Ravioli with Cherry Tomatoes and Asparagus in a Lemon-Basil Sauce Recipe
This vibrant and fresh spring pasta dish features tender cheese ravioli tossed with sautéed asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a light garlic-lemon sauce, finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal that bursts with seasonal flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Cheese and Pasta
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus extra for serving
- 1 package (20 oz) refrigerated cheese ravioli
Seasonings
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli: Cook your cheese ravioli according to the package directions until perfectly tender. Drain well and set aside for later.
- Sauté the asparagus: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add asparagus pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp and bright green.
- Add tomatoes and garlic: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes soften and start to release their juices.
- Create the light sauce: Pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let cook for about 2 minutes to meld the fresh flavors together.
- Combine with ravioli: Gently add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and carefully toss to coat the pasta evenly with vegetables and sauce, being careful not to break the ravioli.
- Finish with fresh herbs and cheese: Stir in chopped fresh basil, parsley, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through and the cheese melts slightly into the sauce.
- Serve this spring masterpiece: Serve immediately while hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side. Enjoy a fresh, vibrant plate celebrating spring flavors!
Notes
- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture; snap off the woody ends before cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste but remember Parmesan cheese adds saltiness.
- Refrigerated cheese ravioli cooks quickly—do not overcook to maintain structure.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Additional fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can be added for variation.
Keywords: ravioli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, Italian pasta, spring recipe, cheese ravioli, sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, Parmesan, quick dinner
