Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs

Name: Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or chives); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves; Grated Parmesan cheese; Olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs for special occasions. The process of shaping the pasta into hearts adds a personal touch that makes the dish even more delightful. Using fresh herbs from my garden elevates the flavor, and the creamy ricotta filling is simply irresistible. Whether it's a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these ravioli are always a hit. Plus, the ability to customize the herbs allows me to experiment every time I make them, keeping each batch unique and flavorful.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:02:35.938Z

Every time I make Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs, I'm reminded of the first time I crafted them as a surprise for my partner. The process was a delightful mix of fun and focus as I rolled out the pasta dough and shaped it meticulously into hearts. I remember the joy of filling them with a creamy mixture of ricotta and freshly picked herbs from my garden. The combination was a hit!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily switch up the herbs based on what’s available or in season. For instance, adding a hint of basil or a sprinkle of parsley can make all the difference. It’s a dish that invites creativity, and every bite brings a taste of home-cooked love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A creative twist on traditional pasta that impresses everyone
Delicate flavors of ricotta and fresh herbs come together beautifully
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in

Crafting the Perfect Dough

Making the ravioli dough is as much about technique as it is about the ingredients. The flour you choose plays a crucial role in the texture of the ravioli. Use a high-quality all-purpose flour for better gluten formation, which will give the dough a nice elasticity. Knead the dough until it feels silky and smooth, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes on a floured surface. Allowing it to rest for 30 minutes is essential; this relaxes the gluten and makes rolling it out much easier.

When you roll out the dough, try to keep it even. If you prefer using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually move to thinner settings. A good thickness for ravioli is about 1/16 inch. If the dough becomes too sticky, dust it lightly with flour. Remember that the thinner the dough, the more delicate the ravioli will be, ensuring a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Filling Variations and Tips

The filling for these heart-shaped ravioli is simple yet versatile. While the combination of ricotta and herbs is delightful, feel free to experiment with other flavors. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the taste, while mixing in cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms offers an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a cashew cream or tofu blended with spices instead of ricotta.

When assembling the ravioli, ensure the filling is well-contained. If you overfill, the ravioli may burst during cooking. A teaspoon of filling per ravioli is generally sufficient. Moisten the edges of the dough thoroughly with water before sealing; this helps prevent any leaks. After sealing, make sure to press out all the air to ensure a tight closure, which will maintain the desired texture while cooking.

Cooking and Serving Suggestions

Cooking the ravioli is straightforward but requires attention. When boiling, use a large pot and bring the water to a rolling boil. Salting the water not only seasons the ravioli but also enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Typically, ravioli will float to the surface after 4-5 minutes; this is a sign they are ready to be pulled out with a slotted spoon. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

For serving, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil elevates the dish beautifully. I love adding fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor and visual appeal. You can also incorporate a light sauce, like a simple brown butter or sage sauce, to complement the delicate flavors of the ravioli without overpowering them. Pair the dish with a crisp salad and a glass of wine for a complete meal that's sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or chives)
Salt and pepper to taste

To Serve

Fresh basil leaves
Grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the wet ingredients until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste and set aside.

Roll the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out one piece at a time on a floured surface or use a pasta machine until it’s thin (about 1/16 inch thick).

Shape the Ravioli

Cut the rolled dough into heart shapes using a cookie cutter. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of half of the hearts. Moisten the edges with water, then place another heart shape on top and press to seal.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for 4-5 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Plate the ravioli and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta filling. Make sure to seal the ravioli tightly to prevent them from opening during cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

These heart-shaped ravioli can be made ahead of time, which is particularly useful for meal prep or special occasions. After assembling the ravioli, you can lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This allows you to cook only what you need later on, and they can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

If you're making the filling in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Ensure it’s well-seasoned, as flavors tend to mellow after sitting. Fresh herbs can be adjusted before using the filling, keeping them vibrant for the best flavor before assembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making ravioli is sealing them properly. If the edges are not sealed correctly, water can seep in during cooking, leading to a messy outcome. Always check for any air pockets and ensure the edges are moistened and pressed tightly. If you find any ravioli that are leaking, you can gently reshape them before cooking, but be mindful of the filling escaping.

Another challenge can be the dough becoming too sticky while rolling out. If you notice this happening, dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour as needed. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for a short while to make it more manageable. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the overall success of your ravioli.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, spinach, or even butternut squash for a different flavor profile.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the formed ravioli. Just lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a bag.

→ How do I cook frozen ravioli?

Boil them straight from the freezer, and they may take an additional 1-2 minutes to cook.