Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg yolk; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first attempted making Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli, I knew it would be a fun kitchen project. The combination of the tender pasta and vibrant spinach filling is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful surprise for the taste buds. I experimented with various ingredients and cooking techniques, discovering the perfect balance of flavors. This dish brings a touch of romance to any meal, whether you're sharing it with someone special or treating yourself on a cozy night in.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:52:22.165Z

Making Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli was an exciting culinary adventure for me. I wanted to create something special that not only tasted great but looked adorable on the plate. The bright green filling of spinach and ricotta stands out beautifully against the golden pasta, and the heart shape adds a whimsical touch. After fine-tuning the dough recipe and filling ingredients, I learned that a light touch while rolling the dough makes the ravioli light and tender.

During my tests, I discovered that letting the ravioli rest for a few minutes before boiling helps them hold their shape. I also recommend drizzling a simple garlic brown butter sauce over them once cooked, which elevates the flavors without overshadowing the fresh taste of the spinach. Enjoying this dish makes me feel accomplished and brings happiness to those at my table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicate pasta that melts in your mouth
Fresh spinach filling that bursts with flavor
Perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion

      

The Art of Pasta Making

Making pasta from scratch is an integral part of this heart-shaped ravioli. The key to achieving that delicate texture lies in kneading the dough properly. When you mix the flour with egg and oil, you should see a shaggy mass begin to form. Kneading for about 10 minutes is crucial; the dough should become smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, dust it lightly with more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour will make the pasta dense.

Resting the dough is just as important as the kneading process. After wrapping the dough in plastic, give it at least 30 minutes of rest. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out. If you’re pressed for time, you can refrigerate the dough for a few hours or even overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before rolling for the best results.

Building Flavor with Your Filling

The filling is where the heart of this recipe lies. When cooking the spinach, sauté it over medium heat just until wilted—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If you overcook it, the color and nutrients will diminish. Drain any excess moisture before mixing with the cheeses and egg yolk to prevent the filling from becoming watery. The combination of ricotta for creaminess and Parmesan for depth creates a well-rounded flavor that perfectly complements the delicate pasta.

A pinch of nutmeg may seem small, but it adds a warm, aromatic dimension to the filling. If you prefer a different flavor profile, feel free to substitute the nutmeg with a touch of lemon zest, which can brighten the filling wonderfully. For a vegan version, you could use tofu blended with nutritional yeast as a ricotta replacement, and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Cooking and Serving Tips

Cooking the ravioli is a quick process, requiring only about 3-4 minutes in boiling salted water. You'll know they're done when they float to the top. This is a great indicator of doneness since undercooked ravioli will sink rather than rise. Use a slotted spoon to remove them gently, minimizing the risk of breaking the delicate pasta. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking; you may need to cook in batches depending on your pot size.

When preparing the sauce, quality butter can make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for unsalted butter to better control the seasoning of the entire dish. When you toss the cooked ravioli in the garlic butter, do so gently to avoid tearing them. Serve the dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves to elevate both the presentation and taste.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg yolk
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg

For the Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.

Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. In a bowl, combine the spinach with ricotta, Parmesan, egg yolk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece thinly using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch.

Cut and Shape the Ravioli

Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of half the hearts and cover with the other half. Ensure to seal the edges tightly.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and toss gently in the garlic butter.

Serve

Plate the ravioli, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest to the filling. You can also substitute the spinach with with sautéed mushrooms for a different twist.

Storing and Freezing Ravioli

If you want to make the ravioli ahead of time, they can easily be frozen. After shaping them, place the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw; just add them directly to the boiling water and cook a minute or two longer than usual.

Leftover ravioli can also be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their texture and flavor. Reheat by gently pan-frying them in a bit of olive oil or butter over medium heat, which helps restore some of their original texture while adding a delicious crispiness.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! For a meaty option, consider adding finely chopped cooked chicken or shrimp to the spinach and cheese mixture. Alternatively, for a more robust vegetarian option, roasted mushrooms can provide a deep, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy ricotta. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture, preventing a soggy filling.

You can also change up the shape of the ravioli. If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, simply cut squares or circles. The method of sealing and cooking remains the same. This adaptability makes the recipe approachable for various occasions or ingredient availabilities.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets to save time, though homemade will yield a fresher taste.

→ How can I freeze the ravioli?

Place the uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ Can I use other fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as ricotta and mushroom or even butternut squash.

→ What sauce pairs well with these ravioli?

A simple garlic butter sauce complements the ravioli perfectly, but a light tomato sauce or sage brown butter also works wonderfully.