Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the pasta dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
2. Crack the 4 large eggs into the well you've created in the flour. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the eggs.
3. Using a fork, gently beat the eggs and olive oil together, gradually incorporating the flour from the edges of the well. Continue until the mixture becomes too stiff to mix with a fork.
4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough with your hands for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
5. Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.
6. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheeses are fully combined and smooth.
7. After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal portions. Take one portion and keep the others covered to prevent them from drying out.
8. Using a rolling pin or a pasta machine, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is very thin, about 1/16 inch thick. If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually work your way to the thinner settings.
9. Once rolled out, cut the dough into squares or circles, depending on the shape you desire for your pasta. Each piece should be about 3 inches wide.
10. Place a small spoonful of the ricotta and Parmesan filling in the center of each pasta square or circle. Be careful not to overfill.
11. Fold the pasta over to create a pocket, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
12. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the filled pasta into the boiling water. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the pasta floats to the surface and is tender.
13. While the pasta is cooking, heat your marinara sauce in a separate saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
14. Once the pasta is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon the warmed marinara sauce over the pasta.
15. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy Nonna's Signature Pasta Creations with family and friends!