Imagine sinking your teeth into pillowy soft ravioli, bursting with a vibrant, creamy filling of ricotta cheese and zesty lemon. This isn't your average pasta dish; Tuscan Lemon Ricotta Ravioli elevates the classic to a new level of culinary artistry. The bright, citrusy notes of the lemon perfectly complement the rich, smooth ricotta, creating a harmonious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a delicate touch of freshness, while a simple yet elegant sauce ties everything together beautifully.
This recipe expertly balances simplicity with sophistication, making it achievable for both seasoned cooks and enthusiastic beginners. From creating the perfect pasta dough to crafting the delicate ravioli shapes, we'll guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a delicious and rewarding culinary experience. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- marble slab
- pasta machine (or rolling pin)
- pasta cutter (or knife)
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Make the Pasta and Filling
- Combine 00 flour, eggs, and egg yolks. Knead until smooth and elastic. Let it rest for at least an hour.
- Mix ricotta, herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, mint, oregano, sage), spinach, and a hint of nutmeg.
- Use a pasta machine or rolling pin to create thin sheets of pasta.
Step 2. Assemble and Cook the Ravioli
- Spoon the filling onto one sheet of pasta. Top with another sheet and press to seal, removing air bubbles. Cut into individual ravioli.
- Boil in salted water for 1.5 minutes. Add pasta water to the sauce to create a creamy consistency.
Step 3. Prepare the Lemon Sage Sauce
- Sauté garlic in butter and olive oil. Add lemon juice and fresh sage.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Toss the cooked ravioli in the sauce. Garnish with parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Use a smooth, cold surface for pasta preparation.
- Sprinkle semolina on your work surface to prevent sticking.
- Don't overfill the ravioli.
- Add pasta water to the sauce for creaminess.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make the ravioli dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
2. What kind of cheese is best for the filling?
Whole milk ricotta is ideal for its creamy texture. Avoid using part-skim or low-fat ricotta as it will be less creamy.
3. What sauce pairs well with these ravioli?
A simple brown butter sage sauce, a light lemon-butter sauce, or even a fresh tomato sauce would all complement the ravioli beautifully.
This Tuscan Lemon Ricotta Ravioli recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat. From the homemade pasta dough to the bright, zesty filling, each element contributes to an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, and savor every delicious bite!