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; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped chives; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I love creating special dishes that bring a little magic to the table, and these heart-shaped ravioli are a perfect example. Each bite is filled with creamy ricotta and a medley of fresh herbs, making them an ideal choice for a romantic dinner or a fun family meal. The process of making fresh pasta from scratch may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes a joyful and rewarding experience. Plus, the delightful presentation of these ravioli makes them a showstopper.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:29:35.030Z

When I first attempted to make these heart-shaped ravioli, I was thrilled by how charming they looked, but I also learned a few essential tricks along the way. The key to a perfect homemade ravioli is ensuring the dough is rolled out thinly enough without breaking and sealing them tightly to avoid any filling leaks during cooking.

Over the years, I've experimented with the ricotta filling by adding various herbs, and I've settled on a blend of basil, parsley, and chives. These herbs not only add freshness but also infuse the pasta with wonderful aromas that waft through the kitchen as they cook. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a hint of lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The delicate heart shape adds a whimsical touch to your dining experience.
Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor that complements the creamy ricotta.
Homemade pasta elevates the dish and offers a rewarding cooking experience.

Mastering Fresh Pasta

Making fresh pasta is a rewarding experience that requires a bit of practice. The key is to knead your dough until it is smooth and elastic, usually around 5 to 10 minutes. If your dough feels sticky, dust your surface and hands with a little extra flour. Conversely, if the dough is dry, a few drops of water can bring it back to the right consistency. Once you've achieved that smooth texture, wrapping the dough in plastic wrap allows it to rest, which improves its elasticity and makes rolling out easier later on.

When rolling out your dough, patience is essential. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/16 inch; if it's too thick, your ravioli will be chewy rather than tender. I recommend using a pasta machine for the best results as it ensures uniform thickness. If you don’t have one, use a rolling pin and keep checking the thickness with a ruler. Always keep the unused portions of dough covered to prevent drying.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling for your ravioli plays a crucial role in flavor and texture, so it’s important to use high-quality ricotta cheese. Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid watery filling, which can lead to soggy ravioli. If homemade ricotta isn’t an option, look for organic varieties at local stores for better flavor. The combination of fresh herbs—basil, parsley, and chives—adds a vibrant freshness, so don’t skip on this step. Consider experimenting with other herbs like oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.

When mixing your filling, start with the ricotta and gradually incorporate other ingredients, tasting as you go. It’s all about balance; if you find the filling lacks brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the flavors. When packing your ravioli, use just a teaspoon of filling; overfilling can cause the edges to burst open during cooking. A good rule of thumb is to ensure the filling is centered and use water to moisten the edges for a proper seal.

Cooking and Serving Tips

Cooking the ravioli requires careful attention. As you drop them into boiling salted water, give them a gentle stir to prevent sticking. They usually take about 4-5 minutes to cook, and they are done when they float to the surface. Don’t hesitate to taste test one for doneness. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon for a gentle lift—rushing this step can break the delicate pasta. Draining and rinsing under cool water briefly can help prevent sticking, especially if you’re preparing them in advance.

For serving, these heart-shaped ravioli pair beautifully with simple sauces. A light drizzle of olive oil or a fresh tomato sauce enhances their flavor without overpowering the filling. For a more indulgent option, a sage butter sauce with crispy sage leaves adds a delightful aroma and taste. You can also garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs to elevate the presentation. If you have leftovers, they can be frozen; just ensure they’re laid out in a single layer until frozen, then store in airtight containers.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect heart-shaped ravioli.

Dough Ingredients

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

Filling Ingredients

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped chives
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start making these delightful ravioli!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your heart-shaped ravioli delicious and perfect.

Make the Dough

On a clean surface, mound the flour and create a well in the center. Add the eggs, salt, and olive oil into the well. Gradually mix the flour into the wet ingredients with a fork until combined, then knead the dough by hand for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, basil, parsley, chives, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the flavors to your preference, then set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Once rested, divide the dough into quarters. Roll out one quarter at a time on a floured surface until thin, about 1/16 inch. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out pieces of dough.

Assemble the Ravioli

Place a small teaspoon of filling in the center of half the heart shapes, then brush the edges with water. Top with the remaining heart shapes and press to seal tightly.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the ravioli into the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve the ravioli with your favorite sauce, garnish with more herbs, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, try browning butter with sage and pouring it over the cooked ravioli. It's a lovely complement to the cheese filling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta for the filling. This will slightly reduce the creaminess but still provide great flavor. For those avoiding gluten, there are excellent gluten-free flour options now available that can be used to make your pasta, although the texture will differ slightly. Similarly, vegan ricotta made from blended soaked nuts can also work in a pinch, but be sure to season it well.

Herbs can easily be swapped based on your personal taste or what you have on hand. Dill or cilantro can add a unique twist, while dried herbs can be used if fresh aren’t available; just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you’ll need to use less. A good rule of thumb is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.

Storing and Reheating

To store fresh ravioli, lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook them, there's no need to thaw; just drop the frozen ravioli directly into boiling water, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

If you happen to have leftovers from your meal, they should be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. To reheat, a quick sauté in a nonstick skillet with a bit of olive oil or butter can revive their flavor and warmth without overcooking them further. Avoid microwaving, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.

Creative Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on presentation, instead of placing the ravioli flat on a plate, try stacking them in a small bowl with sauce poured over. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a romantic touch. Serving them with a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables can create a balanced meal, enhancing both color and nutrition on the plate.

You could also adapt these heart-shaped ravioli for different occasions; for instance, filling them with beet purée and goat cheese for a visually striking dish. These variations can be a fun way to impress guests while sticking to the basic technique outlined in this recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator for up to a day before rolling it out.

→ What sauce pairs well with these ravioli?

A simple sage brown butter sauce or a light tomato sauce works beautifully with these ravioli.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Absolutely! Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for future use.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta?

You can use mascarpone or cottage cheese as a rich substitute if ricotta isn't available.