Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

We love making Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini because it's not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy cheese wrapped in adorable heart shapes makes it perfect for romantic dinners or festive celebrations. I enjoy making this dish from scratch, and the look on my loved ones' faces when they bite into these tender pasta pockets of flavor is simply priceless. Plus, it’s a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:13:13.709Z

Creating Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini was an adventure for me that started with a desire to make a special meal for my partner. We decided to experiment with homemade pasta, and what better shape to choose than hearts to express our love? The process of filling the pasta with a rich blend of spinach and ricotta was surprisingly therapeutic, and I found that making the dough from scratch resulted in a tender texture that cooked beautifully.

As I watched the tortellini boil, I could smell the wonderful aroma filling my kitchen. The dish was not only visually appealing but the first bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that made the effort worthwhile—every pinch of dough and fold of pasta had led to this perfect meal. I highly recommend serving it with a light sauce for the best experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape adds a romantic touch to dinner.
Fresh spinach and ricotta create a deliciously creamy filling.
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach is key to achieving a vibrant flavor in your Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini. The freshness enhances the filling’s taste, providing a lively green color and nutritional benefits. When selecting spinach, opt for leaves that are crisp and bright. If you must use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make your filling too watery.

Ricotta cheese is another crucial ingredient in this dish. Its creamy texture provides a rich mouthfeel that balances the slightly earthy flavor of spinach. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, but keep in mind it won't be as rich. Incorporating a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg elevates the flavor profile, giving the filling an aromatic touch.

Perfecting the Tortellini Shape

Creating the perfect heart shape for your tortellini is not just for aesthetic appeal. The shape plays a role in ensuring even cooking and maximizing the filling-to-dough ratio. Take your time when cutting and shaping each piece. If you notice the edges of the dough becoming dry while you work, cover them with a damp kitchen towel to prevent them from cracking when you seal the tortellini.

It’s essential to ensure that the fillings don’t spill out during cooking. When sealing the tortellini, be sure to press out any air pockets before pinching the edges tightly. If you find that some tortellini come apart during cooking, check your sealing technique and ensure the edges are not too wet, as moisture can hinder a tight seal.

Ingredients for Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Tortellini Dough

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

Filling

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

Sauce (optional)

1 cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

How to Make Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add eggs and olive oil. Mix and knead until smooth. Wrap in plastic and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into quarters. Roll out each piece on a floured surface to about 1/16 inch thick.

Cut and Shape the Tortellini

Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Place a small amount of filling in the center of each heart, fold over to form a triangle, and pinch the edges to seal. Bring the two bottom points of the triangle together to form a heart shape.

Cook the Tortellini

Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the tortellini in batches for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove and drain.

Serve

Serve with marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

When making the filling, ensure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach to prevent the filling from becoming too wet. For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic or herbs to the ricotta.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover tortellini or want to prepare them in advance, you can store uncooked tortellini in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the formed tortellini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

When reheating cooked tortellini, you can simply toss them in a pan with a bit of marinara sauce over medium heat until heated through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. For frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw; just drop them directly into boiling salted water and cook for an additional minute or two beyond the 2-3 minute cooking time. This method ensures they retain their tender texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch, you can serve the tortellini topped with freshly grated Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or lemon zest can add a delightful kick, elevating your dish with minimal effort. Pairing these tortellini with a light side salad of mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette complements the meal beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the filling.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different sauces. Besides marinara, a sage brown butter sauce is another excellent option; it adds a nutty depth that complements the creamy filling. Simply melt butter in a skillet, add fresh sage leaves until the butter turns golden, and toss the cooked tortellini in this fragrant sauce before serving. This alternative provides a unique take on the traditional tortellini experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta?

Yes, store-bought pasta can be used if you're short on time, but fresh homemade pasta adds a special touch to the meal.

→ Can I freeze the tortellini?

Absolutely! Lay the uncooked tortellini on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Cook from frozen when ready to eat.

→ What sauce pairs well with this dish?

Light marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy Alfredo work beautifully with these tortellini.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! Just ensure the sauce you serve is also vegetarian.