Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe elevates Trader Joe's incredible butternut squash ravioli into a delicious and satisfying dinner, perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that requires minimal effort, maximizing flavor and minimizing time in the kitchen. This easy recipe is packed with deliciousness and is a great option for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Ravioli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the ravioli is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; low and slow is key here.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple sauce is the secret to elevating this already delicious dish.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions to this dish.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the protein additions and enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Boost the veggies: Sauté some spinach or mushrooms with the garlic for added nutrients and flavor.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a unique taste.
- Creamy variations: For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a richer sauce, add a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This Trader Joe's Butternut Squash Ravioli recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly impressive dish. Enjoy!