12 Valentine-Themed Pasta Recipes For a Cozy Night

Did you know that more than 58 million pounds of chocolate are sold in the week leading up to Valentine’s Day? While chocolate is a classic way to show love, why not impress your special someone with a delightful homemade meal? In our blog titled ’12 Valentine-Themed Pasta Recipes for a Cozy Night’, you’ll discover an array of heartwarming pasta dishes that are perfect for creating a memorable evening. From Heart-Shaped Ravioli to Love-Struck Lasagna, get ready to learn how you can make your romantic dinner both delicious and unforgettable!

Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Rose Cream Sauce

This Heart-Shaped Ravioli with Rose Cream Sauce is a romantic dish that beautifully combines the delicate flavors of rose and creamy sauce, making it perfect for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons rose water
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt; make a well in the center, and add the eggs and olive oil.

2. Gradually mix the flour into the egg mixture until a dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.

3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 15 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, mix the ricotta, parmesan, and sugar in a bowl until well combined to make the filling.

5. Roll out the rested dough into thin sheets and use a heart-shaped cutter to create ravioli shapes.

6. Place a small spoonful of the filling onto half of the heart shapes, then place another heart shape on top and seal the edges.

7. In a large pot, boil water and cook the ravioli for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the top.

8. For the rose cream sauce, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the rose water and simmer for 5 minutes.

9. Drain the ravioli and coat them with the rose cream sauce, then serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips:

• Ensure to seal the ravioli edges tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
• Adjust the amount of rose water to taste; start with less if you’re unsure.
• You can make the dough and filling a day in advance for easier preparation.

Love Nest Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This Love Nest Spaghetti Aglio e Olio recipe captures the essence of romance with its simple yet bold flavors of garlic and chili, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.

2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and sauté until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

4. Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.

5. Once the pasta is done, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.

6. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic and oil, tossing to combine.

7. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

8. Mix in the chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

9. Serve immediately, garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add cooked shrimp or chicken to the dish.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
• Freshly chopped herbs can enhance the flavor; feel free to mix in some basil or oregano.

Cupid’s Bow Fettuccine with Cherry Tomato Basil

Cupid’s Bow Fettuccine with Cherry Tomato Basil brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh cherry tomatoes and aromatic basil, making it a delightful and romantic dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and release their juices.

4. Stir in the cooked fettuccine and chopped basil, mixing well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

• Use fresh, ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Feel free to add cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for extra protein.
• For a vegan option, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative.

Red Wine Tagliatelle with Garlic Butter Shrimp

This Red Wine Tagliatelle with Garlic Butter Shrimp harmoniously combines the rich flavors of red wine, succulent shrimp, and fragrant garlic, making it a delightful and elegant dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces tagliatelle pasta
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Pour in the red wine, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly reduced.

5. Toss the cooked tagliatelle into the skillet, mixing well to coat with the sauce.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley before serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a bit of red wine and garlic before cooking.
• Feel free to substitute the shrimp with scallops or another protein if desired.
• Pair this dish with a glass of the same red wine used in the recipe for a perfect dining experience.

Sweetheart Pesto Penne with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Sweetheart Pesto Penne with Sun-Dried Tomatoes combines vibrant flavors of basil and nutty pine nuts for a deliciously romantic dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne, basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and cherry tomatoes.

3. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Toss gently until well combined.

4. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips:

• For a creamier texture, mix in a little heavy cream into the pesto before tossing.
• Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Romantic Heart Beet Pasta with Goat Cheese

This Romantic Heart Beet Pasta with Goat Cheese is special for its vibrant color and deliciously balanced flavors of earthy beets and creamy goat cheese, perfect for a delightful date night.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups beet puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the beet puree, flour, salt, and eggs, mixing until a dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, then wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes.

3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch and cut into heart shapes using a cookie cutter.

4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and gently add the heart-shaped pasta, cooking for about 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.

5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the cooked pasta, goat cheese, basil, black pepper, and walnuts, tossing to combine.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips:

• To make beet puree, steam or roast beetroot until tender, then blend until smooth.
• For a more colorful presentation, consider adding a sprinkle of edible flowers on top.
• Make the dough a day ahead and refrigerate for easier handling.
• This pasta pairs beautifully with a light white wine to enhance the flavors.

Affectionate Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms

This Affectionate Alfredo with Spinach and Mushrooms brings together creamy goodness with the earthiness of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach for a delightful meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

5. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve immediately.

Tips:

• For added flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions along with the mushrooms.
• Customize the recipe by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Save some Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top before serving for a delicious finishing touch.

Love-Struck Lasagna with Ricotta and Marinara

This Love-Struck Lasagna with Ricotta and Marinara combines rich layers of cheesy goodness and a robust tomato sauce, ideal for impressing your special someone.

Ingredients:

• 9 sheets lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 65 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese; mix well.

4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

5. Place three lasagna noodles over the marinara sauce.

6. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles followed by a layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

7. Repeat the layering process, adding another three noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, more marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

8. Top with the final three noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and the rest of the Parmesan cheese.

9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

11. Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the layers.
• Letting the lasagna rest helps it hold its shape when cut.
• Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce for an authentic touch.

Passionate Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Hearts

This Passionate Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Hearts is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and vibrant colors, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
• 1/4 cup mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside to cool.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and black olives.

3. Add the basil pesto, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar to the bowl, tossing gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the toasted pine nuts.

5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow flavors to meld.

Tips:

• For extra freshness, add diced cucumbers or bell peppers.
• Make it a day ahead for more intense flavors.
• Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Enchanted Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

This Enchanted Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni combines creamy ricotta with fresh spinach, capturing a delightful balance of flavors that will enchant your dinner guests.

Ingredients:

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.

3. Add the chopped spinach, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, cooking until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat.

4. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture, using a small spoon or piping bag.

6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

7. Place the filled cannelloni in the baking dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.

8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips:

• For added flavor, mix in some herbs like basil or oregano into the ricotta filling.
• Make sure you don’t overcook the spinach to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
• You can prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate to save time on the day of baking.

Seductive Shrimp Linguine in Spicy Tomato Sauce

This Seductive Shrimp Linguine in Spicy Tomato Sauce combines the vibrant flavors of garlic and chili with succulent shrimp, making it an irresistible dish that entices the palate.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces linguine pasta
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add the red pepper flakes and shrimp to the skillet; cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and sugar; simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

5. Toss in the cooked linguine and fresh basil; mix well to combine and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve the linguine hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

• For extra heat, add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
• Substitute shrimp with scallops for a different seafood flavor.
• Fresh herbs enhance flavor- consider using parsley or oregano as well.
• Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.

Amore Farfalle with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze

This Amore Farfalle with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Glaze is a delightful blend of flavors featuring caramelized vegetables and a tangy glaze that brings the dish to life.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz farfalle pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and asparagus with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

4. Meanwhile, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. Once the vegetables are done, combine them with the cooked pasta, and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

6. Toss everything together until well mixed and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Tips:

• Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables for added variety.
• For a vegan option, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
• Serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious pasta salad.