Cheese And Ravioli: Perfect Pairing For Pasta Delights

Homemade ravioli is a fun and rewarding experience, and the type of cheese you use for the filling plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavour and texture. The most popular cheeses used in ravioli fillings are ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella. These three cheeses come together to create a creamy, salty, and mildly spicy blend that pairs well with various sauces.

While the classic trio of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella is a crowd favourite, you can also experiment with other combinations. Some alternatives include asiago, pecorino, provolone, gorgonzola, fontina, goat cheese, and smoked cheeses. The versatility of ravioli fillings allows you to customise the recipe to your taste preferences.

In addition to the cheese, other ingredients such as eggs, herbs, and spices are added to enhance the flavour and texture of the filling. The type of dough used to envelop the filling is also essential, with options like all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and double-zero flour available.

What are some good cheese combinations for ravioli filling?

Good Cheese Combinations for Ravioli Filling

Ravioli is a type of pasta that is enveloped within two thin layers of pasta. The filling for ravioli can be made with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. Here are some good cheese combinations for ravioli filling:

• Ricotta, Parmesan, and Mozzarella: This combination is commonly used in ravioli filling, providing a smooth, subtle, and creamy texture.
• Ricotta, Parmesan, and Provolone: A variation of the previous combination, provolone adds a salty and tangy flavour to the filling.
• Ricotta, Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Egg: Adding an egg to the previous combinations can help bind the cheeses together and create a richer filling.
• Ricotta, Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Spinach: Spinach adds a healthy boost of nutrients and flavour to the classic cheese combination.
• Gorgonzola, Ricotta, and Parmesan: For a richer and more indulgent filling, gorgonzola can be added to the classic combination.
• Goat Cheese, Ricotta, and Parmesan: Goat cheese provides a tangy and creamy twist to the classic combination.
• Asiago, Ricotta, and Parmesan: Asiago has a sharp and nutty flavour that can enhance the classic combination.
• Fontina, Ricotta, and Parmesan: Fontina is a mild and creamy cheese that can add a rich and buttery flavour to the classic combination.

When creating ravioli filling, it is important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. The cheese combinations mentioned above can be further customised by adding various herbs, spices, and other ingredients such as nuts or vegetables. Additionally, the type of pasta dough and sauce used can also enhance the overall flavour and texture of the ravioli.

What are some tips for making ravioli dough?

Making ravioli dough from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect ravioli dough:

• Ingredients— For the dough, you will need all-purpose flour, salt, eggs, water, and olive oil. You can also use "00" flour, also known as pizza flour, for a more delicate dough. Additionally, semolina flour can be used to prevent sticking and add texture.
• Mixing the Dough— Create a well in the centre of your flour and add the eggs, olive oil, and salt. Gradually mix the egg mixture into the flour, being careful not to break the well. Once the egg mixture thickens, break the well and mix in the remaining flour.
• Kneading the Dough— Knead the dough by hand until it becomes smooth and elastic. This should take about 8 to 15 minutes. The dough should have a consistent texture, similar to modelling clay, and bounce back when poked.
• Resting the Dough— Wrap the dough tightly and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to relax the gluten. This is also a good time to make the ravioli filling.
• Adjusting Consistency— If your dough is too wet and sticky, add a bit more flour. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a small amount of water. The ideal dough will form a smooth ball after kneading and will spring back when pressed.
• Rolling the Dough— Use a pasta machine or a rolling pin to roll the dough into thin sheets. If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually adjust to thinner settings. Fold the dough in thirds like a letter and pass it through the machine multiple times to achieve a rectangular shape. Continue until the desired thickness is achieved.
• Drying the Ravioli— Before boiling your ravioli, let them dry for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps improve the texture, as freshly cut ravioli can be slightly gummy when boiled immediately.
• Freezing Ravioli— If you're not planning to serve the ravioli immediately, you can freeze them for later. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen ravioli to an airtight container and store them in the freezer.

How do you make ravioli filling?

Making ravioli and filling from scratch might sound daunting, but it's an achievable, fun, and rewarding experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make ravioli filling:

Ingredients

Firstly, gather your ingredients. For a simple cheese filling, you will need:

• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• An egg
• Dried parsley
• Salt and pepper

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as gorgonzola, fontina, goat cheese, pecorino, asiago, or even smoked cheeses.

