Ravioli, those delightful little pillows of pasta filled with savory goodness, are a culinary staple enjoyed across the globe. But what elevates a simple plate of ravioli into a truly memorable meal? The answer lies in understanding the art of pairing. This comprehensive guide explores the best sauces, side dishes, wines, and desserts that complement ravioli, transforming your dining experience into a symphony of flavors.
The Perfect Sauce Pairings for Ravioli
The sauce is the soulmate of ravioli, enhancing its inherent flavor and adding layers of complexity. Choosing the right sauce depends heavily on the filling of the ravioli itself. Consider the richness, the herbs used, and the overall flavor profile.
Tomato-Based Sauces: A Classic Choice
A vibrant tomato sauce is a timeless pairing for many types of ravioli. Its acidity cuts through the richness of cheese or meat fillings, creating a balanced and harmonious dish.
Marinara: This simple yet flavorful sauce, made with tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, is a versatile choice for cheese ravioli, vegetable ravioli, or even those filled with a lighter meat such as chicken. The bright, fresh flavors of marinara sauce complement the delicate pasta and filling without overpowering them.
Arrabbiata: For those who crave a touch of spice, arrabbiata sauce is an excellent option. Its fiery kick, derived from chili peppers, adds a thrilling dimension to ravioli, especially those with a creamy or cheesy filling. The heat contrasts beautifully with the richness, creating a delightful interplay of flavors.
Bolognese: This hearty meat sauce, simmered for hours to develop its deep, complex flavor, is a perfect match for meat-filled ravioli. The robust flavors of the meat, vegetables, and tomatoes in Bolognese sauce enhance the savory character of the ravioli, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal.
Cream-Based Sauces: Indulgent Delights
Cream sauces offer a luxurious and decadent complement to ravioli, especially those filled with vegetables or seafood. Their richness coats the pasta and filling, creating a velvety smooth texture and a delightful sense of indulgence.
Alfredo: A classic cream sauce made with butter, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream, Alfredo is a rich and decadent choice for vegetable or cheese ravioli. Its simplicity allows the flavors of the ravioli to shine through while adding a touch of elegance to the dish. Be mindful of the portion size, as Alfredo sauce can be quite heavy.
Pesto Cream Sauce: Combining the vibrant flavors of pesto with the richness of cream, this sauce offers a delightful balance of freshness and indulgence. It pairs particularly well with ricotta-filled ravioli or those filled with butternut squash. The herbal notes of pesto complement the sweetness of the squash, creating a harmonious and flavorful combination.
Mushroom Cream Sauce: Earthy and savory, a mushroom cream sauce adds a touch of sophistication to ravioli. Its rich, umami flavor enhances the taste of meat-filled ravioli or those with a wild mushroom filling. The creamy texture coats the pasta beautifully, creating a luxurious and comforting dish.
Butter and Herb Sauces: Simplicity at its Finest
Sometimes, the simplest sauces are the best. A butter and herb sauce allows the flavors of the ravioli filling to take center stage while adding a touch of richness and aroma.
Sage Butter Sauce: This classic Italian sauce, made with browned butter and fresh sage leaves, is a perfect match for butternut squash ravioli or those filled with brown butter. The nutty flavor of the browned butter and the aromatic notes of sage create a warm and inviting flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the squash.
Lemon Butter Sauce: A bright and zesty lemon butter sauce adds a refreshing touch to ravioli, especially those filled with seafood or vegetables. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a balanced and flavorful sauce that enhances the delicate flavors of the ravioli.
Garlic Butter Sauce: A simple yet flavorful garlic butter sauce is a versatile choice for almost any type of ravioli. The pungent aroma of garlic infused in butter adds a savory depth to the dish, complementing the flavors of the filling without overpowering them.
Other Sauce Options: Exploring Beyond the Classics
Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the traditional sauces. There are countless other options that can elevate your ravioli dish to new heights.
Brown Butter and Walnut Sauce: This nutty and savory sauce is a perfect match for butternut squash ravioli or those filled with ricotta cheese and spinach. The richness of the brown butter and the crunchy texture of the walnuts create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Puttanesca Sauce: A bold and flavorful sauce made with tomatoes, olives, capers, anchovies, and garlic, Puttanesca sauce adds a Mediterranean flair to ravioli. Its salty, briny, and slightly spicy flavor pairs well with vegetable or seafood ravioli.
Vodka Sauce: A creamy tomato sauce with a hint of vodka, this sauce is a versatile choice for cheese or meat ravioli. The vodka enhances the flavors of the tomatoes and cream, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce that complements the richness of the ravioli.
