Mediterranean Ravioli with Seafood, Spinach & Mushrooms in Garlic Cream Sauce
This Mediterranean Ravioli with Seafood, Spinach & Mushrooms in Garlic Cream Sauce is a decadent yet approachable dish, perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat. Tender cheese or spinach ravioli pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp, scallops, and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy, garlicky sauce. Fresh spinach adds brightness and a touch of color, while Parmesan and a hint of white wine elevate the flavor profile. It’s rich, flavorful, and captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking with simple, fresh ingredients.
Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients (2–3 servings)
300 g (10 oz) cheese or spinach ravioli (fresh or frozen)
200 g (7 oz) shrimp, peeled and deveined
150 g (5 oz) scallops or small pieces of white fish (optional)
150 g (5 oz) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
5 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
¼ cup (60 ml) white wine (optional)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the ravioli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the seafood:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp (and scallops or fish, if using) and cook 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil. Sauté the mushrooms for 4–5 minutes until golden. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spinach and cream:
Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and white wine (if using), stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Incorporate Parmesan and seasonings:
Add grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a creamy sauce.
Combine ravioli and seafood:
Gently fold in the cooked ravioli and seafood into the sauce, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.
Serve and garnish:
Transfer to plates or a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve immediately.
Tips
Don’t overcook seafood:
Shrimp and scallops cook very quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn opaque to prevent rubberiness.
Use fresh spinach:
Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds a vibrant color. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
Creamy sauce adjustment:
For a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta water. For richer sauce, add a bit more cream or Parmesan.
White wine optional:
If you prefer not to use wine, a little extra chicken or vegetable broth works fine.
Flavor boost:
A sprinkle of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the seafood flavor.
Ravioli choice:
Cheese ravioli is classic, but spinach ravioli pairs beautifully with the cream sauce and seafood.
Variations
Vegetarian Version:
Omit seafood and increase mushrooms or add artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Seafood Swap:
Use only shrimp, or substitute mussels or clams for a shellfish twist.
Spicy Kick:
Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for extra warmth.
Cheese Options:
Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for sharper flavor or sprinkle mozzarella for creaminess.
Low-Carb Version:
Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi instead of ravioli for a lighter option.
Herb Variation:
Add fresh thyme, oregano, or dill to the sauce for a different Mediterranean aroma.
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Add ravioli and seafood only when ready to serve for the best texture.
Q2: Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Q3: Can I use jarred or dried mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are best, but dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water can also work.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Seafood doesn’t freeze well after cooking, so it’s better to prepare only the sauce and cook seafood fresh.
Q5: What can I serve on the side?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.
Nutrition Breakdown
(Approximate per serving – 2–3 servings)
Calories: 550
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Values may vary depending on ravioli, cheese, and seafood type.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Ravioli with Seafood, Spinach & Mushrooms in Garlic Cream Sauce is an elegant, flavorful meal that combines fresh ingredients with a rich, creamy sauce. The tender ravioli and succulent seafood paired with earthy mushrooms and bright spinach make it a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy. Perfect for entertaining or a special weeknight dinner, it brings Mediterranean flair and comfort to your table.