Four-Cheese Ravioli & Gorgonzola Gnocchi for Ramadan

by Maison Morand

In the spirit of Ramadan, where every Iftar is a moment of communal joy and reflection, why not elevate your table with dishes that blend tradition with gourmet indulgence? Today, we present a two-part feast: homemade Four-Cheese Ravioli, featuring a rich, creamy filling wrapped in delicate pasta, paired with a decadent Gorgonzola 

Gnocchi that melts in your mouth. These dishes celebrate the art of fine cheese, creating a comforting and flavorful experience after a day of fasting.

A Hearty Main Course for Iftar: Four-Cheese Ravioli

This homemade Four-Cheese Ravioli pays homage to both classic Italian craftsmanship and the warmth of Ramadan gatherings. The pasta is made from scratch, encasing a rich blend of ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone, all enhanced with a touch of dried parsley. Topped with a luscious basil pesto cream sauce, this dish is a true comfort food masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons water (as needed)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup shredded provolone cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ cup prepared basil pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: On a clean surface, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add eggs, olive oil, and a little water. Knead until smooth, wrap in plastic wrap, and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, provolone, egg, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  3. Assemble the Ravioli: Roll out the dough into thin sheets. Spoon small portions of filling onto one sheet, leaving space between each. Cover with another sheet of dough, press around each filling pocket, and cut into ravioli squares.

  4. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for 3-4 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.

  5. Make the Sauce: In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in basil pesto, heavy cream, Parmesan, and marinara sauce. Simmer until thickened.

  6. Combine & Serve: Toss cooked ravioli in the sauce and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.

A Decadent Second Course: Gorgonzola Gnocchi

To complete your Iftar meal, indulge in a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Gorgonzola Gnocchi. The pillowy gnocchi is enveloped in a velvety sauce made from Gorgonzola cheese, butter, and heavy cream, creating an irresistibly rich dish perfect for a satisfying post-fast meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup Gorgonzola cheese

  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float. Drain and set aside.

  2. Make the Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

  3. Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the Gorgonzola, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let the cheese melt and the sauce thicken slightly.

  4. Combine & Serve: Toss the gnocchi in the sauce until well coated. Plate and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Ramadan Connection

The richness and warmth of these dishes provide the perfect way to break your fast, offering a blend of creamy textures and bold flavors that are both comforting and indulgent. The homemade ravioli embodies the spirit of artisanal cooking, while the Gorgonzola Gnocchi serves as a luxurious dish to share with loved ones.

Presentation & Pairings

Enhance your dining experience with thoughtful details:

  • Ambience: Set a warm and elegant table with soft candlelight, gold accents, and a mix of traditional and modern decor.

  • Beverage Pairings: Serve with refreshing date-infused drinks, mint tea, or a simple cucumber-lime spritzer.

  • Serving Suggestions: Garnish ravioli with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs. For gnocchi, add a drizzle of truffle oil or toasted walnuts for added depth.

Tips & Variations

  • Ingredient Flexibility: Swap out cheeses based on availability. If Gorgonzola is too strong, try a milder blue cheese like Bleu d’Auvergne.

  • Cultural Twists: Infuse Middle Eastern flavors by adding za’atar to the ravioli filling or sumac to the gnocchi sauce.

  • Make-Ahead Options: Prepare the ravioli and gnocchi in advance and store them in the fridge. The sauces can also be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.

By merging the finesse of European cheese-making with the soulful traditions of Ramadan, these recipes offer a feast that nourishes both body and spirit. Whether for an intimate family dinner or a festive gathering, the creamy richness of Four-Cheese Ravioli and the indulgence of Gorgonzola Gnocchi promise to create lasting memories and a dining experience to savor.

Happy cooking, and may your Ramadan be filled with joy, flavor, and togetherness!

 

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