Lemon Ricotta Ravioli: A Journey of Flavor and Family

Lemon ricotta ravioli has become a symbol of my cooking journey. I’m Megan, and at thirty, I’ve learned that cooking isn’t just something I do—it’s who I am. Raised in northern Montana, I grew up with food that spoke when words couldn’t. My grandmother, the queen of our one-room kitchen, taught me that every meal tells a story.

As a teenager, my love for food grew while traveling the South, from learning cornbread in Georgia to savoring fried catfish in Mississippi. By my twenties, I returned home with spices, stories, and a heart full of culinary ideas. I didn’t open a restaurant—I opened my front door, turning casual nights into unforgettable feasts.

Among all the dishes I love, lemon ricotta ravioli stands out as my signature. It’s simple, yet meaningful, with its bright lemon tang and creamy ricotta filling—just like the meals I’ve shared with friends, family, and strangers alike. If you ever find yourself in Montana, follow the scent of something cooking and know there’s always a place at my table for you. Let’s cook it together.

What Makes Lemon Ricotta Ravioli Special?

A Perfect Balance of Creamy and Zesty Flavors

Lemon ricotta ravioli is a culinary masterpiece that brings together two deliciously contrasting flavors: the creamy richness of

ricotta cheese and the fresh, tangy zest of lemon. This combination creates a ravioli filling that is both refreshing and indulgent, offering a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. The smooth texture of the ricotta blends seamlessly with the bright citrusy notes, making each bite a delightful experience.

Why Lemon Ricotta Ravioli Is a Must-Try Dish

Lemon ricotta ravioli isn’t just another pasta—it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you to the sun-drenched hills of Italy with every bite. The tangy lemon cuts through the richness of the ricotta, offering a light, yet satisfying taste. This ravioli is perfect for spring and summer meals, but it also has the versatility to shine in any season. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or the main course, lemon ricotta ravioli brings a touch of elegance and flavor to any table.

Its appeal is universal, and it is often regarded as a dish that embodies both simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re enjoying it with a light butter sauce or a more complex tomato-based sauce, the lemon ricotta filling remains the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of acidity, creaminess, and depth of flavor.

What to Eat with Lemon Ricotta Ravioli?

Lemon Ricotta Ravioli: A Delightful, Zesty Italian Dish

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Homemade Ricotta Ravioli With Lemon Butter Sauce

• Author: MEGAN
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 min
• Total Time: 2 hours (low) or 1.5 hours (high)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Easy
• Cuisine: italian

Ingredients

• ’00’ Flour: Used as the primary ingredient to make the pasta dough, providing structure and texture.
• Eggs: Combined with ’00’ flour to form the pasta dough, providing moisture, binding the ingredients, and adding richness. Use medium-sized eggs.
• Semolina Flour (for dusting): Used to dust the work surface and prevent sticking while kneading, rolling, and assembling the pasta.
• Ricotta: Forms the creamy and savoury filling for the ravioli, offering a smooth and mild cheese flavour. You can even  too.
• Parmesan or Grana Padano (grated): Adds a rich and nutty flavour to the filling, enhancing the overall taste of the ravioli.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavour to the ricotta filling.
• Ground Nutmeg: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavour into the ricotta filling, complimenting the cheese and spices.
• Butter: Used to create the buttery sauce that coats the cooked ravioli, adding richness and flavour.

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Instructions

 Instructions

Step 1: Drain the Ricotta

1. Place ricotta in a fine mesh strainer or wrap in cheesecloth.
2. Let drain for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour) to remove excess moisture.
3. Once drained, transfer to a bowl and set aside.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the ricotta.
2. Mix gently until well combined.
3. If using, stir in Parmesan and fresh herbs. Set aside.

 

Step 3: Make the Pasta Dough

1. On a clean surface, mound the flour and create a well in the center.
2. Crack the eggs into the well and add olive oil.
3. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs while incorporating the flour from the edges.
4. Once a dough begins to form, knead by hand for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Notes

• Storage: Leftover cooked ravioli can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick, gourmet meal later.
• Dietary Options: Naturally vegetarian. For dairy-free, substitute ricotta with a vegan ricotta alternative and skip Parmesan or use nutritional yeast instead.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil, parsley, thyme, or chives add brightness and depth when sprinkled over the finished dish.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5 people

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Ricotta Ravioli

When it comes to pairing lemon ricotta ravioli, the options are endless! This dish, with its delicate balance of creamy and tangy flavors, works wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Butter and Sage Sauce:
  A classic pairing for ravioli, the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter and crispy sage leaves complements the lightness of lemon ricotta ravioli perfectly. The combination enhances the ravioli’s creamy filling without overpowering it.
• Tomato and Basil Sauce:
  For a refreshing contrast, serve your lemon ricotta ravioli with a simple tomato and basil sauce. The acidity of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the lemon zest, creating a well-rounded, vibrant dish.
• Light Cream Sauce:
  A mild cream sauce with a hint of garlic can add richness without overshadowing the ravioli’s subtle flavors. The creamy texture of the sauce harmonizes with the ricotta filling, creating a satisfying yet light dish.

