When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a cozy evening of homemade indulgence. As I pulled out my rolling pin, the idea of crafting these delightful Cheese Ravioli Hearts with Tomato Confit danced in my mind. The heart-shaped pasta is not just a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes—perfect for a romantic date night or a family gathering.
With smooth ricotta and nutty walnuts encased in a tender beet-colored dough, every bite is a burst of comforting flavors. I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a beautiful dish that’s bound to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re looking to switch up your weekly dinner routine or simply want to reconnect with the joy of cooking, these ravioli will reignite your passion for homemade meals. Let’s dive into the magic of pasta-making together!
Why love Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
Delightful Presentation: The heart shape adds a charming twist to your dinner table, making any meal feel special.
Comforting Filling: Packed with creamy ricotta, savory Parmesan, and crunchy walnuts, these ravioli deliver an unforgettable flavor that warms the soul.
Culinary Adventure: This recipe invites you to embrace homemade pasta, enhancing your cooking skills and creativity in the kitchen.
Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of prep, you can whip up this impressive dish in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
Family Appeal: Kid-friendly and fun to make together, these Cheese Ravioli Hearts are sure to become a family favorite. For more pasta inspiration, check out our homemade pasta recipes!
Cheese Ravioli Hearts Ingredients
• Ready to dive into this delightful dish? Let’s gather what you need!
For the Dough
- 250 g flour – Vital for creating a smooth pasta base.
- 2 eggs – A natural binder that makes the dough rich and elastic.
- 30 ml beet juice – Adds a stunning color and subtle flavor to your ravioli.
- 30 ml olive oil – Keeps the dough moist and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1 pinch salt – Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
For the Filling
- 250 ml ricotta – Gives a creamy texture and loveable richness.
- 125 ml grated Parmesan cheese – Offers a savory, umami punch to the filling.
- 45 ml walnuts, chopped – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 60 ml candied tomatoes, chopped – Introduces a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 clove garlic, chopped – Infuses a fragrant aroma and deeper flavor.
- 1 pinch thyme, powdered – Meant to elevate the savory notes with its aroma.
For the Sauce
- 1 shallot, chopped – Provides a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 15 ml fat of your choice – Choose butter, oil, or Mycryo cocoa butter for a rich finish.
- 250 ml 35% cream – Ensures a luscious, creamy sauce that binds everything together.
- 1/2 vegetable bouillon cube – Enhances the flavor profile, creating a comforting sauce.
- salt and freshly ground pepper to taste – Final touches that bring balance to the dish.
With everything prepped, you’re one step closer to enjoying your homemade Cheese Ravioli Hearts!
How to Make Cheese Ravioli Hearts
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Prepare the Dough: Form a well in the flour and add in the eggs, beet juice, olive oil, and salt. Use a fork to gradually mix these ingredients until they come together.
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Knead the Dough: Get your hands in there! Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let it rest.
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Make the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, chopped walnuts, candied tomatoes, garlic, and thyme. Stir well and check the seasoning—a pinch more salt or pepper might do the trick!
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Sauté the Shallot: In a frying pan, sweat the chopped shallot in your chosen fat until it’s soft and translucent. This will contribute a lovely flavor to your sauce.
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Prepare the Sauce: Add the cream and half a bouillon cube to the shallots. Stir occasionally, checking the seasoning as it warms, and keep it at a gentle simmer.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated dough until it’s thin. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out even pieces of pasta.
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Assemble the Ravioli: Place a spoonful of filling on half of the pasta pieces. Top each one with another heart-shaped piece and press the edges together to seal them tightly.
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Cook the Ravioli: Gently place the ravioli into a pot of boiling salted water. Cook them for about 3 minutes or until they float, then drain carefully.
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Serve the Dish: Divide the ravioli onto plates and generously spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish if you like!
Optional: For a pop of color, add fresh herbs as a garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
Elevate your homemade pasta experience with delicious pairings that perfectly complement the warmth of these heart-shaped ravioli.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, delivering an irresistible crunch.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad adds a peppery bite and vibrant colors that contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the ravioli.
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Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized roasted vegetables contrast nicely with the creamy filling, creating a delightful medley of textures on your plate.
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Creamy Polenta: The smooth, creamy texture of polenta provides a hearty base that complements the ravioli, making for a satisfying meal experience.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of Prosecco or sparkling rosé adds a celebratory touch that pairs well with the ravioli’s richness, enhancing your dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light, airy chocolate mousse caps off the meal beautifully, balancing the savory dish with a touch of sweetness.
Cheese Ravioli Hearts Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these delightful Cheese Ravioli Hearts to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour to make a tender dough that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flax egg and use dairy-free ricotta and cashew cheese for a plant-based twist. These ravioli will still pack a flavorful punch!
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Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the ricotta filling for a burst of aromatic flavor. A little freshness turns it into a garden dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a delightful twist that brings heat without overpowering the other flavors.
