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; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg yolk; 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Your choice of sauce (e.g., marinara, sage butter); Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I am always looking for ways to impress my loved ones, and this romantic spinach ricotta ravioli is a perfect dish for a special dinner. The combination of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta encased in delicate pasta makes for a delightful meal. Not only does it taste incredible, but it's also visually stunning, with a beautiful green hue and a luscious sauce. It's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing me to spend more quality moments with my partner rather than in the kitchen.

Created by

Marina Lowe

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:01:23.269Z

When I first set out to create this romantic ravioli dish, I wanted to ensure that every bite would be filled with rich flavor and a hint of elegance. I experimented with various herbs and spices, eventually deciding on nutmeg to enhance the creamy ricotta and spinach filling. The result was a wonderfully aromatic dish that elevated the entire meal.

One tip I found particularly helpful is to let the filled ravioli rest for a few minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better and prevents any tearing when they hit the boiling water. Trust me, these little details can make all the difference in your dish!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A harmonious blend of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach.
The homemade ravioli will impress your date and friends alike.
Perfectly complements a variety of sauces, making it versatile.

      

Mastering the Dough

Creating the perfect ravioli dough is all about finding the right balance. When mixing the flour and eggs, it's crucial to incorporate them slowly to avoid a lumpy texture. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, which should take about 10 minutes. Resting the dough is essential, as it allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later. If the dough is too dry, you can add a tiny bit of water; if it's too wet, gradually incorporate more flour.

Using high-quality all-purpose flour greatly affects the texture of your ravioli. Depending on your preference, you can also experiment with '00' flour for a silkier finish. Just remember not to overwork the dough, or the ravioli may become tough. Once rolled thin, the sheets should be slightly translucent yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.

Filling Variations and Tips

The filling for your ravioli can be customized to suit your taste. While ricotta and spinach is a classic combo, feel free to experiment by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic for an extra depth of flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese, or for a vegan twist, consider using tofu blended with nutritional yeast and spices for a similar creaminess.

Getting the filling texture right is vital. It should be thick enough not to spill out while cooking. If it's too runny, try adding more grated Parmesan or a bit of breadcrumbs to thicken it up. As you form the ravioli, ensure there are no air pockets, as these can cause them to burst during cooking.

Serving and Sauce Pairing

When it comes to sauces, the delicate flavors of spinach ricotta ravioli pair beautifully with a light marinara or a sage brown butter sauce. If using marinara, allow it to simmer gently to enhance the flavors without overpowering the ravioli. For the sage butter, melt unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat and add fresh sage leaves, cooking until the butter is golden and aromatic—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a final touch of elegance and flavor. Consider finishing with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or some toasted pine nuts for added crunch. If you have any leftover ravioli, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or they can be frozen for later use—simply lay them out on a cooking sheet to freeze before transferring to a zip-top bag.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your ravioli.

Ravioli Dough

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

Filling

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

For Serving

Your choice of sauce (e.g., marinara, sage butter)
Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

These ingredients will make a delightful and memorable meal.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your ravioli from scratch.

Make the Dough

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

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan, egg yolk, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the rested dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece into thin sheets, using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch.

Form the Ravioli

Place a teaspoon of filling onto one sheet of dough, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Brush the edges with water, place another sheet of dough on top, and press down to seal. Cut between the fillings to form individual ravioli.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the ravioli and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Serve the ravioli with your choice of sauce and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade romantic spinach ricotta ravioli!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different sauces to find your perfect match for these ravioli. A simple sage butter sauce enhances the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish.

Storage and Freezing

If you decide to make extra ravioli, storage is straightforward. Place uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet before freezing. This prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy use later. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag for long-term storage; they can maintain their quality for up to three months. Cooking from frozen is simple: just add a couple of extra minutes to the boil time.

For leftover cooked ravioli, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, avoid boiling again as this can make the pasta mushy. Instead, gently heat them in a skillet with a splash of sauce over medium-low heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Common Troubleshooting

One issue you might encounter when making ravioli is the filling spilling out during boiling. This often happens when there are air pockets in the ravioli or if they are not sufficiently sealed. To avoid this, be sure to press the dough firmly around the filling and expel as much air as possible before sealing. If you're not confident, try using a fork to crimp the edges securely.

Another concern can be dough that is too tough. If you find your ravioli are chewy rather than tender, it may be a sign that the dough was over-kneaded or that it wasn't rested long enough. Adjust your method by kneading just until smooth and allowing adequate resting time to achieve that perfect delicate texture.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Adding fresh herbs can elevate your spinach ricotta ravioli to new heights. Consider mixing in finely chopped fresh basil or parsley into your filling for a burst of flavor. Herbs like thyme or oregano can also work well, providing an aromatic touch that complements the overall dish brilliantly.

Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh herbs over the finished dish not only enhances the presentation but also adds fresh bursts of flavor with every bite. Don't hesitate to be generous; a flavorful herb can transform this dish into an extraordinary experience for you and your loved ones.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What sauce pairs well with spinach ricotta ravioli?

Sage butter sauce or a light tomato sauce works beautifully with these ravioli.

→ Can I freeze the ravioli?

Absolutely! Ensure the ravioli are well-sealed and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have ricotta?

You can use mascarpone cheese or cottage cheese mixed with a little cream as a substitute for ricotta.