Cheese ravioli is one of those universal comfort foods that appeals to adults and kids alike. Over centuries this traditional Italian dish has become wildly popular all over the world. Although classic cheese ravioli has undergone many incarnations and recipe revisions, basic cheese ravioli still remains a favorite. This easy-to-follow homemade cheese ravioli recipe will take you and your guests back to old Italy.
Instructions
The Pasta
1. Combine 3 large eggs and 6 egg yolks in a large bowl. Using a whisk, mix until thoroughly combined.
2. Add 3 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp. olive oil and 2 tsp. salt. Using your hands, mix the ingredients well. If the dough is too dry, add a few drops of cool water.
3. Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes. Divide it into four balls, wrap them securely in plastic wrap and set them aside to rest for 1 hour.
The Filling
4. Combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup shredded fontina cheese, 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese and 2 egg yolks. Mix well.
5. Add 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1 tsp. salt and 1 tsp. pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
6. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
The Ravioli
7. Whisk together 4 egg whites in a small bowl. Set aside.
8. Dust a large work surface with flour. Using a well-floured rolling pin, roll out two of your balls of pasta into flat, thin rectangles.
9. Place single tablespoons of cheese mixture approximately 1 to 1 1/2-inches apart across and down one rolled pasta sheet until the sheet is filled.
10. Dip a small pastry brush in the egg whites and brush lightly around each dollop of cheese. Place the second rolled pasta sheet on top of the first. Carefully press the top sheet around the cheese dollops. Make sure the pasta sheets are sealed together around the cheese dollops.
11. Cut the ravioli squares using a ravioli cutter (a pizza cutter will also work).
12. Repeat Steps 2 through 5 with the remaining pasta and cheese filling.
13. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Place ravioli in the boiling water. Reduce heat to medium. Allow the ravioli to cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until they float to the surface of the water. Remove with a slotted spoon and place in a colander to drain.
14. Dress the ravioli in the sauce of your choice and serve. Suggestions: Marinara sauce or butter and parmesan cheese.
Tags: cheese ravioli, around cheese, around cheese dollops, cheese dollops, cheese shredded, parmesan cheese