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Nutty Flavor Boost: Include chopped pecans or pistachios instead of walnuts for a different flavor and crunch. It’s a surprising change that will leave you wanting more!
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Cheesy Goodness: Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese alongside ricotta for an extra creamy and tangy filling. Layers of flavor will dance on your palate!
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Sauce Variation: Experiment with a pesto or creamy Alfredo sauce to drizzle over your ravioli. Each sauce offers a different flavor experience that’s equally delightful.
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Stuffed with Greens: Add sautéed spinach or kale into the filling for a nutritious boost and a pop of color. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some greens!
How to Store and Freeze Cheese Ravioli Hearts
Fridge: Store leftover Cheese Ravioli Hearts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals!
Freezer: To freeze, lay uncooked ravioli on a baking sheet without touching each other, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat cooked ravioli in a pan with a splash of cream sauce or water over low heat for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid boiling to maintain texture.
Prepping Ahead: You can make and assemble the ravioli ahead of time, just make sure to refrigerate them before cooking or store them in the freezer for a later date!
Expert Tips for Cheese Ravioli Hearts
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Perfect Dough Texture: Ensure your dough is smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, add a little more flour while kneading to avoid any issues when rolling it out.
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Sealing Ravioli: Press the edges of your ravioli firmly to avoid them opening during cooking. A little water on your finger can help seal them tightly.
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Flavor Check: Always taste your filling before assembling. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary to make your Cheese Ravioli Hearts truly pop with flavor.
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Watch the Cook Time: Overcooking can lead to mushy ravioli. Keep a close eye on them and remember, they only need about 3 minutes in boiling water!
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Pasta Thickness: Roll the dough thin to ensure delicate, tender ravioli. If you have a pasta machine, it can help achieve the perfect thickness without too much effort.
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Serve Warm: These ravioli are best enjoyed immediately. If needed, keep them warm in the sauce before serving to maintain their delightful flavors and textures.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheese Ravioli Hearts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the last-minute rush! You can make the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh and prevent drying out. The filling can also be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring all those delicious flavors meld beautifully together. When you’re ready to serve, simply roll out the chilled dough, assemble the ravioli, and cook them in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes. With these prep tips, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Cheese Ravioli Hearts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
Absolutely! Freshness is key when selecting ingredients. For the ricotta, look for a creamy texture and a bright white color without any excess moisture. Avoid any package with dark spots or an off smell. The eggs should be fresh, with no cracks. Choose beets that feel firm and heavy for their size, as they indicate juiciness. Lastly, fragrant herbs can make a big difference—opt for thyme that is vibrant and green!
How should I store leftovers from my Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
Very good question! Leftover Cheese Ravioli Hearts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, it’s best to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you find you have too many leftovers, consider freezing them for future meals!
Can I freeze the Cheese Ravioli Hearts? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing these delightful ravioli is a smart way to save for later. After shaping the uncooked ravioli, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching. Freeze for about 2 hours until they are solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label with the date!
What troubleshooting tips do you have for making perfect ravioli?
Ah, a common concern! First, ensure your dough isn’t too sticky; if it is, dust with a little more flour while kneading. When sealing your ravioli, take care to press the edges firmly together to prevent them from bursting during cooking—lightly wetting the edges with water can also help. Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time; 3 minutes is all they need! If they get too soft, they can tear.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cream Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
Indeed! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make adjustments. Use gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities; many varieties work well for pasta. For dairy-free options, substitute ricotta and cream with cashew cream or silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast. Be sure to double-check your ingredients for any allergies, especially for nuts, as the walnuts are a key component in the filling.
Can I add my own fillings or ingredients to the Cheese Ravioli Hearts?
The more the merrier! This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite fillings. Spinach and feta make a great substitute for a Mediterranean twist, or you can go for a classic meat filling if that strikes your fancy. Just remember that balancing flavors is essential, so keep the seasoning in mind as you create your personalized variation!
Heartfelt Cheese Ravioli Hearts with Tomato Glory
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: Form a well in the flour and add in the eggs, beet juice, olive oil, and salt. Use a fork to mix until combined.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Combine ricotta, Parmesan, walnuts, tomatoes, garlic, and thyme in a bowl. Check seasoning.
- Sauté the Shallot: Sweat the chopped shallot in your chosen fat until soft and translucent.
- Prepare the Sauce: Add cream and half a bouillon cube to the shallots, stirring occasionally.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated dough until thin. Cut out pieces with a heart-shaped cutter.
- Assemble the Ravioli: Spoon filling on half of the pasta pieces, top with another piece, and press to seal.
- Cook the Ravioli: Gently place ravioli in boiling salted water. Cook for about 3 minutes or until they float.
- Serve the Dish: Divide ravioli onto plates and spoon the creamy sauce over the top.