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; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Collection

I absolutely love making heart-shaped ravioli, especially when filled with creamy ricotta and flavorful herbs. The process is not only fun but also allows me to unleash my creativity in the kitchen. This dish is perfect for special occasions or just a romantic dinner at home. With a touch of homemade pasta and fresh ingredients, you'll impress anyone you serve. Plus, it's a delightful way to celebrate love or just indulge yourself. Trust me, once you try these ravioli, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-08T10:45:34.716Z

When I first tried making heart-shaped ravioli, I was amazed at how beautiful they turned out. I used a simple homemade pasta dough combined with a delicious filling made from ricotta, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. This filling really stands out and adds a refreshing taste to each bite. The key is to not overfill the ravioli, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly and remains tender.

I also discovered that using a crimping tool not only seals the edges perfectly but adds a charming touch to the finished ravioli. Pair them with a light sauce, and you have a dish that's not only pretty to look at but incredibly satisfying to eat.

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Delicate pasta that melts in your mouth
Fresh herb and ricotta filling bursting with flavor
Unique heart shape makes it perfect for special occasions

      

The Art of Pasta Making

Making your own pasta is not just a skill—it's an art form. The quality of your pasta dough is crucial for the final texture of your heart-shaped ravioli. Make sure to use fresh eggs and sift the flour before mixing to incorporate air, which makes for a lighter dough. Knead until the dough is smooth, and let it rest properly. This resting period is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out thin sheets without tearing.

When rolling out the pasta, keep a consistent thickness of about 1/16 inch. If you're using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually decrease the thickness. Dust with flour as needed to prevent sticking, but be cautious not to over-flour, as too much can lead to a chewy texture.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is where the flavor truly shines in heart-shaped ravioli. Using high-quality ricotta cheese will enhance the creaminess of the filling. If your ricotta seems watery, drain it in a fine-mesh sieve for 30 minutes to get the right consistency. Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley and basil adds not only flavor but also a vibrant color that contrasts beautifully with the pasta.

For a little extra zing, consider adding a touch of grated nutmeg to the filling. This spice complements the ricotta and herbs well, providing a warm, aromatic depth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Remember, the filling should be flavorful, as it will be the heart of your ravioli.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While these heart-shaped ravioli can be delicious on their own, serving them with a sauce elevates their flavor. A light butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs creates a lovely coating that complements the filling without overpowering it. Alternatively, consider a simple marinara or a drizzle of good olive oil with grated cheese for a more classic approach.

If you're looking to switch up the filling, consider experimenting with different cheeses like goat cheese for a tangy bite or adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can also add chopped spinach for a nutritious twist. These variations allow you to tailor the dish to suit your taste while still following the heart-shaped ravioli concept.

Ingredients

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
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Pasta Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, parsley, basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the rested dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece using a pasta machine or a rolling pin until thin, about 1/16 inch. Dust the sheets with flour to prevent sticking.

Shape the Ravioli

Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the pasta sheets. Place a small teaspoon of filling in the center of half the hearts. Brush the edges with water and place remaining hearts on top, pressing to seal.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Serve

Serve the cooked ravioli with your favorite sauce, a drizzle of olive oil, or simply sautéed in butter with fresh herbs. Enjoy your beautiful and delicious heart-shaped ravioli!

Pro Tips

To prevent the ravioli from sticking together while you work, dust them lightly with flour. You can also freeze the uncooked ravioli and cook them straight from the freezer when needed.

Make-Ahead Tips

These heart-shaped ravioli can be made a day in advance, which is excellent for easing time constraints on special occasions. After shaping the ravioli, lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and cooked straight from the freezer—just add an extra minute to the cooking time.

If you plan to make the filling ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to mix it well before using, as the flavors develop nicely when allowed to meld.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ravioli are leaking during cooking, this often means the edges weren't sealed well. Make sure to brush enough water on the edges of the pasta to create a good seal, and press firmly to eliminate air pockets. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for an extra secure seal and a decorative touch.

Another common issue is sticking during cooking. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the ravioli. Gently stir them immediately after adding to the pot and avoid overcrowding. If they stick together, use a slotted spoon to separate them gently as they cook.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets if you're short on time, but homemade pasta adds a special touch.

→ What sauce goes well with heart-shaped ravioli?

A simple sage brown butter sauce or marinara sauce pairs beautifully with these ravioli.

→ How do I store leftover ravioli?

Store uncooked ravioli in the freezer in a single layer and cooked ravioli in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use other fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, vegetables, or proteins for your filling.