As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of preparing something special for Halloween. This year, I invite you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with something truly enchanting: Ghost Purse Ravioli. With a deliciously spooky appearance and an even more delightful taste, these pasta pockets are the perfect fusion of Italian charm and Halloween fun.
Imagine the aroma of creamy ricotta mingling with the sweetness of fresh pear as you whip up this simple yet impressive dish. It’s easy to craft these charming ravioli using wonton wrappers, making this a straightforward culinary adventure rather than a daunting task. In under an hour and a half, you can serve these ghostly delights that are sure to impress both family and friends.
So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into a Halloween-themed culinary creation that brings everyone to the table and fills your home with warmth and laughter!
Why will you love Ghost Purse Ravioli?
Simplicity at its Core: You’ll find this recipe incredibly approachable, using wonton wrappers to save time.
Unique Flavor Combination: The creamy ricotta and sweet pear create a deliciously surprising filling that contrasts beautifully with savory notes.
Perfect for Halloween: These fun, spooky ravioli are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, making dinner festive and exciting.
Quick Cooking Time: With just 10 minutes of prep and a few minutes to cook, you can whip these up in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving a special occasion or a casual family dinner, these delightful ravioli are bound to impress.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Ingredients
For the Filling
- Whole-Milk Ricotta – Main filling cheese; low-fat ricotta works for a lighter option.
- Grated Parmesan – Adds depth and saltiness; substitute with Pecorino for a sharper flavor.
- Finely Chopped Pear – Provides sweetness and texture; opt for firm varieties to avoid overly ripe issues.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can be used as an alternative.
- Fresh Nutmeg – Offers warm, aromatic notes; ground cinnamon can be used if needed.
- Large Egg – Binds the filling and adds richness; a flax egg serves as a vegan substitute.
For the Pasta
- Wonton Wrappers (12-oz.) – Shortcut for making ravioli; fresh pasta sheets or homemade dough are good alternatives if needed.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the sauce; half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative can lighten it up.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – Optional garnish to elevate presentation; can be omitted if unavailable.
Get ready to enjoy the delightful flavor and playful presentation of these Ghost Purse Ravioli this Halloween season!
How to Make Ghost Purse Ravioli
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, grated Parmesan, finely chopped pear, kosher salt, freshly grated nutmeg, and the large egg. Mix until well blended and creamy.
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Assemble Ravioli: Lay out your wonton wrappers, placing about a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each wrapper. Dampen the edges with a little water, fold over the filling to form triangles, and seal by pressing around the edges. Make sure to eliminate any air pockets to keep them intact while cooking.
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Cook the Ravioli: Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Place the assembled ravioli into the boiling water, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
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Make the Sauce: While the ravioli are cooking, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir in a pinch of salt and some grated Parmesan, allowing the sauce to warm through, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
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Serve: Once the ravioli are done, gently drain them and toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Drizzle a bit more cream over the top for an extra touch of delicacy.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ghost Purse Ravioli are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ricotta, Parmesan, chopped pear, salt, nutmeg, and egg, then refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the ravioli and freeze them for up to two weeks; just make sure they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply boil the frozen ravioli straight from the freezer in salted water for about 3-4 minutes until they float. Completing this dish ahead of time ensures you have an enchanting Halloween meal with minimal last-minute effort and just as delicious results!
How to Store and Freeze Ghost Purse Ravioli
Fridge: Keep uncooked Ghost Purse Ravioli in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Ensure they are not stacked to avoid sticking together.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 weeks this way.
Reheating: To reheat frozen ravioli, boil them straight from the freezer for 3-4 minutes until they float. Serve with your favorite sauce.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing the Ghost Purse Ravioli a day in advance and storing them in the fridge for easy cooking on Halloween!
Expert Tips for Ghost Purse Ravioli
- Seal Them Well: Ensure all edges of the ravioli are properly sealed to avoid leaks during cooking, preserving that delightful filling inside.
- Watch the Cook Time: Cook the ravioli until they float, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking; they should remain tender with a slight bite.
- Utilize Leftovers: If you have extra wonton wrappers, get creative! Use them for nachos or mini desserts to prevent waste.
- Taste the Filling: After mixing, give the filling a taste! Adjust seasonings if necessary to ensure your Ghost Purse Ravioli are bursting with flavor.
- Chill Before Cooking: If you’re making ravioli ahead of time, refrigerate them briefly to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Variations
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and discover delightful twists on this spooky dish!
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Butternut Squash: Replace pear with roasted butternut squash for a rich, seasonal flavor that enhances the filling’s sweetness.
