Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is a rich and indulgent Italian dish that combines the comforting warmth of homemade pasta with the bold flavors of Tuscan cuisine. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game, as the combination of creamy sauce, tender ravioli, and fresh herbs creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. With its roots in traditional Tuscan cooking, this dish is a masterclass in combining bold flavors with delicate textures. Whether you're a pasta aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to impress your friends, Creamy Tuscan Ravioli is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
* 1 package of fresh or dried ravioli (homemade or store-bought works well)
* 2 cups of heavy cream
* 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cloves of garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup of chopped fresh spinach
* 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
* 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
* 1/2 teaspoon of salt
* 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
* 2 tablespoons of butter
* 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
Cooking Steps:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the ravioli.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Add the cooked ravioli to the saucepan and toss with the creamy sauce until well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
7. Stir in the chopped spinach, basil, and parsley. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the herbs have wilted.
8. Serve the Creamy Tuscan Ravioli hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips:
* Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and real Parmesan cheese, to elevate the flavor of the dish.
* If using dried herbs, omit the fresh parsley at the end and add the dried herbs to the cream sauce instead.
* Consider adding other ingredients to the sauce, such as cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms, to add texture and flavor.
* For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy creamer and use vegan Parmesan cheese.
* To make individual portions, serve the ravioli in small bowls and top with additional cream sauce and herbs if desired.
Variations:
* Truffle Creamy Tuscan Ravioli: Add 1-2 teaspoons of truffle oil to the cream sauce for a luxurious and earthy twist.
* Prosciutto Creamy Tuscan Ravioli: Add 4-6 slices of crispy prosciutto to the ravioli before serving for a salty and crunchy addition.
* Roasted Vegetable Creamy Tuscan Ravioli: Toss cooked ravioli with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, for a colorful and healthy twist.