Balsamic Ravioli Recipe

Name: Balsamic Ravioli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 0.5 cup walnuts; 1 (25 ounce) package store-bought ravioli; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 5

Ingredients

cup walnuts
1 (25 ounce) package store-bought ravioli (any flavor)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts. Stir frequently until they are browned and fragrant, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Fill a pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the ravioli and allow the water to return to a boil. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the ravioli float to the top and the filling is heated through, about 3 to 5 minutes. Drain the ravioli once cooked.

Step 3: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to warm until it just starts to turn brown, which should take about 1 minute. Add the balsamic vinegar to the pan and cook, stirring for about 1 to 2 minutes, until well combined.

Step 4: Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the balsamic butter mixture. Stir everything together until the ravioli is well coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Transfer the ravioli to serving plates. Top with the toasted walnuts and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 474
Total Fat: 24g (31% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 9g (47% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 71mg (24% Daily Value)
Sodium: 330mg (14% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 19g (39% Daily Value)
Calcium: 254mg (20% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (17% Daily Value)
Potassium: 176mg (4% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients.

Balsamic ravioli is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the traditional taste of ravioli with the sweet and tangy richness of balsamic vinegar. This dish is an excellent alternative to more common pasta sauces, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Whether you are a fan of classic Italian pasta dishes or are looking for something new and exciting, balsamic ravioli offers a delightful twist.

Origin of Balsamic Ravioli

The origins of balsamic ravioli are a fusion of traditional Italian pasta-making with the rich history of balsamic vinegar. Balsamic vinegar itself hails from Modena, a region in Northern Italy, and is known for its deep, complex flavors that have been perfected over centuries. Combining it with ravioli, a staple of Italian cuisine, creates a delicious hybrid dish that emphasizes the culinary creativity of modern Italian cooking. While the pairing of balsamic vinegar with pasta is not ancient, it has become increasingly popular in contemporary Italian-American kitchens.

Regional Variations

While balsamic ravioli is enjoyed in various parts of the world, it is particularly popular in Italian-American households and restaurants. In Italy, ravioli are often served with lighter sauces, such as butter, sage, or tomato-based sauces. The use of balsamic vinegar introduces a bold, slightly sweet contrast that is characteristic of the innovative cooking found in modern Italian cuisine. Depending on the region, you might also see different fillings for the ravioli, ranging from cheese to meat or vegetables, each providing its own unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the balsamic sauce.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Balsamic ravioli stands out from more traditional ravioli dishes, primarily due to the rich balsamic vinegar sauce that is used to dress the pasta. While classic ravioli might be topped with marinara or a creamy sauce, this dish's use of brown butter and balsamic vinegar creates a savory-sweet finish that is distinct from its counterparts. The addition of walnuts and Parmesan cheese further enhances the complexity of the flavor, giving the dish an extra layer of texture and depth. In comparison to other pasta dishes, balsamic ravioli is a unique and refined choice that can be served as an elegant main course or an adventurous appetizer.

Where Its Typically Served

Balsamic ravioli is commonly served in Italian-American restaurants and is often found in modern Italian bistros that focus on elevated versions of traditional pasta dishes. It is also a favorite among home cooks who wish to bring a taste of Italy to their own kitchens with a unique twist. The dish is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or dinner parties, as it offers both simplicity and sophistication. Its rich flavors make it a great choice for pairing with a light salad or roasted vegetables, and it pairs well with white wines such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.

Interesting Facts

Balsamic vinegar, the key ingredient in this recipe, is made from grape must and aged for several years to achieve its signature complex flavor. The finest versions are aged for decades!
The ravioli itself has ancient roots, dating back to the Roman Empire, where pasta was often stuffed with a variety of fillings.
Ravioli was traditionally considered a dish for the wealthy in Italy due to its labor-intensive preparation, but today it is enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
The addition of walnuts not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also adds a healthy crunch, as walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

This innovative dish brings together the classic elements of Italian pasta with a modern twist, offering a memorable experience for any palate. Its combination of savory ravioli, sweet balsamic vinegar, and rich butter sauce is sure to impress at any dinner table.

FAQ about Balsamic Ravioli Recipe

Leftover Balsamic Ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ravioli in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or olive oil, and heat until warm. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but the texture might not be as crispy.

Yes, you can use any type of store-bought ravioli, whether it's cheese, meat, or vegetable-filled. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the ravioli's filling, especially if it requires longer cooking times.

Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time. Cook the ravioli and toast the walnuts in advance. When you're ready to serve, just heat the balsamic butter sauce in a skillet, toss with the ravioli, and top with walnuts and cheese.

To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or oil. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. For a nut-free version, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

You can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pine nuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. Each nut will bring a different flavor and texture, but all will work well with the balsamic and butter sauce.

If you'd like a thicker balsamic sauce, you can simmer it for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it quickly. Be sure to add the thickener slowly, as a little goes a long way.

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with balsamic glaze. However, keep in mind that balsamic glaze is sweeter and thicker, so you may want to reduce the amount used to avoid overwhelming the dish.

To prevent ravioli from sticking together, be sure to use a large pot with plenty of salted water and stir the ravioli occasionally during cooking. You can also drizzle a little bit of olive oil on the ravioli after draining to keep them from sticking.

It’s best to freeze the ravioli separately from the sauce. You can freeze the cooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. When you're ready to serve, cook the ravioli straight from the freezer and prepare the balsamic sauce fresh.

To add some heat to the dish, you can sprinkle red pepper flakes over the ravioli when serving or sauté the butter with a minced chili pepper. Alternatively, you can mix in some hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper into the balsamic sauce for an extra kick.

Comments

Alexander Scott

04/26/2024 03:57:47 AM

Amazing, delicious meal!! Truly unique and intriguing to savor! Reminiscent of a dish you would indulge in at a high-end restaurant!

Robert Jackson

10/25/2022 12:15:41 PM

Review: I recently tried the butternut squash ravioli recipe and decided to enhance it by adding fresh herbs and locatelli cheese on top - it was absolutely delicious! A couple of tips for those trying it out: 1) If possible, stick to using butter and avoid substituting it (for vegans, opt for hazelnut oil or black walnut oil with a touch of truffle oil for added flavor); 2) Invest in a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best results. This recipe came at the perfect time for me as I was getting tired of traditional pesto dishes, and with fall around the corner, it was a delightful seasonal choice.

Ashley Martinez

08/08/2024 11:03:50 AM

I decided to use pecans instead because that's what I had on hand. I used a stick and a half of butter and simply drizzled vinegar over the ravioli as I browned it in the frying pan after boiling. My husband believes the cheese is unnecessary, but I personally love cheese and will continue to add it to mine. It was a delightful departure from the usual marinara sauce.

Samuel King

11/07/2023 06:23:29 PM

Straightforward and tasty. I added a bit more butter and sautéed the cooked ravioli in it until golden brown, then drizzled with balsamic vinegar and sprinkled with parmesan cheese and nuts.

Mark Green

03/18/2023 03:57:55 PM

Most of us enjoyed this dish, although my Dad, being a traditional meat and potatoes man, wasn't as enthusiastic. I enhanced it by doubling the sauce and adding capers, then garnished it with cherry tomatoes and green onions for a delightful presentation. The versatility of this recipe allows for numerous creative adaptations. It has definitely earned a spot in my list of favorite dishes. I regret not taking a photo to capture its beauty.

Helen Diaz

07/27/2023 06:26:13 PM

Absolutely delicious!! I enjoyed a fantastic vegetarian dish accompanied by a fresh salad and garlic bread!

Cook Time: 20 minutes