2️⃣ Make the filling
Roughly chop the blanched spinach.
In a large bowl, mix spinach, ricotta, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
3️⃣ Form the ravioli
Roll the pasta dough into two thin sheets.
On the first sheet, place small spoonfuls (about 1 tbsp each) of filling every 5 cm.
Lightly moisten the dough around the filling with water.
Place the second pasta sheet on top, press to seal, and cut out ravioli with a cutter or pastry wheel.
4️⃣ Cook the ravioli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add ravioli and cook for 3–4 minutes — they’re ready when they float to the surface.
Drain gently to avoid tearing.
5️⃣ Pan-sear with flavor
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
Add the cooked ravioli, sprinkle with paprika, and place a sprig of thyme on each piece.
Sear for 2 minutes on one side until lightly golden, then flip briefly.
6️⃣ Add the sauce
Lower the heat, pour cream around the ravioli, and simmer for 1 minute.
The sauce should thicken slightly, coating the pasta beautifully.
7️⃣ Plate & garnish
Arrange ravioli on warm plates.
Spoon sauce over the top, remove thyme sprigs, and finish with a raw spinach leaf for freshness.
Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
Prep ahead: Blanch and chop spinach the day before — it will be drier and make a firmer filling.
Bolder flavor: Replace ricotta with 200 g fresh goat cheese for a tangier bite.
Extra golden crust: For a gratiné finish, place the ravioli under a hot oven broiler for 1 minute before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp Italian white wine like Vermentino or Pinot Grigio.
Serve with a simple green salad 🥗 to balance the richness.
Add crusty bread 🥖 for mopping up the creamy sauce.
🌟 Why This Recipe Works
This dish combines the elegance of homemade pasta with the rich, familiar flavors of spinach, cheese, and cream. The paprika adds a hint of smokiness, thyme brings herbal fragrance, and pan-searing gives the ravioli a slight crispness before they’re bathed in sauce. It’s indulgent yet balanced — a true Italian-inspired comfort meal.
