Table of Contents: Valentine’s Ravioli

Valentine’s Ravioli

Remember those special evenings, filled with laughter and connection? As life gets busier, carving out moments for romance can feel challenging. But a little effort in the kitchen can go a long way. This Valentine’s Ravioli recipe isn’t just about making pasta; it’s about creating an experience – a delicious, heartwarming gesture that says “I care.”

It’s a beautiful way to show your affection, whether it’s for a long-time partner, a new love, or even cherished friends and family. This romantic pasta dish is surprisingly achievable, even if you’re not a seasoned chef.

This recipe delivers a delightful combination of homemade pasta, a creamy ricotta filling, and a touch of vibrant color. Forget expensive restaurant reservations! You can create a truly memorable easy Valentine’s dinner in your own kitchen. The process is therapeutic, and the result is a stunning and delicious meal that’s sure to impress.

Beyond Valentine’s Day, these heart-shaped delights are perfect for anniversaries, special occasions, or simply a cozy family dinner. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to express your love through food.

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might find similar recipes referred to as “Heart-Shaped Pasta,” “Beetroot Ravioli,” or “Homemade Ricotta Ravioli.” Some variations include using different cheeses in the filling, like goat cheese or mascarpone, or incorporating spinach for a green hue.

For a more sophisticated flavor profile, consider adding a touch of nutmeg or lemon zest to the ricotta mixture. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can use wonton wrappers to create a simplified version of heart-shaped ravioli, though the homemade pasta truly elevates the experience.

Ingredients: Valentine’s Ravioli

FOR THE PASTA:

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tsp salt
* 3 egg yolks
* 1 egg
* ½ cup beet juice (blend beets with 1 tbsp water, strain juice)

FOR THE RAVIOLI FILLING:

* 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta is best!)

* ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
* Zest of ¼ lemon
* 1 sprig fresh parsley, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pasta Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the egg yolks, egg, and beet juice. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough should be firm but pliable. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
3. Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out.

4. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rests, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and chopped parsley in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough in half. Using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, roll out one half of the dough into a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick). If using a pasta machine, start with the widest setting and gradually decrease the setting until you reach the desired thickness.
6. Shape the Ravioli: Lay the pasta sheet on a lightly floured surface. Place small spoonfuls (about 1 teaspoon) of the ricotta filling about 2 inches apart on the pasta sheet.

7. Cover and Seal: Lightly brush the pasta around the filling with water. Carefully lay the second pasta sheet over the top. Gently press down around each mound of filling to seal the ravioli, removing any air bubbles.
8. Cut Out the Hearts: Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter or a knife, cut out the ravioli. Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
9. Cook the Ravioli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the ravioli and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender.

10. Serve: Carefully remove the ravioli with a slotted spoon and serve immediately with your favorite sauce (see suggestions below!).

Chef Tip: If you don’t have a pasta machine, a rolling pin works just fine! It will take a bit more effort, but you can still achieve a beautifully thin pasta sheet.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Valentine’s Ravioli recipe takes approximately 60 minutes to prepare, with a cooking time of just 3-5 minutes. The total time from start to finish is around 75 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Approximate calories per serving are around 400-500, depending on the sauce used.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it balances simplicity with elegance. The beet juice not only adds a beautiful rosy hue to the pasta but also a subtle sweetness that complements the creamy ricotta filling. Using fresh ingredients, like whole milk ricotta and freshly grated parmesan, makes a significant difference in the flavor. This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners or a romantic date night.

Don’t be intimidated by making homemade pasta! It’s a rewarding experience, and the taste is far superior to store-bought. The key is to knead the dough properly and allow it to rest. For a smoother filling, ensure the ricotta is well-drained before mixing it with the other ingredients. A light hand with the flour when rolling out the pasta will prevent it from becoming tough.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Valentine’s Ravioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, arrange the uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen ravioli can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, cook directly from frozen in boiling water for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the pasta mushy. This is a great way to enjoy your romantic pasta dish even after the special occasion.

People Also Ask: Valentine’s Ravioli

How do you make Valentine’s ravioli?

Making Valentine’s ravioli involves creating a beet-infused pasta dough, preparing a ricotta filling, and then assembling and shaping the ravioli into hearts. The dough is made by combining flour, salt, eggs, and beet juice, then kneading it until smooth. The filling consists of ricotta, parmesan, lemon zest, and parsley. The dough is rolled out, the filling is added, and then sealed and cut into heart shapes. It’s a labor of love, but the result is a beautiful and delicious heart-shaped ravioli!

Can you buy heart-shaped ravioli?

Yes, you can sometimes find pre-made heart-shaped ravioli in specialty grocery stores or online, especially around Valentine’s Day. However, the quality and flavor often don’t compare to homemade. Store-bought options may contain preservatives or lower-quality ingredients. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients and create a truly special and personalized romantic pasta dish.

What fillings are best for Valentine’s ravioli?

While ricotta is a classic choice, several fillings work beautifully for Valentine’s ravioli. Lobster and crab fillings offer a luxurious touch, while butternut squash or spinach and ricotta provide a vegetarian option. Chocolate ravioli, filled with a sweet ricotta and chocolate mixture, is a decadent dessert option. The key is to choose flavors that complement each other and create a memorable experience.

What sauce goes with Valentine’s ravioli?

A light and delicate sauce is best to complement the flavor of the ravioli. A simple brown butter sage sauce, a creamy tomato sauce, or a light lemon butter sauce are all excellent choices. Avoid heavy, overpowering sauces that will mask the delicate flavors of the filling. A sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese and a garnish of parsley complete the dish.

Conclusion: Valentine’s Ravioli

So, there you have it – a recipe for Valentine’s Ravioli that’s sure to steal hearts! Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and embrace the joy of homemade pasta. It’s a wonderful way to show your love and create lasting memories. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your creations with me! Let me know in the comments how it turned out and what variations you tried. Happy cooking, and Happy Valentine’s Day!