green beans for a healthy touch.

These sides will round out your meal nicely and make it even more enjoyable!

This article covered how to make creamy tomato basil ravioli. We looked at key ingredients, including ravioli types and garnishes. I shared step-by-step instructions for cooking and combining these flavors. We explored tips for sauce perfection and alternative fillings. I also provided storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.

In cooking, you can mix and match to find your perfect dish. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe your own. Cooking should be fun and tasty!