Spinach Ravioli (Classic Italian-Style)
Spinach Ravioli is a timeless Italian dish that combines tender pasta pillows with a rich, flavorful spinach filling. Whether served with a light butter sauce, tomato sauce, or creamy Parmesan finish, spinach ravioli is both comforting and elegant. Made from simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or a cozy homemade Italian night.
Fresh spinach brings vibrant color and earthy flavor, while cheese adds creaminess and balance, creating a filling that is satisfying without being heavy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fresh, homemade flavor
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Creamy spinach and cheese filling
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Versatile with many sauce options
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Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals
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Classic Italian comfort food
Ingredients
Pasta Dough
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Pinch of salt
Spinach Filling
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2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Simple Butter Sauce (Optional)
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4 tablespoons butter
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Fresh sage leaves (optional)
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Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pasta Dough
Place flour on a clean surface and make a well in the center. Add eggs, olive oil, and salt. Gradually mix with a fork, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap and rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Filling
Lightly sauté spinach and garlic in a pan until wilted. Let cool, then squeeze out excess moisture. Mix spinach with ricotta, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
Step 3: Roll the Pasta
Divide dough into portions and roll thin using a rolling pin or pasta machine. Lay one sheet flat and place small spoonfuls of filling spaced evenly apart.
Step 4: Shape the Ravioli
Brush around the filling with water. Place another pasta sheet on top, press gently to remove air, and seal. Cut into squares or rounds.
Step 5: Cook the Ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Cook ravioli for 2–3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Step 6: Sauce and Serve
Melt butter in a pan, add sage if using, and gently toss cooked ravioli. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan.
Tips for Perfect Spinach Ravioli
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Drain spinach well to avoid watery filling
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Roll pasta thin for delicate ravioli
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Remove air pockets to prevent bursting
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Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking
Sauce Ideas
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Brown butter and sage
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Creamy garlic Parmesan sauce
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Simple tomato and basil sauce
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Olive oil, lemon zest, and herbs
Storage
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Fresh ravioli: refrigerate for up to 24 hours
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Freeze uncooked ravioli for up to 2 months
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Cook frozen ravioli directly from frozen
A Classic You’ll Make Again
Spinach Ravioli is a beautiful example of Italian cooking at its best—simple ingredients, careful preparation, and incredible flavor. Whether handmade for a special occasion or prepared ahead for a comforting meal, this dish delivers elegance and satisfaction in every bite.