Description
This vibrant Avocado Pasta Salad combines tender ravioli with fresh vegetables and herbs, coated in a light garlic-infused sauce. Perfectly balanced with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and fragrant basil and oregano, this dish is an easy and flavorful meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb fresh or frozen ravioli (cheese or your favorite filling)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or reserved pasta cooking water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
Finishing Touch
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes for fresh ravioli or 5-7 minutes for frozen. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water then drain the ravioli.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and asparagus, cooking for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are tender and tomatoes soften.
- Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water or vegetable broth to create a light sauce. Stir gently to evenly coat the ravioli with the garlic and vegetable mixture.
- Add Herbs and Season: Stir in chopped basil and oregano. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Plate the pasta salad hot, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh ravioli for quicker cooking, but frozen works well too.
- Reserve pasta water to enhance the sauce’s texture and flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of heat.
- Substitute Parmesan with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and served cold or reheated gently.
