Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main filling of these ravioli?
The ravioli are filled with a creamy mixture of roasted pumpkin puree, rich mascarpone cheese, and toasted pine nuts.
What type of pumpkin should I use?
The recipe calls for one small pie pumpkin which is roasted or boiled to create a smooth puree.
How should I prepare the pumpkin for the filling?
You should slice the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and roast it cut-side down at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until soft.
Can I boil the pumpkin instead of roasting it?
Yes, you can peel, dice, and boil the pumpkin for 10-15 minutes, though roasting is recommended for better flavor.
What ingredients are needed for the homemade pasta dough?
The pasta dough is made from 2 1/2 cups of semolina flour, 3 large eggs, one teaspoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
How long should I knead the pasta dough?
Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes stiff and elastic.
What should I do if my pasta dough is too dry?
If the dough is too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water to reach the correct consistency.
What should I do if my pasta dough is too wet?
If the dough is too wet, simply sprinkle in additional semolina flour while kneading.
What cheeses are included in the filling?
The filling uses a combination of softened mascarpone cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Are there nuts in this ravioli recipe?
Yes, the filling contains 1/4 cup of chopped pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
How thin should I roll the pasta dough?
Roll the pasta dough out to a thin sheet, approximately 1/16 inch thick.
How do I seal the ravioli?
Brush water between the filling dollops to create a seal, then fold the pasta sheet over and press down firmly around each mound.
What is the best way to cut the ravioli?
You can use a pizza cutter or a specialized ravioli cutter to slice the edges of the sealed pasta.
How long do the ravioli take to cook?
The ravioli should be boiled in salted water for 5-7 minutes until they float to the top.
How do I know when the ravioli are done?
They are cooked through when they float to the top of the boiling water.
What ingredients are in the sage butter sauce?
The sauce is made from unsalted butter, ground sage, and a hint of nutmeg.
How do I make the butter sauce?
Melt butter over low heat until it turns golden brown, then add sage and nutmeg for 15-20 seconds to infuse.
What spices are used in the pumpkin filling?
The filling is seasoned with freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
What is the suggested garnish for this dish?
The dish is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crumbled amaretti cookies for sweetness and crunch.
Is there an egg in the filling mixture?
Yes, one beaten egg is added to the pumpkin and cheese mixture to help bind the filling.
Can I make the dough on a work surface or in a bowl?
The instructions recommend creating a mound of flour with a well in the center directly on a clean work surface.
What temperature should the oven be for roasting pumpkin?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What is the texture of the ravioli?
These are described as pillowy ravioli with a delicate homemade pasta shell.
How much butter is needed for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of unsalted butter for the sage butter sauce.
What type of flour is best for this pasta?
Semolina flour is specified for this recipe to give the pasta the right structure.
How much sage is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 3/4 teaspoon of ground sage.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
A food processor is used to puree the roasted pumpkin and blend the filling ingredients smoothly.
Can I prepare this for a special occasion?
Yes, it is described as a labor of love perfect for special occasions or cozy autumn evenings.
Is the mascarpone softened before mixing?
Yes, the recipe suggests using softened mascarpone cheese to ensure it blends easily with the pumpkin.
What kind of oil is used in the dough?
The recipe uses one teaspoon of olive oil in the pasta dough.