Ravioli, those tender little parcels of flavor, have a way of stealing the spotlight on any dinner table. But let’s face it—ravioli can’t do it all alone.
The question of what side dish goes with ravioli isn’t just a trivial detail; it’s the secret to turning a good meal into a memorable one.
You want a side that complements without overshadowing, something that balances the rich, creamy fillings, or the vibrant, herby sauces.
Whether it’s a crisp Caesar Salad to bring some bite, or a slice of Garlic Bread to soak up every last drop of Marinara, the right side dish can elevate your ravioli to new heights.
In this article, we’ll dive into the best sides to pair with your ravioli, exploring everything from fresh salads to rustic breads. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to create a meal that’s as harmonious as it is delicious.
What Side Dish Goes with Ravioli
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best Paired With | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Tangy, creamy, garlicky | Crisp | Cheese or meat ravioli | Adds a refreshing contrast |
| Garlic Bread | Buttery, garlicky | Crunchy | Tomato-based sauces | Great for soaking up sauce |
| Roasted Vegetables | Earthy, slightly sweet | Tender, slightly charred | Rich sauces like Alfredo | Adds depth and balance |
| Caprese Salad | Fresh, tangy, herby | Juicy, soft | Light, herb-based sauces | Simple and refreshing |
| Grilled Chicken | Savory, smoky | Juicy, slightly charred | Any ravioli type | Adds a protein element |
Best Sauces to Serve with Ravioli
When it comes to ravioli, the sauce can make or break the dish. It’s the bridge that brings everything together, harmonizing the flavors, textures, and aromas into a symphony on your plate. But what sauce is the perfect match for those delicate pasta pillows? Let’s dive into some options that’ll elevate your ravioli experience to new heights.
Marinara Sauce: The Classic Companion
You can’t go wrong with Marinara sauce It’s the quintessential Italian tomato sauce that brings out the best in nearly any ravioli. With its bright acidity and deep, slow-cooked flavor, Marinara is a reliable choice, especially if your ravioli is stuffed with something rich like cheese or meat. The simple yet powerful combination of olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes, simmered down to perfection, is both comforting and invigorating. And don’t forget to top it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese—that nutty, salty hit makes all the difference.
Pesto Sauce: A Fresh, Herbaceous Twist
When you’re looking for something a bit more vibrant, Pesto sauce is your go-to. Made from basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, and olive oil, it’s a raw sauce that’s full of life. Pesto brings a fresh, green flavor that can be a brilliant contrast to heavier ravioli fillings like ricotta or beef. The beauty of pesto is that it doesn’t overwhelm; it complements. If you’re serving ravioli on a warm day or want to showcase the freshness of your ingredients, pesto is the way to go.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: The Earthy Elegance
For a touch of sophistication, Brown Butter Sage sauce is your secret weapon. It’s a minimalistic approach that lets the ravioli shine while adding an earthy depth. Sage, crisped in browned butter, releases its aromatic oils into the sauce, creating a nutty, fragrant bath for the ravioli. The sauce’s richness pairs wonderfully with pumpkin or butternut squash ravioli, adding a layer of warmth without overshadowing the delicate flavors inside.
Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and Indulgent
If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, you can’t pass up on Alfredo sauce. This cream-based sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese and butter, is luscious and coats each ravioli with a luxurious creaminess. Alfredo is especially suited for spinach and ricotta ravioli, where the creaminess of the sauce amplifies the creamy filling. It’s a decadent choice, one that turns any meal into a special occasion.
Tomato Cream Sauce: The Perfect Balance
For those who can’t decide between tomato and cream, why not have both? A Tomato Cream sauce combines the best of both worlds, blending the acidity of tomatoes with the richness of cream. This sauce offers a velvety texture that clings to the ravioli, providing a balanced bite every time. The key here is to simmer the tomatoes until they’re sweet and soft before adding the cream, creating a sauce that’s smooth, rich, and utterly satisfying.
Garlic Butter Sauce: Simple, Yet Flavorful
Sometimes, less is more, and that’s where Garlic Butter sauce comes into play. It’s about as simple as it gets—garlic sautéed in butter, with maybe a touch of olive oil to keep things from browning too fast. Yet, this simplicity allows the ravioli’s filling to take center stage while the garlic butter adds a silky, aromatic finish. This sauce is particularly good with ravioli stuffed with mushrooms or cheese, where the garlic enhances the umami flavors.