What Goes Well on the Side?

Lemon ricotta ravioli pairs beautifully with fresh, light side dishes. Consider serving it alongside:

• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette:
  A crisp arugula salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the ravioli and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables:
  Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes bring color and flavor to the plate while complementing the ravioli’s taste.
• Garlic Bread or Crostini:
  For a bit of crunch and extra flavor, garlic bread or toasted crostini make a great accompaniment, allowing you to scoop up any leftover sauce.

Drinks to Pair With Lemon Ricotta Ravioli

The right drink can enhance the entire dining experience. Pair your ravioli with:

• Crisp White Wine:
  A glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, enhances the fresh lemony notes of the ravioli, creating a light and refreshing dining experience.
• Sparkling Water:
  For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or cucumber adds a refreshing touch, complementing the dish’s bright flavors.

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Ricotta Ravioli

How to Avoid Watery Ricotta Filling

One of the biggest challenges when making ravioli is ensuring the ricotta filling doesn’t become too watery. Excess moisture can cause the ravioli to fall apart or result in a soggy filling. To avoid this, it’s crucial to drain the ricotta thoroughly before using it. Whether you’re working with ravioli ricotta cheese or traditional ricotta, place it in a fine mesh strainer or wrap it in cheesecloth to remove any excess liquid. This step ensures that the filling holds its shape, making it perfect for stuffing into your ravioli dough.

Get the Right Dough Texture

The dough for your ravioli is just as important as the ravioli ricotta cheese filling. A dough that’s too dry may crack when rolling out, while dough that’s too sticky will be difficult to work with. If you find your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it’s smooth and easy to handle. On the other hand, if it’s too dry, add small amounts of water—one tablespoon at a time—until it reaches the perfect consistency. Aim for a soft, elastic dough that’s slightly tacky but doesn’t stick to your hands.

Sealing the Ravioli Properly

A common mistake when making ravioli is not sealing the edges tightly enough, which can cause the filling, including the ravioli ricotta cheese, to leak out during cooking. To avoid this, press the edges of each ravioli firmly, ensuring no air pockets are trapped inside. You can also use a fork to crimp the edges, which not only seals the ravioli but adds a decorative touch. The seal should be tight to ensure that the ricotta filling stays intact as it cooks.

Don’t Overcook the Ravioli

When cooking your ravioli, especially with a delicate ravioli ricotta cheese filling, timing is crucial. Overcooking can cause the ravioli to lose its shape and the filling to become too soft. Once the ravioli floats to the surface of the boiling water, allow it to cook for another 30 seconds to a minute to ensure the filling is heated through. Remove it from the pot promptly to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I Mix Lemon with Ricotta for Ravioli?

Why Lemon and Ricotta Make the Perfect Pair

Yes, you can absolutely mix lemon with ricotta for ravioli! In fact, the combination of lemon and ravioli ricotta cheese creates a deliciously unique flavor profile. The tanginess of the lemon complements the creamy richness of the ricotta, adding a refreshing, zesty twist to the dish. The bright lemon zest cuts through the richness of the ricotta, making each bite light, balanced, and bursting with flavor. This combination brings a perfect contrast to the typical savory ravioli fillings, offering a refreshing change.

How to Incorporate Lemon into Your Ricotta Filling

When adding lemon to your ricotta filling, use both lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for maximum flavor. The zest provides an intense, aromatic citrus flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy texture of the spinach and ricotta ravioli, while the juice adds a bit of acidity that brightens the entire dish. Be careful not to add too much lemon juice, as it can make the filling too runny. A little goes a long way in balancing the richness of the ricotta and the citrusy punch of the lemon.

What’s the Best Way to Infuse Lemon Flavor?

To ensure the lemon flavor infuses well into the ricotta filling, grate the lemon zest finely and stir it into the ricotta mixture. If you’re using fresh lemon juice, be sure to strain it to remove any seeds or pulp before adding it to the filling. This method creates a smooth, evenly flavored filling that enhances the ravioli without overpowering the dish.

What Goes Well with Ricotta Ravioli?

