Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Why it’s great for your cooking channel: This recipe is perfect for your cooking channel because it showcases a classic Italian dish that’s both impressive and comforting. The step-by-step process of making fresh pasta from scratch and creating a delicious filling can attract viewers who want to learn more about homemade pasta. Additionally, the rich tomato sauce adds a flavorful touch, and the visual appeal of the ravioli being served will make the video engaging and appealing.
Description: Homemade Ravioli are delicious, delicate pasta pockets filled with a creamy blend of ricotta and spinach, topped with a rich tomato sauce. The fresh pasta dough is rolled out and stuffed with a flavorful filling, then boiled until tender. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, making it a standout meal for any occasion.
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Serving size: Serves 4
Ingredients:
For the Pasta Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and cooked
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta Dough:
- On a clean surface, make a mound of flour and create a well in the center.
- Crack the eggs into the well, add the salt and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs using a fork or your fingers.
- Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two portions. On a floured surface, roll out one portion into a thin sheet (about 1/16-inch thick). You can use a rolling pin or a pasta machine for this.
- Place small spoonfuls of filling (about 1 teaspoon each) evenly spaced on one sheet of the rolled-out dough.
- Form the Ravioli:
- Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the filled dough.
- Gently press around each mound of filling to seal, making sure there are no air bubbles.
- Use a ravioli cutter or a knife to cut out individual ravioli, pressing the edges to seal.
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float and are tender. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float and are tender. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Toss the cooked ravioli in the tomato sauce or serve the sauce on top. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
- Toss the cooked ravioli in the tomato sauce or serve the sauce on top. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Final Thoughts: Making Homemade Ravioli from scratch is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. The fresh pasta combined with the creamy ricotta and spinach filling offers a wonderful contrast in textures, while the rich tomato sauce adds a classic touch. This dish is ideal for special occasions or a cozy family meal, and it provides an excellent opportunity for viewers to learn and appreciate the art of pasta-making. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a beautiful and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress!
