Cheese Ravioli with Spinach, Garlic, and Olive Oil

My Italian grandmother regularly served this dish, but she made her own fresh ravioli from scratch.

Here I substitute purchased ravioli, to make preparation much easier. The result is just as delicious.

RECIPE:

7 to 9 ounces frozen or refrigerated cheese ravioli
6 to 8 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves, rinsed and drained
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 or 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dash of dried crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Cook the ravioli according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Remove the longer stems from the spinach, and tear larger leaves in half.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium to medium-low heat. Add the garlic, along with the red pepper flakes (if using), and saute for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the aroma starts to emerge. Do not let the garlic get brown.

Add the spinach, along with salt and pepper to taste, and saute over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.

Add the drained ravioli to the spinach mixture. Toss gently, and serve.

-- 2 servings