Balsamic Glaze: A Sweet and Tangy Accent
Now, this might not be the first sauce that comes to mind, but hear me out. A drizzle of Balsamic glaze can elevate your ravioli in a way that’s both unexpected and delightful. The sweet-tangy reduction of balsamic vinegar adds a pop of acidity and sweetness that cuts through richer fillings like sausage or roasted vegetables. Just a light drizzle is enough—don’t drown your dish, just accentuate it.
Olive Oil and Herbs: The Minimalist Approach
If you’re someone who appreciates the pure taste of your ingredients, then a simple dressing of olive oil and fresh herbs might be all you need. This approach is perfect when your ravioli is packed with complex flavors, like lobster or wild mushroom. A high-quality olive oil, some freshly chopped basil or parsley, and a pinch of salt let the ravioli’s flavors speak for themselves. It’s clean, it’s fresh, and it’s incredibly satisfying.
Appetizers to Serve with Ravioli
Ah, the anticipation of the meal. The moment before that first bite of ravioli can be heightened by the perfect appetizer. You want something that teases the palate, something that hints at the flavors to come, without overshadowing the main event.
Bruschetta: The Crunchy Prelude
Let’s start with Bruschetta. There’s something about the crunch of toasted Focaccia bread under a pile of diced tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. The olive oil drizzled on top, seeping into every crevice of the bread, creates a bite that’s both refreshing and indulgent. It’s an appetizer that prepares you for the richness of ravioli, especially if your ravioli is draped in a Marinara sauce. The acidity of the tomatoes in the bruschetta primes your taste buds for what’s next, without overwhelming them.
Caprese Salad: Fresh and Balanced
Then there’s the Caprese Salad. This isn’t just any salad—this is Italy on a plate. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves, all dressed with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil, is simplicity at its finest. The creaminess of the mozzarella paired with the sweet acidity of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the basil creates a balance that’s perfect as a lead-in to a creamy Alfredo or a vibrant Pesto sauce on your ravioli. It’s fresh, it’s light, and it’s exactly what you need to get your appetite going.
Antipasto Platter: A Little Bit of Everything
Sometimes, you want to nibble on a variety of flavors, and that’s where the Antipasto Platter shines. Picture this: a spread of Parmesan cheese, slices of prosciutto, marinated olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers, all beautifully arranged on a board. This platter gives you a little taste of everything, setting the stage for the main course. The saltiness of the cured meats and the tanginess of the marinated veggies create a flavor profile that pairs seamlessly with ravioli, especially when it’s stuffed with something bold like spinach and ricotta.
Garlic Bread: The Classic Go-To
And who could forget Garlic Bread? Crispy, buttery, and bursting with the rich aroma of garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes you want to reach for seconds before the meal even starts. The beauty of garlic bread lies in its versatility. It complements almost any ravioli dish, whether you’re serving it with a simple garlic butter sauce or something more elaborate. Plus, it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate—an added bonus that no one can resist.
Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy and Rich
Lastly, Sautéed Mushrooms offer an earthy depth that’s hard to match. Cooked in a bit of olive oil with garlic and thyme, these mushrooms bring a richness that pairs wonderfully with ravioli, particularly if your ravioli is filled with something robust like sausage or wild mushrooms. The umami flavor of the mushrooms adds a layer of complexity that elevates the entire meal, making it a satisfying start to your dinner.
Choosing what side dish goes with ravioli is one thing, but getting the appetizer right—that’s where the magic begins.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Ravioli
Ravioli, those delightful pockets of flavor, deserve a side dish that can keep up. The right pairing can turn a simple meal into a feast, a casual dinner into an event. Let’s talk about the best side dishes to serve with ravioli, whether you’re in the mood for something light, hearty, or just plain irresistible.
Caesar Salad: Crisp and Tangy
Let’s kick things off with the Caesar Salad. You’ve got crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and that tangy, creamy dressing that clings to every leaf like it was meant to be there. The bite of Parmesan cheese and the hint of garlic in the dressing make it a perfect counterpoint to the richness of ravioli. Whether your ravioli is stuffed with cheese, spinach, or meat, the Caesar salad adds that needed crunch and zest that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Roasted Vegetables: Earthy and Sweet
Now, if you want something that brings out the earthiness in your ravioli, Roasted Vegetables are where it’s at. Think zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and maybe even a few mushrooms, all caramelized to perfection. The sweetness that roasting brings out pairs beautifully with a brown butter sage sauce or a pesto. It’s a side dish that feels both rustic and refined, grounding the meal with its hearty flavors.
