In Quail Valley, California, Kate Dampier’s Toasted Cheese Ravioli has earned a reputation for being an irresistible party favorite. These golden brown pillows of crispy-coated ravioli are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to pick up and dip into a delectable pasta sauce. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, these delightful treats are sure to win hearts and appetites alike.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups seasoned bread crumbs
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 3 teaspoons dried basil
- ½ cup canola oil, divided
- Additional shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce or meatless spaghetti sauce, warmed
PREPARATIONS:
- Cook the cheese ravioli according to the package directions. Drain and pat them dry. In a shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs. In another shallow bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Dip the ravioli in the beaten eggs, then coat them with the bread crumb mixture.
- In a large skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat ¼ cup of canola oil over medium heat. Fry the ravioli in batches for 30-60 seconds on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain the fried ravioli on paper towels. Halfway through frying, replace the oil, and if necessary, wipe out the skillet with paper towels.
- Optionally, sprinkle the toasted cheese ravioli with additional shredded Parmesan cheese. Serve the ravioli with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.
YIELD: 3-½ dozen ravioli
PREP/COOK TIME: 15 minutes preparation, 20 minutes cooking
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For a finishing touch, add a sprinkling of extra shredded Parmesan cheese over the toasted ravioli before serving.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different types of ravioli fillings, such as spinach and ricotta, to cater to varying taste preferences.
In Quail Valley, California, Kate Dampier has perfected the art of creating Toasted Cheese Ravioli—a culinary sensation that has become the life of any party. These crispy-coated ravioli, adorned with a golden-brown hue, capture the hearts and appetites of all who encounter them. Easy to handle and even easier to savor, these delightful morsels are accompanied by a tantalizing pasta sauce, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser.
The foundation of this appetizer is simple yet satisfying—refrigerated cheese ravioli. As they cook to perfection, the ravioli is treated to a generous dip in beaten eggs before being coated with a harmonious blend of seasoned bread crumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, and aromatic dried basil.
In a large skillet, the ravioli find their moment of transformation, basking in the warmth of canola oil as they turn a captivating golden brown. As they emerge from the skillet, the crispy and tender pillows are delicately drained on paper towels, ensuring a perfect texture with each bite.
Served with a warm marinara sauce or a meatless spaghetti sauce, the Toasted Cheese Ravioli becomes an interactive culinary adventure. Guests eagerly reach for the delightful treats, savoring the combination of flavors and textures. For those seeking an extra touch of indulgence, a sprinkling of additional shredded Parmesan cheese is the perfect finishing flourish.
Beyond the confines of Quail Valley, the story of Toasted Ravioli’s origins in St. Louis, Missouri, captures the essence of culinary creativity. Born from a happy accident at the Angelo Oldani restaurant, these crispy-coated ravioli became a beloved local dish, finding their way onto the menus of other area restaurants.
In conclusion, Kate Dampier’s Toasted Cheese Ravioli embodies the spirit of culinary innovation, turning a simple cheese ravioli into a delightful and appetizing party favorite. With every batch of these crispy, flavorful bites, Kate creates an unforgettable experience for her guests in Quail Valley, California. The enchanting combination of tender ravioli, seasoned bread crumbs, and warm marinara sauce makes this dish a captivating treat that leaves a lasting impression on all who partake in its indulgence.
