Are you ready to take your ravioli to the next level? This ravioli sauce recipe is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this sauce will impress your guests and elevate your pasta experience. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Fresh basil for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
5. Add oregano and basil, mixing thoroughly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If the sauce is too acidic, add sugar to balance the flavors.
8. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
10. Serve hot over cooked ravioli and garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute olive oil with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2-3 cups chopped tomatoes instead of canned. For a vegetarian option, omit any meat-based ravioli and use plant-based alternatives.
Serving and Pairings
This ravioli sauce pairs wonderfully with various pasta shapes, including tortellini and gnocchi. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat. This sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the onions; they should be soft and sweet.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.
- Adjust salt gradually; too much can overwhelm flavors.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
- Don’t skip simmering time; it enhances flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for best flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be added for extra freshness.
- Try adding a splash of red wine for depth.
- Always serve with freshly grated cheese.
- Pair with a light salad for balance.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh tomatoes. Just chop about 2-3 cups and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Yes, this ravioli sauce freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers during cooking for an extra kick.
Can I add meat to this sauce?
Definitely! You can brown ground beef, sausage, or turkey before adding the tomatoes for a heartier sauce.
What other dishes can I use this sauce for?
This sauce is versatile and can be used on various pasta dishes, as a pizza base, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
Conclusion
This ravioli sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you can create a delicious meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy this sauce over your favorite pasta and savor every bite!
Ravioli Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well.
- Add oregano and basil, mixing thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce is too acidic, add sugar to balance the flavors.
- Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Serve hot over cooked ravioli and garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
