Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini

Name: Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini
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 tablespoon olive oil; 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 nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini, especially when I want to impress guests or add a touch of playfulness to dinner. The combination of fresh spinach and cheesy filling wrapped in tender pasta is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, the heart shape adds that extra special element, which always garners a smile. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll fall in love with its charm and taste!

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:28:12.232Z

When I first experimented with making stuffed pasta, I was determined to try something unique, and these Heart-Shaped Spinach Tortellini quickly became a family favorite. I knew that incorporating fresh spinach would not only enhance the flavor but also add nutrients. I often use a touch of nutmeg in the filling, which elevates the taste profile, leaving everyone guessing what the secret ingredient is!

The best part of making tortellini is the folding technique; don’t rush it! I found that sealing each piece carefully prevents the filling from spilling during cooking, providing a delightful bite every time. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table excited for what’s to come!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Heart-shaped design that adds a romantic touch to any meal
Fresh spinach packed inside makes every tortellini a burst of flavor
Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy dinner at home

      

Perfecting the Dough

When making the dough for tortellini, it's important to start with a clean surface to minimize any sticky residue. The well you create in the flour should be deep enough to hold the eggs without spilling. Using room temperature eggs will help with the mixing process, making the dough smoother. Kneading should be done firmly until the dough feels elastic and smooth—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If the dough feels too dry, add a small splash of water; if it's too sticky, incorporate a bit more flour.

After wrapping the dough in plastic for resting, ensure it’s at room temperature. Resting allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect thinness without springing back. If you're short on time, you can rest the dough in the refrigerator for up to one hour, but bring it back to room temperature before rolling.

Crafting the Filling

The filling for these tortellini is where the flavor truly shines. Fresh spinach not only provides nutrients but also adds a vibrant color to the filling. Be sure to chop the spinach finely, as larger pieces can make sealing the tortellini challenging. Mixing in grated Parmesan adds a depth of flavor and a bit of saltiness, which complements the ricotta. If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese, though be mindful that it will change the texture slightly.

As you mix the filling, taste it—adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Adding a touch of lemon zest can brighten the overall flavor, or you could mix in roasted garlic for an extra layer of richness. Once mixed, let the filling rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before you start filling tortellini.

Ingredients

For the Tortellini

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 egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

1 cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Steps

Make the Dough

On a clean surface, form a mound with the flour, creating a well in the center. Add eggs, olive oil, and salt. Gradually combine the flour into the eggs using a fork. Knead the dough until smooth, about 10 minutes.

Wrap in plastic and let rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

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

Roll Out the Dough

After resting, divide the dough into four sections. Roll each section out thinly, about 1/16 inch thick, cutting into 3-inch circles with a glass or cutter.

Shape the Tortellini

Place a teaspoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough in half to form a semi-circle, sealing the edges thoroughly. Create a heart shape by bringing the end tips together and pinching them.

Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the tortellini and cook for 3-4 minutes until they float. Remove and drain gently.

Serve

Heat marinara sauce in a pan. Add tortellini and toss to coat. Serve garnished with basil leaves.

Cooking fresh pasta is truly rewarding!

Pro Tips

Using fresh spinach provides a vibrant flavor
briefly blanching it before mixing helps retain that color.

Serving Suggestions

While a simple marinara sauce wonderfully complements these heart-shaped tortellini, consider enhancing the dish by adding sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of arugula can add additional textures and flavors. For a creamy twist, stir in some heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese into the marinara just before tossing it with the tortellini.

Garnishing with fresh basil not only provides a pop of color but also elevates the dish’s fragrance. Consider finishing with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who appreciate a little heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make tortellini ahead of time. After shaping the tortellini, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. This allows you to enjoy fresh pasta on a whim—simply cook them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

If you have leftover filling, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, allowing you to create more tortellini or even use it as a filling for other dishes, such as stuffed shells or crepes. Just remember to give it a good stir before using to redistribute the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. Just wrap it tightly and refrigerate.

→ What can I use as a filling besides spinach?

You can use a mixture of mushrooms, cheese, or even meat for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any uncooked tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use store-bought pasta instead?

Yes, using fresh or even frozen store-bought pasta can save time, but the heart shape might be challenging to achieve.