There’s something magical about a dish that feels fancy but is deceptively simple to make. This Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil is one of those recipes. It’s bright, fresh, and comforting, with the perfect balance of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp asparagus, and fragrant basil.

The inspiration for this dish came from a summer farmer’s market. I couldn’t resist the vibrant colors and fresh aromas of the tomatoes and asparagus, and I knew they’d be a perfect match for delicate cheese ravioli. With just a handful of ingredients, the flavors truly shine, making every bite feel like a celebration of the season.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a glass of crisp white wine, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a little slice of heaven.

Let’s bring the fresh, vibrant flavors of this Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil to your table. It’s the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

The Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil is a quick and delicious dish that combines tender cheese-filled ravioli with fresh tomatoes, crisp asparagus, and fragrant basil in a light, buttery sauce.

This recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich cheese ravioli creates a balanced, flavorful meal that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate store-bought ravioli into something special, this dish is it!

An Exciting Story:

The first time I made this Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil, it was for a last-minute dinner with friends. I wanted something quick but impressive, and this dish delivered in spades. My husband couldn’t stop raving about how fresh and flavorful it was, and my guests thought I’d spent hours in the kitchen. Now, it’s my go-to when I want a meal that’s both effortless and memorable.

Why This Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil?

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal effort.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Combines the brightness of fresh produce with the richness of cheese ravioli.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or protein for a personalized touch.
• Comforting and Satisfying: A light yet hearty meal that’s sure to please.

What You Need for Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil

• For the Dish:
  • 1 lb cheese ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For Garnish:
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

How to Make Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil

1. Cook the Ravioli:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until tender. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the cherry tomatoes and asparagus, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Combine and Finish:
   • Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
4. Add the Basil:
   • Stir in the fresh basil and remove the skillet from heat.
5. Serve:
   • Divide the ravioli among plates, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and garnish with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the tomatoes, asparagus, and basil will make a big difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Ravioli: Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they stay tender and don’t burst.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
• Swap the Veggies: Use zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers instead of asparagus.
• Make It Vegan: Use vegan ravioli, olive oil instead of butter, and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use whole-grain or gluten-free ravioli.
• Reduce the butter and increase the olive oil for a lighter sauce.
• Add more veggies to increase fiber and nutrients.

Closing for Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil:

And there you have it—Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Let us know how yours turns out, and don’t forget to explore more of our quick and flavorful recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the vegetables in advance and reheat them with the ravioli before serving.

What’s the best store-bought ravioli to use?
Choose a high-quality cheese ravioli with simple, fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Can I use frozen ravioli?
Absolutely! Just cook according to the package instructions.

How do I prevent ravioli from sticking together?
Add a splash of olive oil to the boiling water and stir gently while cooking.

What’s a good substitute for fresh basil?
Use dried basil or Italian seasoning, but fresh basil is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, tortellini or gnocchi work wonderfully as substitutes.

What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or a glass of crisp white wine.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free ravioli and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, but cherry tomatoes provide the best texture and flavor for this dish.

What’s the best way to trim asparagus?
Snap off the woody ends—they’ll naturally break where the tender part begins.

Can I make this spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic while sautéing.

Easy Cheese Ravioli with Tomato, Asparagus, and Basil

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Occasions, Weight watchers

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Dish:

• 1 lb cheese ravioli (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• For Garnish:

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Directions

• Cook the Ravioli:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until tender. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
• Sauté the Vegetables:
• Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add the cherry tomatoes and asparagus, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
• Combine and Finish:
• Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
• Add the Basil:
• Stir in the fresh basil and remove the skillet from heat.
• Serve:
• Divide the ravioli among plates, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and garnish with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.