Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs

Name: Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 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; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; Butter or olive oil; Grated Parmesan for topping

Highlighted under: Traditional Meals

I love making heart-shaped ravioli filled with ricotta and fresh herbs because they're not only delicious but also a delightful way to impress loved ones. Whenever I prepare this dish, I enjoy the process of creating the pasta from scratch and filling it with a creamy, herb-infused mixture. The combination of textures and flavors elevates any meal, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. Plus, they look absolutely adorable on the plate!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:02:41.174Z

When I first tried making ravioli, I was intimidated by the process, but it quickly became a cherished weekend tradition. The heart shape adds a lovely touch that elevates the dish for any romantic meal. My secret tip is to use high-quality ricotta and fresh herbs like basil and parsley, as they truly make a difference in flavor.

As I rolled the dough, I discovered that keeping the pasta thin helps achieve that perfect texture. The combination of the creamy filling and the slightly chewy pasta shell is satisfying in every bite. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added richness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Adorable heart shapes that make any meal feel special
Rich and creamy ricotta filling with fresh herbs
Perfect for romantic dinners or celebrations

Understanding Pasta Dough

Making your own pasta dough is key to achieving a delicious and tender ravioli. When you knead the dough, aim for a smooth texture that isn't sticky. If your dough feels too dry, add a few drops of water; if it’s too wet, incorporate a bit more flour. The resting period is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thin sheets without tearing.

Using high-quality flour, like '00' flour, can significantly improve the texture of your pasta. This fine flour creates a silky dough that cooks beautifully, resulting in a ravioli that has a delightful bite. Be sure to sift the flour before measuring to eliminate lumps and ensure a light dough. This small step can enhance the overall quality of your dish.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where you can truly make this dish yours. Ricotta cheese serves as a creamy base, but it's the addition of fresh herbs like basil and parsley that elevates the flavor. Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like minced garlic or lemon zest for an extra zing. Just keep in mind the moisture content; if you add too many juicy ingredients, the filling can become runny, so adjust accordingly.

It's important to taste the filling before assembling the ravioli. This allows you to adjust the seasoning, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors. If you're mindful of dietary restrictions, you can substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or a dairy-free version for a lighter option while maintaining the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly memorable presentation, consider garnishing your heart-shaped ravioli with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of homemade pesto. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor. Serving with a simple sauce, like brown butter with sage, can enhance the ravioli without overshadowing their delicate flavors. Just remember to toss them gently to avoid breaking the pasta.

These ravioli can be customized for different occasions. For a festive touch, try adding a touch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a bit of heat, or incorporate seasonal vegetables like roasted butternut squash for a heartier dish. You can also prepare a larger batch and freeze uncooked ravioli. Just layer them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag, which allows for easy cooking on busy nights.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

Butter or olive oil
Grated Parmesan for topping

Make sure to adjust the filling consistency for your preference; it should be rich but not too runny.

Instructions

Be prepared to work with your hands as you form the ravioli and roll out the dough.

Make the Pasta Dough

On a clean surface, make a mound with the flour and create a well in the center. Add eggs, salt, and olive oil into the well. Slowly incorporate the flour with your hands until it forms a dough. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and allow it to rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller pieces. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece out into thin sheets, about 1/8 inch thick.

Shape the Ravioli

Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the pasta sheets. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of half the hearts, then place another heart on top. Press the edges to seal, ensuring there are no air pockets.

Cook the Ravioli

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

Serve

In a pan, melt butter or heat olive oil, and toss the cooked ravioli gently. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan.

Feel free to get creative with different fillings or sauces to suit your taste!

Pro Tips

To achieve the best texture, ensure that your pasta dough is well-kneaded and allowed to rest. Using a pasta machine can help you get consistent, thin sheets.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ravioli are coming apart while cooking, this might be due to inadequate sealing. Make sure to press the edges firmly and eliminate as much air as possible when sealing. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra secure seal, which also adds a charming texture.

When filling the ravioli, avoid overstuffing. A teaspoon of filling per heart shape is ideal; too much filling will prevent proper sealing and lead to bursting during cooking. Additionally, if the dough feels too elastic when rolling, allow it to rest a bit longer; this will make it easier to shape.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this heart-shaped ravioli recipe for a larger gathering is straightforward. For every additional batch, maintain the 2:1 flour-to-egg ratio to keep the dough consistent. Simply multiply your ingredient amounts accordingly, but prepare the pasta in batches to ensure you can handle it effectively without feeling rushed.

If you're serving many guests and want to streamline the process, prepare the ravioli a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Just remember to layer them properly to prevent sticking and, when ready to cook, add an extra minute to the cooking time if they are frozen. This allows for perfectly tender ravioli that impress on any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, but consider draining them for a thicker consistency.

→ How do I know when the ravioli are fully cooked?

They are done when they float to the surface and the pasta is tender yet firm.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Absolutely! Lay the uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag for later cooking.