Butternut Squash Ravioli
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of butternut squash ravioli, a dish that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This homemade pasta is filled with creamy butternut squash and served with a delightful sage butter sauce, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe will impress with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 medium butternut squash, roasted and pureed
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh sage leaves
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 ravioli) contains:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by preheating your 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 blender.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the squash puree, ricotta cheese, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese.
4. In another bowl, mix the flour, egg, olive oil, and salt to form a dough.
5. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
7. Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your desired ravioli shape.
8. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough piece.
9. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
10. Bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the ravioli for about 3-4 minutes until they float.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the ricotta cheese with mascarpone for a richer filling. Additionally, use whole wheat flour for a healthier pasta option. For a vegan version, try using silken tofu instead of cheese and egg.
Serving and Pairings
Serve butternut squash ravioli with a drizzle of sage butter sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts. Pair it with a fresh arugula salad or a light white wine for a delightful meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet with a bit of olive oil or butter. Ravioli can also be frozen before cooking; just ensure they are well-separated on a baking sheet.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the ravioli can cause them to break apart.
- Not sealing the edges properly can lead to filling leakage.
- Using too much flour can make the dough tough.
- Skipping the resting time for the dough can result in poor texture.
- Not tasting the filling can lead to bland ravioli.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs in the filling for unique tastes.
- Make a larger batch and freeze for quick meals later.
- Pair the dish with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make the ravioli dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to use it.
How can I tell when the ravioli are done cooking?
Ravioli are typically done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. Cooking time is usually around 3-4 minutes.
Can I use other fillings besides butternut squash?
Absolutely! You can fill ravioli with various ingredients like cheese, mushrooms, or spinach, depending on your preference.
What sauce pairs well with butternut squash ravioli?
A brown butter sage sauce complements the flavors beautifully, but you can also use a light cream sauce or marinara.
Can I freeze cooked ravioli?
It is best to freeze uncooked ravioli. Cooked ravioli may lose their texture when thawed and reheated.
Conclusion
Butternut squash ravioli is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. With its creamy filling and delicate pasta, it serves as a perfect comfort food. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delightful dish and embrace the joys of cooking!
Butternut Squash Ravioli
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium butternut squash roasted and pureed
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh sage leaves
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the butternut squash until tender.
- Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the squash puree, ricotta cheese, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, egg, olive oil, and salt to form a dough.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on your desired ravioli shape.
- Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each dough piece.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges with a fork.
- Bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook the ravioli for about 3-4 minutes until they float.
