Description
This Avocado Pasta Salad features tender ravioli tossed with sautéed cherry tomatoes and asparagus, all coated in a light garlic-infused sauce and fresh herbs. It’s a quick, flavorful dish perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner that can be prepared in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Ravioli and Sauce
- 1 lb fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or your favorite filling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta cooking water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions, about 3-4 minutes for fresh or 5-7 minutes for frozen ravioli. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the ravioli.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cut asparagus pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender and tomatoes release their juices.
- Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with vegetables, pour in the reserved pasta water or vegetable broth. Stir gently to coat the ravioli evenly with the garlic and vegetable mixture creating a light sauce.
- Add Herbs and Season: Stir in chopped fresh basil and oregano. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the ravioli hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for extra flavor if pasta water is not available.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity for desired spice level.
- Fresh herbs add the best flavor; dried oregano is a good substitute.
- Parmesan cheese can be omitted or replaced with a vegan alternative for dairy-free variations.
- To make this gluten-free, use gluten-free ravioli.
