In the heart of winter, when the days are short and the nights are long, there’s something incredibly cozy about making homemade pasta. One evening, while perusing the vibrant vegetables at the market, I was captivated by the earthy hues of fresh beets. It struck me that these beautiful root vegetables could become something more: a colorful twist on classic ravioli.
Introducing my charming Beet Heart Ravioli with Ricotta and Thyme! Each tender pouch is filled with a creamy ricotta and fresh thyme mixture, wrapped in ombré pasta that glimmers in stunning shades of pink and purple. Perfect for a special date night or just to elevate a casual dinner, this dish isn’t just visually enticing; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth. Tossed in nutty brown butter sage sauce and topped with crispy toasted walnuts, it’s a vibrant masterpiece that promises to impress.
Let’s roll up our sleeves and create an inviting dish that radiates love with every bite!
Why Will You Love Beet Heart Ravioli?
Unique Aesthetics: The ombré colors of the pasta make this dish a stunning centerpiece, perfect for impressing your dinner guests.
Comforting Yet Elegant: Packed with rich ricotta and aromatic thyme, each bite is a delightful mix of comfort and sophistication.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or pasta shapes, making it suitable for various tastes and occasions.
Quick Prep: Most of the work can be done ahead of time, allowing you to savor the moment with your loved ones.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends, these ravioli are bound to earn rave reviews.
Take a moment to explore more wonderful pasta ideas in our extensive recipe collection!
Beet Heart Ravioli Ingredients
• Get ready to create beautiful beet heart ravioli with these essential ingredients!
For the Pasta Dough
- Beets – Provide vibrant color and subtle sweetness; fresh or canned will work, just skip roasting if canned.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and enhances flavor during beet preparation.
- Eggs & Egg Yolk – Binds the dough together, ensuring a rich texture.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the basis of your pasta; semolina flour can provide a different texture if desired.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors in both the dough and filling; remember an extra pinch for seasoning the beets.
For the Ricotta Filling
- Ricotta Cheese – The star of the filling adds creaminess; drain excess moisture to keep it from being too wet.
- Fresh Thyme – Infuses your filling with delightful herbaceous notes; swap out for dried thyme if fresh isn’t available.
- Parmesan Cheese – Delivers umami and richness; feel free to use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Brown Butter Sauce and Garnish
- Unsalted Butter – The base of the luscious brown butter sauce; you can also use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Sage Leaves – Provides depth and an aromatic punch; substitute with rosemary if preferred.
- Toasted Walnuts – Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to finish your dish; pecans can make for a great twist!
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating enchanting Beet Heart Ravioli that will make your heart sing!
How to Make Beet Heart Ravioli
-
Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the beets with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and bake for about 1 hour until they are tender. Allow them to cool, then peel off the skins.
-
Make Pasta Dough: Puree the roasted beets until smooth. In a bowl, combine the beet puree with eggs and a pinch of salt. Gradually add all-purpose flour until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, wrap in plastic, and let it rest for 1-2 hours.
-
Prepare Filling: Drain any excess moisture from the ricotta cheese. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, fresh thyme, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep the filling chilled until ready to use.
-
Roll Out Dough: Divide the rested dough into quarters. Using a pasta maker, roll each portion into thin sheets, dusting with flour as needed to prevent sticking.
-
Assemble Ravioli: Lay out the sheets of dough. Place small mounds of the ricotta filling along one strip, brushing the edges with egg wash. Carefully place another sheet over the top, pressing out any air to seal, then cut into heart shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.
-
Cook Ravioli: Boil a large pot of salted water. Gently add the ravioli and cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon.
-
Make Brown Butter Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it turns golden brown. Add fresh sage leaves and season with salt. Allow the sauce to simmer for a minute.
-
Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss the boiled ravioli with the brown butter sauce. Plate them and garnish with toasted walnuts and additional thyme.
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These lovely Beet Heart Ravioli are a spectacular choice for meal prep! You can prepare the ravioli filling (ricotta, thyme, and parmesan mix) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, keeping it stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The pasta dough can be made ahead and stored wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 24 hours in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply roll out your dough, assemble the ravioli, and boil them for a quick 3-4 minutes. This approach not only saves you time on busy days but ensures that your homemade pasta dish is just as delicious and impressive!
Variations & Substitutions for Beet Heart Ravioli
Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful dish with these fun twists and alternatives!
-
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a wonderful pasta dough that everyone can enjoy without compromising flavor.
-
Herb-infused Dough: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the pasta dough for an aromatic touch that elevates every bite.
-
Cheese Swap: Experiment with filling options by swapping out ricotta for goat cheese or a blend of cottage cheese and mozzarella for a different texture and taste.
-
Roasted Veggie Filling: Incorporate finely chopped roasted vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms into the ricotta filling for added flavor and balance.
-
Different Greens: Replace thyme with fresh spinach, arugula, or even kale in the filling for a colorful and nutrient-rich twist that’s still deliciously creamy.