Halloween becomes an autumn celebration with this comforting swap, bringing warmth to your table. -
Herb-Infused: Add fresh sage or thyme to the filling for an exciting layer of savory depth.
Imagine the fragrant aroma wafting through your home as these herbs mingle with creamy cheese. -
Goat Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for tangy goat cheese for a delightful twist in flavor.
This option is perfect for those who crave a sharper, more vibrant taste in their ravioli. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes into your sauce to bring a gentle warmth to the dish.
This subtle heat elevates the creamy sauce, creating a dynamic taste experience. -
Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to your filling for added texture and earthy notes.
The rich flavor of mushrooms harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of pear, creating a balanced filling. -
Vegan Version: Use tofu and nutritional yeast instead of cheese, and substitute the egg with a flax egg for a vegan delight.
Everyone can enjoy a taste of Halloween while keeping it plant-based and fabulous! -
Sweet Corn: Mix in a bit of sweet corn for little bursts of sweetness and crunch in the filling.
This unexpected addition will surprise your taste buds and add a lovely contrast to the creamy filling. -
Cinnamon Spice: For a playful touch, sprinkle in a hint of cinnamon with the nutmeg for a warm autumn flair.
This delightful combination will evoke the spirit of the season, making each bite truly enchanting.
What to Serve with Ghost Purse Ravioli?
As you prepare to delight your guests with these enchanting pasta pockets, consider pairing them with dishes that enhance their spooky charm and delightful flavors.
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Sautéed Seasonal Greens: A mix of sautéed kale, spinach, or Swiss chard adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor, balancing the creamy ravioli beautifully. The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts with the sweetness of the filling, making every bite interesting.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic are a classic that won’t just complement but elevate your meal. Their crunchiness offers a delightful textural contrast to the delicate ravioli.
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Roasted Butternut Squash: The sweet, caramelized notes of roasted butternut squash mirror the flavors of the pear filling while adding a seasonal touch. Sprinkle with sage to take it over the top, perfect for those crisp autumn evenings.
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Light Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil brings brightness to the plate. The peppery notes of the arugula will beautifully offset the rich ravioli, ensuring a balanced meal.
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Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: Pair your delicious ravioli with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. These wines offer crisp acidity and fruit notes that complement the creamy sauce and sweet filling perfectly.
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Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, consider a rich dark chocolate mousse. Its deep, intense flavor and light texture provide a luxurious finish to your Halloween dinner, making it an unforgettable experience.
Each pairing will enhance the overall experience of your spooky meal, allowing the Ghost Purse Ravioli to shine at your Halloween gathering.
Ghost Purse Ravioli Recipe FAQs
What type of pears should I use for the filling?
I recommend using firm pears such as Bosc or Anjou for the Ghost Purse Ravioli. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they tend to be mushy and may not provide the desired texture in your filling.
How long can I store uncooked Ghost Purse Ravioli in the fridge?
You can keep uncooked Ghost Purse Ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure not to stack them to prevent sticking together, which could cause the ravioli to tear when you cook them.
Can I freeze Ghost Purse Ravioli? If so, how?
Absolutely! For the best results, freeze your assembled ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to 2 weeks. To cook, boil them directly from the freezer for about 3–4 minutes until they float.
What should I do if my ravioli fill during cooking?
Don’t worry; this happens to some home chefs! To prevent leaking, make sure to seal the edges of the ravioli thoroughly and expel any air pockets. If they still break, reduce the cooking time slightly, as overcooked ravioli are more likely to tear. Don’t hesitate to taste your filling before sealing to ensure a well-seasoned dish!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with the ingredients. The Ghost Purse Ravioli contains dairy, so substitute with a non-dairy cream or vegan cheese for lactose intolerance. Additionally, you can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative to the egg in the filling, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat.
Can I make Ghost Purse Ravioli ahead of time?
Certainly! I often prepare them a day in advance for convenience. After assembling, just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This not only saves you time on the day of serving but also enhances the flavors as they marinate together.
Spook Up Dinner with Ghost Purse Ravioli Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole-milk ricotta, grated Parmesan, finely chopped pear, kosher salt, freshly grated nutmeg, and the large egg. Mix until well blended and creamy.
- Assemble Ravioli: Lay out your wonton wrappers, placing about a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the center of each wrapper. Dampen the edges with a little water, fold over the filling to form triangles, and seal by pressing around the edges. Make sure to eliminate any air pockets.
- Cook the Ravioli: Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Place the assembled ravioli into the boiling water, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Make the Sauce: While the ravioli are cooking, heat heavy cream in a saucepan over low-medium heat. Stir in a pinch of salt and some grated Parmesan.
- Serve: Once the ravioli are done, gently drain them and toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.