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
- Prep the Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely to prepare for sautéing.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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