Store-bought cannoli shells (Ralph had a recipe for making the shells but he never tried it)
Filling (makes about 1 dozen):
- Mix 1 lb. (2 cups) good ricotta cheese in a blender or press through a wire strainer, until it is very smooth.
- Fold in 3/4 cups unsifted powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Add just a dash of cinnamon. Mix in 1/4 cup each finely chopped citron and orange peel, and 1/4 cup chopped sweet chocolate. Chill several hours or overnight.
- Fill the shells with the filling, and dip the ends in finely chopped pistaschio nuts. Sift powdered sugar over the shells. Serve.
- Do not fill the shells until you are ready to serve them, or they will become soggy.