Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Red or pink food coloring (for a festive touch)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 fresh sage leaves (or your favorite herb)
- Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for a creamy finish
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Make the Dough: On a clean surface, form a well in the center of the flour. Crack the eggs into the well, add salt, and drizzle in olive oil. Slowly mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.
- Knead: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add food coloring during this step if desired.
- Rest: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out.
Make the Filling
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, spinach (if using), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Refrigerate: Chill the filling while you prepare the dough. This makes it easier to handle.
Shape the Ravioli
- Roll the Dough: Divide the dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
- Cut Hearts: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out pairs of dough.
- Assemble: Place a small spoonful of filling onto half of the hearts. Brush the edges with water and top with another heart, pressing the edges to seal.
- Crimp Edges: Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for extra security.
Cook the Ravioli
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
- Cook Ravioli: Add the ravioli in batches, cooking for 2-4 minutes or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Prepare the Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until fragrant.
- Optional Cream: For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and heat until warmed through.
Serve
- Plate the Ravioli: Arrange the ravioli on plates and drizzle with the sage butter sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a few fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 min.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 (approximately 20 ravioli)
- Calories: 350-450 calories (varies by filling)
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 12g