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 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, cooked and chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil or melted butter; Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish); Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating unique dishes that surprise and delight, and these heart-shaped spinach tortellini are a perfect example. They not only look adorable but taste incredible, with the rich flavor of spinach blended with creamy cheese filling. Making tortellini from scratch can seem intimidating, but I find the process to be rewarding and fun. These shaped delights are perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion and will impress anyone who takes a bite! Trust me, once you try making it yourself, you won't want to go back to store-bought pasta.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:28:19.819Z

I remember the first time I attempted to make these heart-shaped spinach tortellini. It was a fun experiment, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to shape the pasta. The fresh spinach adds an incredible color and flavor, making them not just tasty but also visually stunning. I recommend using fresh pasta flour and letting the dough rest, as this helps with elasticity and ensures the best texture for the tortellini.

After several tries, I found that the key to perfecting the filling is balancing the cheese with seasonings. I love adding a hint of nutmeg to the ricotta, which elevates the dish in such a subtle way. You can also customize the filling by adding sautéed mushrooms or even fresh herbs if you want a little twist!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delightfully shaped for a romantic touch
Nutritious spinach filling with creamy cheese
A fun pasta-making activity for family or date night

      

Mastering the Dough

Creating the perfect pasta dough is crucial for achieving the right texture in your tortellini. When mixing the flour and salt, using a high-protein all-purpose flour helps the dough develop a good gluten structure, which provides elasticity. Kneading the dough thoroughly for about 10 minutes is essential; it should feel smooth and slightly tacky. If it's too dry, you can add a few drops of water until the desired consistency is reached. Wrap the dough tightly and let it rest, as this allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

When you're ready to roll out the dough, remember to keep your workspace lightly floured. If you're struggling with sticking, it might help to dust your rolling pin as well. Roll the dough as thin as you can; an ideal thickness is about 1/16 inch, so you can see your hand through it. This will ensure the tortellini cook evenly and don't become too chewy. Cutting out perfect heart shapes might take a bit of practice, so be patient and enjoy the process!

Perfecting the Filling

The filling plays a significant role in the flavor of your tortellini, so using fresh ingredients is essential. I recommend using young, tender spinach, which can be easily sautéed until just wilted. This allows the spinach to retain its color and subtle flavor without becoming overly watery. When combining the cheeses, ensure they are room temperature; this makes them easier to blend uniformly. If you're looking for a more pronounced flavor, you can add finely chopped garlic or herbs to the filling for an extra kick.

For a creamier filling, you can substitute part of the ricotta with mascarpone cheese. This will give your tortellini a richer mouthfeel without losing the beloved taste of cheese. If you're concerned about salt, taste your filling before you seal the tortellini. Since the Parmesan cheese is salty, adjusting the added salt in your filling is wise to avoid an overly salty bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your heart-shaped spinach tortellini:

Pasta Dough

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

Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup fresh spinach, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Olive oil or melted butter
Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make your tortellini:

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Mix until the dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.

Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well combined and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll out each piece until it's thin enough to see your hand through. Cut into heart shapes using a cookie cutter.

Fill the Tortellini

Place a small scoop of filling in the center of each heart shape. Fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal tightly, shaping like a tortellini.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and toss with olive oil or melted butter.

Serve

Plate the tortellini, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and add fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!

Your heart-shaped spinach tortellini are ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding garlic to the filling or a splash of lemon juice. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes once you master the heart shape.

Cooking and Serving Tips

When cooking the tortellini, it's important to use a large pot with plenty of boiling salted water to ensure they cook evenly. When the tortellini float to the surface, they are typically done; however, you can cook them for an additional minute for a firmer texture if desired. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot, as this may cause them to stick together. Once cooked, a gentle toss in olive oil or melted butter prevents them from sticking and adds a lovely sheen.

To serve, plating tortellini in a shallow dish allows for beautifully displaying the heart shapes. A drizzle of olive oil or melted butter will enhance the richness of the dish while preventing dryness. Garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan not only elevates the flavors but also adds a touch of elegance. For a pop of freshness, scatter some basil leaves on top; they add color and a delightful aromatic touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These heart-shaped tortellini can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect choice for a dinner party or special occasion. After filling and shaping the tortellini, lay them on a floured baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them into an airtight container or resealable bag, and they can be stored for up to a month. When ready to cook, you can boil them directly from the freezer; just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

If you have leftover cooked tortellini, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently sauté them in a bit of olive oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes, which can help restore some of their texture. Alternatively, a quick dip in boiling water for about a minute can also do the trick. Experiment with different sauces or toppings during reheating to create an entirely new meal!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use store-bought pasta sheets if you prefer, but homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover tortellini?

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

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to fill your tortellini.

→ What sauce pairs well with spinach tortellini?

A light garlic and olive oil sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce complements the flavors of spinach and cheese well.