Experience the harmony of rich flavors with this ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce recipe. An exquisite dish, balancing the tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the sweet fragrant touch of fresh basil, encased in a velvety creamy sauce. This recipe brings together classic Italian ingredients in a symphony of taste and texture that would delight your palate.
Photos of Ravioli with Creamy Sun-dried Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe
While most ingredients in this recipe are fairly standard, there are a couple that you might not regularly keep stocked. Sun-dried tomatoes, for instance, come in a jar and can be found in the pasta or vegetable aisle in most supermarkets. They have a concentrated and intense tomato flavor that adds a lot of depth to this recipe. Fresh basil is usually found in the produce section, and while dried basil can be substituted in a pinch, fresh basil has a much more vibrant flavor.
Ingredients for Ravioli with Creamy Sun-dried Tomato and Basil Sauce
Four-cheese ravioli: Ravioli is a type of pasta that is filled with different ingredients. In this case, we have chosen a four-cheese mixture, which adds a wonderful creamy texture and rich flavor to the dish.
Roma tomatoes: These tomatoes are used for their rich flavor and firm texture, perfect for a hearty pasta sauce.
Sun dried tomato: They add a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor to dishes.
Butter: Adds a creamy, rich base to the sauce.
Garlic: Provides a pungent, savory counterpoint to the sauce's creamy sweetness.
Flour: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a smoother consistency.
Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce and balances out the robust flavors.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These seasonings are used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Red pepper flakes: Adds a little bit of heat to the sauce for some extra kick.
Parmesan cheese: Known for its rich flavor and superb melting qualities, perfect for creamy sauces.
Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.
One reader, Andras Sanford says:
This ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting. The sun-dried tomatoes add a delightful tanginess, and the basil brings a fresh, aromatic touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting, flavorful pasta dish.
Mastering the Techniques for Ravioli with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce
How to boil ravioli and roma tomatoes: Boil the ravioli and roma tomatoes in a large pot of water according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the tomatoes and allow them to cool before peeling, seeding, and dicing them.
How to make sun-dried tomato paste: Place the drained sun-dried tomatoes in a food processor and pulse until finely minced to create a sun-dried tomato paste.
How to make the creamy sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet, then sauté garlic and add flour. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, then add the sun-dried tomato paste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook the sauce until thickened, then add parmesan cheese and diced roma tomatoes, stirring until the cheese has melted.
How to thin the sauce: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with an additional ¼ cup of milk until reaching the desired consistency.
How to toss ravioli in the sauce: Add the cooked ravioli to the prepared sauce and toss to evenly coat, then mix in half of the chopped basil before serving.
How To Make Ravioli with Creamy Sun-dried Tomato and Basil Sauce
Savor a flavorful Italian dish in 30 minutes with this ravioli recipe. It’s cooked in a creamy sauce with tomatoes, fresh basil, and cheese.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 20ozfour-cheese ravioli,(1 pkg), refrigerated
- 9ozRoma tomatoes,(2 large)
- ¾cupsun dried tomato,drained, halves in oil, about 13 halves
- 2tbspbutter
- 4clovesgarlic,minced
- 2½tbspflour
- 1¾cupmilk
- ⅓cupheavy cream
- salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 3pinchesred pepper flakes,to taste
- ⅓cupParmesan cheese,finely shredded
- ½cupfresh basil,chopped
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add ravioli and Roma tomatoes.
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Boil pasta according to directions on the package and cook tomatoes until skins burst (if they don’t burst after 6 minutes, then cut an “x” in the bottom of tomatoes, and boil for about 2 minutes longer).
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Remove tomatoes and allow to rest until cool enough to handle, then peel, seed, and diced tomatoes. Drain pasta.
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While pasta boils, prepare the sauce. Place drained sun-dried tomatoes in a food processor and pulse until finely minced.
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In a large and deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds then add flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1½minutes. While whisking, slowly add in milk and cream.
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Add sundried tomatoes and whisk to separate clumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste and add red pepper flakes.
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Cook sauce until thickened, bringing it to a light boil while stirring constantly. Reduce heat, then add Parmesan cheese and diced Roma tomatoes.
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Cook until cheese has melted, stirring frequently.
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Thin sauce with an additional ¼ cup milk if desired. Add cooked ravioli to sauce and toss to evenly coat, then toss in half of the chopped basil.
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Serve warm topped with remaining basil.
Nutrition
- Calories: 585.32kcal
- Fat: 24.45g
- Saturated Fat: 13.94g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.74g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.31g
- Carbohydrates: 69.09g
- Fiber: 4.19g
- Sugar: 10.36g
- Protein: 24.24g
- Cholesterol: 96.86mg
- Sodium: 695.36mg
- Calcium: 425.11mg
- Potassium: 667.88mg
- Iron: 2.94mg
- Vitamin A: 238.92µg
- Vitamin C: 11.45mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Ravioli Technique
When preparing the sauce, it's crucial to whisk the mixture constantly after adding the flour. This process, known as making a roux, helps to prevent lumps from forming in your sauce. Additionally, when adding the milk and cream, ensure to pour slowly and continue stirring. This gradual incorporation helps to create a smooth, creamy texture in your sauce. Lastly, don't rush the process of thickening the sauce. Let it gently come to a light boil; rushing could result in a sauce that's too thick or grainy. Patience is key to achieving the perfect consistency.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delicious Pasta Dish
Prep ahead: Prepare the sun-dried tomato and basil sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the ravioli, saving you time on busy days.
Use store-bought ravioli: Opt for high-quality store-bought ravioli to skip the time-consuming process of making homemade pasta, allowing you to focus on preparing the delicious sauce.
Multi-task: While the pasta is boiling, work on preparing the sauce to efficiently utilize your time in the kitchen.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, ensure all ingredients are measured and prepped, creating a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the entire cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable.
