Grocery
Cheese Ravioli
What it is
This is a type of pasta that consists of a filling sealed between two thin layers of pasta dough. The filling in this variety is primarily made from cheese, often a blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and sometimes mozzarella. The pasta itself is typically made from durum wheat flour and eggs. These ravioli are usually sold fresh or frozen, ready to be cooked and served.
How people cook with it
Cheese ravioli are a versatile pasta shape that can be enjoyed in many ways. They are a popular choice for quick weeknight meals.
- With marinara sauce
- In a creamy Alfredo sauce
- Tossed with pesto
- Baked with cheese
To prepare, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the ravioli to the boiling water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Fresh ravioli typically cook in about 3 to 5 minutes, while frozen varieties may take a minute or two longer. They are ready when they float to the surface and the pasta is tender. Drain them carefully and toss with your favorite sauce.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other filled pastas like tortellini or agnolotti, ravioli are generally square or round and have a larger surface area for their filling. The specific cheese blend also creates a distinct flavor profile that differs from meat or vegetable fillings.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a satisfying and relatively quick meal option will appreciate this pasta.
How to keep the rest
If refrigerated, keep the ravioli in their original packaging or an airtight container and use within a few days. If frozen, store them in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. They can be kept frozen for several months.