If you’re seeking to indulge in the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine, Ravioli in Sage Butter Sauce is the perfect dish. This recipe showcases the harmonious blend of tender pasta filled with creamy ricotta or savory meats, enveloped in a rich butter sauce infused with the earthy aroma of fresh sage. Let me guide you through creating this exquisite classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Ravioli (store-bought or homemade):
- 400g fresh ravioli (cheese, spinach and ricotta, or meat-filled)
For the Sage Butter Sauce:
- 100g unsalted butter
- 10 fresh sage leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley or extra sage leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Ravioli
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook Ravioli: Gently add the ravioli to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions or until they float to the surface, indicating they are done.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. Prepare the Sage Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it starts to foam and turn a light golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma (about 3-4 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Sage Leaves: Add the fresh sage leaves to the browned butter. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the leaves become crisp and the butter is infused with sage flavor.
- Optional Garlic: If using, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Combine Ravioli and Sauce
- Transfer Ravioli: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked ravioli directly into the skillet with the sage butter sauce.
- Toss Together: Gently toss the ravioli in the sauce to ensure each piece is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Heat Through: Allow the ravioli to warm in the sauce for an additional minute, letting the flavors meld.
4. Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the ravioli hot, drizzling any remaining sage butter sauce over the top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over each serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or additional crispy sage leaves if desired.
- Enjoy: Savor the delicate flavors and rich textures that make this dish a beloved Italian favorite.
Tips for Success
- Homemade Ravioli: For an authentic touch, consider making fresh ravioli from scratch. Popular fillings include spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or butternut squash, all of which pair beautifully with sage butter sauce.
- Browning Butter: Monitor the butter closely as it browns to prevent burning. The transformation from melted butter to browned butter happens quickly and adds a depth of flavor.
- Sage Selection: Fresh sage leaves are essential. They provide a robust flavor and crisp texture when sautéed.
- Adjusting Flavors: Taste the sauce before adding salt, especially if you’re using salted butter or adding Parmesan cheese, which can be salty.
- Adding Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts over the finished dish.
Conclusion
By mastering Ravioli in Sage Butter Sauce, you’re embracing the essence of Italian culinary tradition—a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients prepared with care. This elegant yet straightforward dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a delightful course at a dinner party. Share this comforting meal with loved ones and bring a touch of Italy to your table. Buon appetito!