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; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli, as they are not only a delight to the eyes but also to the palate. The process of making pasta from scratch can be a bit daunting initially, but it becomes a creative journey that I find incredibly rewarding. Each tender ravioli is filled with a delicious spinach and ricotta mixture, and the heart shape brings a fun twist to any meal. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a cozy family gathering, these little pockets of joy never fail to impress.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:46:17.690Z

Making Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli is one of my favorite culinary adventures. I remember the first time I shaped pasta by hand; it felt like art and science combined. The vibrant green filling, made with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, creates a stunning contrast to the golden dough. I often experiment with different fillings, but this classic combination is always a hit in my household.

One tip I can share is to ensure the dough is rolled out thinly. Thick pasta can lead to chewy ravioli, while thinner dough allows the filling to shine through. Also, don't forget to seal the edges thoroughly to prevent any filling from leaking out during cooking! The result is a beautifully crafted dish that truly feels special.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Heart-shaped design adds a romantic touch to your dinner table.
Fresh, homemade pasta that's an absolute game-changer.
The healthy spinach and ricotta filling offers rich flavor without heaviness.

      

Mastering Homemade Pasta

The key to achieving beautifully smooth pasta dough lies in the kneading process. It’s essential to knead the dough until it feels elastic and slightly tacky to the touch, which usually takes about 10 minutes. To check if it's ready, try the 'windowpane test': stretch a small piece of dough; if it forms a thin sheet without breaking, you're good to go. Ensure your work surface is lightly floured, but avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to a dry dough.

Resting the dough for at least 30 minutes is a crucial step that allows the gluten to relax. If you skip this step, your pasta may spring back while rolling, making it hard to achieve thin sheets. If you're in a time crunch, I sometimes let it rest for just 15 minutes, but I find that 30 minutes yields the best texture for rolling.

Perfecting the Filling

Start with a high-quality ricotta cheese for the filling, as it greatly influences the overall flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use part-skim ricotta. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach after cooking to prevent a watery filling. When mixing the spinach with the cheeses, don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning; taste as you go, adding just enough salt and pepper to enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

For an extra kick, consider incorporating a dash of nutmeg into your filling. Nutmeg beautifully complements the spinach and cheese, adding depth to the flavor profile. This subtle hint of spice will surprise your guests and elevate the overall dish.

Cooking and Serving Tips

When boiling the ravioli, doing so in batches is crucial to prevent them from sticking together. Gently stir the pot during the first minute of cooking to keep them separated. You'll know they're done when they float to the top—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as fresh pasta can become mushy if left in the water too long.

For serving, I recommend warming the marinara sauce over low heat until it begins to bubble slightly. Pour it over the ravioli right before serving to maintain the ravioli’s tender texture. Garnish with freshly torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch that not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of freshness to each bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the heart-shaped spinach ravioli:

For the Pasta Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

1 cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your heart-shaped ravioli:

Make the Pasta Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center, add eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix, forming a dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a pan, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat; mix with ricotta, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Roll the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece as thinly as possible using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Cut into hearts using a cookie cutter.

Fill and Shape the Ravioli

Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each heart. Wet the edges with water, then fold the heart in half and press to seal. Ensure there are no air bubbles.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Warm the marinara sauce in a pan. Serve the ravioli topped with sauce and garnish with fresh basil.

Enjoy your delicious heart-shaped ravioli!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some herbs like basil or parsley to the filling. You can also vary the sauce according to your preference
a simple browned butter sauce pairs wonderfully with these ravioli.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily adapt the filling ingredient. Swapping out ricotta for a plant-based version, like almond or soy-based ricotta, works particularly well. You could also try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor within the filling, pairing wonderfully with the spinach.

For the pasta dough, whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier alternative, adding nutritional value and a nuttier flavor. However, keep in mind that whole wheat dough might require more liquid, so consider adding an extra egg or a splash of water to achieve the right consistency.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can prepare the ravioli in advance and freeze them. After shaping the ravioli, place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be cooked from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to your cooking time for perfect results.

Consider preparing a double batch of filling and using it for stuffed shells or lasagna later in the week. This will save you time and allow you to enjoy the delicious flavor of spinach and ricotta in various dishes.

Variations and Serving Ideas

To switch things up, you can experiment with different fillings. Try adding cooked butternut squash, crab meat, or even sautéed leeks for a unique take on ravioli that can please a variety of palates. Pairing different sauces, such as a sage brown butter or a light alfredo, can also enhance the flavors significantly.

For a complete meal, serve the ravioli alongside a light arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula will complement the rich filling beautifully, making the meal not only visually appealing but also pleasantly balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta for ravioli?

Yes, you can, but homemade pasta offers a unique texture and flavor that enhances the dish.

→ How do I know when the ravioli are done cooking?

The ravioli are ready when they float to the top of the boiling water. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli before cooking?

Absolutely! Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

→ What sauces pair well with spinach ravioli?

Marinara, brown butter sage, or a light cream sauce are all excellent choices.