Mixing the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the filling ingredients and mix them well. You can use a fork or a whisk to break up any lumps and ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

For a smoother filling, you can use a food processor or blender to mix the ingredients. However, this is not necessary if you are mixing by hand.

Once the filling is prepared, set it aside and cover it to prevent it from drying out while you prepare the ravioli dough.

Draining the Ricotta Cheese (Optional)

If you are using store-bought ricotta cheese, it is highly recommended to drain it overnight before mixing it with the other ingredients. This step will help remove excess liquid, preventing your filling from becoming watery and grainy. It also helps to prevent the filling from seeping out of the ravioli during cooking.

To drain the ricotta, place it in a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl, cover it, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Tips for a Successful Filling

• Make sure the ricotta cheese is well-drained, especially if using store-bought ricotta.
• Season the filling generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavour.
• Be careful not to overmix the filling, as it can make it runny.
• If you want a creamier filling, you can substitute some of the ricotta with mascarpone cheese.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese and add-ins, such as herbs, spices, or cooked meats.

Now that you have a delicious ravioli filling ready, you can follow the steps to make the ravioli dough, assemble the ravioli, and cook them to perfection!

What are some good sauces to serve with ravioli?

There are many different sauces that can be served with ravioli, depending on the filling and your personal preference. Here are some ideas for sauces that would pair well with ravioli:

Cream Sauce

A simple cream sauce is a classic choice for cheese-filled ravioli, particularly those with spinach and ricotta filling. This sauce can be made with just a few basic ingredients such as cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. It is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Tomato Sauce

A tomato-based sauce is another popular choice for ravioli. This can be a simple combination of tomatoes, garlic, and basil, or you could try something more complex like a sun-dried tomato pesto sauce. If you're looking for a healthier option, a quick tomato and basil sauce is a good choice.

Pesto Sauce

A pesto sauce, such as basil pesto, can be a delicious option for ravioli. Pesto adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the dish. You could also experiment with different types of pesto, such as Tuscan kale pesto or chilli pesto, to create endless variations.

Alfredo Sauce

An Alfredo sauce is a creamy, cheesy sauce that pairs well with ravioli. It can be made with ingredients such as butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This sauce is rich and indulgent, so it's perfect for a special occasion or when you're craving comfort food.

Marinara Sauce

A marinara sauce is a classic choice for ravioli and is particularly well-suited to cheese ravioli. It is a simple tomato-based sauce that is usually made with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It is a light and elegant option that highlights the cheese without overpowering it.

Garlic Sauce

A garlic sauce is another simple yet delicious option for ravioli. It is made by infusing olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes, giving it a savory and spicy flavor. This sauce is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

When choosing a sauce for ravioli, consider the filling of the ravioli and your personal preference for flavor combinations. You can also get creative and experiment with different types of cheese, herbs, and spices to create your own unique sauce.

What are some good side dishes to serve with ravioli?

Ravioli is a hearty dish, so it is best paired with lighter side dishes. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement your ravioli:

Salads

A simple side salad is always a good option to accompany a hearty main course like ravioli. Some specific types of salad that go well with ravioli include:

• Mixed greens salad with arugula, cucumber, and tomatoes or pomegranate, dressed with lemon and olive oil
• Panzanella (an Italian bread and tomato salad)
• Strawberry caprese salad
• Caesar salad

Breads

Bread is a classic side dish for Italian meals, and ravioli is no exception. Here are some bread options to serve with ravioli:

• Focaccia
• Ciabatta
• Garlic bread
• Bruschetta
• Parmesan bread bites

Vegetables

Vegetables are a great way to add some colour and nutrition to your meal. Here are some vegetable side dish ideas to serve with ravioli:

• Crispy Brussels sprouts with maple bacon
• Green bean casserole
• Pan-fried or steamed asparagus
• Spiced roasted butternut squash
• Crispy air fryer eggplant
• Grilled cherry tomatoes
• Roasted vegetables (e.g. carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, turnips, parsnips)
• Charred broccoli or broccoli rabe
• Pan-fried mushrooms
• Charred zucchini
• Steamed spinach
• Parmesan green beans

Proteins

If you want to add some extra protein to your meal, here are some ideas:

• Tuscan chicken
• Seafood with creamy sauce
• Crispy baked chicken parmesan
• Crispy air fryer salmon

Frequently asked questions