Bushra Griffith
Cheese ravioli is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways and paired with various side dishes and sauces. It can be boiled, baked, or fried, and served as an appetizer, a main course, or a side dish. Here are some tips on how to serve cheese ravioli:
When serving cheese ravioli, you can choose between different sauces to complement the dish. Traditional tomato-based sauces, such as marinara or tomato caprese, are popular choices. For a creamier option, a rich and buttery cream sauce made with heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese can be prepared. Pesto, a blend of basil and olive oil, is another fresh and simple sauce option, especially when paired with tomato sauce.
Cheese ravioli can be served with a variety of side dishes, depending on your preference. Vegetables such as roasted Brussels sprouts, sauteed asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or zucchini go well with the dish. You can also serve it with meats like cast iron ribeye steak, air fryer chicken breast, or smoked pork chops. For a seafood option, pair it with salmon, shrimp, or baked cod. To add crunch and flavour, consider serving garlic bread or focaccia on the side.
Additionally, you can experiment with different toppings and garnishes for your cheese ravioli. Grated Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper can enhance the flavour. For a more indulgent option, a light dusting of ricotta cheese and an additional layer of mozzarella can be added. Breadcrumbs, either seasoned or made with cracker crumbs, can also be used for a crispy texture.
How to serve cheese ravioli
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sides | Green beans amandine, roasted Brussels sprouts, sauteed garlic asparagus, garlic bread, salad, Mexican-inspired salad, pineapple sherbet, breaded deep-fried ravioli, crispy veggies (peas, corn, broccoli, zucchini), goat's milk cheese, Parmesan cheese, walnuts, eggplant, mushrooms, feta cheese, brown butter sauce, zucchini, spinach, roasted butternut squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peaches, mozzarella cheese, ciabatta, focaccia, brioche dinner rolls, Copycat Pizza Hut Breadsticks |
| Sauce | Basil pesto, tomato sauce, garlic butter, marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, cream cheese, butter sage sauce, egg wash, olive oil, garlic |
| Ravioli Type | Four-cheese ravioli, chicken and cheese ravioli, butternut squash ravioli, pumpkin ravioli, beef ravioli |
| Cooking Method | Boil, bake, air fryer, pan-fry, deep-fry, steam |
| Seasoning | Taco seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder |
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What You'll Learn
How to make a cheese ravioli sauce
Making a cheese ravioli sauce is a simple process. To start, you will need to gather your ingredients, which can vary depending on the type of sauce you wish to make. Some common ingredients used in cheese ravioli sauces include olive oil, garlic, basil pesto sauce, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, and various types of cheese such as ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone.
Once you have your ingredients, the next step is to prepare the sauce. This typically involves heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and adding garlic, stirring continuously. You can also add other ingredients such as basil pesto sauce, heavy cream, or diced tomatoes at this stage. It is important to keep stirring the sauce to prevent the garlic from burning and adjust the heat if there is too much bubbling or sizzling.
After adding all the desired ingredients, bring the sauce to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. This is when you would whisk in cheeses such as Parmesan or cream cheese, stirring until they are fully melted and combined with the sauce. You can also add additional seasonings or ingredients such as red pepper flakes, spinach, or basil at this stage to adjust the flavour of the sauce.
Finally, once the sauce has reached the desired consistency and flavour, remove it from the heat and keep it warm until you are ready to serve it with your cheese ravioli. Remember to time the sauce preparation so that it is ready when your ravioli is cooked, as freshly cooked ravioli should be served immediately to maintain its texture and quality.
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What to serve with cheese ravioli
Cheese ravioli is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, sauces, salads, and proteins. Here are some ideas to elevate your cheese ravioli dinner:
Sauces
A simple tomato sauce is a classic choice, but you can also opt for a duo of sauces by adding a dollop of basil pesto to your tomato sauce. For a creamier option, try a brown butter Alfredo sauce or a slow-cooked Bolognese sauce. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with a lemon-pesto sauce, a light marinara, or a wine and thyme sauce.
Salads
A crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheese ravioli. Try a Panzanella salad, a traditional Italian bread salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, cucumbers, capers, and basil. A Caesar salad is another classic pairing, or opt for a spring salad with asparagus, cherry tomatoes, sweet peas, radishes, and herbs. For a fruity twist, add some strawberries or peaches to your caprese salad.
Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy option. Try Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or roasted fennel for a sweet and caramelized flavour. Pan-fried mushrooms with garlic and crumbled feta cheese add an earthy note, while steamed broccoli or air-fried green beans provide a crisp-tender texture. Zucchini, either charred on a hot skillet or fried in an air fryer, is another excellent choice.
