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Red Pesto Ricotta Ravioli with Basil and Chili Flakes Recipe


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3.9 from 30 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Red Pesto Ricotta Ravioli is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Store-bought ravioli is cooked and then tossed in a rich tomato-based red pesto sauce with fresh basil and creamy ricotta, creating a comforting and delicious meal in just 15 minutes.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.1 pounds ravioli
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • ½ cup red pesto
  • ½ cup ricotta
  • 1 cup basil leaves
  • Chili flakes, for topping


Instructions

  1. Prep the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely to prepare for sautéing.
  2. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the ravioli, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water for the sauce.
  3. Make the Sauce Base: Heat olive oil over low heat in a large nonstick skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in salt, coarsely ground black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute to allow the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
  5. Simmer with Cooking Water: Pour in ½ cup of the reserved ravioli cooking water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This helps loosen the sauce and blend flavors.
  6. Incorporate Red Pesto and Ricotta: Stir in the red pesto, then add the ricotta cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is fully combined and creamy.
  7. Toss in Basil and Ravioli: Add the fresh basil leaves and the cooked ravioli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
  8. Finish and Serve: Season with extra black pepper and sprinkle chili flakes on top to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy red pesto ricotta ravioli.

Notes

  • Use store-bought ravioli for convenience, but fresh ravioli can be used if you prefer.
  • If you like a thinner sauce, add more reserved pasta water as needed.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Fresh basil is key for vibrant flavor; do not substitute with dried basil.
  • This recipe can be made vegetarian-friendly if the ravioli filling is cheese or vegetable-based.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian