Trader Joe’s ravioli is a weeknight dinner staple for many. It’s quick, affordable, and surprisingly delicious. But let’s be honest, sometimes simply boiling and topping it with jarred marinara just doesn’t cut it. If you’re looking to elevate your Trader Joe’s ravioli game and transform it into a gourmet-worthy meal, you’ve come to the right place. We’re diving deep into creative sauces, flavorful additions, and simple techniques that will take your ravioli from basic to brilliant.
The Art of Sauce: Beyond Basic Marinara
The sauce is arguably the most crucial element in dressing up your Trader Joe’s ravioli. While jarred marinara has its place, experimenting with different sauces can unlock a whole new world of flavor. Let’s explore some options, from creamy and decadent to light and refreshing.
Creamy Dreamy Sauces
A creamy sauce can transform your ravioli into a truly indulgent experience. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Alfredo Sauce: This classic Italian sauce is always a winner. You can easily make your own using butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. For a Trader Joe’s twist, consider adding their shaved Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of their lemon juice. Pro-tip: reserve some pasta water and add it to the sauce to help it cling to the ravioli.
Pesto Cream Sauce: Combine pesto (store-bought or homemade) with heavy cream or half-and-half for a vibrant and flavorful sauce. Trader Joe’s offers several pesto options, including their classic basil pesto and their kale pesto. This sauce pairs particularly well with cheese or vegetable-filled ravioli.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: This sophisticated sauce is surprisingly easy to make. Simply melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a nutty brown color. Add fresh sage leaves and let them sizzle until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper. This sauce is divine with butternut squash or mushroom ravioli. Important: watch the butter carefully to prevent it from burning.
Light and Fresh Sauces
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider these fresh and flavorful sauces:
Lemon Butter Sauce: This simple sauce is bright, zesty, and perfect for seafood or vegetable ravioli. Melt butter in a saucepan, add lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss with the cooked ravioli and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tomato and Basil Sauce: A classic combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser. You can use fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, or even Trader Joe’s bruschetta sauce as a base. Add fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple and satisfying sauce.
Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: Roast red bell peppers until the skin is blackened, then peel and blend them with garlic, olive oil, and vegetable broth. This sauce is slightly sweet and smoky, and pairs well with cheese or sausage ravioli.
Spicy and Bold Sauces
For those who like a little heat, these spicy sauces will add a kick to your Trader Joe’s ravioli:
Arrabbiata Sauce: This classic Italian sauce is made with tomatoes, garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. It’s simple, flavorful, and packs a punch. Trader Joe’s tip: add some of their Calabrian chili paste for an extra layer of heat.
Spicy Vodka Sauce: A creamy and spicy twist on the classic vodka sauce. Add red pepper flakes or Calabrian chili paste to your favorite vodka sauce recipe for a fiery kick. This sauce is delicious with cheese or meat-filled ravioli.
Adding Texture and Flavor: Toppings and Mix-ins
Beyond the sauce, adding toppings and mix-ins can significantly elevate your Trader Joe’s ravioli. Consider these flavorful additions to create a truly customized dish.
Protein Power-Ups
Adding protein is a great way to make your ravioli more filling and satisfying.
Sausage: Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage is a classic pairing with ravioli. Trader Joe’s offers a variety of sausages, including sweet Italian sausage, spicy Italian sausage, and chicken sausage.
Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp is a delicious and elegant addition to ravioli, especially when paired with a lemon butter sauce or pesto cream sauce.
Chicken: Grilled or shredded chicken can be added to ravioli for a heartier meal. Consider using Trader Joe’s grilled chicken strips for a quick and easy option.
Crispy Prosciutto: Crispy prosciutto adds a salty and savory crunch to your ravioli. Simply bake prosciutto slices in the oven until crispy, then crumble them over the cooked ravioli.
Vegetable Vibrancy
Adding vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value of your meal but also adds color, texture, and flavor.
