Romantic Spinach Ricotta Ravioli

Name: Romantic Spinach 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 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Olive oil; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making these Romantic Spinach Ricotta Ravioli from scratch. The process of preparing the dough and filling is not only therapeutic but also incredibly rewarding once you taste the final product. The combination of creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach stuffed into delicate pasta shells makes for a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting. Whether it’s a special date night or a cozy family dinner, these ravioli are sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:34:13.861Z

When I first tried my hand at making ravioli, I was amazed by how satisfying it was to create something so delicious from scratch. The spinach and ricotta filling is simple yet flavorful, and the homemade pasta adds that extra touch. One tip I discovered is to roll the pasta dough as thin as possible for the best texture, allowing the filling to take center stage.

One evening, I decided to surprise my partner with this dish. I garnished it with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan. The moment we took the first bite, the creamy, fresh flavors danced in our mouths, making it a memorable dining experience. I can’t recommend this dish enough for those looking to impress someone special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Homemade pasta brings a delightful chewiness and flavor.
Creamy spinach ricotta filling that's both rich and fresh.
A perfect dish for creating romantic moments at the dinner table.

      

Crafting Homemade Pasta

Making pasta from scratch may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes an enjoyable process. The key to the perfect dough lies in the mixing and kneading. When you create a well with the flour and add the eggs and olive oil, ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. Kneading for about 8-10 minutes is essential; you'll know it's ready when the dough is smooth and elastic yet slightly tacky to the touch.

After kneading, resting the dough helps in gluten relaxation, which is crucial for rolling it out smoothly. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This resting period is important; I usually make the filling during this time so everything is ready to go once the dough is rolled out.

The Ideal Filling

The combination of ricotta and spinach in the filling provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Opting for fresh spinach is essential; you’ll notice its vibrant flavor compared to frozen varieties. For a richer filling, consider mixing in a bit of mascarpone or trying goat cheese instead of ricotta. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheese and spinach beautifully, so don't skip it.

When mixing the filling, make sure it is well-combined but not overly processed. You want to retain some texture for that loving bite. A little tip: taste the filling before stuffing the ravioli to ensure it's seasoned just right!

Cooking and Serving Tips

When cooking ravioli, using a large pot with plenty of salted water helps maintain the temperature when adding the pasta, which is critical for even cooking. Ravioli are done when they float to the top, typically around 3-4 minutes—it’s a visual cue to watch for. Overcooking can cause the ravioli to open, losing their delicious filling, so keeping a close eye is essential.

For serving, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor, while freshly grated parmesan introduces a salty finish. Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme as garnishes, which not only add visual appeal but also enhance the dish’s aromatic profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the perfect ravioli:

For the Pasta Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For Serving

Olive oil
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients prepped before you start rolling out the pasta!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious ravioli:

Prepare the Pasta Dough

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

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

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

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has rested, divide it into quarters. Roll out one piece at a time into thin sheets, keeping the remaining pieces covered.

Fill the Ravioli

Lay a sheet of pasta on a floured surface. Spoon small mounds of filling about 2 inches apart on half of the pasta. Brush water around the filling, then fold the other half of the sheet over.

Press to seal and cut into individual ravioli.

Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for 3-4 minutes until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve

Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Enjoy your homemade ravioli with pride!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add sautéed mushrooms for variety.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning ahead, you can make the pasta dough a day in advance. Store it in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic to keep it moist. The ravioli themselves can also be assembled and frozen. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer to a sealable plastic bag. When stored correctly, they can last for up to two months in the freezer.

To cook frozen ravioli, no need to thaw—just drop them straight into boiling salted water. Cooking time may increase by a minute or two, so check for floating as the indicator of doneness.

Variations and Personal Touches

Once you feel comfortable with this base recipe, consider experimenting with the filling. Adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers can elevate the flavor profile. For a bit of zest, a hint of lemon zest in the filling can brighten the dish significantly. If you prefer, swap the spinach for kale or arugula for a different yet delicious green that still complements the creamy ricotta.

For those avoiding gluten, consider using a gluten-free pasta mix. Blend it with tapioca and almond flour for a texture similar to traditional pasta. The key is to ensure the dough is pliable; adjustments in liquid may be necessary, so take care as you mix.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta dough is too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to add a little water, a teaspoon at a time, until you achieve that desired elasticity. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, incorporate a dusting of flour while kneading. For ravioli that doesn’t seal properly, try brushing more water around the edges before folding; moisture is a great adhesive.

In case your ravioli burst while cooking, it could mean they were overcooked or the filling was too moist. Ensure your filling has the right balance—if it's too watery, strain it before using. With these tips in hand, you'll be able to create stunning and perfectly cooked ravioli every time!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets if you're short on time, but homemade pasta offers a unique texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make the filling in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

→ What sauces pair well with this ravioli?

Light sauces such as olive oil, butter, or a simple tomato sauce work beautifully with these ravioli.