Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini
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 cup cooked and chopped spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Large pot of salted water; Parmesan cheese for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini, especially when I want to impress friends and family with a unique dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. The process allows me to be creative as I blend fresh spinach with ricotta and fill delightful pasta shapes that resemble hearts. Cooking this tortellini transforms a simple meal into a special occasion, and the flavors come alive with every bite. Plus, it’s a fun hands-on activity that brings everyone together in the kitchen!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:07:20.506Z

When I first attempted these heart-shaped tortellini, I was pleasantly surprised by how much flavor could be packed into such delicate pasta. The spinach provides a mild earthiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta cheese. To ensure the tortellini holds their shape while cooking, I always make sure to seal the edges firmly, which prevents any filling from escaping. It's such a rewarding experience to see the finished product!

Every time I serve them, I watch faces light up at the heart shapes, which adds a special touch to any dinner table. One tip I swear by is to sprinkle a little freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving; it enhances the flavors further and makes the dish irresistible. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll want to make these for every occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Whimsical heart shapes that charm everyone
Nutritious spinach filling complements the creamy ricotta
Perfect for romantic dinners or festive gatherings

      

Mastering the Pasta Dough

Making the pasta dough is a crucial step for your Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini. Using fresh ingredients is key; I always opt for high-quality eggs, as they provide richness and color to the dough. When mixing, make sure to gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs to avoid clumping and ensure an even texture. Kneading for a full 10 minutes will develop the gluten, making the dough elastic and stretchy, which is essential for rolling it out thinly without tearing.

Resting the dough is equally important. Covering it with plastic wrap prevents it from drying out, and letting it sit for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax. This makes rolling out the dough much easier and results in a more tender bite when cooked. If you're short on time, consider making the dough the night before and storing it in the fridge, wrapped tightly to maintain its freshness.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling is what truly elevates your tortellini. Using fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor but also provides vibrant color and nutrition. When preparing the spinach, I recommend sautéing it lightly before mixing, as this helps to eliminate excess moisture and avoids a soggy filling. Always taste your filling before sealing the tortellini; adjustments in seasoning can make a big difference in the overall flavor.

If you would like to add a twist to the filling, consider incorporating other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth. For a vegan version, replace ricotta with a plant-based alternative or create a nut-based filling using blended cashews for creaminess. Just ensure that the texture is thick enough to hold up in the tortellini shape.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create delightful Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini:

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 cup cooked and chopped spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

Large pot of salted water
Parmesan cheese for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini:

Make the Pasta Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough forms.

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Ensure the mixture is well combined.

Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface until it's thin but not transparent.

Shape the Tortellini

Cut out heart shapes from the rolled dough using a cookie cutter. Place a small spoonful of the filling on half of each heart, then fold over and pinch the edges tightly to seal.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Plate the tortellini and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your beautifully crafted dish!

Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve your tortellini with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Cooking Instructions and Timing

Cooking your tortellini correctly is essential to achieve the right texture. Ensure the pot of salted water is at a rolling boil before adding the tortellini. This prevents them from sticking together and helps achieve the ideal chewy texture. Once they float to the surface, let them cook an additional 1-2 minutes for thorough cooking. If you want to check their doneness, taste one; it should be tender yet pleasantly firm.

If you find yourself with leftover tortellini, they freeze exceptionally well. After cooking and cooling, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, simply boil them from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serving the Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini with freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the overall experience with its nutty flavor. For a gourmet touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a light homemade sauce, such as a lemon-butter or sage sauce, over the top. This adds depth and brings out the flavors of the filling without overpowering it.

To turn this dish into an elegant main course, consider pairing it with a light salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables. This not only complements the tortellini but also adds freshness to the meal. For a romantic dinner, serve it in beautiful pasta bowls, and perhaps include a bottle of white wine for an exquisite dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta dough?

Yes, using store-bought dough can save time. Just roll it out thinner to achieve the same texture.

→ How can I freeze tortellini?

Place shaped tortellini on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.

→ What sauces pair well with spinach tortellini?

Light sauces like olive oil, garlic, or a simple tomato sauce complement the flavors without overpowering them.