Proteins
If you're looking for a heartier meal, pair your cheese ravioli with proteins such as meatballs, Tuscan chicken, roast chicken, or grilled chicken. For a seafood twist, try garlic butter shrimp or shrimp bisque.
Breads
Crusty garlic bread or sourdough rolls with garlic butter are always a hit with pasta dishes. Focaccia, ciabatta, and no-knead Italian focaccia bread are other delicious options to round out your meal.
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How to prepare frozen cheese ravioli
Preparing frozen cheese ravioli is a simple and quick process. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients: frozen cheese ravioli, pasta sauce (also known as ravioli sauce), and shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add some extra ingredients like vegetables, meats, or seafood to pair with the ravioli.
Oven Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Start by spreading a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of a casserole dish. Open the package of frozen cheese ravioli and place half of the ravioli on top of the sauce in a single layer. You don't need to thaw or defrost the frozen ravioli before using it.
Layering
Pour half of the remaining pasta sauce over the first layer of ravioli and use a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring each ravioli is coated. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Second Layer
Add the remaining frozen ravioli in a second layer on top of the cheese. Spread the rest of the pasta sauce over the ravioli, and finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and return the dish to the oven, baking for an additional 25 minutes. This two-step baking process ensures the ravioli is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serving
Let the baked cheese ravioli cool slightly before serving. You can pair it with a light salad, such as an arugula salad, or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or eggplant. It also goes well with garlic bread or focaccia. Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
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How to cook cheese ravioli
Homemade cheese ravioli is a delicious and rewarding endeavour, but it can be time-consuming. If you're short on time, consider using frozen ravioli, which can be cooked in a variety of ways and still tastes great.
Making the Dough
If you're making your ravioli from scratch, start by making the dough. Create a mound of flour on a work surface and form a well in the centre. Add eggs, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to the well and beat together with a fork. Gradually mix the egg mixture into the flour, using a fork or your fingers, until a thick paste forms. Wrap the dough into a ball and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Filling and Assembling the Ravioli
Next, prepare your filling. A classic combination is creamy ricotta, salty parmesan, and melty mozzarella, but you can experiment with other cheeses or add ingredients like spinach. Be generous with your filling, but don't overfill, as this can cause the ravioli to burst during cooking. Use a teaspoon or small cookie scoop to ensure a consistent amount.
Roll out the dough into sheets and place the filling about an inch apart. Cover with another sheet of pasta and seal around each portion of filling. Cut out the individual ravioli and seal the edges, ensuring there are no air pockets. Sprinkle the ravioli with semolina flour and lay them flat on a cookie sheet. Allow them to dry for 30-40 minutes, then freeze in a single layer to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Ravioli
When you're ready to cook the ravioli, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a gentle simmer. Avoid a vigorous boil, as this can cause the ravioli to break apart. Add a little olive oil to the water to prevent sticking. Gently place the ravioli into the water and cook until they float to the top, which should take 4-6 minutes for al dente pasta.
Serving the Ravioli
For a simple yet elegant dish, serve your cheese ravioli with a classic tomato or marinara sauce. If you prefer something creamier, try a rich Alfredo sauce or a basil pesto. For a fresher flavour, consider a brown butter sage sauce or a simple garlic and olive oil sauce.
You can also bake or air fry your ravioli for a crispy texture. Simply boil the ravioli for 3 minutes, then coat them in breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bake until golden brown and crispy, or cook in an air fryer. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
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How to store cheese ravioli
Storing cheese ravioli properly is essential to maintaining its freshness and flavour. When storing ravioli, whether fresh or cooked, it is critical to use airtight containers or wrap the pasta tightly with plastic wrap.
Fresh cheese ravioli typically lasts in the refrigerator for around 3 to 4 days, while cooked cheese ravioli can be safely stored for about 5 days. If you are not planning to eat the ravioli within a couple of days, freezing it is a better option to prevent spoilage.
To freeze fresh ravioli, place the ravioli on a baking tray lined with baking paper and dusted with a thick layer of semolina or cornmeal. Place the tray in the freezer for 20 minutes to 1 hour, then transfer the frozen ravioli to a heavy-duty freezer bag or another container. The ravioli will last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
To store cooked cheese ravioli, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 2 to 5 days. If storing the ravioli in a sauce, drizzle it with olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Proper labelling, including expiration dates, is essential for knowing how long the product is safe to eat. Additionally, keeping the fridge temperature below 40°F (4°C) can help extend the shelf life of cheese ravioli.
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Frequently asked questions
Boil the ravioli in salted water, drain, then add it to the sauce. Serve warm.
A simple tomato sauce is a classic pairing. You could also try a creamy sauce, a pesto sauce, or a garlic butter.
You could serve it with vegetables, meats, seafood, or bread. Some specific examples include roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, garlic bread, and green beans.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
