Butternut Squash Ravioli

Name: Butternut Squash Ravioli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and cubed); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package of fresh pasta sheets; Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh sage leaves for garnish

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish, butternut squash ravioli is the perfect choice! This pasta dish is not only visually stunning but also rich in taste, blending sweet butternut squash with savory spices. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients

– 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of fresh pasta sheets
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Fresh sage leaves for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 4 ravioli) contains about 300 calories, 12g of protein, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber. This is based on a serving size of 4 ravioli.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast the squash for 25 minutes until tender.
Once cooled, mash the squash in a bowl.
Add ricotta, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the mashed squash.
Mix until well combined to create the filling.
Roll out the pasta sheets on a floured surface.
Place small dollops of filling on half the pasta sheet.
Fold the pasta over and press to seal around the filling.
Cut into individual ravioli and place on a floured surface.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the ravioli for 3-4 minutes until they float to the top.
Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with fresh sage.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute butternut squash with pumpkin or sweet potato for a different flavor profile. Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese or a vegan alternative like tofu for a dairy-free version.

Serving and Pairings

Butternut squash ravioli pairs beautifully with sage brown butter sauce, a fresh green salad, or a glass of white wine. Try serving it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer in water or sauté in olive oil. You can freeze uncooked ravioli for up to 2 months; just cook them directly from frozen.

Cooking Mistakes

Overfilling the ravioli can cause them to burst during cooking.
Not sealing the edges well may lead to filling leakage.
Using wet pasta sheets can make it hard to seal.
Cooking ravioli in boiling water that’s not salted can affect the flavor.
Not rolling the pasta thinly enough can result in chewy ravioli.

Helpful Tips

Use a fork to crimp the edges of the ravioli for a decorative touch.
Chill the filling before using it for easier handling.
Experiment with spices in the filling to create unique flavors.
Make a large batch and freeze for quick meals later.

FAQs

Can I make the ravioli dough from scratch?

Yes, making fresh pasta dough from scratch can enhance the flavor and texture of your ravioli. Combine flour and eggs, knead, and roll out to your desired thickness.

What sauce goes best with butternut squash ravioli?

A brown butter sage sauce complements the sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly. You can also consider a light cream sauce or a tomato-based sauce.

How can I tell when the ravioli are done cooking?

Ravioli are done when they float to the top of the boiling water. Cook them for an additional minute once they rise to ensure they are heated through.

Can I use store-bought ravioli?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought butternut squash ravioli can be a convenient and tasty option.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, butternut squash ravioli is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. Be sure to check the cheese if you are strict about dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Butternut squash ravioli is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. Whether served at a family gathering or a romantic dinner, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making this dish and savor every bite!