Garlic Bread: Warm and Buttery
I’m a sucker for Garlic Bread. There’s something about that warm, buttery crunch that just feels right next to a plate of ravioli. Whether you’re dipping it into a marinara sauce or using it to scoop up the last bits of Alfredo sauce, garlic bread is a side that never disappoints. Plus, it’s perfect for those who love a good carbohydrate hit—a bit of extra indulgence never hurt anyone.
Spinach Salad: Light and Fresh
For a lighter option, consider a Spinach Salad. Fresh baby spinach, thinly sliced red onions, maybe a handful of toasted nuts, and a light balsamic vinaigrette—this is the kind of side dish that refreshes your palate. It’s simple, clean, and lets the ravioli be the star of the show while still contributing its own subtle flavor. And if you’re pairing it with a tomato cream sauce, the acidity of the vinaigrette plays off the creaminess in a way that’s downright magical.
Antipasto Platter: A Bit of Everything
When you can’t decide, or you’re serving a crowd, go for the Antipasto Platter. Slices of focaccia bread, marinated olives, artichoke hearts, thinly sliced prosciutto, and chunks of Parmesan cheese. It’s a spread that invites nibbling, sharing, and conversation. The variety of flavors—salty, tangy, rich—means there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a meal where ravioli is the main event, offering a bit of contrast and complement in every bite.
Balsamic Glazed Zucchini: Sweet and Tangy
Balsamic Glazed Zucchini might just be the side dish you didn’t know you needed. The zucchini, sautéed until tender, then finished with a balsamic reduction that’s both sweet and tangy, creates a side that’s light yet deeply flavorful. It’s particularly good with ravioli that’s stuffed with something hearty like sausage or mushrooms, where the balsamic glaze can cut through the richness and add a burst of brightness.
Sautéed Spinach: Simple and Elegant
For something elegant in its simplicity, Sautéed Spinach is a go-to. Wilted just enough to be tender but still vibrant, with a bit of olive oil and garlic—maybe a squeeze of lemon to finish. It’s a side that’s unpretentious but sophisticated, offering a delicate bitterness that pairs well with almost any ravioli filling. It’s particularly nice with a lighter sauce, like a garlic butter or olive oil and herbs.
Choosing what side dish goes with ravioli can transform a meal into an experience.
Salads to Serve with Ravioli
Pairing a salad with ravioli is like finding the perfect rhythm in a song—it enhances, complements, and sometimes even steals the show for a moment. But we’re not talking about just any salad; we’re diving into the kind that brings balance, vibrancy, and a touch of creativity to the table.
Caesar Salad: Bold and Crisp
The Caesar Salad is a classic for a reason. It’s bold, it’s crisp, and it has that creamy Parmesan cheese dressing that coats every leaf of romaine in a luxurious embrace. The sharpness of the Parmesan, the bite from the garlic, and the crunch of the croutons create a textural contrast that dances alongside the softness of ravioli. Whether your ravioli is bathed in a rich Alfredo or a simple olive oil and herbs dressing, this salad stands up to the flavors without overpowering them. It’s the kind of salad that knows how to share the spotlight.
Caprese Salad: Fresh and Juicy
When you want to keep things light, Caprese Salad is your best friend. Imagine thick slices of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves, all drizzled with balsamic vinegar and a touch of olive oil. It’s a salad that sings with freshness, perfect for summer evenings or when your ravioli is stuffed with something as rich as lobster or ricotta. The balsamic vinegar adds a sweet tang that cuts through the creaminess, making every bite feel balanced and just right.
Spinach Salad: Earthy and Nutty
There’s something about a Spinach Salad that feels grounding, almost like it’s bringing you back to earth amidst the indulgence of ravioli. Fresh spinach leaves, maybe a handful of toasted nuts, and a light balsamic vinaigrette that brings it all together. It’s not just a side; it’s a palate cleanser, a way to refresh your taste buds between bites of rich pasta. And if you toss in some sliced Parmesan cheese or a few roasted beets, you’ve got a salad that’s both hearty and delicate, a real treat for those who appreciate the subtleties.
