Introduction
Ravioli is a classic Italian pasta dish that is loved all over the world for its delicious flavor and versatility. While it may seem daunting to make ravioli from scratch, it is actually quite easy and fun to do at home. With this recipe, you will learn how to make fresh, homemade ravioli stuffed with ricotta cheese and Parmesan, and topped with a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy Italian dinner at home!
Ingredients
For the pasta dough:
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
For the filling:
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 500ml tomato sauce
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Make the pasta dough by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a towel and let rest for 30 minutes.
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Make the filling by mixing the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
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Roll out the pasta dough using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares.
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Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each square. Brush the edges with water and fold in half to form a triangle. Press the edges to seal.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
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Make the sauce by heating the olive oil in a pan. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
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Serve the ravioli with the tomato sauce and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Variations
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Vegetarian: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegetarian alternative.
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Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute, and use a vegan cheese alternative for the filling.
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Meat: For a heartier version of this recipe, you can add meat to the filling. Ground beef, pork, or sausage all work well.
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Sauce: You can switch up the sauce to your liking. Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a simple butter and sage sauce all pair well with ravioli.
Conclusion
There you have it, a delicious and easy recipe for homemade ravioli. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner at home or a dish to impress your friends and family, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought ravioli for this recipe. However, if you have the time, making your own ravioli can be a fun and rewarding experience.
What type of cheese should I use for the filling?
Traditionally, a mixture of ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese is used for the filling. However, you can also experiment with different types of cheese or add other ingredients to the filling.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the ravioli.
How do I prevent the ravioli from sticking together?
Make sure to generously flour your work surface and the ravioli as you assemble them. You can also place the assembled ravioli on a floured baking sheet and freeze them before cooking to prevent sticking.
How long should I cook the ravioli?
Fresh ravioli will cook much faster than store-bought ravioli. Cook fresh ravioli for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, and store-bought ravioli for 4-6 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Can I freeze the ravioli?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled ravioli before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What sauce should I serve with the ravioli?
You can serve ravioli with a variety of sauces, such as tomato sauce, pesto, or a butter and sage sauce. Choose a sauce that complements the flavors of your filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cooked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Can I bake the ravioli instead of boiling?
Yes, you can bake the ravioli instead of boiling them. Place the assembled ravioli in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
How do I make sure the ravioli are cooked through?
To check if the ravioli are cooked through, cut one open and check that the filling is hot and the pasta is cooked but still slightly firm to the bite.
