Ravioli (With Olive Oil, Italian Style)

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One of the most beloved and delicious dishes of Italian cuisine, ravioli adds an elegant touch to your table with its sophisticated presentation. These delicate pasta pockets, filled with a flavorful stuffing and topped with a rich sauce, create an unforgettable taste. Whether you are preparing a special meal for guests or simply treating yourself to a delightful dinner, making ravioli at home is an enjoyable and satisfying experience. Here, we bring you a step-by-step Italian ravioli recipe along with key tips to enhance its flavor.

Ravioli Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teacup water (if needed)

For the Filling:

  • 250 grams ricotta cheese
  • 100 grams grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Black pepper (optional)
  • A pinch of fresh basil (optional)

For the Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil (optional)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Ravioli Preparation

1. Prepare the Dough:

  • Place the flour and salt in a bowl. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the olive oil and mix.
  • Begin kneading the dough, adding water if necessary, until it reaches a smooth, non-sticky consistency. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

  • In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until combined. The filling should have a firm consistency that holds its shape. Optionally, add fresh basil for extra flavor.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

  • Divide the rested dough into two equal parts. Roll out one piece thinly and cut out circular shapes using a small glass or cutter. Repeat the process with the second piece of dough.
  • Place about a teaspoon of the filling onto each dough circle. Cover with another piece of dough and press the edges firmly with your fingers to seal. Ensure the edges are completely closed to prevent the filling from leaking out.

4. Boil the Ravioli:

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water. Carefully drop the ravioli into the water and cook for about 3–4 minutes. When the ravioli start floating to the surface, they are done.

5. Prepare the Sauce:

  • Melt the butter in a pan. Add the crushed garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
  • Transfer the boiled ravioli to the pan and toss them gently in the sauce for a few minutes.
  • Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.

Ravioli Sauce Recipe – Alternative Options

You can choose different sauces for your ravioli depending on the filling. Here are some great alternatives:

  • Tomato Sauce: A simple tomato sauce made with olive oil, garlic, and fresh tomatoes enhances the dish beautifully.
  • White Sauce: A creamy white sauce prepared with olive oil, milk, and cream adds richness to ravioli.

Tips for Making Ravioli at Home

When preparing ravioli, keep the following tips in mind:

  1. Kneading the Dough Properly: The dough should be elastic and bounce back when pressed. This prevents the ravioli from breaking during cooking.
  2. Perfect Filling Consistency: Avoid a runny filling, as it can leak out of the ravioli. It should be firm and hold its shape.
  3. Boiling the Water Well: Ensure the water is boiling before adding the ravioli. If the water is not hot enough, the ravioli may not cook properly and could fall apart.
  4. Enhancing the Sauce: Customize your sauce with olive oil and spices according to your taste. Different sauces will give your ravioli unique flavors.

This best Italian ravioli recipe allows you to enjoy one of the most delightful dishes of Italian cuisine in your own home. With delicate pasta sheets filled with delicious ingredients, ravioli is both an elegant and practical meal option. You can experiment with different sauces and fillings to create your perfect version.

Elevate the Flavor with Olive Oil!

When preparing ravioli with olive oil we recommend using cold-pressed olive oil. In this regard, Zöhre olive oil stands out as an excellent choice, enhancing the flavor of both the dough and the sauce.