Lobster Ravioli in a Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce

Description:

Lobster Ravioli in a Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce is a luxurious and flavorful dish that combines tender, homemade or store-bought lobster-filled ravioli with a tangy, creamy lemon butter sauce. The bright citrus notes of the lemon perfectly complement the rich lobster filling, making this an elegant meal for special occasions or a refined dinner treat. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Ravioli:

• Lobster ravioli: 1 package (or about 20-24 ravioli, fresh or frozen)

For the Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce:

• Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
• Chicken or vegetable broth: ½ cup (or dry white wine for extra depth)
• Heavy cream: ½ cup (optional, for a creamier sauce)
• Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons (grated, for serving)
• Fresh parsley or basil: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Lemon slices: thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes: a pinch (for a touch of heat)
• Capers: 1 tablespoon (for added briny flavor)

Tips for Success:

1. Cook ravioli carefully: Don’t overcook the ravioli to ensure they stay delicate and maintain their shape. Fresh ravioli cooks faster than frozen.
2. Balance the sauce: Adjust the lemon juice to your taste – more for extra zesty tang, or less for a more subtle flavor.
3. Creamy sauce option: Adding a bit of heavy cream makes the sauce richer and balances out the lemon’s acidity.
4. Flavor depth: A splash of white wine or broth gives the sauce more complexity, but it’s optional if you prefer a lighter version.
5. Serving suggestion: This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed asparagus.

Steps to Make It:

1. Cook the ravioli:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions (typically 4-6 minutes). Once cooked, drain the ravioli, reserving a little pasta water.
2. Make the lemon butter sauce:
   • While the ravioli is cooking, melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
   • Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth (or wine). Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
   • For a creamy sauce, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Add a little pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
3. Combine the ravioli and sauce:
   • Gently toss the cooked ravioli into the skillet with the lemon butter sauce. Carefully stir to coat the ravioli with the sauce, ensuring they don’t break. If needed, add a little more pasta water to help coat the ravioli.
4. Serve:
   • Transfer the ravioli to serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs (parsley or basil), and any optional garnishes like capers, lemon slices, or red pepper flakes.

Recommendations:

• Side dishes: Serve alongside a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, and a light side salad (e.g., arugula with a lemon vinaigrette) for a complete meal.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked ravioli.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 1/2 Recipe):

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

This Lobster Ravioli in a Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce is the perfect dish for a special evening. The combination of rich lobster filling and bright lemony sauce creates an unforgettable, mouthwatering experience!