Ravioli Dolci: Sweet Lemon Marjoram Ravioli

Despite the word “sweet” in the name, this unusual and exceptionally flavorful specialty from the Teramo area of Abruzzo is a first course, not a dessert. The ravioli are filled with a savory-sweet mixture of ricotta with lemon, cinnamon, rum, marjoram and sugar. The touch of sugar and rum in the filling brings out the marjoram’s lovely aroma, while lemon zest adds a bright pop, all nicely balanced with the acidity of tomato sauce. 

The taste hearkens back to the Renaissan