The Ideal Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli Recipe for Cosy Evenings
This ricotta and spinach ravioli fills your kitchen with the enticing aroma of fresh pasta and a savoury filling. The mix of creamy ricotta with bright spinach creates a dish that is both rich and accessible. I stumbled upon this recipe a few years ago, and since then it has become a dependable option when I crave a homemade meal that is hearty yet refreshing.
This recipe works for both experienced cooks and beginners. Its straightforward method uses everyday ingredients while still offering room for your personal creative twist. The fresh pasta tightly encloses a delicate filling that is not only pleasing to the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds—a perfect choice for a cosy evening at home.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- No Special Tools Needed. You can create this dish using standard kitchen tools and a little patience.
- Fresh, Light Flavour. Combining ricotta, spinach, and simple seasonings results in a truly delightful taste.
- Comfort in Every Bite. This meal offers a warm and satisfying experience, ideal for cooler nights.
- Room for Creativity. The basic formula lets you adjust with added herbs or a splash of lemon zest to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Below is an all-in-one list of components that work together to make this savoury dish. Gathering everything ahead of time ensures a smooth cooking process.
- Pasta Dough: (2 cups all-purpose flour, 3 large eggs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a splash of water if needed)
- Filling: (1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese, 1 cup fresh spinach chopped, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 clove garlic minced, salt and pepper to taste, plus a pinch of nutmeg if desired)
- For Serving: (Your favourite tomato or cream sauce along with fresh basil or parsley for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta Dough
Begin by pouring the flour onto a clean work surface and forming a well in the centre. Crack the eggs into the well and add the salt and olive oil. Using a fork, slowly draw in the flour from the sides until a dough starts to form. Once combined, knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it turns smooth and elastic. If the dough feels a bit dry, add a small splash of water. Then, cover the dough with plastic or a bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes so that the gluten relaxes.
2. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is resting, mix together the ricotta, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic in a medium bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you enjoy a subtle spice. Stir the ingredients until they are evenly blended. Taste a small spoonful and, if needed, adjust the seasoning to ensure the filling remains well balanced.
3. Assemble the Ravioli
After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions. Using either a pasta machine or a rolling pin, roll each portion into a thin sheet. Lay a sheet on your work surface and spoon small teaspoons of the filling at intervals of about 1 inch apart. Fold the dough over the filling or overlay with another pasta sheet. Press firmly around each mound with your fingers or the tines of a fork to seal the edges completely so that the filling stays inside during cooking.
4. Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the ravioli in batches, stirring softly so they do not stick together. They will begin to float to the surface when done, which usually happens in about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them since fresh pasta cooks very quickly and you want to avoid overcooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked ravioli and gently toss them with your chosen sauce. Whether you opt for a simple tomato basil sauce or a creamy garlic sauce, the sauce will give a boost to the overall flavour. Finish by sprinkling extra Parmesan and drizzling a little olive oil over the top for an extra special touch.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour during kneading until it firms up.
- Mix in finely chopped herbs like basil or parsley into the filling for an additional burst of flavour.
- For a richer and creamier filling, try combining ricotta with a bit of mascarpone cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought pasta sheets?
A: Yes, high-quality store-bought pasta sheets can work just fine if rolling your own feels too challenging. Just handle them with care when assembling your ravioli.
Q: How can I avoid tearing the ravioli during cooking?
A: Ensure that the edges are well sealed and avoid overfilling each piece. This careful approach helps keep the ravioli intact during boiling.
Share Your Culinary Creation!
Give this ricotta and spinach ravioli recipe a try and enjoy the blend of homemade charm and fresh, light flavours. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to put your personal stamp on the dish. Cooking is more than just preparing a meal—it’s a creative adventure that brings people together. Enjoy making this recipe and be sure to share your results with friends and family for a truly memorable dining experience.