Ravioli, a delicious and versatile Italian pasta dish, is a favorite for many. They are little pockets of pasta filled with various ingredients like cheese, meats, or vegetables – and they are easier to make at home than you might think. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make ravioli from scratch.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Dough:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour

– 3 large eggs

– 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1/2 cup chopped spinach (cooked and drained)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the pasta dough: On a clean surface or in a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour and crack the eggs into it. Use a fork to mix the eggs with the flour gradually until a rough dough forms.

2. Knead the dough: Once the dough has come together, start kneading it with your hands. Continue to knead for about 10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Rest the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.

4. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

5. Roll out the pasta dough: Divide the dough into four equal pieces. With a rolling pin or pasta machine, roll out each piece into thin sheets (about 1/8 inch thick).

6. Assemble ravioli: Lay one sheet of pasta dough onto a lightly floured surface. Place tablespoon-sized portions of filling about 1.5 inches apart on the pasta sheet. Moisten the edges of the pasta and in between the filling portions with water using your fingers or a pastry brush.

7. Place another sheet of rolled-out dough on top of the first one, gently pressing down around each filling portion to remove any air bubbles. Use a ravioli cutter or a knife to cut individual ravioli pieces by cutting in between each filling portion.

8. Cook the ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the ravioli into the boiling water and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked ravioli onto a plate.

9. Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or simply drizzled with olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese.

In conclusion, making homemade ravioli is not as daunting as it may seem. With some basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create delicious and satisfying meals for your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings, too – there are endless flavor combinations to explore!