Ravioli in a Butternut Squash Cream

What better way to embrace the fall season than with a plate of warm, wholesome ravioli bathed in a silky butternut squash cream? Delicate pasta pockets generously filled with a luscious cheese blend, elegantly adorned with a sauce that’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty – the butternut squash.

The Ensemble: What You’ll Need

Without further adieu, let’s gather the ingredients that we’ll need to make this delightful seasonal dish.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 tablespoons water (if needed)

For the Ravioli Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Butternut Squash Cream Sauce:

• 1 medium butternut squash, roasted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice like half & half for a more indulgent flavor)
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish
• Additional grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

The Culinary Adventure: Let’s Get Cooking!

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s embark on this exciting culinary adventure to create these delectable ravioli in silky butternut squash cream.

Step 1: Preparing the Butternut Squash Puree (45 minutes)

Our journey begins with the star of our sauce, the butternut squash. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, spoon out the seeds and discard, place on a baking sheet, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for about 35-45 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Once roasted, scoop out the inner flesh then blend into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor.

Step 2: Making the Pasta Dough (15 minutes)

While the squash is roasting, let’s prepare the pasta dough. On a clean surface, mound the flour and make a well in the center. Crack the eggs into the well and add salt. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs, incorporating the flour from the edges of the well. Once it starts coming together, knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10-12 minutes. If the dough is too dry, add a little water. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Crafting the Filling (10 minutes)

Now, let’s create the cheesy filling for our ravioli. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix until well incorporated and set aside.

Step 4: Rolling and Filling the Ravioli (30 minutes)

After the dough has rested, divide it into manageable portions. Roll out one portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick. Place small dollops of the cheese filling at regular intervals on one sheet of pasta. Cover with another pasta sheet and gently press around the filling to remove air pockets. Use a ravioli cutter or a knife to cut out individual ravioli. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

Step 5: Cooking the Ravioli (3-4 minutes)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the ravioli into the boiling water. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface and are tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Scoop them out gently with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 6: Creating the Butternut Squash Cream Sauce (25 minutes)

While the ravioli are cooking, let’s whip up the creamy butternut squash cream sauce. In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until translucent and aromatic. Add the roasted butternut squash puree and stir.

Now, pour in the vegetable broth and let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens and is well combined. Stir in the almond milk, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serving and Garnishing (5 minutes)

To serve, place the cooked ravioli on a plate and generously ladle the luscious butternut squash cream sauce over them. Garnish with fresh sage leaves and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

The Grand Finale: A Healthy Delight

Let your taste buds revel in this culinary delight, and let the flavors transport you to a realm of pure bliss. Craft this dish with love, share it with friends and family, and let it become a cherished memory in your culinary journey. Enjoy the warmth with every delightful bite. Bon appétit!