Pasta night just got a whole lot more exciting with this sumptuous ravioli Sauce Recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises a delectable experience, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a memorable meal in under 30 minutes.
I first stumbled upon this sauce while visiting my Nonna in the Italian countryside. It was a summer afternoon, and the aroma of fresh tomatoes wafted through her kitchen. With her ancient pasta-making tools, she churned out heaps of ravioli, each batch more delicious and enchanting than the last. I watched in awe as she created a sauce with simple ingredients and realized that simplicity truly is the key to perfection in Italian cuisine. Since then, this sauce has become a cherished staple in my own kitchen, a bridge between my past and present.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ravioli sauce is perfect for those who crave a rich and savory accompaniment to their pasta. It comes together swiftly, using fresh, flavorful ingredients that meld beautifully. It’s versatile enough to complement any type of ravioli, whether cheese-filled or meat-stuffed. Plus, it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and sophisticated dinner parties.
Ingredients Notes
This sauce hinges on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh tomatoes or canned San Marzano tomatoes both work wonderfully. Garlic and fresh basil add depth and fragrance. Opt for real Parmesan—not the powdered stuff—to create a genuinely luxurious finish. Need it dairy-free? Swap out the cream for coconut cream for an equally indulgent taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter.
Step 2
Add chopped tomatoes to the pan, stirring occasionally. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes until they’ve broken down and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3
Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This adds a lovely creaminess to the sauce.
Step 4
Toss in freshly torn basil leaves for a burst of aromatic flavor, followed by grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce completely.
Step 5
Season with salt and freshly cracked Black Pepper to taste. Serve immediately, ladled generously over your favorite ravioli.
Storage Options
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegan version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes in Step 1. For a more robust flavor, incorporate sundried tomatoes along with the fresh ones. Vegetarians can add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful sauce on cozy family dinners or impress guests at a gourmet evening. Pair it with a side of Garlic Bread or a fresh arugula salad. It’s also perfect for special occasions like anniversaries or Valentine’s dinners, offering a beautiful and romantic dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sauce with other kinds of pasta? Absolutely! This sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with any pasta type. Whether it’s penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine, the sauce complements a wide range of pasta, offering a rich and creamy taste.
How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce? If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer a bit longer until more liquid evaporates. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of vegetable or chicken broth. Remember, the sauce should coat the back of a spoon smoothly.
What can I do if my sauce tastes too acidic? If your sauce ends up too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors. Sometimes tomatoes can vary in acidity, and sugar acts as a neutralizer for that tangy note.
ravioli sauce recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups heavy cream use fresh cream for best results
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 0.5 teaspoon salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely.
- Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and serve over cooked ravioli.