-
Nutty Crunch: Instead of walnuts, try crushed pistachios or almonds for a unique crunch that adds depth to the dish.
-
Flavor Boost: Mix in a splash of lemon zest to the filling or the brown butter sauce to brighten the dish with refreshing citrus notes.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter sauce for a subtle heat that brings excitement to every forkful.
Playing with these variations invites you to embrace the spirit of cooking while making this beautiful dish your own. Enjoy every delicious moment!
What to Serve with Beet Heart Ravioli?
Creating the perfect meal is all about harmony, and these vibrant beet heart ravioli will inspire culinary joy at your dinner table.
-
Light Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens and citrus vinaigrette brightens up the rich flavors of the ravioli. It’s a delightful contrast that complements the dish beautifully.
-
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover brown butter sauce and offer a comforting sidekick to your pasta.
-
Roasted Asparagus: Tender, roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon adds a pop of freshness and a lovely visual appeal next to the colorful ravioli. The earthy notes create a wonderful balance.
-
Risotto: Creamy parmesan risotto can serve as a luxurious bed for your ravioli, elevating the dining experience while seamlessly melding flavors together.
-
Red Wine: A glass of lightly chilled Pinot Noir or a full-bodied Cabernet partners with the earthy beet flavor, enhancing the meal’s romantic ambiance.
-
Chocolate Mousse: End your dinner on a sweet note with a luscious chocolate mousse. Its smooth texture and rich flavor contrast perfectly with the previous courses, leaving a fulfilling finish.
Dine with love, and let each pairing enhance the warmth and charm of your beet heart ravioli masterpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Beet Heart Ravioli
Fridge: Store uncooked ravioli in an airtight container layered between parchment paper for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents sticking.
Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked ravioli in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Cooking from Frozen: You can cook the frozen beet heart ravioli directly from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the boiling time for perfect results.
Reheating: If cooked ravioli are stored, reheat in a skillet with a little butter or in the microwave until warmed through, generally within 2-3 minutes.
Expert Tips for Beet Heart Ravioli
-
Dough Consistency: Ensure your pasta dough isn’t too sticky; if it is, gradually incorporate more flour until it forms a smooth texture for the ravioli.
-
Proper Cooking: Always boil in a pot of rolling salted water to ensure the ravioli cook evenly and fully.
-
Sealing Techniques: Press the dough firmly around each filling to avoid any leaks during cooking, which helps maintain the integrity of your Beet Heart Ravioli.
-
Use Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the ravioli with egg wash before sealing; this helps create a stronger bond to prevent them from opening up while boiling.
-
Chill Before Cooking: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the assembled ravioli for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.
Beet Heart Ravioli Recipe FAQs
What are the best beets to use for the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or canned beets for this recipe. If you’re using fresh, opt for smaller beets as they are sweeter. When using canned beets, you’ll skip the roasting step, saving time.
How should I store leftover or uncooked ravioli?
For uncooked ravioli, place them in an airtight container, layered between parchment paper, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents sticking. If you have cooked ravioli, you can store them in the fridge and enjoy them for about 2-3 days.
Can I freeze the ravioli, and how?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked beet heart ravioli! To do this, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be kept for up to a month. Remember, you can cook them straight from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time!
What if my pasta dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough feels tacky to the touch, simply incorporate a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it achieves a smooth, pliable consistency. Knead it gently to avoid overworking, as over-kneading can lead to tough pasta.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians and people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Beet Heart Ravioli is a delightful vegetarian dish. For those with dairy allergies, substitute ricotta with a cashew cheese or tofu blend for a dairy-free version. You can also replace the butter in the sauce with olive oil to cater to vegan diets.
How do I reheat leftover cooked ravioli?
To reheat leftover ravioli, you can either microwave them for about 2-3 minutes or heat them gently in a skillet with a bit of butter until warmed through. This will help retain their delightful texture while bringing back the delicious flavors.
Savory Beet Heart Ravioli: A Romantic Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the beets with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and bake for about 1 hour until they are tender. Allow them to cool, then peel off the skins.
- Puree the roasted beets until smooth. In a bowl, combine the beet puree with eggs and a pinch of salt. Gradually add all-purpose flour until a dough forms. Knead until smooth, wrap in plastic, and let it rest for 1-2 hours.
- Drain any excess moisture from the ricotta cheese. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, fresh thyme, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep the filling chilled until ready to use.
- Divide the rested dough into quarters. Using a pasta maker, roll each portion into thin sheets, dusting with flour as needed to prevent sticking.
- Lay out the sheets of dough. Place small mounds of the ricotta filling along one strip, brushing the edges with egg wash. Carefully place another sheet over the top, pressing out any air to seal, then cut into heart shapes using a knife or cookie cutter.
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Gently add the ravioli and cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it turns golden brown. Add fresh sage leaves and season with salt. Allow the sauce to simmer for a minute.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the boiled ravioli with the brown butter sauce. Plate them and garnish with toasted walnuts and additional thyme.
- Optional: Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.