Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of butternut squash ravioli, a dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of squash with the heartiness of pasta. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or a family meal, this ravioli will impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process for this delectable dish!
Ingredients
– 2 cups butternut squash, roasted and pureed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Water as needed
– Fresh sage for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 ravioli) contains about 300 calories, 12g of protein, 10g of fat, and 45g of carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the butternut squash until tender.
2. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a food processor.
3. In a bowl, mix the butternut squash puree, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
4. Place the flour in a mound on a clean surface and make a well in the center.
5. Add the egg and olive oil into the well, mixing gradually with your fingers.
6. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
7. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
8. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or glass.
9. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
10. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the ricotta cheese with mascarpone for a creamier texture or use vegan alternatives like cashew cheese for a dairy-free option. Additionally, whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
Serve the butternut squash ravioli with a drizzle of brown butter and sage for a flavorful finish. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply boil in salted water for a few minutes until warmed through. Ravioli can also be frozen before cooking; just ensure they are well-separated and stored in a freezer-safe bag.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not sealing the edges properly can cause the filling to leak.
- Overcooking the ravioli can make them mushy.
- Using too much filling can make it hard to seal.
- Not resting the dough can lead to elasticity issues.
- Skipping the roasting step can result in less flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling.
- Experiment with different herbs in the filling for added flavor.
- Make a large batch and freeze extras for quick meals later.
- Taste the filling before sealing to adjust seasoning as needed.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought ravioli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought butternut squash ravioli if you’re short on time. Just follow package cooking instructions.
How do I know when the ravioli is cooked?
Ravioli is done when they float to the surface of the boiling water, usually within 3-5 minutes.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the ravioli.
What sauces pair well with butternut squash ravioli?
A brown butter sage sauce complements the sweetness of the squash nicely, but you can also use marinara or Alfredo sauce.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Dust the dough with flour while rolling and ensure the ravioli are well-floured before cooking to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Butternut squash ravioli is a delightful and satisfying dish that showcases seasonal flavors beautifully. Whether it’s a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy the rich taste and lovely presentation, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
Butternut Squash Ravioli
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash roasted and pureed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Water as needed
- Fresh sage for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the butternut squash until tender.
- Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a food processor.
- In a bowl, mix the butternut squash puree, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Place the flour in a mound on a clean surface and make a well in the center.
- Add the egg and olive oil into the well, mixing gradually with your fingers.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
Nutrition
