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; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs during special occasions. It’s a fun, hands-on process that brings friends and family together, creating memories while we roll out the dough and fill each delicate shape with creamy, herb-infused ricotta. The moment you bite into one of these raviolis, you experience a perfect marriage of textures and flavors, which is truly a joy to savor. Plus, the heart shape adds that extra touch of romance, making them perfect for any intimate dinner setting.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:57:37.707Z

When I first made these Heart-Shaped Ravioli, my original intent was to impress my partner on Valentine’s Day. As I rolled out the dough, I realized there’s something incredibly therapeutic about making pasta from scratch. The kneading followed by the simple act of forming heart shapes turned what could be a tedious task into pure joy. I learned that letting the dough rest is crucial for achieving the right elasticity, making it easier to work with.

As I crafted the filling, combining creamy ricotta with fresh herbs was a game changer. The flavors were vibrant yet delicate, and I’ve since experimented with different herbs to keep things interesting. This dish isn’t just about the taste; the presentation adds a lovely touch that elevates any meal. Each time I serve these, I’m reminded of the love and effort put into every bite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Heart-shaped design adds a romantic touch.
Rich ricotta paired with fragrant herbs creates a delightful flavor.
A fun and engaging cooking experience for family or friends.

      

Crafting the Perfect Dough

The dough is the foundation of your ravioli, and achieving the right consistency is key to their success. Start by ensuring your flour is fresh; older flour can result in a dough that doesn’t hold together well. When mixing, it's crucial to incorporate the flour gradually to prevent lumps. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. A good test is to poke the dough with your finger; it should bounce back slightly.

Resting the dough for 30 minutes is not just a suggestion; this step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out without springing back. If you're making the dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out, as cold dough can be too stiff to work with effectively.

Filling Mastery

The filling is where your ravioli can shine with flavor, and ensuring the right balance of ingredients is key. Use whole-milk ricotta for a creamier texture, as low-fat versions can result in a drier filling. Combining the ricotta with freshly grated Parmesan not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely creaminess that melds beautifully with the herbs. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only contribute brightness but also a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen as they cook.

When assembling the ravioli, it's important to ensure you don't overfill them. Too much filling will make it hard to seal and could cause them to burst during cooking. A teaspoon of filling per ravioli is generally a good amount. Remember, the edges should be thoroughly wet with water for a secure seal — if they dry out, the ravioli can come apart in the pot, leading to a messy outcome.

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
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

1/4 cup unsalted butter
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Using a fork, gradually mix the flour into the wet ingredients until a dough begins to form. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, basil, parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Set aside until the dough is ready.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four sections. Roll out each section thinly using a pasta machine or rolling pin, dusting with flour to prevent sticking.

Cut and Fill the Ravioli

Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out the dough. Place a small dollop of filling in the center of half of the hearts. Wet the edges with water, then place another heart-shaped dough on top. Seal the edges firmly.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli in batches and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

In a skillet, melt the butter over low heat. Add the cooked ravioli and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.

Pro Tips

To add an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing the butter with garlic and sage before tossing the ravioli. Also, make sure the filling is well-seasoned, as this enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Cooking Tips

When boiling your ravioli, always ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding them. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from sticking together. Use a large pot to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. As a rule of thumb, fresh ravioli only need about 3 to 4 minutes in boiling water; they are done once they float to the top.

Another tip is to stay close while the ravioli are cooking since fresh pasta can go from perfectly cooked to mushy surprisingly fast. Once they float, give them an extra minute to ensure that the center is warmed through. If you notice one or two ravioli are particularly stubborn and not floating, gently nudge them with a spoon to help them rise.

Serving Suggestions

While the basic serving involves butter and fresh basil, consider enhancing your dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This adds a delightful texture contrast and nutty flavor that complements the creamy filling. You could also add sautéed spinach or arugula on the side for an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color on the plate.

For a more vibrant presentation, experiment with flavored butter by infusing it with garlic or citrus zest before tossing the cooked ravioli. Just melt the butter over low heat and add your desired properties, allowing them to meld without browning the butter, which can alter its flavor. Serve hot with a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for that restaurant-quality finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pasta dough will save time, but making your own adds a personal touch.

→ How do I know when the ravioli are cooked?

They are done when they float to the top of the boiling water, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

→ Can I prepare the ravioli in advance?

Yes, you can make the ravioli a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. Just cook them right before serving for the best taste.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.