Quickly Cooking Kirkland Spinach And Cheese Ravioli

If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, look no further than Kirkland's Spinach and Cheese Ravioli. This organic pasta dish can be prepared in just a few minutes and is a great option for a busy weeknight. The ravioli cooks in boiling water in 4-6 minutes and can be paired with a variety of sauces and sides to elevate your meal. Whether you're a fan of classic marinara, creamy Alfredo, or something more unconventional like a sun-dried tomato pesto, there's a sauce to suit every taste. So, how long does it take to cook Kirkland's Spinach and Cheese Ravioli? With a simple boiling or frying method, you can have a delicious and convenient meal ready in no time!

Cooking instructions

The cooking time for the Kirkland spinach and cheese ravioli is around 4 to 6 minutes. The ravioli should be tender but not overcooked. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Boil a large pot of water and add a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavour.
• Carefully add the ravioli to the boiling water, being gentle to avoid breaking the pasta.
• Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the ravioli floats to the surface.
• Drain the ravioli using a colander and shake gently to remove excess water.
• To add richness, heat some olive oil or butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Transfer the drained ravioli to the pan and sauté for a minute or two.
• Plate and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.

You can also bake the ravioli in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and layer the boiled ravioli in a baking dish with your choice of sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, then bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

If you are cooking the ravioli from frozen, it is recommended to add an extra minute to the cooking time.

Boiling the ravioli

To cook the ravioli, start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil. You will need 4-6 quarts of water for every pound of ravioli. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to enhance the flavour of the ravioli.

Once the water is boiling, carefully drop the ravioli into the pot. Be gentle, as you don't want to break the delicate pasta. If the ravioli is frozen, it is best to thaw it first, either by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.

Cook the ravioli for 4-6 minutes, or until tender. You will know it is ready when it floats to the surface. Do not overcook the ravioli, as you want it to have a tender yet firm texture.

When the ravioli is cooked, drain it using a colander and shake gently to remove any excess water. If you are not serving the ravioli immediately, toss it in a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

Sautéing and pan-frying

Prepare the Ravioli

Start by boiling the ravioli according to the package instructions. Typically, you will need to boil the ravioli for about 4 to 6 minutes until tender but not overcooked. Once cooked, drain the ravioli using a colander and set them aside.

Sauté the Ravioli

Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases its fragrant aroma. You can also add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach to create a flavourful sauce.

Next, add the boiled ravioli to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes. This step will give your ravioli a golden-brown colour and a crispy texture.

Plate and Serve

After sautéing, transfer your ravioli to a plate or bowl. For added flavour, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top. You can also serve the ravioli with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Customisation and Variations

For a vegan option, use plant-based cheese and cream in your sauce. You can also experiment with different cheese fillings, such as a blend of ricotta and Parmesan for added depth. Additionally, you can include spices and herbs like red pepper flakes, crushed coriander, or fresh basil to enhance the flavour of your dish.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

To prevent overcooking or undercooking, follow the recommended cooking times and test a piece of ravioli before removing it from the heat. If you are cooking at a higher altitude, you may need to slightly increase the boiling time.

Sauce Pairings

A variety of sauces can be paired with your sautéed ravioli. A creamy Alfredo sauce or a rich marinara sauce are classic choices that complement the cheese filling. For a refreshing twist, try a light lemon butter sauce made with fresh lemon juice and zest.

Reheating Leftovers

To reheat your ravioli, place them in a skillet with a touch of olive oil and sauté over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but for optimal texture, the skillet is recommended.

Sauce pairings

The Kirkland spinach and cheese ravioli is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sauces. Here are some sauce pairings to consider:

Tomato Sauce

A classic tomato sauce made with canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano can complement the ravioli's rich cheese and spinach filling. The Kirkland spinach and cheese ravioli is a versatile dish that can be elevated with a variety of sauces. A traditional tomato sauce is always a good option, especially when made with canned tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs such as basil and oregano.

Arugula Pesto

Arugula pesto is a great choice for cheese ravioli as it adds a peppery kick. The arugula is balanced by the flavours of parmesan, garlic, lemon zest, and pine nuts, making it a delicious option to consider.

Creamy Alfredo Sauce

A creamy Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic can add an indulgent touch to the ravioli. This sauce is a classic choice for a reason—it melts beautifully with the ravioli, creating a rich and comforting dish.

Brown Butter Sauce

For a simple yet delicious option, try a nutty and aromatic brown butter sauce. To make this sauce, simply melt butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden brown, then add minced garlic. This sauce is a wonderful way to enhance the flavour of the ravioli without overwhelming it.

Mushroom Cream Sauce

For a decadent and savoury option, consider a mushroom cream sauce. This sauce is made by sautéing sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in butter or olive oil, then adding heavy cream and simmering until thickened. It's a great way to add a touch of luxury to your ravioli dish.

Pesto Sauce

A vibrant and fresh pesto sauce made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil can add a burst of flavour to the ravioli. This sauce is a great choice if you're looking for something light and summery.

These sauce pairings can elevate the Kirkland spinach and cheese ravioli, providing a range of flavours and textures to enjoy.

Reheating and freezing

Leftover ravioli can be stored for up to five days in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, place in a microwave or cover with foil and heat in a low oven for 10-15 minutes. You can sprinkle some fresh cheese and basil before serving.

You can also freeze leftover ravioli for up to a month. It is recommended to freeze them in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper in between to prevent them from sticking together. Frozen ravioli will take one or two minutes longer to cook.

Alternative Cooking Methods

There are several alternative cooking methods to boiling that you can try:

• Heat butter in a skillet and add the ravioli in a single layer. Cook until crispy and golden brown on both sides, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the ravioli on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or mozzarella. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Heat butter or olive oil in a pan. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallots, and sauté until fragrant. Add the ravioli and cook for a few minutes on each side until lightly browned. You can also add other ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach to the pan.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the ravioli onto skewers or place them on a grill pan or grilling mat. Brush them with olive oil and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and they are heated through.

Frequently asked questions