Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli

Name: Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli
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 ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and blanched; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making my own pasta, and this Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli has become one of my favorite dishes. Each bite is like a warm hug, filled with creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting meal that I enjoy sharing with loved ones. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting the ravioli from scratch makes it feel like an extra special occasion. Perfect for date nights or cozy dinners, this dish truly brings a touch of romance to any table.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:34:15.645Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how the delicate flavors of spinach and ricotta really shine through. The dough is simple to prepare, and I often spend time kneading it by hand, which I find therapeutic. Rolling it out thinly is key to achieving that perfect ravioli texture.

One tip I’ve picked up is to ensure the filling has the right moisture balance; too much liquid can make the dough soggy. I like to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese mixed with the ricotta for that extra depth of flavor. It’s these little details that make all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Homemade pasta that elevates any dining experience
Deliciously creamy filling with a hint of nutmeg
Perfect for a romantic dinner or special celebration

      

The Art of Making Fresh Pasta

Making your own pasta is a rewarding experience that completely transforms how you enjoy dishes like ravioli. The key to achieving the perfect dough is to balance the flour and eggs properly. Using high-quality all-purpose flour will yield a more elastic and tender dough. Knead it until it's smooth and slightly tacky, which may take about 10 minutes. Remember, resting the dough for 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch for perfect ravioli texture. Thinner sheets cook quicker and yield a delicate bite. If using a pasta machine, start on the widest setting and gradually move to thinner settings, ensuring even thickness throughout. Dust both the dough and your workstation with flour to prevent sticking, and don’t hesitate to use a rolling pin if needed for a more hands-on approach.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling is the heart of your ravioli, and combining the right ingredients is crucial to achieving that creamy texture. Ricotta cheese provides a rich base, while fresh spinach adds a pop of vibrant color and essential nutrients. Make sure to blanch the spinach briefly; this enhances its flavor and brightens its color. When mixing the filling, taste and season with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg, which adds warmth and depth. You can also swap in feta for a tangier variation, or add herbs like tarragon for an aromatic twist.

To ensure your ravioli don't burst while cooking, it’s important to keep the filling amount consistent. A teaspoon is usually the right amount to avoid overstuffing. If you're looking to make these ahead of time, assemble the raviolis and then lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, dusting with flour to avoid sticking. Freeze them for storage and cook them straight from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the 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, chopped and blanched
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Make the Dough

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

Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, blanched spinach, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into quarters. Roll out each quarter into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Cut into squares or circles.

Fill the Ravioli

Place a teaspoon of filling onto the center of each square or circle. Moisten the edges with water, fold over, and press firmly to seal. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ravioli and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add cream, simmer for 3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Toss the cooked ravioli in the sauce and serve with fresh basil on top. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce and adjusting the seasoning according to your taste. You can also freeze uncooked ravioli for future meals.

Sauce Variety Suggestions

While the butter and cream sauce perfectly complement the rich filling, feel free to get creative with your sauces. A light, lemon-infused olive oil sauce can elevate the flavors and brighten the dish. Alternatively, a marinara or pesto sauce can add a fresh kick to your ravioli. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream, and use a plant-based butter to keep it creamy and rich without dairy.

For a more decadent touch, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes into your sauce. These ingredients enhance the overall flavor profile and add texture. Simply sauté these additions in the butter alongside the garlic to infuse the sauce with their savory goodness.

Serving Tips and Pairings

When serving your Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli, a garnish of fresh basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces an aromatic freshness that pairs beautifully with the dish. Top with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor and a sophisticated touch. For a more elaborate presentation, arrange the ravioli in a circular pattern on the plate, artfully drizzling sauce in the center.

Consider serving this meal alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which can balance the richness of the ravioli. A sparkling white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, presents a refreshing accompaniment that pairs well with the creamy filling and buttery sauce, making for a truly romantic dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta instead?

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets if you are short on time.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

You can replace the ricotta with a plant-based alternative and skip the egg in the dough.

→ How do I know when the ravioli are done cooking?

They are done when they float to the surface of the water, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! Chopped mushrooms or kale can be great additions for more flavor.