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 (cooked and drained); 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg (for sealing); 1 cup marinara sauce; Fresh basil (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini, especially when I want to impress my family or friends with delightful homemade pasta. This recipe comes from a love of fresh flavors and the joy of crafting something beautiful. The vibrant green spinach filling and the unique heart shape create an adorable dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Plus, making pasta from scratch feels so rewarding, and sharing these cute shapes brings smiles all around the table!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:07:14.893Z

When I first attempted to make these Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini, I was surprised at how well they turned out. I decided to use a combination of ricotta and parmesan cheese along with fresh spinach, which gave the filling a creamy, flavorful profile. The vibrant green not only tastes good but also looks gorgeous against the golden pasta.

One tip that helped immensely was to allow the filled pasta to rest before cooking. This made them easier to handle and prevented any leakage during boiling. Now, every time I serve these tortellini, they disappear quickly and leave everyone asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart shape that brings joy to the table
Creamy spinach and cheese filling bursting with flavor
Perfect for romantic dinners or special family gatherings

      

Dough Perfection

The key to achieving the perfect pasta dough for your Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini lies in the kneading process. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Properly kneaded dough can stretch without tearing, which is crucial for shaping your tortellini. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour while kneading, but avoid adding too much, as it can make the pasta tough.

After resting the dough, it should feel soft but firm enough to hold its shape. If you notice it feeling overly dry, try adding a drop or two of water during the kneading phase next time. Alternatively, if it’s too wet, continue kneading until it reaches the desired consistency. Achieving that balance is vital for lovely, tender tortellini that holds up during cooking.

Filling Tips

Choosing fresh spinach is essential for the filling's flavor. Ensure it's blanched and drained properly to eliminate excess moisture before mixing it with ricotta and Parmesan. If you're short on time, you could use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Excess water will cause the filling to be runny, making it difficult to seal the tortellini.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the filling mixture, as it complements the creaminess of the cheeses. If you prefer a richer filling, swap out part of the ricotta for mascarpone. This improvisation delivers a creamier texture that melds beautifully with the pasta, taking your tortellini to the next level.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious homemade experience:

For the Pasta Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup fresh spinach (cooked and drained)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg (for sealing)

For the Sauce

1 cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Make sure to prep the ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your heart-shaped tortellini:

Make the Pasta Dough

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

Knead for about 10 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the rested dough into quarters. Roll each piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, dusting with flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Cut and Fill the Pasta

Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut out shapes from the dough. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each heart. Brush the edges with egg, fold over, and press to seal tightly.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop in the tortellini and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove and drain.

Serve with Sauce

Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan. Serve the tortellini topped with marinara, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your heart-shaped tortellini with loved ones!

Pro Tips

Make sure to seal the tortellini well to prevent them from opening while cooking. If any filling spills out, just take a little extra dough and patch it up before cooking.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the tortellini just until they float is crucial for perfect texture. It usually takes around 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can cause them to burst, losing the delightful filling. Remember to gently stir them as they cook to keep them from sticking together. Using a slotted spoon makes it easy to remove them without damaging their shape.

If you're making a large batch, consider cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding while boiling. If you have leftovers, make sure to cool them completely before storing in an airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together and helps retain their shape when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your heart-shaped tortellini, pair them with marinara sauce that's gently warmed, not boiling, to maintain their integrity. For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in sautéed garlic or a splash of cream into your sauce. This can elevate the overall dish and enhance the creamy aspect of your tortellini.

For a beautiful presentation, serve them with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a generous grating of Parmesan on top. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication. These small touches make a big difference in the final dish, making it visually appealing and appetizing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets to save time, ensuring they are thin enough for filling.

→ How can I store leftover tortellini?

You can store uncooked tortellini in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard can work well as substitutes for spinach, providing a similar texture and flavor.

→ Can I make the filling vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the ricotta with tofu or cashew cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.