Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCinghialeRicotta Cavatelli Recipe

Ricotta Cavatelli Recipe

Inspired by Cinghiale
Time1h 15m
Serves4

Lamb Polpettine, Arugula Pesto

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Ingredients

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Cavatelli Pasta

Lamb Polpettine

Arugula Pesto

Method

Cavatelli Pasta

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dough

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the ricotta cheese and egg. Gradually mix the flour into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

  2. 2

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Shape Cavatelli

    After resting, divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to create ridges by pressing down on each piece.

Lamb Polpettine

  1. 4

    Prepare the Mixture

    In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

  2. 5

    Form the Meatballs

    With your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

  3. 6

    Cook the Meatballs

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Arugula Pesto

  1. 7

    Blend the Pesto

    In a food processor, combine arugula, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until combined.

  2. 8

    Add Olive Oil

    While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Assembly

  1. 9

    Cook Cavatelli

    In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatelli for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

  2. 10

    Combine and Serve

    In a large bowl, combine the cooked cavatelli, lamb polpettine, and arugula pesto. Toss gently to coat. Serve warm.

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