Delicious Tortelloni di Ricotta: A Taste of Italian Tradition
If you love Italian food, you’re going to adore Tortelloni di Ricotta. This delightful dish features large stuffed pasta pockets filled with creamy ricotta cheese and fresh herbs. It’s a classic from the northern regions of Italy, especially Bologna , where pasta-making is a true art. The rich flavors and homemade feel of tortelloni make it a popular choice for family dinners and special occasions. The best part? It’s fun to make and sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | ½ cup |
| Fresh basil leaves, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons (for drizzling) |
| Tomato sauce (for serving) | 2 cups |
For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Pasta Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the Dough: Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin.
- Cut the Tortelloni: Using a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter), cut circles from the pasta sheets. Place about a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle.
- Shape the Tortelloni: Fold the circle in half to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges to seal. Then, bring the two corners together and pinch to form a tortelloni shape. Repeat until all pasta and filling are used up.
- Cook the Tortelloni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortelloni and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they float to the top.
- Serve: Drain the tortelloni and serve them with warm tomato sauce and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Carbohydrates | 50g | 17% |
| Fats | 10g | 15% |
| Sodium | 300mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 250mg | 25% |
Tips and Tricks
- Extra Creamy Filling: For a richer flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to your ricotta filling.
- Grain Variation: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like parsley or chives for a unique twist!
- Boiling Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the pot when cooking. This helps the tortelloni cook evenly.
- Storing: You can freeze uncooked tortelloni for up to two months; just cook them straight from frozen!
FAQs
What is Tortelloni di Ricotta?
Tortelloni di Ricotta is a type of stuffed pasta filled with creamy ricotta cheese and herbs, originating from Italy, particularly in regions like Bologna.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it.
What can I serve with Tortelloni?
It pairs wonderfully with tomato sauce, but you can also use pesto or a light butter sauce with sage for a rich flavor.
How do I know when the tortelloni are done cooking?
When they float to the surface of the boiling water, they are typically ready. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for perfect texture.
Can I use other cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
Is this dish time-consuming to make?
It takes a little time to make the dough and fill the tortelloni, but it’s a fun process! Plus, you can enjoy fresh pasta!
Can I make these tortelloni vegetarian?
Yes, the filling is already vegetarian! Just ensure the sauces you serve with them are also meat-free.
How can I make the tortelloni spicy?
You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling for a spicy kick!
What if I don’t have a pasta machine?
You can use a rolling pin to roll out the pasta by hand; just make sure to get it as thin as possible for the best results.
Can I bake Tortelloni di Ricotta?
Yes! You can bake them with a sauce and cheese on top for a delicious casserole-style dish.
Now that you know how to make Tortelloni di Ricotta, gather your ingredients and start cooking! This rich and hearty Italian dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
