[[{“value”:”When dining at an Italian restaurant, it’s easy to stick with the usual appetizers–garlic bread, bread and olive oil, calamari, etc. But if toasted ravioli is on the menu, it’s worth giving this crispy favorite a try. It’s an especially good choice for the table when you want something easy to share before the main course. “Toasted ravioli is a classic Italian American appetizer, and when it’s done right, it’s hard to stop at just one,” says Dennis Littley, Chef and Culinary Expert at Ask Chef Dennis. “The ravioli should have a crisp, golden coating that gives way to a tender pasta shell and a flavorful filling. Serve it hot with marinara sauce for dipping, and you have a crowd-pleasing starter that’s perfect for sharing.” Of course, not every restaurant has worthy toasted ravioli, so to highlight the best ones, Chef Dennis shares his four favorite spots.
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
Biaggi’s is a good place to start if you’re looking for a less predictable appetizer to kick off your meal. “Biaggi’s Fried Ravioli is a delicious way to start an Italian meal, especially when you’re craving something crispy and comforting, says Chef Dennis. “The golden exterior gives way to a tender ravioli filling, and marinara sauce adds the bright tomato flavor that makes this appetizer such a classic. It’s a great dish to share around the table before the main course arrives.”
Olive Garden
For a familiar chain with a broad Italian-American menu, Olive Garden is a great spot to order this appetizer. “Olive Garden’s Toasted Ravioli is a familiar favorite for good reason,” he says. “The crisp coating, savory filling, and marinara dipping sauce make this a simple but satisfying appetizer that works for just about any occasion. It’s especially good when served hot, while the outside is still crunchy.”
BRAVO! Italian Kitchen
BRAVO! takes a slightly different route with its ravioli appetizer, making it a standout among the more traditional options. According to Chef Dennis, “BRAVO! Italian Kitchen’s Crispy Mozz Ravioli offers a fun twist on the traditional toasted ravioli appetizer.” He adds, “With mozzarella as the star, it brings that rich, cheesy flavor that pairs so well with a crisp exterior and a side of marinara for dipping. It’s a great pick for cheese lovers who want a shareable starter.”
Johnny Carino’s
Johnny Carino’s rounds out the list with a straightforward appetizer that fits easily into a casual Italian meal. “Johnny Carino’s Fried Ravioli is another Italian restaurant favorite that delivers the combination of crispy pasta and a savory filling,” he says. “Served with marinara for dipping, it’s a comforting appetizer that brings familiar Italian flavors to the table. This is the kind of starter that’s easy to share, although you may want to order an extra plate.”
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