Description
1 package Trader Joe’s Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 ball burrata cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions:
Cook the ravioli according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing them to burst and release their juices. Stir in the fresh thyme, salt, and
pepper.
Gently toss the cooked ravioli into the skillet with the tomatoes, mixing well to coat.
Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and arrange over the ravioli and tomatoes. Let it soften and melt slightly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the Trader Joe’s Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli and cook according to the package directions, usually 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the ravioli cooks, prepare the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften, burst, and release their juices, creating a light sauce.
4. Season the tomato mixture with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Gently add the cooked and drained ravioli to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat the ravioli evenly in the tomato-garlic sauce.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Tear the ball of burrata cheese into large pieces and distribute them over the top of the ravioli and tomatoes. The residual heat will soften the cheese beautifully.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately while warm.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the ravioli’s zest. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the delicious tomato juices. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.
How-to Summary
Boil ravioli. Sauté garlic in oil, then cook tomatoes until saucy. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss drained ravioli in the sauce. Top with torn burrata and garnish with fresh basil. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ravioli? Absolutely. Any cheese-filled ravioli or tortellini will work well. The lemon zest in the recommended ravioli adds a special brightness, so consider adding a little lemon juice to the sauce if using a plain variety.
What can I substitute for burrata? Fresh mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala is excellent) is the closest substitute. For a stronger flavor, try fresh goat cheese or ricotta salata.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. The microwave can make the ravioli rubbery.
Can I add protein to this dish? Yes. Grilled shrimp, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cannellini beans are excellent additions. Add pre-cooked protein when tossing the ravioli with the sauce.
My sauce seems too dry. What can I do? If your tomatoes aren’t very juicy, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet when combining everything. This starchy water helps create a silky, cohesive sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the ravioli: Follow package instructions precisely. Mushy ravioli will ruin the dish’s texture.
- Browning the garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant. Burnt garlic becomes bitter.
- Adding cold burrata: Let the burrata sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using. Cold cheese won’t melt properly.
- Stirring after adding burrata: Gently place burrata on top; do not stir it in. You want beautiful, creamy pockets, not a homogenous cheese sauce.
Conclusion
This Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli with Burrata and Blistered Tomatoes is a testament to how a few high-quality ingredients can create a spectacular meal in under 15 minutes. The combination of creamy fillings, sweet tomatoes, and luxurious burrata is both elegant and comforting. It’s a perfect recipe for a busy weeknight that feels special enough for guests. Mastering the simple techniques and avoiding common pitfalls will ensure a restaurant-quality result every time.
