What makes a perfect weeknight dinner – is it the crispy exterior of fried ravioli or the homemade tomato sauce that brings it all together. Fresh herbs add a bright touch to this easy family favorite dish, made with simple ingredients like pasta and savory fillings. Save this idea for a quick homemade meal solution.

crispy fried ravioli is served on a white plate with tomato sauce and fresh herbs

Introduction

Crispy fried ravioli is a dish that embodies the perfect blend of Italian cuisine’s richness and the satisfying crunch of fried delights. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, using everyday ingredients that can be found in most supermarkets, making it accessible to anyone looking to elevate their mealtime experience. With its combination of crispy fried pasta filled with flavorful ingredients, served with a tangy and rich tomato sauce, and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is sure to impress both in terms of flavor and presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, the simplicity and creativity of this recipe make it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of crispy ravioli, rich tomato sauce, and fresh herbs creates a well-balanced flavor profile that is both satisfying and refreshing. The ingredients are easily accessible, making this dish a practical choice for everyday meals or special occasions.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, crispy fried ravioli is surprisingly easy to prepare. The steps involved are straightforward, and with some basic kitchen tools, anyone can achieve professional-looking results.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: This recipe is perfect for those looking to make a statement without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of store-bought ravioli (if desired) and simple sauce preparation means that you can have a stunning and delicious meal ready in no time.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include ravioli (which can be homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference and time availability), a good quality tomato sauce, fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, and the necessary ingredients for frying, such as vegetable oil and possibly breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating. For the tomato sauce, you can use canned crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and olive oil, keeping the flavors simple yet rich. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using different types of pasta fillings or varying the herbs for garnish, allowing for creativity and personalization of the dish.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. If making your tomato sauce from scratch, chop the onion and garlic. If using store-bought ravioli, ensure it’s thawed according to the package instructions. Prepare any additional ingredients like breadcrumbs or grated cheese for the coating.
2. Step 2: Cook your tomato sauce. In a pan, heat some olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the canned tomatoes, salt, and any desired herbs or spices, then let the sauce simmer while you prepare the ravioli.
3. Step 3: Prepare the ravioli for frying. If desired, dip each ravioli in beaten eggs and then coat in breadcrumbs for an extra crispy exterior. Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches the frying temperature. Fry the ravioli in batches until they’re golden brown on both sides, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
4. Step 4: Final touches and plating. Once the ravioli are fried, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the crispy fried ravioli on a white plate, topped with the warm tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. You can also sprinkle with grated cheese for added flavor and texture.

Handy Tips

• When frying, it’s crucial to not overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy or undercooked ravioli. Fry in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
• For an extra crispy coating, chilling the breaded ravioli in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better and fry crisper.
• Be mindful of the oil temperature. The ideal temperature for frying is between 325°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked; if it’s too cool, the ravioli will absorb too much oil.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when frying the ravioli. The ideal temperature for frying is between 325°F and 375°F. To check the temperature without a thermometer, you can use the water drop test: carefully drop a small amount of water into the hot oil; if it sizzles and evaporates quickly, the oil is ready. If you have a thermometer, use it to monitor the temperature closely. Signs of doneness include the ravioli floating to the surface and achieving a golden brown color on both sides.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the perfect crunch on your fried ravioli is key to this dish. The crunch comes from the frying process and can be enhanced by the breadcrumb coating. To ensure your ravioli are crispy, do not overcrowd the frying pan, and make sure the oil is at the correct temperature. Additionally, not overcooking the ravioli will help maintain their texture; they should be cooked just until they’re golden and crispy on the outside, still retaining some firmness in the center.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra crispy exterior, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crisper, providing a better texture when fried.
• To prevent the fried ravioli from becoming soggy, serve them immediately after frying. If you need to fry in advance, consider keeping the fried ravioli warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish preparing the rest of the meal.
• When making the tomato sauce, a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a richer and more complex flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Leftover fried ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until crispy again. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to consume them fresh.
• Tomato sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 6 months. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat before serving.
• Consider using airtight, microwave-safe containers for reheating leftovers, making it easy to warm up the dish without compromising its quality.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a potluck or as a care package, there are several creative ways to package it. For the fried ravioli, use a sturdy, airtight container that can keep them fresh and prevent them from getting crushed. The tomato sauce can be packaged in a glass jar with a decorative ribbon and a gift tag. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the sauce before sealing the jar can add a pop of color and fragrance. Include a card with reheating instructions to ensure the recipient can enjoy the dish at its best.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding some dried or fresh basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to the standard tomato sauce and herbs, you could top your crispy fried ravioli with grated Parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some sautéed spinach for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian or vegan version, consider using tofu or vegan cheese-filled ravioli. You could also experiment with different types of pasta fillings, such as butternut squash or mushroom, for varied flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your fried ravioli turn out greasy, it might be because the oil wasn’t hot enough. If they’re too hard or crunchy, they might have been overcooked. Adjusting the frying time and temperature can help achieve the perfect texture.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find a specific ingredient, such as a particular type of cheese or herb, don’t be afraid to substitute with something similar. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors and textures in the dish.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your ravioli while they’re frying. If they’re undercooked, they might not be crispy enough; if they’re overcooked, they could be too dark or hard. Adjust your frying time based on the size and filling of your ravioli.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the ravioli before frying. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch each other, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry them straight from the freezer, adjusting the frying time as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Depending on the type of ravioli and breadcrumbs used, this dish can be adapted to be gluten-free. Look for gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Simply multiply all the ingredients by two and proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind that you might need to fry the ravioli in more batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Crispy fried ravioli served with tomato sauce and fresh herbs is a recipe that combines simplicity with impressive results. It’s perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner. With its flexible ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a food enthusiast looking to try something new or a busy parent seeking a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory in every bite.