Romantic Spinach Ricotta Ravioli

Name: Romantic Spinach Ricotta Ravioli
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 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and cooked; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making my own ravioli, especially when it’s filled with a delightful mixture of spinach and ricotta. This Romantic Spinach Ricotta Ravioli recipe brings a sense of elegance to any dinner table. The process, while intricate, is entirely rewarding as the fresh pasta melts in your mouth. Paired with a light sauce or simply drizzled with olive oil, the flavors truly shine through. Whether it's a cozy meal for two or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress with its homemade touch and delicious filling.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:49:14.515Z

When I first attempted to make ravioli from scratch, I was surprised by how rewarding the process turned out to be. After making the fresh pasta, I filled it with a flavorful mix of spinach and ricotta, which added a lovely creaminess that I can never get enough of. I also discovered that chilling the filling slightly makes it easier to handle, which is a little tip I found to make the process smoother.

Over the years, this recipe has become a favorite for romantic dinners and special occasions. The moment my partner takes a bite, I can see the joy on their face, which is priceless. It’s all about combining quality ingredients and a little bit of love to create something magical on a plate. I can’t wait for you to give it a try!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delicate flavor pairing of spinach and ricotta
Homemade pasta that melts in your mouth
Impressive enough for a dinner party yet simple to make

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the ravioli. Fresh spinach should be bright and vibrant; wilted leaves will compromise the filling’s flavor. When selecting ricotta cheese, opt for whole milk varieties for a richer, creamier consistency. If you're looking for additional flavor, consider adding a touch of lemon zest to the filling, balancing the creamy ricotta and earthy spinach beautifully.

Parmesan cheese not only adds a savory depth but also helps to bind the filling ingredients together. Freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to pre-packaged options. If you're in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be used instead; it has a saltier and tangier taste, which might alter the final flavor slightly but will still work well.

Perfecting the Dough

Kneading the pasta dough is a critical step that should not be rushed. Aim for about 8-10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your work surface and hands with a bit of flour, but avoid adding too much flour to keep it from becoming tough. Resting for 30 minutes is essential as it relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out the dough thinly.

When rolling the dough, if you notice it springing back, let it rest for a few more moments before continuing. A pasta machine can provide consistent thickness, but if using a rolling pin, aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/16 inch. This thinness is what allows the pasta to cook quickly and meld beautifully with the filling.

Cooking and Serving Tips

When boiling the ravioli, ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding them; this keeps them from sticking together. Cooking for about 4 minutes helps the pasta retain its al dente texture, resulting in a delightful bite. If they cook too long, they might become mushy, so keep an eye on them as they float to the surface, which indicates they're done.

For serving, I love to keep it simple to let the flavors soar. Drizzle some good quality olive oil and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. For a touch of color, add a few toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This simple approach not only elevates the dish but also adds a fresh contrast to the rich filling.

Ingredients

For the ravioli dough and filling, gather the following:

For the Pasta Dough

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

For the Filling

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

These fresh ingredients will create a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion!

Instructions

Make the Pasta Dough

On a clean surface or in a mixing bowl, create a mound with the flour and make a well in the center. Add eggs and salt into the well. Gradually mix flour into the eggs with your fingers, kneading to form a smooth dough.

Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix ricotta, cooked spinach, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.

Roll the Dough

Divide the rested dough into quarters. Roll out each portion into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin, aiming for about 1/16-inch thickness.

Form the Ravioli

Place small dollops of filling (about 1 teaspoon) spaced evenly on one sheet of pasta. Brush around the filling with water to help seal. Lay another sheet on top, pressing gently to remove air.

Cut out ravioli with a pasta cutter or knife.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for about 4 minutes until they float to the top. Remove carefully with a slotted spoon.

Serve with your choice of sauce or simply drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh herbs.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of your dish, consider adding some fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the filling, or drizzle a bit of lemon juice over before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prepare the dish in advance, you can assemble the ravioli and freeze them uncooked. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; simply add them to boiling water and adjust the cooking time by an additional minute.

Any leftover cooked ravioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan with a splash of water and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. This method helps revive their texture without drying them out.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic filling, consider adding herbs such as basil or fresh dill for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with adding mushrooms or ricotta-infused with garlic for a heartier filling. If you're looking for a vegan option, swap out the ricotta for a tofu-based alternative blended with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits.

In terms of sauces, while the recipe suggests olive oil, you could also create a light garlic butter sauce or a delicate sage brown butter to enhance the flavors. Simply melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic and fresh sage, and cook until fragrant before tossing with the ravioli.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your ravioli are bursting while cooking, it may be a sign that they were overfilled or not sealed properly. Make sure to press out any air when sealing them and remember that a teaspoon of filling is usually the right amount. For a tighter seal, you can also use egg wash (a mixture of egg and water) around the edges to help them adhere.

Another common issue is the dough being too dry or cracking when rolling out. If this happens, you can mist the dough lightly with water or cover it with a damp cloth to prevent the air from drying it out. It’s essential to maintain the right moisture level while handling the dough to achieve that perfect tender texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked ravioli. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What sauce goes well with spinach ricotta ravioli?

A light butter sauce, marinara, or even a cream sauce pairs wonderfully with these ravioli.

→ Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?

While fresh spinach is recommended for flavor and texture, you can use frozen spinach as an alternative. Just ensure it is well-drained.

→ How do I know when the ravioli are cooked?

Typically, ravioli are done cooking when they float to the top of the boiling water.