Arugula Salad: Peppery and Sharp
For those who like a little bite, the Arugula Salad is where it’s at. Arugula’s peppery leaves bring a sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the softness of ravioli. Toss it with some Parmesan cheese, maybe a few shaved fennel bulbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice, and you’ve got a salad that’s as vibrant as it is simple. It’s the kind of salad that wakes up your palate, making every bite of ravioli feel new and exciting, especially if you’re wondering what side dish goes with ravioli in a way that adds a bit of zing.
Mixed Greens with Citrus: Bright and Refreshing
Sometimes, you want a salad that’s a bit more unexpected, something that surprises you. That’s where Mixed Greens with Citrus comes in. A mix of your favorite greens—baby spinach, arugula, maybe some romaine—paired with segments of orange or grapefruit, all tossed in a light olive oil and lemon dressing. The citrus brings a burst of brightness that’s refreshing, cutting through the richness of a tomato cream sauce or a brown butter sage. It’s a salad that feels like a breath of fresh air, perfect for those looking to add a little sunshine to their plate.
Fennel and Orange Salad: Crisp and Aromatic
And then there’s the Fennel and Orange Salad—a true Italian classic that’s often overlooked. Thinly sliced fennel, with its crisp texture and subtle anise flavor, paired with sweet, juicy orange segments and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle it all with a simple vinaigrette, and you’ve got a salad that’s as aromatic as it is flavorful. The anise notes of the fennel play off the sweetness of the orange, creating a contrast that’s perfect with the hearty, comforting flavors of ravioli, especially when you’re working with fillings like sausage or wild mushrooms.
This salad isn’t just a side—it’s an experience, one that lingers on the palate long after the last bite.
Main Dishes to Serve Alongside Ravioli
Ravioli on its own is a marvel—tiny pillows of goodness, packed with whatever your heart desires. But sometimes, just sometimes, you want to turn that humble ravioli dish into a full-blown feast. That’s where the main dishes come in. When you’re asking yourself what side dish goes with ravioli, the answer might not be a side at all—it might be another star of the plate.
Grilled Chicken: Simple and Satisfying
Grilled chicken. It’s straightforward, yes, but there’s something deeply satisfying about the smoky, charred edges and the juicy interior. Season it well—salt, pepper, maybe a touch of garlic and lemon—and you’ve got a protein that complements the rich, tender ravioli perfectly. Whether your ravioli is filled with cheese, spinach, or something more decadent like lobster, grilled chicken provides a savory, robust counterpoint without stealing the spotlight.
Italian Sausage: Spicy and Hearty
Now, if you want to double down on the Italian vibes, Italian sausage is the way to go. Whether you grill it, sauté it, or roast it in the oven, this dish adds a spicy, hearty kick that pairs incredibly well with ravioli, especially if you’re serving it with a Marinara sauce. The fennel and garlic notes in the sausage bring out the best in a simple tomato-based ravioli, creating a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Plus, the fat from the sausage? It’s just what you need to add a little extra indulgence to your plate.
Baked Fish: Light and Flavorful
For those nights when you want to keep things a bit lighter, consider baked fish. A delicate white fish like cod or haddock, seasoned with lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs, bakes up to perfection in no time. The flakiness of the fish, paired with a ravioli dressed in a Pesto or Garlic Butter sauce, makes for a meal that’s both light and deeply satisfying. The citrusy brightness of the fish cuts through the richness of the ravioli, making each bite feel fresh and balanced.
Meatballs: A Classic Pairing
Ah, meatballs. You can’t get more classic than this. Whether they’re made from beef, pork, or a combination of both, meatballs bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table. Cook them in a rich tomato sauce, let them simmer until tender, and serve them alongside your ravioli. The result? A plate that’s bursting with flavor, where every bite of tender pasta is met with the hearty, savory goodness of perfectly cooked meatballs. It’s comfort food at its finest, and it works beautifully, especially if your ravioli is stuffed with something simple like cheese or spinach.
Roast Pork: Rich and Robust
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, a roast pork might just be the answer. Slow-cooked until tender, with a crisp, caramelized crust, roast pork adds a richness that pairs wonderfully with more delicate ravioli fillings. Imagine slices of pork, glistening with juices, served alongside ravioli that’s dressed in a light olive oil and herbs sauce. It’s a combination that’s as comforting as it is decadent, perfect for a special occasion or a dinner where you really want to impress.
