How to make ravioli pasta by hand

A little more time and elbow grease is required without a pasta maker, but you can get great results with the following steps:

1. Measure out your flour into a pile. Always us a clean surface. Create a well in the centre and add your egg yolk.
2. Mix the flour and egg. Use your hands to mix well, until the ingredients come together.
3. Fold additional flour into your dough. You need to work it vigorously to increase its elasticity. Take care to avoid your dough drying out, and ensure you only knead the dough for around 10 minutes maximum. Remember: knead with gusto!
4. Tightly wrap your dough up in plastic. Allow it to rest for at least an hour, before rolling it out to at least half an inch in thickness.
5. Now you’re ready to cut your ravioli. Before you’re finished, however, you’ll need a tasty ravioli filling recipe. Read on for two simple recipes for delicious fillings.

Aside from how simple it can be, the best thing about homemade ravioli is just how versatile it is. Get creative and hone your skills with our pasta-making tips. If you avoid gluten, don’t panic! Have a look at our excellent gluten-free pasta suggestions.

How to make ravioli filling: Two easy recipes

Now you’ve whipped up a batch of homemade ravioli, it’s time to make the extra tasty fillings. Have a look at how to make ravioli filling with our two simple recipes.

Spinach and ricotta: A classic ravioli filling recipe

Spinach and ricotta are a match made in heaven, especially when it comes to a homemade ravioli filling!

Ingredients:

• 310g fresh spinach
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 50g parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Method:

1. To make the filling, finely chop the spinach.
2. After straining your ricotta for a few minutes, combine the spinach with your cheeses. Mix thoroughly.
3. Form into small balls and place them on the flat surface of the pasta.
4. Brush the edges of the pasta with a little water or egg, then layer a second sheet over the top.
5. Cut into individual pieces and use a fork to press down and seal the edges.

Stilton and walnut: An alternative ravioli filling recipe

The creamy crunch of this tangy ravioli filling recipe is sure to be a dinner party hit.

Ingredients:

• 100g sugar
• ½ cup water
• 200g walnuts finely chopped
• 250g stilton or blue cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Method:

1. Place the sugar and water into the pan and bring to a boil.
2. Add the walnuts, cook briefly and then drain.
3. Combine the walnuts, stilton and olive oil and stir.
4. Then shape into balls and, as before, place them on the flat surface of the pasta.
5. Brush the edges of the pasta with a little water or egg, then layer a second sheet over the top.
6. Cut into individual pieces and use a fork to press down and seal the edges.

These are just two of the many homemade ravioli recipes out there. The best thing about your ravioli, is that you can follow this ravioli dough recipe and then simply freeze once it’s been cut into shapes. You’ll soon build up a store of homemade ravioli for quick and easy – but super satisfying – dinners.