Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Ricotta and Herbs

Name: Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Ricotta and Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil), finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Flatbread with Ricotta and Herbs because it brings a smile to my face and is perfect for any occasion. The delicate texture of the flatbread paired with the creamy ricotta and fresh herbs creates a delightful experience. Whether it's for a romantic dinner or a fun family gathering, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious. I enjoy experimenting with different herb combinations, making each batch uniquely my own. Join me in creating a culinary masterpiece that is as beautiful as it is tasty!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:40:19.176Z

When I first tried making this heart-shaped flatbread, I was amazed at how quick and easy it was to prepare. The combination of fresh ricotta and herbs offers a lovely creaminess that enhances the bread's texture. I found that adjusting the herbs to season the ricotta more boldly really elevates the flavors, adding that extra touch of love.

One technique I've honed is ensuring that the dough is not overworked; this keeps the flatbreads soft and pillowy. The aesthetic appeal of heart shapes also makes them ideal for special occasions. Serve them warm for best results, and I guarantee they'll disappear in no time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, freshly baked flatbreads that are soft and inviting.
Versatile recipe—experiment with herbs to match your taste.
Perfect for sharing during special gatherings or as a romantic treat.

      

Mastering the Dough

Creating the perfect flatbread dough is essential for achieving that soft and inviting texture. When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure that the baking powder is fresh, as this is what gives the dough its rise and lightness. Kneading for about 5 minutes will develop gluten, resulting in a smooth and elastic dough. If the dough feels too sticky, dust with additional flour during kneading to ensure it doesn't stick to your hands or the surface.

After kneading, cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out into heart shapes. Don’t rush this step; the right amount of rest significantly improves the texture of the flatbread, leading to a more enjoyable bite.

Filling Variations

The ricotta filling is incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match herbs based on your personal preference or seasonal availability. Try incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist, or substitute the parsley and thyme with fresh dill or chives for a milder flavor. Each variation will introduce a unique character to the flatbread, making it exciting to experiment with different combinations.

If you want a richer filling, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest into the ricotta mix. This brightens the flavors and complements the creamy textures beautifully. Additionally, you can swap out the Parmesan cheese for feta or goat cheese, which will lend a tangy depth to the filling, enhancing the overall taste of each heart-shaped treat.

Serving and Enjoying

To make the flatbread even more special, consider serving it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt right after cooking. This finishing touch highlights the dough's warm flavors and enhances the overall taste experience. You can also serve the filled flatbreads with a side of marinara or yogurt dip, offering a delightful contrast to the rich filling.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side, allowing them to regain their softness while warming up. This recipe is perfect for meal prep; you can make the flatbreads ahead of time and fill them right before serving, ensuring a fresh and enjoyable experience.

Ingredients

For the Flatbread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil), finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix ingredients until a soft dough forms, then knead for a few minutes before rolling out.

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.

Make the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are well combined.

Shape and Cook the Flatbreads

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll each into a heart shape. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each flatbread for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Fill with the ricotta mixture as you serve.

Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs, if desired.

Pro Tips

To make your flatbreads even more flavorful, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling.

Dough Tips and Troubleshooting

If your dough is too dry or crumbling, gradually add a teaspoon of warm water until it is manageable. Conversely, if the dough is too wet, sprinkle in flour a little at a time until you reach the ideal consistency. The dough should be soft but not sticky, and it should spring back slightly when gently pressed with a finger, indicating it's well-kneaded and ready to roll.

Common mistakes include overworking the dough or failing to let it rest long enough. Over-kneading can make the flatbread tough, while not letting it rest can cause it to shrink while rolling out. Always allow for that little rest period to improve handling and texture.

Flatbread Storage and Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the formed but unbaked flatbreads. Layer parchment paper between each flatbread and store them in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with cooking as usual. This makes it convenient to enjoy warm flatbreads without the hassle of making the dough last minute.

Once baked, any leftover flatbreads can be stored in the fridge for a day or two. To revive them, a quick heating in the toaster or skillet brings back their delightful chewiness and warmth. Enjoy them filled, or simply as a side with soups and salads.

Creative Presentation Ideas

When serving your heart-shaped flatbreads, consider garnishing them with fresh herbs or microgreens to elevate the presentation. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction can also add a burst of visual appeal and tangy flavor. Arrange them on a wooden platter, surrounded by dips and colorful accompaniments, to create an inviting spread that is sure to impress guests.

For a romantic touch, plate the flatbreads alongside a small vase of fresh flowers. This adds a charming atmosphere for a dinner date. Additionally, consider pairing the flatbreads with a light, refreshing salad or a selection of olives and cheeses for a delightful Mediterranean-themed meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, sautéed vegetables, or even meats like prosciutto for a more substantial filling.

→ How do I store leftover flatbreads?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the flatbreads?

Absolutely! Freeze the cooked flatbreads in a single layer and transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer.