Spicy Ravioli Salad
A vibrant, spicy ravioli salad combining cheese-filled pasta with zesty tomatoes, corn, olives, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing cold dish.
Ingredients
- 25 oz. miniature frozen cheese ravioli ⓘ
- 10 oz. can diced tomatoes and chilies (undrained) ⓘ
- 8 3/4 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained ⓘ
- 8 oz. bottle taco sauce ⓘ
- 2 1/4 oz. can ripe olives, sliced and drained
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1 small red onion, sliced ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the ravioli according to the package directions.
- Meanwhile, combine diced tomatoes and chilies, drained corn, taco sauce, sliced olives, chopped cucumber, sliced red onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Drain the cooked ravioli and stir it into the tomato mixture.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. If you want to lower the spice level, opt for mild diced tomatoes instead of those with chilies. You can also substitute the cheese ravioli with spinach or mushroom-filled varieties for a different twist. Adjust the cumin and salt to your taste for a customized flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Ravioli Salad is perfect as a light main dish or as a side at your next barbecue. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, and a refreshing Pineapple Thick Shake can complement the meal nicely. Consider serving it alongside tortilla chips for added crunch or a simple green salad for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, making the salad even more delicious. To reheat, you can microwave a portion for 30-60 seconds, but it's best served cold or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Ravioli Salad contains roughly 514 calories, with 24g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance! Just be sure to cover it well and refrigerate. The flavors will develop and deepen, making it even tastier. However, if you prefer a firmer texture for the vegetables, consider adding them shortly before serving.
What can I use instead of taco sauce?
If you don't have taco sauce on hand, you can substitute it with salsa or a mixture of hot sauce and ketchup. This will give a similar flavor profile, but adjust the quantities according to your taste preference. Homemade salsa is an excellent alternative if you want to control the ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Spicy Ravioli Salad is a great option for vegetarians, especially if you choose cheese ravioli. It's packed with vegetables and bold flavors, making it satisfying and hearty. To ensure it's fully vegetarian, check that your taco sauce is meat-free.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).