Ravioli with Creamy Pesto
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
This vibrant, flavorful dish is perfect for vegetarians and guaranteed to satisfy even the most dedicated meat lovers at the table. Packed with colorful vegetables and coated in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, this quick and easy ravioli recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. Serve it alongside some crispy garlic bread and fresh fruit for a balanced, health-conscious meal that will please both adults and kids alike. With its simple yet delicious ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe for beginner cooks who want a meal that feels special without being overly complicated.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Green beans | 8 oz |
| Yellow bell pepper | 1/2 |
| Roma tomatoes | 3 |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Basil pesto | 1/2 cup |
| Lemons, zest of | 2 |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 122 |
| Fat | 8.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 12.7 mg |
| Sodium | 313.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10.6 g |
| Fiber | 4.2 g |
| Sugars | 2.2 g |
| Protein | 3.1 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the green beans and yellow bell pepper. Stir them frequently and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender. You want them to retain a slight bite while still being cooked through, adding texture and flavor to the dish. -
Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Once the green beans and bell pepper are nearly done, add the roma tomatoes and salt to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3 minutes. The tomatoes should begin to soften and release their juices, creating a light sauce that will complement the ravioli. -
Cook the Ravioli:
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the ravioli according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain the ravioli well, but make sure to save a little bit of the pasta cooking water in case you want to adjust the sauce consistency later. -
Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, basil pesto, and lemon zest. Stir until smooth. The tangy sour cream works perfectly with the rich, herby pesto, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the ravioli beautifully. -
Assemble the Dish:
Toss the hot, drained ravioli with the cooked vegetables and the creamy pesto sauce. Gently stir everything together to ensure that the ravioli is well coated with the sauce, and the veggies are evenly distributed throughout. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a spoonful of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make it more saucy. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well combined, plate the ravioli and vegetable mixture. Serve immediately with a side of warm garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian & Kid-Friendly: Packed with nutritious vegetables and the creamy goodness of pesto, this is a meal that kids and adults will love alike. It’s a great way to introduce more plant-based meals to your family.
- Versatile: Feel free to mix up the veggies depending on what you have on hand, or add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch. You can even use frozen ravioli for added convenience.
Keywords: vegetable, toddler friendly, kid friendly, savory, under 30 minutes, beginner cook, easy, inexpensive