Eggplant Parmesan: A Vegetarian Delight
For a vegetarian option that’s still hearty and satisfying, Eggplant Parmesan fits the bill. Layers of breaded, fried eggplant, smothered in Marinara and baked with a generous amount of Parmesan and mozzarella, create a dish that’s rich and full of flavor. Pair it with a simple cheese ravioli, and you’ve got a meal that’s comforting, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. The eggplant’s slight bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of the sauce and the creaminess of the cheese, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: A Lighter Option
Finally, for something on the lighter side, consider a medley of grilled vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant—toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until they’re charred and tender. The natural sweetness of the vegetables, intensified by the grill, pairs beautifully with ravioli, especially if you’re serving it with a brown butter sage or garlic butter sauce. It’s a simple, healthy option that still feels indulgent, a perfect companion to the rich flavors of your main dish.
Desserts to Serve After Ravioli
After a meal of ravioli—whether it’s rich and cheesy or light and veggie-filled—you need a dessert that hits the right note. Something that doesn’t overwhelm, but also doesn’t fade into the background. It’s all about striking that balance between satisfying your sweet tooth and rounding out the meal.
Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Finish
Tiramisu is the obvious choice, right? But there’s a reason for that. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder—it’s everything you want after ravioli. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the richness, the mascarpone adds that creamy texture, and the cocoa? Well, that’s just the cherry on top. If your ravioli was drenched in a garlic butter sauce or even a tomato cream sauce, tiramisu brings the perfect ending with its layers of flavor that mirror the complexity of the main course.
Panna Cotta: Light and Creamy
Then there’s Panna Cotta. Silky, smooth, and just the right amount of sweet, panna cotta is like a palate cleanser dressed up as a dessert. Whether it’s flavored with vanilla, lemon, or a touch of balsamic vinegar (trust me, it works), it’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t weigh you down. If your ravioli leaned on the heavier side, say with a brown butter sage sauce or a meaty filling, panna cotta brings a delicate finish that leaves you feeling just the right kind of full.
Affogato: Simple and Strong
Now, if you’re more of a coffee lover, an Affogato might be your dessert soulmate. A scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream drowned in a shot of hot espresso—it’s the ultimate pick-me-up. The hot-cold contrast wakes up your senses, while the espresso adds a bitterness that’s welcome after the richness of ravioli. It’s quick, it’s simple, and it’s absolutely satisfying, especially after a meal where you might have indulged in a bit of Parmesan cheese and olive oil.
Cannoli: Crunchy and Creamy
For something with a bit more texture, Cannoli is where it’s at. The crispy shell, filled with sweetened ricotta cheese (maybe with a few chocolate chips tossed in), is the kind of dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. The crunch of the shell, the smoothness of the filling—it’s a contrast that works, especially after a plate of ravioli. If your ravioli had a Marinara or Pesto sauce, the cannoli’s sweetness offers a satisfying close to the meal without being too heavy.
Gelato: Refreshing and Versatile
And then, there’s Gelato. A scoop (or two) of this Italian ice cream is the kind of dessert that can be as rich or as light as you want it to be. Whether you choose classic vanilla, pistachio, or something more adventurous like balsamic glaze or olive oil (yes, it’s a thing), gelato offers a refreshing counterpoint to the warmth and comfort of ravioli. It’s versatile, it’s refreshing, and it’s the kind of dessert that leaves you perfectly content, ready to linger at the table just a little while longer.
Lemon Sorbet: Tart and Cleansing
Lastly, let’s talk about Lemon Sorbet. This is the dessert for when you’ve gone all-in on the richness and need something to cleanse the palate. The sharp tartness of the lemon, the icy texture—it’s the reset button your taste buds didn’t know they needed. Especially if your ravioli was on the decadent side, like a lobster-filled ravioli or one smothered in Alfredo sauce, lemon sorbet brings everything back into balance. It’s the kind of dessert that refreshes and leaves you feeling light, even after a hearty meal.
Drinks to Pair with Ravioli
Pairing the right drink with ravioli is like finding the perfect rhythm to a song—it just makes everything come together in a way that feels natural, almost inevitable. But not just any drink will do; it has to play well with the flavors on your plate, whether they’re rich and creamy or light and herbaceous.
