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 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Ricotta and Herbs for special occasions. The delicate pasta, filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and aromatic herbs, brings joy to my table and those I share it with. Shaping the ravioli into hearts adds a lovely touch that’s perfect for date nights or anniversaries. The best part is how hands-on and fun the process is, turning a simple ingredient list into an impressive dish that truly delights the senses. Trust me, you’ll want this recipe in your repertoire!

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:05:34.946Z

When I first tried making homemade ravioli, I was surprised by how rewarding the process was. I remember the moment I rolled out the dough to a perfect thinness, filling each heart shape with a mix of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and a pinch of nutmeg. It felt like creating edible art!

After cooking the ravioli, tossing them gently with a light butter sauce let the flavors shine. Each bite revealed the freshness of the ingredients. I still get butterflies thinking about that meal; it genuinely felt like I had crafted something special.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate heart-shaped pasta that impresses anyone at the dinner table
Rich and creamy ricotta filling enhanced with fresh herbs
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for romantic evenings at home

      

Perfecting the Pasta Dough

The key to vibrant and tender pasta dough lies in the mixing technique. When combining the flour, salt, and wet ingredients, ensure you are mixing slowly to incorporate air and avoid overworking. Kneading for the recommended 10 minutes will develop gluten, which contributes to the dough's elasticity. The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky, so if it's too dry, a few drops of water can help achieve the desired consistency.

After resting the dough for 30 minutes, it’s crucial to let it relax. This step allows the gluten to settle, making it easier to roll out. When rolling, aim for a thickness of about 1/16 of an inch. Using a pasta machine can simplify this process, ensuring an even thickness throughout the sheet, which ultimately helps in even cooking once the ravioli are boiled.

Crafting the Filling

When preparing the filling, quality ingredients shine through, particularly the ricotta cheese. Opt for a fresh, creamy ricotta to achieve that luscious mouthfeel. If you prefer less moisture, use ricotta that has been drained, or even blend it with a touch of mascarpone for extra richness. This can also help extend the filling's shelf life as it’s less likely to become watery.

Flavoring the filling with fresh herbs enhances its complexity. Experimenting with ratios can make a big difference; for example, if you're a fan of a stronger basil flavor, increase the amount or try adding a hint of lemon zest for brightness. Be mindful not to over-season with salt, as the Parmesan added later will contribute its own saltiness.

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

For Serving

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Roll the Dough

Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll out each portion thinly on a floured surface. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out shapes.

Fill the Ravioli

Place a small spoonful of filling on half of the heart shapes. Brush the edges with water, then place another heart shape on top. Press to seal, ensuring no air is trapped inside.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli for about 3–4 minutes until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Toss the cooked ravioli gently with the butter and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.

Pro Tips

For a beautiful presentation, serve the ravioli on a bed of arugula or drizzle with a light basil-infused oil. You can also add toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

After tossing the ravioli in melted butter, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a dusting of more Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. For a pop of color, you could also garnish with microgreens or edible flowers, especially if you're serving these for a special occasion.

Pair these heart-shaped ravioli with a light tomato sauce or a simple sage-butter sauce for a classic touch. If you prefer something richer, a cream-based sauce with garlic and a touch of white wine can elevate the dish beautifully and complement the herbaceous filling.

Storage Tips

If you want to prepare these ravioli in advance, they can be assembled and frozen. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to an airtight container. Frozen ravioli can be cooked directly from the freezer; just add an extra minute to the boiling time to ensure they cook thoroughly.

Leftover cooked ravioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently toss them in a small amount of warm olive oil or butter to restore their texture. Avoid microwaving them, as they tend to become mushy; instead, consider a quick sauté in a pan for a minute or two to warm them through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pasta dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 2 days.

→ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute with cottage cheese or a vegan cheese alternative if desired.

→ How should I store leftover ravioli?

Store the leftover cooked ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them before cooking.

→ Can I add different herbs to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other herbs like chives, dill, or even spinach for added flavor.