Spinach: Wilted spinach is a simple and healthy addition to ravioli. Simply sauté spinach with garlic and olive oil until wilted, then toss with the cooked ravioli.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy and savory flavor to ravioli. Use a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or oyster mushrooms, for a more complex flavor.
Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus adds a touch of elegance to ravioli. Cut the asparagus into bite-sized pieces and roast or grill until tender-crisp.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of intense flavor to ravioli. Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor.
Artichoke Hearts: Quartered artichoke hearts add a slightly tangy and earthy flavor to ravioli.
Cheesy Goodness
Cheese is always a welcome addition to pasta dishes.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: A classic topping for ravioli. Trader Joe’s offers a variety of Parmesan cheeses, including shaved Parmesan and grated Parmesan.
Ricotta Cheese: Dollops of ricotta cheese add a creamy and decadent touch to ravioli.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese can be melted over ravioli for a cheesy and satisfying dish.
Goat Cheese: Crumbled goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy flavor to ravioli.
Cooking Techniques for Perfect Ravioli
Even the best sauces and toppings won’t save poorly cooked ravioli. Here are a few tips for cooking perfect Trader Joe’s ravioli every time.
Boiling
The most common method for cooking ravioli is boiling.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to package directions. Usually, it takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh ravioli to cook.
Be careful not to overcook the ravioli, as they can become mushy. The ravioli are done when they float to the surface.
Drain the ravioli and toss with your favorite sauce and toppings. Important: reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water can be used to help the sauce cling to the ravioli.
Pan-Frying
Pan-frying ravioli adds a crispy and golden-brown texture.
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked ravioli and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Pan-fried ravioli are delicious served with a dipping sauce, such as marinara or pesto.
Baking
Baking ravioli is a great way to create a cheesy and comforting casserole.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer cooked ravioli in a baking dish with your favorite sauce and cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Trader Joe’s Ravioli Recommendations
Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of ravioli, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Butternut Squash Ravioli: This sweet and savory ravioli is perfect for fall. Pair it with a brown butter sage sauce or a creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Mushroom Ravioli: This earthy and savory ravioli is delicious with a truffle cream sauce or a simple tomato sauce.
- Lobster Ravioli: This decadent ravioli is perfect for a special occasion. Pair it with a lemon butter sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Cheese Ravioli: A classic option that can be dressed up in countless ways. Try it with marinara sauce, pesto, or a creamy tomato sauce.
- Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli: A light and healthy option that’s delicious with a lemon butter sauce or a tomato and basil sauce.
Complete Meal Ideas
To help you get started, here are a few complete meal ideas using Trader Joe’s ravioli:
- Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce, Toasted Walnuts, and Parmesan Cheese: This elegant and flavorful dish is perfect for a fall dinner party.
- Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Cream Sauce, Sautéed Mushrooms, and Fresh Parsley: This decadent and savory dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
- Lobster Ravioli with Lemon Butter Sauce, Sautéed Shrimp, and Asparagus: This luxurious and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion.
- Cheese Ravioli with Marinara Sauce, Italian Sausage, and Mozzarella Cheese: A classic and comforting dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli with Tomato and Basil Sauce, Grilled Chicken, and Fresh Basil: A light and healthy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
By experimenting with different sauces, toppings, and cooking techniques, you can transform Trader Joe’s ravioli into a truly memorable meal. So, ditch the jarred marinara and unleash your creativity in the kitchen! You might be surprised at the gourmet creations you can come up with. Bon appétit!
What are some simple sauce upgrades I can make for Trader Joe’s ravioli?
Trader Joe’s ravioli is a great starting point, but the sauce is where you can really elevate the dish. A simple upgrade could involve sautéing some garlic in olive oil, then adding a can of crushed tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a more robust flavor. Simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, then toss with your cooked ravioli.