Red Wine: Bold and Balanced
Let’s start with the obvious choice: Red Wine. There’s something about a good Chianti or a Sangiovese that just sings when paired with a plate of ravioli. The tannins in the wine, their slight bitterness, and the rich fruit flavors create a perfect counterbalance to the richness of a meat-filled ravioli or one smothered in a hearty Marinara sauce. If your ravioli is more on the savory side, with flavors like Parmesan cheese or Italian sausage, the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness and refreshes your palate for the next bite.
White Wine: Crisp and Refreshing
But let’s not forget White Wine. A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can be a revelation when paired with ravioli, especially if your ravioli is dressed in a lighter sauce like Pesto or Garlic Butter. The crispness of the wine, the bright citrus and mineral notes, complement the freshness of the herbs and the creaminess of the cheese without overwhelming them. If you’re dealing with a seafood ravioli—say, something filled with lobster or crab—white wine is the way to go. It enhances the delicate flavors without overpowering them.
Prosecco: Bubbly and Light
Now, for something a bit more festive, there’s Prosecco. This sparkling Italian wine brings a light, bubbly touch to your meal, perfect for cutting through rich, creamy sauces. Imagine sipping on a glass of Prosecco while enjoying a spinach and ricotta ravioli drizzled with Alfredo sauce—the bubbles cleanse your palate, making every bite feel like the first. It’s a pairing that adds a touch of elegance, turning a simple dinner into a celebration.
Craft Beer: Unexpected and Flavorful
If wine isn’t your thing, consider a Craft Beer. A pale ale or a wheat beer can offer a surprising complement to ravioli. The bitterness of a pale ale works well with rich tomato-based sauces, while a wheat beer’s subtle sweetness and hints of citrus can pair beautifully with a brown butter sage sauce or even a pesto. Beer’s carbonation also acts as a palate cleanser, much like Prosecco, refreshing your taste buds with each sip.
Limoncello: Sweet and Zesty
And then there’s Limoncello. While often considered a digestif, this sweet, zesty lemon liqueur can be a delightful companion to a meal of ravioli. Served chilled, Limoncello’s bright, citrusy flavor cuts through rich, creamy sauces, and its sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the pasta. It’s a bold choice, but one that brings a touch of Italian authenticity to your table.
Sparkling Water: Simple and Clean
Sometimes, though, the best drink is the simplest one: Sparkling Water. It’s clean, it’s refreshing, and it lets the ravioli be the star of the show. The effervescence of sparkling water is enough to cleanse the palate without adding any competing flavors. If you’re pondering what side dish goes with ravioli and don’t want anything too heavy or overpowering, sparkling water offers a crisp, neutral backdrop that enhances rather than distracts from the meal.
Each of these drinks brings something unique to the table, complementing and enhancing the flavors of your ravioli in different ways.
Tips for Preparing and Serving Ravioli with Sides
When it comes to ravioli, it’s not just about the pasta. It’s about the entire experience—how the flavors mingle, how the textures play off each other, and how the sides enhance, rather than overshadow, those delicate little pillows of goodness. Here’s how to make sure your ravioli shines alongside the perfect accompaniments.
Keep It Simple, but Thoughtful
You don’t need to go overboard. Sometimes, less is more. When preparing ravioli, especially when it’s homemade or filled with something rich like lobster or cheese, you want to keep your sides simple. Think about a Caesar Salad or a plate of Garlic Bread—something that adds to the meal without competing with the ravioli’s flavors. Your sides should be complementary, not a distraction.
Consider Texture and Contrast
Texture is key. If your ravioli is soft and rich, like those smothered in Alfredo sauce or brown butter sage, go for something with a bit of crunch on the side. A Caprese Salad with fresh mozzarella and juicy tomatoes can add that needed contrast. Or think about a Focaccia bread—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. It’s all about balance, finding that sweet spot where everything on the plate works together in harmony.
Timing Is Everything
Ravioli waits for no one. It’s delicate, and timing is crucial. When you’re preparing sides, make sure they’re ready when the ravioli is. You don’t want to overcook your pasta because you’re fussing with the salad. Have everything prepped and ready to go, so when that ravioli is perfectly al dente, you can serve it immediately, with the sides at their peak.
Play with Flavor Pairings
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Pair a balsamic glaze over grilled vegetables with a spinach and ricotta ravioli, or maybe try a light olive oil and herbs dressing over your side salad when serving a richer, meat-filled ravioli. The idea is to enhance the main dish with flavors that either complement or contrast in just the right way. This is where you get to be creative—think about what flavors you love together and try them out.
