Boil Pasta: Boil water in a pot, add salt, then cook ravioli as per package instructions.
9 oz Ravioli
Make Sauce: In a pan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add garlic, cook for 10-15 seconds, then add cream cheese and a bit of pasta water. Stir until creamy.
Combine: Drain ravioli, then add to the sauce in the pan. Save for later a little pasta water.
Add Spinach: Add over spinach and mix it until it wilts and incorporate it into the sauce. Season with black pepper.
2 cup Spinach
Serve: Stir gently to combine. Serve immediately while the pasta is al dente and the sauce is creamy.
Quick Note
I highly recommend reading the entire recipe to find more tips and notes about this recipe. Read Full Recipe ⇑
Notes
Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with this dish, complementing the creamy texture and rich flavors.
Cheese Varieties: While the recipe uses cream cheese for the sauce, feel free to experiment with other cheeses for a different flavor profile. Gorgonzola or blue cheese can add a bold, tangy twist, while a milder cheese like Brie can create a creamier, more delicate sauce.
Herb Infusions: For an aromatic touch, infuse the cream sauce with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while it simmers. Remove the herbs before serving for a subtle yet noticeable herbal note.
Lemon Zest: Adding a bit of lemon zest to the sauce can brighten up the dish and cut through the richness of the cream cheese, providing a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Boost: For an added nutritional punch, consider stirring in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the dish just before serving. They provide a nice crunch and are a great source of healthy fats.
Customizing Spice Levels: If you prefer a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add more red pepper flakes to your liking. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
Serving for Kids: For a kid-friendly version, you might want to keep the flavors simple. Stick to the basic recipe and perhaps serve the spinach on the side if your little ones are not fond of greens.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the ravioli, ensure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. This prevents the ravioli from sticking together and ensures they cook evenly.