Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh spinach, cooked and chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Heart-Shaped Spinach Ravioli for special occasions because they’re not only adorable but also packed with flavor. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta cheese wrapped in delicate pasta is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful surprise, and shaping them like hearts adds a personal touch that impresses my family and friends. Whether I'm serving these for a romantic dinner or a festive gathering, they always steal the show. Trust me, once you try making these, you'll want to create them for every celebration!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:25:10.517Z

When I first tried making ravioli from scratch, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and satisfying it was. The key is to use fresh ingredients, especially for the filling. After experimenting with different cheeses, I found that the ricotta balances perfectly with the nutty flavor of cooked spinach.

A little tip I discovered is to let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes after kneading. This helps in rolling it out thinner and makes the ravioli more delicate. Plus, shaping them into hearts adds a whimsical touch that everyone loves!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Cute heart shape adds a special touch to any meal
Deliciously creamy filling with a hint of nutmeg
Perfect for date nights or festive gatherings

      

Perfecting the Dough

Making the dough is a vital step, and how you handle it can greatly affect the texture of your ravioli. When mixing, create a well in the flour and add the eggs; this method helps to prevent the eggs from spilling out. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 10 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, dust it with a little more flour; conversely, if it’s too dry, add a touch of water, one teaspoon at a time.

After kneading, resting the dough is essential. It allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out. Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. I usually let it rest for about 30 minutes, but you can benefit from longer resting times if your schedule allows. This will result in a smoother, easier-to-handle dough.

The Filling Flavors

The filling is what makes your ravioli truly memorable. Fresh spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also a subtle earthy flavor that complements the creamy ricotta. To enhance the filling, ensure you squeeze excess moisture from the cooked spinach to prevent a watery filling. This prevents the ravioli from becoming soggy during cooking. I often use a clean kitchen towel to wring out the spinach thoroughly.

Nutmeg is a key ingredient in this filling; it adds warmth and depth, elevating the overall taste. Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor—just a pinch can make a big difference. If you're looking to customize, you can add herbs like basil or a hint of garlic to the filling for extra zest. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients:

Dough Ingredients

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

Filling Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, cooked and chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep all ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your ravioli:

Make the Dough

On a clean surface, mix the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, add eggs, and gradually incorporate the flour until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, then cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece thinly with a pasta machine or rolling pin to about 1/16 inch thickness.

Shape the Ravioli

Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the dough. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each heart and fold over, pressing the edges to seal.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ravioli and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve your ravioli with your favorite sauce!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add herbs like basil or parsley to the filling for an extra flavor boost. Pair with a simple garlic butter sauce for a delightful finish!

Cooking Tips

When it comes to cooking the ravioli, timing is crucial. They typically need only about 2-3 minutes in boiling salted water. Watch for them to float; this is a sign that they're done. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so once they rise to the surface, promptly scoop them out with a slotted spoon. This helps retain their delicate structure.

If you're making a large batch, consider cooking them in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. You can also keep freshly cooked ravioli warm on a plate covered with aluminum foil while you finish cooking the rest.

Serving Suggestions

For a standout presentation, serve the heart-shaped ravioli with a light sauce that complements their flavors without overpowering them. A simple brown butter sauce with a sprinkle of sage can enhance their nuttiness. Alternatively, a fresh tomato sauce drizzled with a dash of olive oil and some freshly grated Parmesan creates a lovely contrast with the creamy filling.

If you have leftover ravioli, they store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a gentle simmer in water to warm them without compromising their texture. These little heart-shaped delights can also be frozen before cooking; just layer them on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap.

→ How can I freeze the ravioli?

Make the ravioli, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen!

→ What sauce pairs well with spinach ravioli?

A simple garlic and olive oil sauce or a light tomato sauce complement the flavors nicely.

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

Yes, if you're short on time, you can use store-bought pasta sheets instead of making your own.