Cheese Ravioli

Cheese Ravioli - A homemade delicacy, full of flavor

Ravioli, those small jewels of the kitchen, are a perfect choice for a tasty and comforting meal. These stuffed pasta are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a pleasant cooking activity, perfect for spending time with loved ones. In this recipe, we will explore together the necessary steps to obtain delicious cheese ravioli that will bring a touch of magic to your table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 7 minutes
Total time: 37 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 3 fresh eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Approximately 300 g of flour (plus extra for dusting)

For the filling:
- 2 packages of cream cheese with herbs (approximately 400 g)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of flour (optional, for consistency)

A brief story about ravioli

Ravioli are a type of traditional pasta, filled with various ingredients, from cheese and meat to vegetables. This simple cheese ravioli recipe is a classic reinterpretation, perfect for those who appreciate the rich taste of cheese combined with the delicate texture of fresh dough. Cooking at home not only gives us control over the ingredients but also a sense of fulfillment and joy.

Step by step in preparing ravioli

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Start whisking with a whisk or a fork until the eggs become frothy.
2. Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. The dough should be non-sticky and easy to shape. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This resting time will help the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a separate bowl, add the cream cheese and the 2 eggs. Mix well with a fork or hand mixer until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
2. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of flour to thicken the filling, but this is optional. Taste the mixture and, if necessary, add a little salt to balance the flavors.

Step 3: Forming the ravioli

1. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts. You can keep one part in the refrigerator for later use.
2. Dust flour on the work surface and roll out the dough into a thin sheet using a rolling pin. The sheets of dough should be very thin, but not so thin that they break.
3. Using a glass or a round cutter, cut circles from the dough. In the center of each circle, add a teaspoon of the cheese filling.
4. Lightly moisten the edges of the circle with water (you can use your finger) and fold the dough to form the ravioli. Press the edges with your fingers and then with a fork to ensure a good seal.

Step 4: Boiling the ravioli

1. In a large pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. Make sure the water is well salted to flavor the pasta.
2. When the water is boiling, carefully add the ravioli. Boil them for about 7 minutes. It is recommended to take one ravioli out and taste it to check if it is cooked.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ravioli from the water and let them drain well.

Step 5: Serving

Cheese ravioli are best served warm. You can choose to pair them with sour cream and tomato sauce or with a simple butter and sage sauce. A garnish of grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves will add an extra touch of flavor.

Helpful tips for a successful recipe

- Use fresh eggs for a tastier dough and a creamier filling.
- If you have leftover dough, you can freeze it for later use. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap.
- Experiment with different fillings: you can add spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier dough, but it may require more water to achieve the desired consistency.

2. How can I make ravioli without eggs?
For a vegan version, you can use water and flour to form the dough. The filling can be made with tofu and your favorite spices.

3. Can I prepare ravioli in advance?
Absolutely! You can form the ravioli and freeze them. When you want to cook them, boil them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of cheese ravioli contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. These pasta are rich in protein from eggs and cheese, providing a good source of calcium and essential nutrients.

Conclusion

Making cheese ravioli at home is a fulfilling and joyful experience. With each step, you will discover not only the joy of cooking but also the pleasure of savoring a delicious dish made with love. So, dare to try this recipe and enjoy every flavorful bite!