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Spinach Ravioli with Ricotta

This Spinach Ravioli with Ricotta is a classic Italian pasta recipe featuring delicate homemade pasta filled with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Served with a simple butter sage or marinara sauce, it's a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 29 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 445

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Dough
  • cups (300 g) Italian "00" flour or all-purpose flour
  • 3 Large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg yolk
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
For Serving
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 fresh sage leaves
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Pasta machine or rolling pin
  • 1 Ravioli cutter or ravioli stamp
  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Slotted spoon
  • 1 Food processor
  • 1 Medium skillet
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Set measuring cups
  • 1 Set measuring spoons
  • 1 Pastry brush
  • 1 Cheese Grater
  • 1 Baking tray

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the eggs and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
  2. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Wrap the dough tightly and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Cook the spinach in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Let it cool, then squeeze out all excess moisture and chop finely.
  5. In a bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg yolk, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). Mix until smooth.
  6. Roll the dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin.
  7. Place small spoonfuls of filling onto one sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each mound.
  8. Brush water around each mound, cover with another pasta sheet, and press firmly to remove air pockets.
  9. Cut the ravioli using a ravioli cutter or stamp.
  10. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
  11. Cook the ravioli for 3–4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
  12. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a skillet and cook the sage leaves until fragrant.
  13. Transfer the ravioli to the skillet and gently toss to coat.
  14. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Resting the dough makes it easier to roll and improves texture.
  • Squeeze the spinach well to prevent a watery filling.
  • Avoid overfilling the ravioli to prevent bursting during cooking.
  • Freeze uncooked ravioli on a floured baking tray for up to 2 months.
  • Serve with browned butter, marinara sauce, or a light cream sauce.