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Homemade Heart-Shaped Ravioli Recipe Perfect for Date Night

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These adorable heart-shaped ravioli are perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, combining tender homemade pasta with a creamy, customizable filling and a rich garlic cream sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the olive oil. Gradually mix the flour into the eggs using a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each out into thin sheets using a pasta roller or rolling pin. Aim for about 1/16th inch thickness.
  5. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out pairs of hearts from the dough sheets.
  6. Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of one heart shape. Brush the edges lightly with water, then place another heart shape on top. Press gently to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges.
  7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  8. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  9. Plate the ravioli and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Notes

[‘Resting the dough helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out thinly without tearing.’, ‘Seal the ravioli edges carefully to prevent filling from leaking during cooking.’, ‘Work quickly to prevent the dough from drying out; keep unused portions covered in plastic wrap.’, ‘Avoid over-filling the ravioli to prevent bursting during cooking.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning for the filling and sauce as needed.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: heart-shaped ravioli, homemade pasta, romantic dinner, Valentine's Day recipe, Italian cuisine

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/homemade-heart-shaped-ravioli-recipe-perfect-for-date-night/