Caramelle Pasta is a delightful and visually stunning dish that takes traditional pasta to the next level. Named after the Italian word for “candies” (caramelle), this pasta features a unique shape, resembling little candy wrappers. Filled with a savory stuffing, such as ricotta cheese, spinach, or a mix of herbs, it’s a perfect meal for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extra special.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make Caramelle Pasta from scratch, from preparing the dough to creating the perfect filling. If you’re a fan of Italian dishes, also check out our Lasagna Recipe and Homemade Rasta Pasta Recipe.
What is Caramelle Pasta?
Caramelle Pasta is a type of stuffed pasta, similar to ravioli or tortellini, but with a distinct shape that resembles a wrapped candy. The name “caramelle” comes from the Italian word for “candies,” and this pasta’s unique appearance makes it an elegant choice for dinner parties or special meals.
The pasta is typically filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from cheese and spinach to more adventurous fillings like pumpkin or mushrooms. The pasta is cooked in boiling water and served with a flavorful sauce that complements the stuffing.
Ingredients for Caramelle Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:
For the Pasta Dough:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (plus extra for rolling)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Water: As needed
For the Filling:
- Ricotta cheese: 1 cup (you can also use mascarpone or a mix of cheeses)
- Spinach: 1 ½ cups (fresh, chopped, and sautéed)
- Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup (grated)
- Nutmeg: A pinch
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
For the Sauce:
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- Sage leaves: 8-10
- Parmesan cheese: For serving
- Salt and pepper: To taste
How to Make Caramelle Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Dough
Start by making the pasta dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack the eggs into it.
- Add the olive oil to the eggs and slowly begin incorporating the flour using a fork.
- Once the mixture starts to come together, begin kneading it by hand. If the dough is too dry, add a bit of water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes soft and smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough rests, prepare the filling:
- Sauté the spinach in a little olive oil until wilted. Let it cool and then squeeze out any excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Set the filling aside.
Step 3: Roll the Dough
After the dough has rested, roll it out:
- Divide the dough into two portions. Roll one portion into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick, using a pasta machine or rolling pin.
- Cut the dough into squares, about 3 inches by 3 inches, using a sharp knife or pasta cutter.
Step 4: Fill the Pasta
Now it’s time to fill the caramelle:
- Place about 1 teaspoon of the filling in the center of each pasta square.
- Fold the square into a triangle by bringing two opposite corners together. Press the edges firmly to seal the pasta.
- Next, fold the two corners of the triangle towards the center, creating a wrapped “candy” shape. Press to seal securely. Repeat with the remaining pasta squares and filling.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the caramelle into the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the pasta floats to the surface.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the pasta and set it aside.
Step 6: Make the Sage Butter Sauce
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and sauté them until crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the butter with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve the Pasta
- Add the cooked caramelle to the sage butter sauce and gently toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Making Perfect Caramelle Pasta
Use Fresh Pasta Dough
Using fresh, homemade pasta dough makes a big difference in the texture and taste of the caramelle. If you don’t have a pasta machine, you can roll the dough by hand, but try to roll it as thin as possible for the best results.
Experiment with Fillings
While the classic filling of ricotta and spinach is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fillings like roasted pumpkin, mushrooms, or even a combination of cheeses.
Don’t Overfill the Pasta
It’s tempting to use a lot of filling, but too much will make it difficult to seal the pasta properly. Stick to about 1 teaspoon of filling for each caramelle.
How to Store and Reheat Caramelle Pasta
If you have leftovers, you can store the cooked caramelle pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply toss them in a hot pan with some butter or sauce until heated through. If you want to freeze them, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and cook from frozen when ready.
Serving Suggestions for Caramelle Pasta
Caramelle Pasta can be served on its own, or you can pair it with:
- A Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: To soak up any extra sauce.
- A Glass of White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the pasta perfectly.
Caramelle Pasta is an elegant, delicious dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a comforting meal. The combination of fresh pasta, savory filling, and sage butter sauce makes it a memorable dish. Try this recipe next time you’re in the mood for something special!
