Ravioli with Tomato-Basil Sauce, Cherry Tomatoes, and Asparagus

Ravioli with Tomato-Basil Sauce, Cherry Tomatoes, and Asparagus

Ingredients:

**For the Ravioli:**
– 1 package (about 9-12 oz) of fresh or frozen cheese ravioli (you can use any filling of your choice)

**For the Tomato-Basil Sauce:**
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

**For the Garnish:**
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. **Cook the Ravioli:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
– Drain and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Tomato-Basil Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
– Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
– Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
– Stir in the chopped basil leaves and remove from heat.

3. **Prepare the Asparagus and Cherry Tomatoes:**
– In a separate small pan, lightly steam or sauté the asparagus pieces until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
– Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes just until they start to soften slightly.

4. **Combine the Dish:**
– Add the cooked ravioli to the tomato-basil sauce and gently toss to coat the ravioli evenly.
– Carefully mix in the asparagus and cherry tomatoes.

5. **Serve:**
– Divide the ravioli among serving plates.
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

6. **Enjoy:**
– Serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with a light green salad and crusty bread.

Tips:

– You can add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
– For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter to the tomato sauce.

Enjoy making and savoring this fresh and flavorful ravioli dish! If you have any other culinary ideas or questions, feel free to ask.