Discover the perfect recipe for Ravioli di Ricotta e Spinaci, a classic Italian dish featuring homemade ravioli stuffed with a delicious blend of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating tender pasta pockets filled with a creamy, savory mixture, ideal for a comforting meal. Perfect for any occasion, learn how to make this traditional Italian favorite from scratch!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 3 large eggs

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling:

- 1 cup ricotta cheese

- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 1 clove garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - On a clean surface, make a mound with the flour and create a well in the center.

  - Crack the eggs into the well, add salt and olive oil.

  - Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.

  - Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  - Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

  - Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Assemble the Ravioli:

  - Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/16-inch thickness.

  - Use a ravioli cutter or a knife to cut the dough into squares or circles.

  - Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of half of the dough pieces.

  - Moisten the edges with water, then place another piece of dough on top.

  - Press down around the filling to seal, making sure there are no air bubbles.

  - Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the ravioli.

Cook the Ravioli:

  - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  - Gently drop the ravioli into the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

  - Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.

Prepare the Sauce:

  - In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

  - Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  - Toss the cooked ravioli in the butter and garlic mixture.

  - Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Serve and Enjoy:

  - Serve the ravioli warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

This recipe yields delicious, homemade ravioli that’s perfect for a hearty meal. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right at home!

Nutritional values

For the Dough:

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups):

   - Calories: 455

   - Fat: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 95g

   - Protein: 13g

Benefits:

   - Provides a base for the dough with essential carbohydrates for energy.

   - Contains small amounts of protein and fiber, depending on the type of flour used.

Large Eggs (3):

   - Calories: 72

   - Fat: 5g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Protein: 6g

Benefits:

   - High in protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

   - Provides essential vitamins like B12 and nutrients like choline, important for brain health.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon):

   - Sodium: 1,200mg (for the entire recipe)

Benefits:

   - Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

   - Calories: 120

   - Fat: 14g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health.

   - Adds flavor and helps with the dough’s texture.

For the Filling:

Ricotta Cheese (1 cup):

   - Calories: 300

   - Fat: 24g

   - Carbohydrates: 8g

   - Protein: 14g

Benefits:

   - Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.

   - Provides a creamy texture and mild flavor.

Fresh Spinach (1 cup, chopped and sautéed):

   - Calories: 41

   - Fat: 0.5g

   - Carbohydrates: 7g

   - Protein: 5g

Benefits:

   - High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants.

   - Supports eye health, immune function, and overall wellness.

Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup):

   - Calories: 110

   - Fat: 8g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Protein: 10g

Benefits:

   - Provides additional protein and calcium.

   - Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the filling.

Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon):

   - Calories: 3

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.8g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

   - Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

   - Salt: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation.

   - Black Pepper: Minimal calories, adds flavor, and may aid in digestion.

For the Sauce:

Butter (2 tablespoons):

   - Calories: 102

   - Fat: 12g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.

   - Contains vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune function.

Garlic (1 clove, minced):

   - Calories: 4

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Protein: 0.2g

Benefits:

   - Contains allicin, which may have antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.

   - Adds a pungent flavor and aroma.

Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup):

   - Calories: 110

   - Fat: 8g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Protein: 10g

Benefits:

   - Adds a sharp, salty flavor and provides protein and calcium.

Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish):

   - Calories: 1

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

   - Protein: 0.1g

Benefits:

   - Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and K.

   - Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.

This recipe combines rich and creamy ingredients with nutritious vegetables and herbs. The dough provides a base with essential carbohydrates and proteins, while the filling is packed with calcium, protein, and vitamins from ricotta cheese and spinach. The sauce adds richness and flavor with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Fresh basil enhances the dish with its aromatic properties. Overall, the dish is balanced with proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of beneficial nutrients.