linenandlavender.net: Capri

These stunning images are a feast for the eyes, aren't they? I've had them in my travel file for awhile now and thought of them because for dinner this evening, Alex and I are making "Ravioli Caprese" by Giada de Laurentis. I'll report later how it turns out Giada made it look very easy —we'll see. In the meantime, if you'd like to try it yourself...

Ravioli Caprese

courtesy of Giada de Laurentis

Inactive Prep Time: 40 min.

Cook Time: 6 min.

4 to 6 servings

Ingredients

Dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 cup very hot water

Filling:

3/4 cup whole milk ricotta

1 egg

1/2 cup finely shredded store-bought rotisserie chicken

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Sauce:

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

For the dough:

In a large bowl combine the flour and the water. Using a wooden spoon, stir to combine into a large ball. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 10 minutes.

For the filling:

Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and stir to combine.

To form the ravioli, cut the dough into 4 evenly sized pieces. The dough should be slightly sticky. Add extra flour as necessary for rolling, but use only a little as necessary. Form each piece into a 2 by 6-inch rectangle. Recover the dough with the plastic wrap.

Lightly dust the work surface and a rolling pin. Working with 1 piece of dough at a time, roll the dough into a 4 by 19-inch rectangle. Place 9 rounded teaspoons of filling about 1-inch apart down the center of the dough. Fold the dough over the filling. Press down around the edges of each of the ravioli with your fingertips. Cut the ravioli into small squares and press down around the edges again with your fingertips to seal. Place the finished ravioli on a baking tray and continue forming the remaining ravioli.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add half the ravioli and cook until the ravioli float stirring occasionally, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain into a large bowl and cook the remaining ravioli.

Pour the olive oil over the cooked ravioli. Add the basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to coat and serve immediately.

Wine Pairing Recommendation: Pinot Grigio

Recommendations from Wine Spectator: [HERE]

Buon Appetito!