Side Dishes to Complement Ravioli
A well-chosen side dish can enhance the overall dining experience by adding contrasting textures, flavors, and nutrients to the meal.
Salads: Fresh and Vibrant
A fresh salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of ravioli.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery bite of arugula, combined with the bright acidity of lemon vinaigrette, cuts through the richness of the ravioli, cleansing the palate and preparing it for the next bite.
Caprese Salad: The simplicity of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze, creates a refreshing and flavorful side dish that complements almost any type of ravioli. The creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the pasta and filling.
Spinach Salad with Candied Walnuts and Goat Cheese: The earthy flavor of spinach, the sweetness of candied walnuts, and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese create a complex and satisfying salad that pairs well with ravioli filled with vegetables or cheese.
Vegetables: Adding Nutrients and Texture
Adding a side of cooked vegetables provides essential nutrients and contrasting textures to the meal.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly sweet, roasted asparagus is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of ravioli dishes. Its subtle flavor enhances the taste of the pasta and filling without overpowering them.
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: A simple yet flavorful side dish, sautéed spinach with garlic adds a boost of nutrients and a savory touch to the meal. The earthy flavor of spinach and the pungent aroma of garlic create a delightful combination that complements almost any type of ravioli.
Broccoli with Lemon: Steamed or roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon juice provides a refreshing and healthy side dish that balances the richness of the ravioli. The slight bitterness of the broccoli and the bright acidity of the lemon create a delightful contrast of flavors.
Bread: A Classic Accompaniment
Crusty bread is a classic accompaniment to pasta dishes, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Garlic Bread: Warm and garlicky, garlic bread adds a comforting and flavorful touch to the meal. Its crispy crust and soft interior are perfect for scooping up the remaining sauce on the plate.
Focaccia: This Italian flatbread, seasoned with olive oil, herbs, and salt, provides a savory and flavorful alternative to traditional bread. Its chewy texture and aromatic herbs complement the flavors of the ravioli and sauce.
Ciabatta: A crusty Italian bread with a porous texture, ciabatta is perfect for dipping into the sauce. Its rustic flavor and chewy texture add a touch of authenticity to the meal.
Wine Pairings to Enhance Your Ravioli Experience
Choosing the right wine can elevate your ravioli meal to a whole new level of enjoyment. The key is to consider the sauce and filling of the ravioli when selecting a wine.
Red Wine Pairings
Red wines generally pair well with meat-filled ravioli or those with tomato-based sauces.
Chianti: This classic Italian wine, with its bright acidity and fruity notes, is a versatile choice for ravioli with tomato sauce. Its earthy character complements the flavors of the tomatoes and herbs in the sauce.
Barbera: Another Italian red wine, Barbera is known for its high acidity and dark fruit flavors. It pairs well with meat-filled ravioli or those with a rich Bolognese sauce.
Pinot Noir: A lighter-bodied red wine with earthy and fruity notes, Pinot Noir is a good choice for ravioli with mushroom cream sauce or those filled with duck or other game meats.
White Wine Pairings
White wines generally pair well with cheese-filled ravioli, vegetable ravioli, or those with cream-based sauces.
Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp and aromatic white wine, with its grassy and citrusy notes, is a refreshing choice for ravioli with pesto cream sauce or those filled with spinach and ricotta cheese.
Pinot Grigio: A light-bodied and refreshing white wine, Pinot Grigio is a versatile choice for ravioli with a light cream sauce or those filled with seafood.
Chardonnay: A fuller-bodied white wine with buttery and oaky notes, Chardonnay pairs well with ravioli with a rich Alfredo sauce or those filled with butternut squash.
Rosé Wine Pairings
Rosé wines offer a balance of fruitiness and acidity, making them a versatile choice for a variety of ravioli dishes.
Dry Rosé: A dry rosé, with its refreshing acidity and subtle fruit flavors, pairs well with ravioli with a light tomato sauce or those filled with vegetables.
Desserts to End Your Ravioli Feast on a Sweet Note
After a satisfying meal of ravioli, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end the evening.
Classic Italian Desserts
Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder, is a rich and decadent treat that complements the savory flavors of the ravioli.
Panna Cotta: A smooth and creamy Italian dessert, panna cotta is a light and refreshing option that provides a sweet and satisfying end to the meal.
Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, cannoli are a classic Italian dessert that offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Fruit-Based Desserts
Fresh Berries with Cream: A simple and refreshing dessert, fresh berries with cream provide a light and healthy alternative to richer desserts. The sweetness of the berries and the creaminess of the cream create a delightful combination that cleanses the palate.
