How to Make Heart Shaped Ravioli for Special Occasions

Make something special for Valentine’s Day dinner with this recipe for how to make heart shaped ravioli. This recipe turns out amazing and is actually easy to make.

Are you searching for a unique and visually stunning dish to impress your loved ones? Heart-shaped ravioli made with beet-infused dough is the perfect choice. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a delightful blend of flavors, thanks to its creamy ricotta and parmesan filling.

Whether you’re preparing for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply want to add a touch of elegance to your dinner table, this recipe is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This heart-shaped ravioli recipe is a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. The vibrant red/pink hue of the dough, achieved with beet puree, instantly sets this dish apart from traditional pasta recipes. The natural sweetness of the beet pairs wonderfully with the creamy and salty ricotta-parmesan filling, creating a well-balanced bite every time.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this recipe is a joy to make. Rolling out the dough, filling each heart shape, and crafting these little edible treasures is a rewarding experience. It’s an excellent opportunity to get creative in the kitchen, and the result is a dish that’s sure to elicit “oohs” and “ahhs” from everyone at the table.

What is Heart Shaped Ravioli?

Heart-shaped ravioli is a handmade pasta dish crafted to resemble small hearts, making it ideal for romantic or celebratory occasions. The dough is infused with beet puree, giving it a striking reddish pink color, while the filling combines ricotta, parmesan, and a touch of seasoning for a creamy, savory interior.

This dish is cooked quickly in boiling water and served with a light drizzle of olive oil and freshly grated parmesan to let the flavors shine. Not only does it taste incredible, but its unique appearance makes it a perfect choice for creating memorable meals.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups flour
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup beet puree (see Notes below)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan
• Salt and pepper to taste

To Finish:

• Olive oil
• Freshly grated parmesan

How to Make Heart Shaped Ravioli

Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, mix 3 cups of flour, 2 eggs, and ½ cup of beet puree until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it until it becomes soft and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 2 hours.

Make the Filling:

While the dough is resting, combine 1 cup of ricotta, ¾ cup of parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Roll Out the Dough:

Once rested, divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece into sheets about ¼ inch thick. Lightly press a heart-shaped cookie cutter onto one sheet to mark where to place the filling.

Fill and Seal the Ravioli:

Spoon small amounts of the filling into each heart shape. Lightly brush water around the filling, then lay a second sheet of dough on top. Press around the filling to remove air gaps. Use the cookie cutter to cut out each ravioli.

Cook the Ravioli:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and toss with olive oil and freshly grated parmesan before serving.

Notes: To make beet puree, boil a cut-up beet for 15 minutes, then blend it in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Places to Take or Use This Recipe

Heart-shaped ravioli is perfect for romantic dinners at home, making occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries even more special. It’s also a great dish to serve at small gatherings or family celebrations, as it’s sure to impress guests with its vibrant color and handmade touch. Additionally, it’s a thoughtful and creative dish to bring to potlucks or as a part of a homemade gift.

Variations to Try

• Different Colors: Substitute the beet puree with spinach puree for green ravioli or pumpkin puree for a golden hue.
• Alternative Fillings: Swap out the ricotta and parmesan for goat cheese and honey, or try a meat-based filling with ground beef and Italian spices.
• Sauce Pairings: Serve the ravioli with a brown butter sage sauce, marinara, or even a creamy Alfredo for a richer experience.

Storing and Making Ahead

Storing: Cooked ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by tossing them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil or butter.

Freezing: Uncooked ravioli can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add an extra minute to the cooking time.

Making Ahead: Prepare the dough and filling up to a day in advance. Store the dough wrapped in plastic and the filling in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble.

Common Questions About Heart Shaped Ravioli

1. Can I make this recipe without a cookie cutter?
Yes, you can use a knife to carefully cut out heart shapes by hand. Alternatively, try using another shaped cutter if you prefer.

2. What’s the best way to prevent the dough from sticking?
Ensure your work surface and rolling pin are well-floured, and don’t hesitate to sprinkle additional flour as needed.

3. Can I use store-bought pasta sheets instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, fresh pasta sheets from the store can be a convenient alternative.

4. How do I make the beet puree taste less earthy?
Adding a splash of lemon juice to the beet puree can help brighten the flavor and reduce its earthiness.

Conclusion

Heart-shaped ravioli is more than just a meal; it’s a way to express love and creativity in the kitchen. With its stunning appearance and delicious flavor, it’s a dish that will leave everyone at the table feeling special. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family or save it for your next special occasion. Looking for more unique dishes? Subscribe to our newsletter for more creative and delicious recipes like this one!

More Valentine’s Day Recipes:

• Heart Shaped Beignets
• Valentine Layered Jello Cups
• Black Forest Jar Cakes
• Red Velvet Fudge
• Chocolate Heart Cupcakes
• Strawberry Crinkle Cookies
• Red Velvet Jar Cakes
• Valentine Saltine Toffee Bark
• Strawberry Cheesecake Poke Cake

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