Spinach and Cheese Ravioli from Old Spaghetti Factory features tender pasta pockets filled with creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, served with a rich marinara sauce that enhances the vibrant flavors and offers a delightful, comforting meal.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Rolling pin
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Fork
- Pastry brush
- Ravioli cutter or pizza cutter
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- For the Ravioli Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Spinach and Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
When preparing the spinach and cheese filling, ensure you thoroughly drain the fresh spinach to prevent excess moisture from making the ravioli soggy. Using high-quality ricotta and freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and texture of your filling. For the dough, allow eggs and flour to come to room temperature before mixing to achieve a more elastic pasta. When making the marinara sauce, use crushed tomatoes for a rich consistency and balance acidity with a pinch of sugar if needed. Your homemade Spinach and Cheese Ravioli from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat menu will shine with these ingredient tips, delivering an authentic, comforting Italian meal.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Prepare the Ravioli Dough:
- On a clean surface, mound flour and make a well in the center.
- Add eggs and salt into the well.
- Gradually mix flour into eggs using a fork.
- Knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Spinach and Cheese Filling:
- Chop spinach and sauté until wilted; let cool.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well blended; set aside.
- Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the Ravioli:
- Divide dough in half; roll out each piece into thin sheets.
- Place spoonfuls of filling onto one sheet, spaced evenly.
- Brush around filling with water using pastry brush.
- Lay second sheet over filling; press gently to seal.
- Cut into individual ravioli using ravioli cutter or pizza cutter.
- Cook the Ravioli:
- Bring large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
- Drop ravioli in, cook 3-4 minutes, or until they float.
- Remove with slotted spoon; drain in colander.
- Serve:
- Place ravioli on plates, spoon marinara sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Substitution
Spinach and Cheese Ravioli from Old Spaghetti Factory offers a homemade experience with tender pasta encasing a creamy mix of ricotta, spinach, and cheeses, complemented by a rich marinara sauce. If fresh spinach is unavailable, frozen spinach can be substituted--just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy filling. You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese blended until smooth for a slightly different texture without compromising flavor. When shaping the ravioli, a fork can serve as an alternative to a ravioli cutter to seal the edges effectively. Use a slotted spoon to carefully lift cooked ravioli from boiling water to avoid damaging their delicate structure.
Tips
When kneading your ravioli dough, ensure it becomes smooth and elastic by kneading for about 8-10 minutes; this develops gluten for the perfect texture. Remember to let your dough rest for 30 minutes to make rolling easier and prevent shrinking during cooking. When cooking ravioli, avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking and prevent them from sticking together. Use a slotted spoon to gently remove cooked ravioli as soon as they float, signaling they are done, to maintain their delicate shape and texture.
Nutritions
Spinach and Cheese Ravioli from Old Spaghetti Factory offers a balanced combination of protein, calcium, and iron primarily from ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh spinach filling. The use of eggs in both the dough and filling boosts the protein content, contributing to muscle repair and maintenance. Olive oil in the marinara sauce provides healthy monounsaturated fats along with antioxidants from tomatoes and herbs that support heart health. Your meal combines essential vitamins such as vitamin A and K from spinach, making it nutrient-dense while remaining a comforting Italian classic.
Storage
Store leftover spinach and cheese ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. You can also freeze uncooked ravioli by placing them on a parchment-lined tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where they will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to use, cook from frozen by adding a minute or two to the usual boiling time.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach to add a slightly different nutritional profile and flavor. Using fontina or goat cheese instead of mozzarella enhances the filling's creaminess and taste complexity. For a faster sauce, blend canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs and heat briefly instead of simmering for 20-30 minutes. Rolling the dough thinner or using a pasta machine can improve texture and make ravioli more delicate.
Allergies
Spinach and Cheese Ravioli contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella cheese), and wheat (all-purpose flour) which can trigger reactions in individuals with egg, milk, or gluten allergies. The marinara sauce includes garlic and onion, which may cause sensitivities in some people. You should always check ingredient labels thoroughly and consult with a healthcare provider if you have food allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Spinach and Cheese Ravioli menu from Old Spaghetti Factory stands out due to its rich blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and perfectly tender pasta, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The dish is complemented by a savory tomato sauce that enhances the natural taste of each ingredient, offering a satisfying and wholesome dining experience. You can recreate this beloved recipe at home to enjoy the authentic taste and freshness, ensuring control over ingredient quality and customization to suit your preferences. Making a copycat version not only saves cost but also allows you to indulge in a classic favorite whenever you crave it.