Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli Is a Total Winner
This Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli isn’t just about tossing some stuff in a pan—it’s about building layers of flavour that make your tastebuds do a happy dance. The passata gives it that silky tomato base, the olives bring the salty, tangy vibes, and fresh herbs add a garden-fresh twist. It’s the kind of sauce that clings beautifully to pasta, especially pillowy ravioli filled with cheese or spinach and ricotta.And let’s not forget: it’s a fab way to get in your greens. Spinach and basil don’t just add nutrients—they also make this sauce look and taste super fresh and vibrant. I love how the spinach wilts right into the sauce, making every bite feel nourishing but indulgent at the same time.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli
1. Use Good Quality Passata
Not all passata is created equal! Go for one that’s rich and slightly sweet. Italian imported brands tend to have that smooth, velvety texture and deep flavour. It makes a huge difference.
2. Don’t Skip the Sugar
Just a teaspoon, I promise! It balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and brings all the flavours together.
3. Use Pitted Kalamata Olives
These are my ride-or-die for this recipe. They’re punchy, plump, and bring that perfect salty pop. Just make sure they’re pitted, or you’ll be playing dental roulette at dinner.
4. Toss the Pasta Right into the Sauce
I know it’s tempting to serve the sauce on top, but tossing it all together in the pan is where the magic happens. It helps the sauce cling to the ravioli and makes every bite full of flavour.
Serving Suggestions for Your Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli
- Ravioli: My top pick is cheese-filled ravioli, especially ricotta and spinach or a four-cheese blend. It’s rich enough to match the sauce but soft enough to let it shine.
- Garlic Bread: You need something to mop up that sauce. A crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter is perfection. 🧄🍞
- Side Salad: A light, lemony rocket salad with shaved parmesan is the perfect contrast to all that richness.
- Glass of Red: Something medium-bodied like a Chianti or a Shiraz will complement the olives and tomato beautifully.
Storage Options for Tomato and Olive Sauce for Raviol
- Fridge: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen it up.
- Freezer: Yes, this sauce freezes beautifully! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. Ideal for busy weeknights when you need dinner in a flash!
Note: If you’ve already tossed it with ravioli, it’s still freezer-friendly, but the pasta may soften a little. Best to store the sauce on its own if possible!
Other Recipes to Try
Best Ingredients to Use
- La Gina or Mutti Passata – Top-notch flavour and consistency
- Kalamata olives in brine – The better the olive, the better the sauce!
- Fresh spinach and basil – Don’t substitute dried herbs for the basil. It’s just not the same!
- Parmesan – Use a block and grate it yourself. Pre-grated just doesn’t melt the same way.
Why Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli is Trending
One Last Thought
This Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli is one of those back-pocket recipes you’ll keep coming back to. It’s easy, customisable, and totally satisfying—without being heavy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking solo, it’s the kind of dish that makes dinner feel a little more special. 💛Tried this Tomato and Olive Sauce for Ravioli? I need to see it! Snap a pic, post it on Instagram and tag me @steph_cooks_stuff. so I can drool over your delicious plate.Save this recipe, share it with your pasta-loving mates, and don’t forget to double the batch… because leftover sauce = tomorrow’s lunch sorted.

Tomato and Olive sauce for Ravioli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pan, then add the garlic.
- Pour in the passata and water. Add sugar, oregano, thyme, stock powder, olives, salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and bring to the boil.
- Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- While the sauce is cooking, cook your pasta or ravioli according to the packet instructions.
- Add the spinach and basil leaves to your sauce, then stir through the cooked pasta or ravioli. Toss it all together until the greens are wilted and everything is coated in that beautiful sauce.
- Finish with freshly grated parmesan and enjoy!

