Butternut Squash Ravioli
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of butternut squash ravioli, a dish that effortlessly combines seasonal ingredients with a touch of sophistication. This homemade pasta, filled with roasted butternut squash and spices, is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. Pair it with sage butter or a light cream sauce for an unforgettable meal that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1 medium butternut squash
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh sage leaves
– Pine nuts (for garnish)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, while cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approx. 4 ravioli) contains about 320 calories, 12g protein, 45g carbohydrates, 10g fat, and 5g fiber. This is based on a typical serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
4. Scoop out the flesh and combine in a bowl with ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, mix flour and eggs to form a dough.
6. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
7. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into squares.
8. Place a small spoonful of filling on half of the squares.
9. Moisten the edges with water, then fold and seal the ravioli.
10. Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes until they float.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use pumpkin instead of butternut squash for a similar flavor. Additionally, swap ricotta for mascarpone for a creamier filling, or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Serve butternut squash ravioli with sage brown butter sauce for a classic pairing. It also complements a light salad or roasted vegetables beautifully.
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 butter or olive oil. Ravioli can also be frozen for up to 2 months; cook from frozen without thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the ravioli can make them mushy.
- Not sealing the ravioli properly can cause them to open during cooking.
- Using too much filling can lead to burst ravioli.
- Not flouring the surface can cause sticking.
- Skipping the resting time for the dough can make it hard to roll out.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste the filling before sealing the ravioli.
- Keep your dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Use a pasta machine for even thickness.
- Experiment with different herbs in the filling for variety.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make butternut squash ravioli ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ravioli in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a day or freeze them for later use. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
What sauces pair well with butternut squash ravioli?
Sage brown butter sauce is a classic choice. You can also use a light cream sauce or a simple garlic olive oil dressing to enhance the flavors.
How do I know when the ravioli are done cooking?
Ravioli are typically done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. Cooking them for an additional minute after they float ensures they are heated through.
Can I use store-bought ravioli instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought butternut squash ravioli for convenience. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
What can I serve with butternut squash ravioli?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Butternut squash ravioli is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its rich filling and versatile sauce options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this dish as a comforting meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Butternut Squash Ravioli
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh sage leaves
- Pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Scoop out the flesh and combine in a bowl with ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour and eggs to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Roll out the dough thinly and cut into squares.
- Place a small spoonful of filling on half of the squares.
- Moisten the edges with water, then fold and seal the ravioli.
- Cook the ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes until they float.