Lemon Sorbet: A tangy and refreshing lemon sorbet is the perfect palate cleanser after a rich meal of ravioli. Its bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness and leaves you feeling refreshed.
Peach Cobbler: A warm and comforting peach cobbler, with its juicy peaches and buttery crust, is a delightful dessert that complements the savory flavors of the ravioli.
By carefully considering these pairings, you can transform a simple plate of ravioli into a culinary masterpiece. Experiment with different sauces, side dishes, wines, and desserts to discover your own favorite combinations and create a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the journey of culinary exploration!
What sauces complement cheese ravioli the best?
Tomato-based sauces are a classic pairing for cheese ravioli, offering a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese. Marinara, pomodoro, and Arrabbiata sauces are all excellent choices, providing varying levels of sweetness and spice. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile of these sauces and complement the creamy filling of the ravioli.
Butter-based sauces are another delightful option, especially brown butter sage sauce. The nutty aroma of brown butter perfectly complements the subtle flavors of the cheese ravioli, while the sage adds an earthy and herbaceous note. For a richer experience, consider adding Parmesan cheese to the sauce, creating a creamy and decadent coating for the pasta.
What are some good vegetable side dishes to serve with ravioli?
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic choice to accompany ravioli, offering a balance of flavors and textures. Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes roast beautifully and provide a slightly sweet and savory counterpoint to the rich pasta. Season them simply with olive oil, salt, pepper, and perhaps a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme for a delightful complement.
A simple salad with a light vinaigrette is another refreshing option. A mix of leafy greens, such as spinach or arugula, tossed with a citrus vinaigrette provides a vibrant acidity that cleanses the palate between bites of ravioli. Adding a few toasted nuts or seeds for crunch can further enhance the overall dining experience.
Can you suggest a protein that pairs well with ravioli?
Grilled chicken or shrimp are excellent protein choices that complement ravioli without overpowering its delicate flavors. The lean protein offers a satisfying contrast to the richness of the pasta and sauce. Season the chicken or shrimp with herbs and spices that complement the sauce you’ve chosen for the ravioli.
Sausage, especially Italian sausage, is another classic pairing. Its robust flavor and slightly spicy kick add depth and complexity to the meal. Brown the sausage and incorporate it into the sauce or serve it alongside the ravioli as a separate component of the dish. Be sure to use a high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
What kind of bread should I serve with ravioli?
Crusty Italian bread, such as ciabatta or focaccia, is a classic and reliable choice for serving alongside ravioli. Its firm texture is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on the plate, ensuring no flavor goes to waste. The bread’s mild flavor also allows the ravioli and its accompanying sauce to remain the star of the meal.
Garlic bread, either homemade or store-bought, can add an extra layer of flavor and indulgence to the dining experience. The garlicky butter provides a savory complement to the ravioli, enhancing its overall richness. However, be mindful of the garlic’s intensity, as it could potentially overpower the more delicate flavors of the pasta and sauce.
Are there any wine pairings that go particularly well with ravioli?
For cheese ravioli with a tomato-based sauce, a light to medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese is an excellent choice. These wines have a bright acidity that complements the acidity of the tomato sauce, while their fruity notes enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. They are also versatile enough to pair well with other ingredients, such as herbs and vegetables.
If you’re serving ravioli with a cream sauce, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is a better option. These wines offer a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, preventing it from becoming too heavy. Their citrusy and herbaceous notes also complement the delicate flavors of the ravioli.
What desserts pair well with a ravioli main course?
A light and refreshing dessert, such as a lemon sorbet or fruit salad, is a perfect way to end a meal featuring ravioli. The citrusy flavors of lemon sorbet cleanse the palate after the richness of the pasta, while a fruit salad offers a healthy and vibrant contrast. Both options provide a light and satisfying conclusion to the meal.
For a slightly richer option, consider a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta. Tiramisu’s coffee and cocoa flavors complement the savory notes of the ravioli, while panna cotta’s creamy texture provides a smooth and elegant finish. These desserts offer a more indulgent experience for those with a sweet tooth.
How can I enhance the flavor of store-bought ravioli?
Even store-bought ravioli can be elevated with a few simple techniques. Instead of just boiling them, consider pan-frying them lightly in butter or olive oil after cooking to achieve a crispy exterior. This adds a delightful textural contrast and enhances the overall flavor. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even browning.
Elevate the sauce by adding fresh ingredients. Even a simple jarred marinara can be transformed with the addition of fresh garlic, herbs like basil or oregano, and a touch of red pepper flakes for heat. Sauté these ingredients in olive oil before adding the sauce to create a deeper, more complex flavor profile that will complement the ravioli perfectly.