Serve with Care
Presentation matters, but don’t overthink it. You want your meal to look inviting, sure, but you also want it to feel natural, not forced. When you’re plating, keep things casual yet thoughtful. A small pile of Parmesan cheese sprinkled over the ravioli, a rustic chunk of Garlic Bread on the side, and a simple, fresh salad—it’s all about creating a plate that feels as good as it tastes.
Balance the Richness
Ravioli can be heavy, especially if it’s filled with cheese or meat and covered in a rich sauce. So, think about sides that can lighten things up. A crisp Spinach Salad with a balsamic vinaigrette can cut through the richness, or a glass of Prosecco to add a bit of effervescence. It’s all about balance—finding that right mix of indulgence and refreshment on your plate.
Remember, the sides you choose should elevate the ravioli, not overwhelm it. The goal is to create a meal that feels cohesive, where every bite brings something new but also ties everything together.
FAQ on What Side Dish Goes With Ravioli
What are the best salads to serve with ravioli?
A Caprese Salad is a fantastic choice. The combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar pairs wonderfully with the richness of ravioli. For something lighter, a simple Spinach Salad with balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s creamy textures.
What bread goes well with ravioli?
Garlic Bread is a classic. The buttery, crispy texture complements ravioli, especially when it’s drenched in a tomato cream sauce or Alfredo sauce. Focaccia Bread is another great option, bringing a herby, chewy delight to the table that works beautifully with rich, savory ravioli dishes.
Can I serve vegetables with ravioli?
Absolutely. Roasted Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add an earthy depth that balances the softness of ravioli. Grilled vegetables also work well, providing a smoky, caramelized flavor that enhances the pasta’s filling, especially when paired with a brown butter sage sauce.
What wine pairs best with ravioli?
A Chianti or Sangiovese red wine offers a bold, balanced flavor that pairs beautifully with rich, meaty ravioli. If your ravioli is lighter, perhaps filled with cheese or seafood, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is perfect, complementing the dish’s delicate flavors without overpowering them.
Can I serve soup with ravioli?
Yes, a light Minestrone Soup can be a wonderful starter before a ravioli main course. Its broth-based, vegetable-rich content won’t overwhelm the meal, and it sets the stage with flavors that echo traditional Italian cuisine, perfectly paving the way for a hearty ravioli dish.
Is a Caesar Salad good with ravioli?
Definitely. The Caesar Salad’s crisp romaine, sharp Parmesan cheese, and creamy dressing bring a robust contrast to the soft, rich ravioli. The crunch of the croutons and the bite of the garlic in the dressing enhance the overall dining experience, making it a complementary side.
What side dish goes with ravioli?
For a side dish that complements ravioli, consider a Caesar Salad or Garlic Bread. Both offer textural contrasts and flavors that enhance the rich, creamy nature of ravioli. Roasted Vegetables or a Caprese Salad are also excellent options, bringing balance and freshness to the meal.
Can I serve a meat dish with ravioli?
Yes, Italian Sausage is a natural partner for ravioli, especially when the pasta is dressed in a Marinara sauce. The sausage’s spices and rich flavor complement the pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Alternatively, Grilled Chicken adds a simple, lean protein option to the dish.
What are good dessert options after ravioli?
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that pairs well with ravioli. Its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone are rich yet light enough to follow a hearty meal. For something lighter, consider a Lemon Sorbet, which refreshes the palate with its tart, icy brightness.
Should I serve drinks with ravioli?
Yes, the right drink elevates the meal. A Chianti or Prosecco pairs well with ravioli, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming them. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water works perfectly, cleansing the palate and allowing the richness of the ravioli and sides to stand out.
Conclusion
Choosing what side dish goes with ravioli isn’t just about filling the plate; it’s about creating a harmonious experience where every element elevates the other. From the crunch of Garlic Bread to the freshness of a Caprese Salad, the sides you choose can transform a simple ravioli dish into something memorable.
The right wine pairing—whether it’s a robust Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio—can further enhance the flavors, while a thoughtful finish, like a light Lemon Sorbet or rich Tiramisu, leaves the meal on the perfect note.
Ultimately, it’s about balance—playing with textures, flavors, and even temperatures to ensure each bite is better than the last. Whether you’re going traditional or experimenting with something new, the goal is always the same: a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious, with every element working together seamlessly.