Zucchini Ravioli

Easy to make, this healthy Zucchini Ravioli is a fantastic low carb alternative for a family weeknight meal. Packed with delicious veggies, you won’t even miss the pasta! This dish is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering. Its standout feature is the fresh flavors and colorful presentation that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy alternative: This zucchini ravioli replaces traditional pasta, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce carbs.
• Quick to prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious meal on busy weeknights.
• Vegetable-packed goodness: Loaded with spinach and zucchini, this recipe offers an abundance of nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty ravioli pockets, making it an ideal dish for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your zucchini ravioli, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Y-shaped vegetable peeler
• Baking dish (8×11)
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Y-shaped vegetable peeler: This tool makes it easy to create thin, even zucchini slices that are perfect for ravioli.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows you to layer the marinara sauce with the ravioli effectively.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing spinach and garlic, this tool helps enhance the flavors before mixing them with cheese.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Ravioli

• 2 large zucchinis
• 1 cup Otamot Essential Marinara Sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped, plus more for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes

How to Make Zucchini Ravioli

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

• Cut off the stalk of the zucchini.
• Use a Y-shaped vegetable peeler to create thin slices. Aim for about 18 slices per zucchini.
• Lay out the slices on paper towels and sprinkle them with salt. Set aside for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
• Dab off any excess moisture after 10 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• While it’s heating, place marinara sauce in the bottom of an 8×11 baking dish.

Step 3: Cook Spinach and Garlic

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
• Once hot, add chopped spinach and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Ravioli

• Lay out three slices of zucchini in different directions so they overlap slightly.
• Place about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture in the center.
• Fold each side of zucchini over to seal it into a ravioli pocket.
• Place these pockets seam side down into your baking dish with marinara sauce. You should have about 12 pockets. Surround them with halved cherry tomatoes.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

• Bake in your preheated oven until cheese is melted (about 15-20 minutes).
• Broil for an additional 2 minutes to blister the cherry tomatoes perfectly.
• Serve warm garnished with extra fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Zucchini Ravioli, a nutritious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Zucchini Ravioli

Zucchini ravioli is a delicious and healthy dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a fresh, earthy note that complements the dish.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A light drizzle enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bite.

Paired with Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad – Serve alongside a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing pairs well with the savory ravioli.

Topped with Nuts

• Pine Nuts – Toasted pine nuts add crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Walnuts – Chopped walnuts provide a hearty texture that complements the dish well.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread can help soak up any leftover marinara sauce, making it even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Zucchini Ravioli

Making zucchini ravioli is simple, but there are some tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and herbs enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Slice Thinly – Ensure your zucchini slices are thin for easy folding and better texture.
• Pat Dry After Salting – Removing excess moisture from zucchini helps prevent sogginess.
• Don’t Overstuff – Use just enough filling to avoid spilling when folding ravioli pockets.
• Broil at the End – Broiling briefly gives the cheese a delicious golden color and blisters the tomatoes.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Ravioli

Pairing your zucchini ravioli with complementary side dishes can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent accompaniment.
2. Caprese Salad – This fresh salad with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds a delightful contrast in texture.
3. Quinoa Pilaf – A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers a nutritious side that balances the meal.
4. Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus provides crunch and freshness while being low in calories.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil can serve as an appetizer before the main course.
6. Mediterranean Couscous – Flavorful couscous mixed with olives and feta cheese adds a Mediterranean flair to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making zucchini ravioli can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best experience.

• Over-salting the zucchini: Too much salt can draw out excess moisture and make the dish soggy. Use just enough salt to season and let it sit for a short time.
• Not removing moisture: If you don’t dab off the moisture from the zucchini, the ravioli might become watery. Always pat them dry with a paper towel before assembling.
• Skipping the preheating step: Baking in an unpreheated oven can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for even results.
• Using too much filling: If you overstuff, the ravioli won’t seal properly. Stick to the recommended amount of filling for perfect pockets.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven varies, so keep an eye on your ravioli to avoid burning. Check them a few minutes before the suggested time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Zucchini Ravioli

• • Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Zucchini Ravioli

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making zucchini ravioli.

How do I make zucchini ravioli?

Making zucchini ravioli involves slicing zucchinis thinly, preparing a filling with ricotta and spinach, and assembling it into pockets before baking.

Can I use other vegetables in place of zucchini for ravioli?

Yes! You can experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers, but keep in mind they may require different preparation methods.

What can I serve with Zucchini Ravioli?

Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Zucchini ravioli is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

How do I customize my Zucchini Ravioli?

Feel free to add different herbs, spices, or even proteins like cooked chicken or shrimp to your filling for variation.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini ravioli is not only delicious but also a healthy alternative that everyone will love. It’s versatile too—experiment with different fillings and sauces! Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will appreciate this tasty twist on traditional pasta.