Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli

Name: Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 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, cooked and chopped; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli for those special nights when I want to impress someone with my cooking. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and nutritious spinach wrapped in delicate pasta is so flavorful and inviting. It’s a dish that feels gourmet, but I find it surprisingly simple to make from scratch. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, I can create a meal that not only tastes incredible but also shows I care. Pair it with a light sauce, and you’ve got dinner perfection that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:43:15.228Z

When crafting my Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli, I often reflect on the joy of handmade pasta. The first time I rolled out the dough, I was amazed by how much better it tasted than store-bought varieties. I realized that making the pasta fresh allows for a texture that perfectly hugs the filling, enhancing every bite.

What I love the most about this dish is how versatile it is. Depending on my mood, I can dress it with a simple garlic butter sauce or a rich marinara. Each time I make it, I discover new ways to elevate the flavors. It reminds me of how food is both a craft and an expression of love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh spinach leads to vibrant color and nutrition
Creamy ricotta adds an irresistible richness
Homemade pasta brings a delightful texture to each bite

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to making truly exceptional Ravioli lies in the quality of your ingredients. Use fresh, organic spinach when possible; it not only enhances the vibrant color of your dish but also adds a nutritional boost. I prefer to lightly sauté the spinach first, as this enhances its flavor and makes it easier to chop. This step also helps to remove excess moisture that could make your filling watery, ensuring that every bite of your ravioli is perfectly balanced.

Ricotta cheese is the creamy heart of the filling. Opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer taste and creamier texture. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before using, as any extra moisture could interfere with the sealing process of your ravioli. Alternatively, if you want a lighter option, consider using part-skim ricotta, which still offers a delightful creaminess but with fewer calories.

Perfecting the Pasta

Kneading the dough is a crucial step to achieving the ideal texture for your ravioli. When you knead the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic consistency—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour; if it’s too dry, a few drops of water can help. Resting the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, leading to a more manageable dough that's easier to roll out without tearing.

When rolling out the dough, using a pasta machine ensures an even thickness, essential for delicate ravioli. If you don’t have one, a rolling pin will do the trick—just take your time to roll it as thin as possible without compromising its integrity. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch; when held up to the light, it should be slightly translucent.

Ingredients

For the Ravioli

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, cooked and chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Make the Pasta Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and olive oil. Gradually mix flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta, chopped spinach, Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper. Blend until well combined and creamy.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into quarters. Roll one piece at a time through a pasta machine on the thinnest setting or use a rolling pin until it's very thin.

Fill and Shape the Ravioli

Lay rolled dough on a floured surface. Use a small spoon to place filling at intervals. Top with another sheet of dough, sealing around each filling with your fingers. Cut into squares and press to seal.

Cook the Ravioli

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Toss in the cooked ravioli gently.

Serve

Plate the ravioli, drizzle with garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your romantic meal!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or oregano into your filling or sauce. Also, don’t overfill the ravioli to ensure they seal properly while cooking.

Storing and Freezing

If you find yourself with leftover ravioli, you can easily store them for later enjoyment. Lay uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, where they can last for up to two months. When ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw—simply drop them into boiling salted water and add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Cooked ravioli can also be stored in the refrigerator. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a bit of sauce or water, stirring gently until warmed through. This method helps preserve the ravioli's delicate structure.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the dining experience, consider pairing your Romantic Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli with a variety of sauces. A simple garlic butter sauce enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish, but a light tomato or creamy Alfredo sauce can offer a delightful contrast. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction can also bring additional textures and flavors to the table.

For a well-rounded meal, serve your ravioli alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery bite of arugula perfectly complements the creamy filling of the ravioli and adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets, but the freshness of homemade dough really enhances the overall flavor.

→ How can I freeze the ravioli?

Place the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a flour-dusted tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen.

→ What other fillings can I try?

You can experiment with fillings such as mushrooms, butternut squash, or even a mix of herbs and cheeses for variety.

→ How long can the filled ravioli be stored in the fridge?

Filled ravioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just ensure they are covered to prevent drying out.