Spinach Ravioli

Quick and Easy Spinach Ravioli

2 teaspoons salt

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 package (10 ounces) frozen spinach or equivalent fresh spinach

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 bag (16 ounces) frozen ravioli or tortellini

1/2 cup Parmesan or Romano cheese, freshly and coarsely grated; or feta, sharp Cheddar or other flavorful cheese

Add 2 teaspoons of salt to a large pot of water and bring to a boil.

As the water is heating, put the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and the red pepper flakes to the olive oil. Cook until the garlic is aromatic.

Add the spinach to the skillet and cook 3 or 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is limp and vivid green. Add salt and black pepper as it cooks, as well as any of the optional ingredients, such as country ham, bacon, black olives and/or pine nuts.

When the water boils, add the ravioli or tortellini and cook according to package directions or to desired doneness. Drain when cooked and toss with spinach. Serve in deep bowls with coarsely grated cheese on the top.

Makes 2 adult-size servings and 2 child-size servings.

Note: You can use meat- or cheese-filled pasta.