Spring Vegetable Ravioli with Lemon Butter Sauce
Introduction:
This dish combines tender ravioli with the fresh flavors of asparagus and cherry tomatoes, all tied together with a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for springtime or any occasion that calls for something light yet indulgent, this meal is sure to please pasta lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
For the Ravioli Dish:
- 500g fresh ravioli (cheese or spinach-filled)
- 200g asparagus, trimmed
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 100g unsalted butter
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Trim the asparagus, cutting into 2-inch pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then add the asparagus. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Toss in the cherry tomatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the ravioli and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.
- Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Stir in lemon zest, juice, and white wine (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking to combine.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or sugar if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in the lemon butter sauce and toss to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water for a silkier texture.
- Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan (if desired).
History:
Ravioli originated in Italy as early as the 14th century, with regional variations shaping its fillings and sauces. This recipe embraces the Mediterranean tradition of incorporating seasonal vegetables and light, flavorful sauces.
Benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich: Asparagus is high in vitamins A, C, and K, while cherry tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene.
- Balanced Meal: Ravioli delivers carbs and protein, paired with the freshness of vegetables.
- Low in Calories: This dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for a nutritious dinner.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
Lovers of This Dish:
This meal is perfect for:
- Pasta Enthusiasts: Who can resist ravioli with a gourmet twist?
- Vegetable Lovers: The asparagus and cherry tomatoes steal the show.
- Busy Cooks: With simple steps, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Conclusion:
This Spring Vegetable Ravioli is the ultimate combination of simplicity and elegance. The zesty lemon butter sauce highlights the freshness of the vegetables while complementing the creamy ravioli. It’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients that will keep everyone at your table asking for seconds