These vibrant beet ravioli are not just beautiful but also packed with flavor! The sweet, earthy beets create a lovely dough that wraps around a creamy filling, making each bite a delight.
Making homemade pasta sounds fancy, but I promise it’s easier than it looks! Plus, your friends will be amazed when you tell them you made these colorful goodies from scratch! 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beets: Roasted or steamed beets give the pasta its beautiful color and sweetness. You can substitute with store-bought beet puree if you’re short on time, but fresh beets bring better flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well for the dough, but if you want a healthier option, try whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just add a little extra water if the dough seems too dry.
Ricotta Cheese: You need this creamy cheese for the filling. If you want something richer, mixing in mascarpone works too. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or tofu blended until smooth.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick. Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute if you like a stronger flavor. Nutritional yeast is an excellent vegan alternative.
Spinach: This is optional, but it adds color and nutrition. You could also use chopped fresh herbs like basil or even kale for a different twist.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Sealed Ravioli?
Sealing ravioli might seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get the hang of it. First, ensure there is no air trapped between the layers, as it may cause them to burst while cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Brush water around the filling before folding the pasta over. This helps create a strong seal.
- Press down gently to eliminate air pockets. You can also use your fingers to shape and seal the edges.
- To further ensure they stay sealed, press the edges with a fork. This adds a pretty pattern too.
If your dough is well-rested and not too dry, these steps will result in beautifully sealed ravioli ready for cooking!
How to Make Beet Ravioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beet Pasta Dough:
- 2 medium beets, peeled and roasted or steamed until soft
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For The Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh spinach (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh herbs (e.g., mint or basil), finely chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Cracked pink peppercorns or chili flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking and assembling. Once you have everything ready, you can enjoy a delicious meal in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Beet Puree:
Start by roughly chopping the cooked beets and blending them in a food processor until you have a smooth puree. This vibrant mixture will be the star of your pasta dough!
2. Make Beet Pasta Dough:
On a clean surface or in a large bowl, mound the flour and create a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well, then add olive oil and salt. Pour in the beet puree and gradually mix using a fork, incorporating the flour slowly. Once mixed, knead the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth and elastic, which should take around 8-10 minutes. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare Filling:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, chopped spinach (if using), minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix everything well until it’s smooth and ready to fill your ravioli.
4. Roll Out Dough:
After resting, divide the dough into two equal parts. Using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, roll each part into thin sheets to about 1/16 inch thick, dusting with flour as needed to avoid sticking.
5. Assemble Ravioli:
Place teaspoons of the filling about 1 inch apart on one sheet of rolled pasta. Brush a little water around the filling to help seal the ravioli. Lay the second sheet over the first and press down gently around each mound to remove any air bubbles. Cut the ravioli into rounds with a fluted cutter or knife, and seal the edges with a fork for extra security.
6. Cook Ravioli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the ravioli into the water in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove them carefully with a slotted spoon and drain.
7. Prepare Butter Sauce:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, allowing it to brown slightly and develop a delicious nutty aroma. Once it’s ready, take it off the heat.
8. Serve:
Plate your cooked ravioli and drizzle with the warm brown butter sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and add optional cracked pink peppercorns or chili flakes for a little heat. A fresh sprig of mint or basil on top makes it look extra special!
Enjoy your stunning and delicious beet ravioli! The beautiful color and wonderful flavors will surely impress everyone at the table!
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Ravioli Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using pre-packaged ravioli is a great shortcut. Just cook according to the package instructions and pair them with the suggested butter sauce for a quick meal!
Can I Freeze Leftover Ravioli?
Yes, you can freeze homemade ravioli! Just ensure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay good for about 2-3 months!
How Do I Adapt the Recipe for a Vegan Option?
To make vegan beet ravioli, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with a mixture of blended firm tofu and nutritional yeast for a creamy filling. For the egg in the pasta dough, consider a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
What Should I Serve with Beet Ravioli?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For added flavor, try serving it with garlic bread or a light citrus dressing on the salad to balance the sweetness of the beets!