Creamy Lemon Ravioli

Creamy Lemon Ravioli is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender cheese-filled ravioli with a luscious lemon-infused cream sauce. Accented with fresh spinach, sweet peas, and a touch of Parmesan, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of richness and brightness, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful: The zesty lemon complements the creamy sauce, creating a refreshing taste.
• Versatile: Suitable as a main course or a side dish.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
• Unsalted butter
• Shallot, minced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Vegetable broth
• Lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Heavy cream
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh spinach, chopped
• Frozen peas
• Optional garnishes: crushed red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil or chives, additional Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. To prevent sticking, you may drizzle a little olive oil over the ravioli and gently toss.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Add the minced shallot and garlic; sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Whisk in the flour, cooking for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   • Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
   • Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.
   • Add the heavy cream, whisking to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
3. Incorporate Cheese and Vegetables:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
   • Add the chopped spinach and frozen peas, cooking for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the peas are heated through.
4. Combine Ravioli and Sauce:
   • Gently fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
   • Cook for an additional minute to warm the ravioli through.
5. Serve:
   • Plate the ravioli, spooning the sauce and vegetables over the top.
   • Garnish with crushed red pepper flakes, chopped basil or chives, and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes

Variations

• Protein Addition: Incorporate grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for added protein.
• Vegetable Variations: Substitute or add vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or tarragon during the cooking process.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the ravioli gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

What type of ravioli works best for this recipe?

Cheese-filled ravioli, such as ricotta or a blend of cheeses, pairs excellently with the lemon cream sauce. However, spinach and ricotta or even mushroom-filled ravioli can also be delightful alternatives.

Can I use frozen ravioli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen ravioli can be used. Cook them according to the package instructions, ensuring they are heated through before adding to the sauce.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook the ravioli and reheat the sauce gently before combining.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

For a lighter version, you may use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free ravioli and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative when making the roux for the sauce.

What side dishes complement this ravioli?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots make excellent accompaniments.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture and consistency.

How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?

After draining, drizzle the cooked ravioli with a small amount of olive oil and gently toss to coat, preventing them from sticking.

Is it necessary to use both lemon zest and juice?

Yes, using both provides a balanced lemon flavor—zest adds aromatic oils, while juice contributes acidity and brightness.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Certainly. Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta can enhance the dish’s heartiness and flavor profile.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon Ravioli is a versatile and elegant dish that brings together the comfort of pasta with the refreshing zest of lemon. Its quick preparation and delightful flavors make it a go-to recipe for both casual dinners and special gatherings. Whether enjoyed as is or customized with your favorite additions, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

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