Tortelli Dolci with Ricotta and Orange Zest

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 12g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it.
2. 2.
   Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and orange zest until well combined.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough into a thin sheet using a rolling pin or pasta machine.
7. 7.
   Cut the dough into small squares, approximately 2 inches in size.
8. 8.
   Place a small spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each square.
9. 9.
   Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal.
10. 10.
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortelli in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
11. 11.
    Remove the tortelli with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a serving dish.
12. 12.
    Dust the tortelli with powdered sugar and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ricotta cheese — Make sure to use a high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture in the filling. Drain any excess liquid before mixing it with the sugar and orange zest.

Tips & Tricks

• To save time, you can use store-bought fresh pasta sheets instead of making the dough from scratch.
• Experiment with different citrus flavors by using lemon or lime zest instead of orange.
• Serve the tortelli with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
• If you prefer a more pronounced citrus flavor, add a few drops of orange extract to the ricotta filling.
• Leftover tortelli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Tortelli Dolci warm as a delightful dessert after a traditional Italian meal. Dust them generously with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. They can be enjoyed on their own or accompanied by a scoop of vanilla gelato or a dollop of whipped cream.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Tortelli Dolci on a serving platter, making sure to showcase their triangular shape. Sprinkle them with a final dusting of powdered sugar for an inviting and visually appealing presentation. Consider garnishing the dish with a sprig of fresh mint or a twist of orange zest for an extra touch of elegance.