Ricotta Gnudi with Vegetable Ragù: A Classic Italian Recipe

Experience the elegance of ricotta gnudi with vegetable ragù, a delightful Italian recipe that showcases Tuscan flavors.

Ricotta Gnudi with Vegetable Ragù: A Culinary Delight

Ricotta gnudi with vegetable ragù and saffron sauce is a refined interpretation of Tuscan tradition created by Chef Silvia Baracchi of Relais & Châteaux il Falconiere in Cortona. This recipe celebrates the authentic flavors of the region with elegance and color. The term ‘gnudi,’ meaning ‘naked’ in Tuscan dialect, refers to small ricotta-based morsels similar to ravioli but without the pasta shell. This humble yet genuine dish transforms into a refined creation.

The star of the vegetable ragù is Aglione from Valdichiana, a symbol of Tuscan cuisine. Known for its sweet and delicate flavor, Aglione adds an unmistakable aromatic note to the sauce. Complementing this harmony of flavors is the velvety and luminous saffron sauce, enveloping the gnudi and enhancing the freshness of the crunchy vegetable ragù. This first course reflects gourmet Tuscany, elegantly reinterpreting traditional rustic cuisine while highlighting local products in a contemporary way.

Discover other delicious variations of gnudi, both regional and beyond:

• Black Cabbage Gnudi
• Brescian Malfatti
• Trentino Strangolapreti

Ingredients

• 400g ricotta cheese
• 100g flour
• 1 egg
• Salt
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• 500g mixed seasonal vegetables (zucchini, carrots, bell peppers)
• 2 cloves Aglione garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Saffron strands

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, flour, egg, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt.
2. Mix until a soft dough forms, then shape into small dumplings.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté chopped Aglione garlic until fragrant.
4. Add seasonal vegetables and cook until tender, seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Meanwhile, boil gnudi in salted water until they float. Drain carefully.
6. In a separate saucepan, whisk saffron into a little hot water to create a sauce.
7. Serve gnudi topped with vegetable ragù and saffron sauce, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Total Time: 30 min

Cuisine: Italian