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, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons butter; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Exotic Inspirations Co.

I love making heart-shaped spinach tortellini for special occasions, and the process always brings such joy in our kitchen. The vibrant green filling, made with fresh spinach and ricotta, contrasts beautifully with the pasta's delicate shape. It's a fun project that we enjoy together, filled with laughter and creativity. Every heart-shaped piece is a labor of love, and they taste absolutely delightful when served with a simple garlic butter sauce. It’s a wonderful way to impress family and friends while celebrating love and good food!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:10:19.892Z

When I first discovered the idea of heart-shaped tortellini, I knew I had to try it. The delicate process of shaping each piece and filling it with a creamy, spinach-enriched mix was both challenging and rewarding. I found that using fresh spinach made all the difference, giving the filling a vibrant flavor and color that is simply irresistible.

One tip that really helped was ensuring my dough was well-kneaded; this not only made it easier to roll out but also gave the tortellini a chewy texture that holds up beautifully when cooked. Pairing it with just the right sauce, like garlic butter, enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creative and fun to make with a partner or family
A healthy twist with nutrient-rich spinach
Impressive presentation for any meal or occasion

Mastering the Pasta Dough

Creating the perfect pasta dough is essential for achieving that light, tender texture in your tortellini. Combine the all-purpose flour and salt thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of flavors. When forming the dough, the key is to knead it until it's smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 10 minutes. If the dough feels too dry, add a tiny bit of water; if too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour. Resting the dough allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

When rolling out the dough, make sure to keep the thickness uniform. Aim for approximately 1/16 inch; this balance ensures the pasta cooks evenly while still maintaining a slight bite. If you prefer a more rustic approach, a rolling pin works, but a pasta machine provides a more consistent texture and thickness, reducing the chance of uneven cooking.

Creating Flavorful Filling

The filling is where you can infuse your tortellini with deliciousness. Fresh spinach is not just a nutritious choice; it also offers a vibrant color and fresh taste that pairs beautifully with ricotta and Parmesan. When chopping the spinach, aim for small, even pieces to blend seamlessly into the filling. If you're short on time, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a watery filling.

Don't hesitate to customize the filling to suit your tastes! Adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile, or you can swap out the ricotta for goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as different cheeses have varying saltiness levels.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This heart-shaped spinach tortellini pairs exceptionally well with a simple garlic butter sauce—it's quick and lets the flavors shine. For added richness, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give it some kick. Serve your tortellini with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few leaves of parsley for that final touch.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, these tortellini freeze beautifully! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container. To cook frozen tortellini, there's no need to thaw; just boil them for an additional minute or two. This way, you can always have a special meal ready to go at a moment's notice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Pasta Dough

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

Filling

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

4 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to keep your pasta dough covered while working to prevent it from drying out.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your heart-shaped tortellini:

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. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the rested dough into smaller portions. Roll out each portion into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Aim for about 1/16 inch thickness.

Cut the Shapes

Using a heart-shaped cutter, cut out hearts from the rolled dough. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of each heart.

Shape the Tortellini

Fold each heart in half to form a half-moon, sealing the edges tightly. Then, take the two ends of the half-moon and press them together to form a heart shape.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini in batches for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain carefully.

Serve

In a skillet, melt the butter and gently toss in the cooked tortellini. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your heart-shaped tortellini with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For a more flavorful sauce, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the butter before tossing with the tortellini.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when shaping tortellini is the filling leaking out during cooking. To avoid this, ensure that the edges of your pasta are well-sealed. You can do this by applying a little water to the edges before pressing them together. Additionally, double-check that you’re not overfilling the hearts, as this can also lead to bursting.

If you find your pasta dough is too dry and cracks while rolling, it may have rested too long or was kneaded too much. You can remedy this by lightly spritzing it with water, allowing it to rest for another 10 minutes before attempting to roll it out again.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing heart-shaped spinach tortellini in advance can save you time on special occasions. You can assemble the tortellini a day before serving and keep them covered in the fridge to prevent drying out. Just ensure they’re well-coated with a bit of flour to avoid sticking together.

For longer storage, freezing is a great option. After shaping the tortellini, lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to cook them, there's no need to thaw; just add them directly to boiling water!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it into the filling.

→ How do I store leftover tortellini?

Store cooked tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta dough a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

→ What sauces pair well with tortellini?

Tortellini pairs beautifully with garlic butter, pesto, or even a light tomato sauce.