Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, vibrant, and full of flavour. I always reach for good quality store-bought ravioli to keep things easy, but you could absolutely make your own if you have the time. The sun-dried tomatoes are a small but mighty ingredient here, bringing a punch of tang and sweetness that transforms the sauce. Spinach adds freshness and colour, while the cream and parmesan create that irresistible richness I learned to appreciate during my years in restaurant kitchens.
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) cheese or spinach ravioli
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Substitution tip: You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing their flavours to infuse the oil.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Gently fold the cooked ravioli into the sauce, coating them evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm everything through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