Substitute Ingredients For Ravioli with Creamy Sun-dried Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe
four-cheese ravioli - Substitute with butternut squash ravioli: Butternut squash ravioli provides a delicious and slightly sweet alternative to the four-cheese ravioli, adding a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
roma tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes can be used as a substitute for roma tomatoes, providing a sweeter and more vibrant burst of flavor to the dish.
sun dried tomato - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes, offering a similar smoky and sweet flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a rich and flavorful base for the sauce.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic, offering a milder and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free substitute for flour, providing a similar thickening agent for the sauce.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk, adding a subtle nutty flavor to the sauce.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free substitute for heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative to parmesan cheese, providing a similar cheesy and umami flavor to the dish.
fresh basil - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for basil, offering a slightly peppery and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Elevate Your Plate: Presentation Tips
Elevate the plating: Arrange the ravioli in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is visible and well-spaced. This will create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the ravioli just before serving to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs to provide a delightful crunch alongside the creamy ravioli and sauce.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Choose sophisticated, minimalist plates that allow the vibrant colors of the dish to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal.
Create a focal point: Position a single, vibrant sun-dried tomato strategically on top of the ravioli to draw attention and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the ravioli and sauce in a symmetrical manner on the plate, creating a visually balanced and harmonious presentation.
Add a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, lightly drizzle a high-quality olive oil in a circular motion around the edge of the plate for a touch of elegance and a hint of richness.
Consider the negative space: Leave some areas of the plate uncovered to allow the dish to breathe and create a sense of refinement and sophistication.
Use edible flowers as a delicate garnish: Introduce a few edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, to add a delicate and visually stunning touch to the presentation.
Highlight the sauce: Use a small ladle to carefully pour the creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce around the ravioli, ensuring it is evenly distributed and adds to the overall visual appeal.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the ravioli and roma tomatoes.
- Food processor: This is used to finely mince the sun-dried tomatoes for the sauce.
- Skillet: A large and deep skillet is used to prepare the creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce.
- Whisk: A whisk is necessary for stirring and combining the ingredients in the sauce.
- Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked ravioli.
- Knife: A knife is needed to peel, seed, and dice the roma tomatoes.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl may be used for combining ingredients or holding the diced tomatoes before adding them to the sauce.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Ravioli with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Sauce
- To store leftover ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating refrigerated leftovers, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the ravioli and sauce separately. Place the cooled ravioli in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To freeze the sauce, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen ravioli, place them in a colander and run under hot water until thawed. Then, cook the thawed ravioli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- To reheat frozen sauce, place the frozen sauce in a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thawed and warmed through. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out to the desired consistency.
- When reheating frozen ravioli and sauce together, thaw both components separately before combining them in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently, until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Ravioli and Sauce
- To reheat leftover ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out during the reheating process.
- Microwave the ravioli on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The exact time may vary depending on the amount of ravioli and the strength of your microwave. Be sure to check the ravioli every 30 seconds to avoid overheating, which can cause the delicate pasta pockets to burst.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the ravioli on the stovetop. Place the leftover ravioli and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan and the ravioli from breaking apart.
- If the sauce appears too thick during the reheating process, add a splash of milk or cream to help thin it out and restore its original consistency. This will also help to keep the ravioli moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Once the ravioli and sauce are heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to enhance the flavors.
- To freshen up the dish and add a pop of color, garnish the reheated ravioli with some freshly chopped basil leaves before serving. The bright, fragrant herb will complement the rich, creamy sauce and elevate the overall taste of the dish.
- If you have the time and prefer a crispy texture, you can also reheat the ravioli in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the ravioli and sauce in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top of the dish to brown slightly and develop a delightful crust.
Interesting Trivia About Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce is a classic Italian dish that is loved for its rich and flavorful taste.
Budget-Friendly: Making Ravioli with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce at Home
The cost-effectiveness of this ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your local area. The use of four-cheese ravioli, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil may elevate the overall cost. However, the dish's rich flavors and satisfying nature could justify the expense. On a scale of 1-10, the verdict for this recipe would be around 7. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, factoring in the use of quality ingredients.
Is This Creamy Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest option. The dish is high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the generous amounts of butter, heavy cream, and cheese used in the sauce. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant source of protein and fiber, which are essential for a balanced meal.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream, or replace them with healthier alternatives like olive oil and low-fat milk
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients
- Use whole wheat or spinach ravioli instead of regular pasta to boost the fiber intake
- Decrease the amount of cheese used in the sauce, or opt for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella
- Serve the ravioli with a side salad to add more vegetables and create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this ravioli dish while also making it a healthier choice. Remember, moderation is key, and indulging in a creamy pasta dish occasionally can be part of a balanced diet when paired with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Editor's Take on This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Ravioli Recipe
The recipe for ravioli with creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of sun-dried tomatoes adds a rich and intense flavor to the creamy sauce, while the fresh basil provides a refreshing and aromatic element. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying and indulgent dining experience. The incorporation of four-cheese ravioli enhances the overall richness, making it a comforting and luxurious meal. This recipe is a wonderful choice for those seeking a delicious and elegant pasta dish.
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Why trust this Ravioli with Creamy Sun-dried Tomato and Basil Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of four-cheese ravioli and a luscious creamy sun-dried tomato and basil sauce. The use of roma tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes ensures a burst of rich, tangy flavors. The addition of fresh basil provides a refreshing herbal note, while the parmesan cheese brings a nutty, savory depth. The step-by-step instructions guarantee a successful outcome, and the incorporation of heavy cream promises a luxuriously smooth texture. Trust in this recipe for a delectable dining experience that will surely impress your taste buds.
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