Perfect Pairings for Lemon Ricotta Ravioli and Ravioli Ricotta Cheese

When it comes to lemon ricotta ravioli or any ravioli ricotta cheese dish, the options for what to pair with it are endless. The subtle, creamy flavor of ricotta is versatile and can be combined with a wide range of ingredients, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Here are some ideas that complement both the richness of the ricotta filling and the tanginess of the lemon:

• Bacon and Mushrooms:
  The smokiness of crispy bacon and the earthy taste of mushrooms add a hearty contrast to the delicate flavor of ravioli ricotta cheese. The combination brings a deep richness that balances the freshness of the lemon ricotta ravioli, creating a robust and flavorful dish.
• Spinach and Garlic:
  Sautéed spinach paired with garlic is another excellent choice. The slight bitterness of spinach and the pungency of garlic cut through the creaminess of the ravioli ricotta cheese filling, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall dish.
• Lemon Butter Sauce:
  If you’re looking for a rich, indulgent pairing, a lemon butter sauce works beautifully with lemon ricotta ravioli. The smooth texture and richness of the butter enhance the creaminess of the ricotta filling while the lemon zest brings a lively freshness to the entire dish. This pairing creates a balanced, comforting meal.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are a simple yet effective way to elevate the flavors of lemon ricotta ravioli or ravioli ricotta cheese. Herbs like basil, thyme, and parsley not only add vibrant color but also contribute freshness that complements the rich, creamy filling. You can sprinkle a handful of fresh herbs over your ravioli just before serving, or incorporate them into a light sauce for extra flavor.

• Basil adds a sweet, aromatic freshness that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling of ravioli ricotta cheese.
• Thyme has a subtle earthiness that works well with the zesty lemon in lemon ricotta ravioli.
• Parsley adds a clean, slightly peppery note, which balances the rich ricotta filling.

Side Dishes That Complement Ricotta Ravioli

While lemon ricotta ravioli takes center stage, there are several sides that can enhance the meal. The key is choosing dishes that contrast with the richness of the ravioli ricotta cheese filling without overwhelming it:

• Arugula Salad:
  A simple arugula salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette makes for a light, refreshing side that perfectly complements the creaminess of ravioli ricotta cheese. The peppery taste of arugula enhances the lemony zing of lemon ricotta ravioli, balancing out the richness.

Do You Need to Drain Ricotta for Ravioli?

Why Draining Ricotta Is Essential for Perfect Ravioli

When making ravioli, especially with a filling of ravioli ricotta cheese, draining the ricotta is an essential step. Ricotta, by nature, contains a lot of moisture, which can make your ravioli filling too wet and cause the pasta dough to become soggy. This is particularly important when making lemon ricotta ravioli, as the balance between the creamy ricotta and the bright, tangy lemon needs to be just right.

Draining the ricotta ensures that the filling holds its shape during cooking. You don’t want excess moisture leaking out during the boiling process, which could cause the ravioli to break apart or become soggy. By removing the excess liquid, you achieve a thick, stable filling that remains intact and doesn’t dilute the lemony, creamy goodness inside the ravioli.

How to Drain Ricotta for Ravioli

To properly drain ravioli ricotta cheese, there are a couple of methods you can use:

• Using a Fine Mesh Strainer:
  Place the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer over a bowl, allowing any excess liquid to drain out naturally. Leave it for at least 30 minutes to ensure that most of the moisture is removed. You can also gently press the ricotta with the back of a spoon to help expel more liquid.
• Using Cheesecloth:
  If you want to ensure even more thorough drainage, wrap the ricotta in cheesecloth and hang it over the sink or place it in a bowl. Let it drain for about an hour. This method works especially well if you’re using a higher moisture ricotta.

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Conclusion: A Delightful Dish to Share

Lemon ricotta ravioli is more than just a meal; it’s a reflection of the heart and soul of cooking. From the creamy richness of ravioli ricotta cheese to the zesty punch of fresh lemon, this dish embodies the balance of simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, lemon ricotta ravioli is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.

By following the tips we’ve shared—like ensuring your ricotta is properly drained, getting the dough texture just right, and pairing it with complementary sides and sauces—you’ll be able to create the perfect plate of ravioli every time. And don’t forget the power of fresh herbs, light sauces, and the right drink pairings to truly elevate the dish.

Cooking is about more than following recipes—it’s about creating moments, memories, and connections. So, the next time you make lemon ricotta ravioli, know that you’re not just cooking pasta; you’re creating something special to share with those you love.

If you’ve been inspired by this recipe, don’t hesitate to bring the art of ravioli ricotta cheese into your kitchen and make it your own. The table is set, the story is waiting, and all that’s left to do is cook it together.