Another easy option is a creamy pesto sauce. Use store-bought pesto (Trader Joe’s has a good selection!) and thin it out with a little heavy cream or half-and-half for a smoother consistency. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and toss with the ravioli. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. This upgrade is quick, easy, and adds a touch of elegance to your weeknight meal.
Can I add vegetables to Trader Joe’s ravioli to make it a more complete meal?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of your Trader Joe’s ravioli. Some great options include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply cook the vegetables in a pan with olive oil and garlic until tender-crisp, then toss them with the cooked ravioli and your chosen sauce. You can also add roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Another great approach is to incorporate vegetables into the sauce itself. For example, you could roast cherry tomatoes with garlic and herbs, then blend them into a smooth sauce to toss with the ravioli. Or, you could add finely chopped carrots, celery, and onions to your tomato sauce for a more substantial and flavorful base. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your favorites!
What are some protein additions that pair well with Trader Joe’s ravioli?
Adding protein is a smart way to make your Trader Joe’s ravioli a more satisfying and balanced meal. Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent choices; simply season them with salt, pepper, and herbs, then grill or pan-fry until cooked through. Slice or dice the protein and toss it with the cooked ravioli and your chosen sauce. You can also use Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled, for a heartier dish.
For a vegetarian option, consider adding cannellini beans or chickpeas. These beans provide a good source of protein and fiber, and they pair well with many different sauces and vegetables. You can also add some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra texture and healthy fats. Remember to adjust the seasoning to taste, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Are there any specific Trader Joe’s products that complement their ravioli?
Trader Joe’s offers a wide variety of products that pair perfectly with their ravioli. Their jarred pesto sauces, particularly the vegan pesto and the kale pesto, are excellent choices for a quick and flavorful sauce. You can also use their marinated artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes to add extra flavor and texture. Their Italian sausage and various cheeses also make fantastic additions.
Consider using their Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend to sprinkle over the finished dish for added flavor and crunch. Their Unexpected Cheddar cheese, grated or shaved, is another great topping. Don’t forget their frozen vegetables, like broccoli florets or spinach, for easy additions to your meal. Trader Joe’s provides a plethora of options to elevate your ravioli without requiring extensive cooking from scratch.
How can I make Trader Joe’s ravioli more visually appealing?
Presentation can significantly enhance the dining experience, even with a simple meal like Trader Joe’s ravioli. Start by plating the ravioli artfully, avoiding a piled-up mess. Consider swirling the pasta around a fork to create a nest-like presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil can also add visual appeal.
Furthermore, consider the colors and textures of your additions. If you’re adding vegetables, choose a variety with contrasting colors, such as red bell peppers, green spinach, and yellow zucchini. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few cherry tomatoes can also add a pop of color and visual interest. Using a nice serving dish and a thoughtfully chosen garnish can make even the simplest meal feel special.
Can I bake Trader Joe’s ravioli instead of boiling it?
Yes, baking Trader Joe’s ravioli is a delicious and convenient alternative to boiling. To bake, lightly grease a baking dish and spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Arrange the ravioli in a single layer over the sauce, then cover with more sauce and any desired toppings, such as cheese, vegetables, or meat. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
After 20-25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the ravioli are heated through. This method allows the ravioli to absorb the flavors of the sauce and toppings, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish. It also requires less active cooking time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
How can I prevent Trader Joe’s ravioli from sticking together during cooking?
Preventing ravioli from sticking together is crucial for a pleasant eating experience. The most important step is to use a large pot with plenty of boiling water. Adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the water can also help prevent sticking. Be sure to add the ravioli in a single layer, rather than dumping them all in at once, which can cause them to clump together.
Stir the ravioli gently and frequently during the first few minutes of cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot or to each other. Once they’ve cooked through and are floating, remove them immediately with a slotted spoon to avoid overcooking, which can also contribute to sticking. Toss the cooked ravioli with your sauce immediately after removing them from the water to prevent them from sticking together further. A little bit of care during the cooking process can make a big difference in the final result.