Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs

Name: Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs
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 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Local Kitchen

I absolutely love making these heart-shaped ravioli with ricotta and fresh herbs! The combination of creamy cheese and fragrant herbs makes for a delightful filling that melts in your mouth. Shaping the ravioli into hearts adds a personal touch that’s perfect for special occasions or an intimate dinner. Each bite feels like a warm hug, and the process of crafting them is both relaxing and enjoyable. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen, ideal for impressing loved ones.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:13:35.643Z

When experimenting with pasta, I wanted something that not only tasted delicious but also had a touch of whimsy. That's when I decided to create heart-shaped ravioli. The delicate nature of homemade pasta hugs the rich, herby ricotta filling perfectly, making it a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. Over the years, I've learned that letting the pasta rest before rolling it out helps achieve the right texture, which is crucial for every bite.

For a burst of flavor, I suggest adding a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mix. This small addition can elevate the dish tremendously! I love serving these with a light butter sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or sage to highlight the dish's freshness. This meal is a true showstopper!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The playful heart shapes bring joy to your dining table.
The creamy, herby ricotta filling is a flavor explosion.
Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.

      

Perfecting the Dough

The dough is the foundation of your ravioli, and it's crucial to get it right. For optimal texture, use a quality all-purpose flour that has a good protein content; this will give your pasta the necessary elasticity. When kneading, aim for a smooth and pliable texture. If it feels too sticky, dust a little more flour incrementally. Letting the dough rest is essential as it relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out later.

When rolling out the dough, work with one piece at a time to ensure it stays manageable. If you find the dough begins to spring back while rolling, give it a moment to rest before continuing. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch for the ideal ravioli shape. Thinner pasta yields a more delicate bite, while thicker pasta can turn chewy, which isn't the goal here.

Crafting the Filling

The filling is where the flavors truly shine. Ricotta is the star ingredient, lending a creamy richness, but ensure you use a good quality, well-drained ricotta to avoid excess moisture, which can make your ravioli soggy. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese; just blend it until smooth before adding other ingredients.

Herbs are essential for flavor; fresh parsley and basil bring brightness that complements the rich cheeses beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with substitutes or additions, such as adding some fresh spinach or even a hint of lemon zest to enhance the filling's freshness. Remember to taste your filling before sealing the ravioli; adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.

Cooking and Serving Tips

Cooking the ravioli properly is key to achieving that perfect bite. Once they float to the surface, it's a sign they're nearly done, but allow an additional minute for them to cook through. If cooking in batches, use a large pot to avoid crowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. To ensure they don't stick together, gently stir the water while they cook.

For serving, consider drizzling the ravioli with a light sauce, such as brown butter, for an earthy flavor that really complements the filling. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a dash of lemon juice for added texture and brightness. This dish not only looks impressive but also allows for creativity with presentation and flavors.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then add the eggs. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, basil, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out one piece at a time into thin sheets, using a pasta machine or rolling pin.

Shape the Ravioli

Cut out heart shapes using a cookie cutter or knife. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of half of the hearts. Moisten the edges with water and top with the other half of the hearts, pressing to seal.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently place the ravioli in the water and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add cooked ravioli and sauté for 2-3 minutes, coating them in butter.

Serve

Plate the ravioli and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy your heart-shaped pasta!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the butter sauce.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These heart-shaped ravioli can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, you can cook them directly from frozen; just add an extra minute to the cooking time for best results.

If you have leftover filling, it can be refrigerated for about 2-3 days. Consider using it in other dishes, like stuffed shells or as a topping for baked potatoes, to avoid waste. Always seal the container tightly to preserve freshness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an added depth of flavor. Alternatively, for a more robust option, incorporating ground meat or spinach can provide a different texture and taste profile while still keeping the heart shape playful.

For a fun twist, try using colored dough made from beet or spinach puree. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a mild flavor that harmonizes with the ricotta and herbs. Knead a small amount of vegetable puree into your dough while mixing for colorful ravioli that are great for festive occasions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ravioli are leaking during cooking, it could be due to either excess filling or improperly sealed edges. Ensure that you're not overfilling, and always press the edges firmly to seal them. Rubbing a little water along the edges helps the dough stick better, preventing any leaks.

Another common issue is dough tearing while rolling out. If this happens, the dough may be too dry; try adding a few drops of water and kneading it briefly until smooth again. Remember to dust with flour while rolling to prevent sticking, but avoid adding too much, as it can alter the texture of your pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough a few hours in advance. Just keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with fillings! Spinach and feta, or mushrooms and truffle oil are great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover ravioli?

Store any leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze the uncooked ravioli?

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