Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini
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 cup fresh spinach, cooked and chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini for special occasions! These charming little pasta pockets not only look delightful but also burst with the fresh flavors of spinach and cheese. The process of crafting these tortellini is therapeutic, and I enjoy rolling out the dough and filling each heart-shaped piece with a creamy mixture. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a festive gathering, they add a touch of elegance and playfulness to any meal. Let me show you how to whip up these attractive bites in your own kitchen!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:37:16.816Z

When I first made Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini for a dinner party, I was pleasantly surprised by how much everyone loved them. I used a combination of fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and a hint of nutmeg for the filling, which brought such a delightful taste to each bite. The heart shape was a lovely surprise that added a bit of whimsy, and I discovered that using a pasta machine made rolling the dough so much easier and uniform.

After experimenting with various sauces, I found that a light garlic and olive oil topping really complemented the tortellini without overpowering the delicate flavors. I also learned that boiling the tortellini for just a few minutes ensures they remain tender yet firm, making them a perfect base for any sauce. I can’t wait for you to try these!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Unique heart shape adds charm to any meal.
Fresh spinach and cheese filling offers a burst of flavor.
Perfect for romantic dinners or special celebrations.

      

Perfecting the Dough

Creating the perfect pasta dough is crucial for achieving the right texture in your tortellini. Using a good quality all-purpose flour will provide the necessary elasticity and strength. When mixing the dough, add the flour gradually to ensure it incorporates well with the eggs and olive oil. Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic; it should feel pliable yet firm. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but be cautious not to overdo it or you’ll end up with tough pasta.

After resting, it's best to divide the dough into quarters—this not only makes it easier to roll out but also prevents the dough from drying out while you work. Keep the unused dough covered with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. When rolling out, aim for a consistent thinness of about 1/16 inch, as thicker dough won’t cook evenly. If you have a pasta machine, gradually work the dough through the setting until you reach the desired thickness.

Filling Insights

The filling for your tortellini is where the flavors really shine. Using fresh spinach is key, as it adds a vibrant color and earthy taste. Always cook the spinach first—it can be steamed or sautéed. This not only softens the leaves but also reduces its volume significantly, allowing you to fit more greens into each tortellini. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cooked spinach to avoid a watery filling, which can cause the pasta to become soggy.

In terms of seasonings, the nutmeg in the ricotta filling is a classic Italian touch that adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile. Adjusting the seasoning is crucial—tasting your filling before sealing the tortellini will ensure balanced flavors. If you’re looking for variations, feel free to introduce herbs like dill or parsley, or swap the ricotta for goat cheese for a tangy twist.

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

For Serving

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Make the Dough

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

Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Roll Out the Dough

After resting, divide the dough into quarters. Roll each piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch.

Cut into Shapes and Fill

Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the dough. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each heart. Fold over and press to seal the edges, ensuring no air is trapped inside.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Toss the cooked tortellini in the pan to coat them in oil.

Serve

Plate the tortellini, drizzle with extra olive oil, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil sauce. This will give your dish a delightful kick!

Cooking to Perfection

Cooking the tortellini correctly is vital for achieving that perfect bite. Once your water is boiling, add a generous amount of salt; it should taste like the sea. This enhances the pasta's flavor during cooking. Gently add the tortellini to prevent them from clumping together. They usually take 3-4 minutes to cook, and you'll know they’re done when they float to the top. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on them and be ready to scoop them out with a slotted spoon.

Once drained, avoid rinsing them as this washes away the starch that helps sauces adhere. Instead, directly toss the tortellini in the pan with heated olive oil and garlic. This quick method infuses the pasta with flavor and allows it to coat evenly. You can finish them off with a splash of pasta cooking water if needed to create a light sauce that clings to each piece.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves to elevate the dish. This not only adds an aromatic touch but also visual appeal. You could also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spiciness or freshly cracked black pepper for added depth. Pairing the tortellini with a simple green salad can complement the meal beautifully.

If you're looking to plan ahead, the tortellini can be made in advance and frozen. Once filled and shaped, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag. This way, you can enjoy homemade tortellini on a busy evening by cooking them straight from the freezer—just increase the cooking time by a minute or two. This makes it easy to have a gourmet meal ready in minutes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze the tortellini?

Absolutely! Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for long-term storage.

→ What sauces pair well with this dish?

Light sauces like garlic and olive oil or fresh tomato sauce work wonderfully with these tortellini.

→ How can I avoid the filling leaking out during cooking?

Ensure you seal the tortellini properly and try to remove as much air as possible from the edges before sealing.