What To Serve With Ravioli: 28 + 4 Dishes For A Full Meal - A Pinch of Adventure (2024)

I simply love making ravioli. There's something so relaxing, and almost therapeutic about making these delectable Italian dumplings for my family.

From rolling out the dough to filling the little square shells with my favorite kids favorite fillings.

The best part is, there's no need to be a master chef though, ravioli are super easy to make. In fact, you can make it even easier by practicing the Italian tradition of the entire family participating.

It's one of the few times I really enjoy taking menu requests. Whether it's classic cheese, healthier spinach, succulent seafood, or hearty beef. I'll gladly make any variation of this delicious stuffed pasta.

Ravioli is a versatile dish that can be served for any occasion. Now if you're thinking about what to serve with ravioli, the answer is, pretty much anything!

They're great with salads, a variety of sauces, and appetizers like bruschetta and calamari. A vast array of vegetables and meat dishes are also what goes with ravioli. Let's not forget sweet, decadent desserts and some nice co*cktails for the over 21 crowd.

No matter what you're in the mood for, I think you'll find the perfect accompaniment right here.

Appetizers to Serve With Ravioli

1.Bruschetta

Bruschetta is always a homerun with tomato lovers. This refreshing recipe stands out from the others because it uses burrata cheese instead of regular mozzarella.

Burrata uses mozzarella for the outer pouch, but the inside is a buttery, rich cream, that gives a nice balance to the basil, garlic, and tomatoes. This healthy and nutritious appetizer takes only 15 minutes to make.

It goes great with a fresh French loaf, or any airy bread that can hold all the juicy goodness.

2.Antipasto Platter

A nice antipasto platter is always impressive. This classic, satisfying appetizer is usually gone within minutes of hitting the table. This recipe gives a unique take on the traditional as it adds smoked salmon to the usual turkey and ham.

But the part I love the most is, this recipe adds a delicious roasted pepper tapenade. Cherry peppers stuffed with a smooth goat cheese are also placed on the platter. A nice whipped ricotta is offered for dipping.

The platter takes a total of 25 minutes to prepare, and makes a beautiful start to any dinner. This dish goes especially well with cheese and vegetable ravioli because it offers a ton of meaty protein.

3.Caramelized Mushrooms

This simple recipe is a nice addition to any meat and cheese ravioli dinner. It allows the mushrooms to retain their natural flavors, while giving them a unique and spicy kick. The whole thing takes only 15–20 minutes to create this tasty side.

After melting the butter in a pan, drop in the mushrooms, red pepper, garlic, and fresh cracked pepper. Stir frequently. The best advice I can give for this recipe is, don't be afraid to let it get golden brown. The mushrooms should be crispy.

If you take it off the stove too soon, they will be soggy. Nobody likes a soggy mushroom. The key is to stir often, so they won't burn.

4.Caprese Skewers

These Caprese skewers are everything a weary home chef could ask for in an appetizer. They're easy to make, take only 15 minutes to make, healthy, fun to make (and eat), and are a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy.

This versatile finger food will fit in at any occasion, and the multi layered ingredients will add even more flavor and textures to ravioli.

The bonus is the layered skewers full of grape tomatoes, basil, bacon, and mozzarella will look impressive on a platter.

5.Fried Calamari

Want to put that homemade marinara sauce to great use? Use it alongside this crispy calamari recipe. The iconic seafood side is an easy one to make. It's a nice contrast in texture when served with ravioli.

This fun finger food will be a hit when it takes center stage at the table, especially if you do no-meat Fridays. The most important aspect of this recipe is to use high quality calamari. Be sure to heat the oil to 170 degrees before adding the calamari.

Don't overcrowd the pan, and be sure to cook for more than 2–3 minutes, or you'll have rubber bands.

Best Side Dishes to Serve With Ravioli

1.Garlic Bread

This classic, herby bread pairs perfectly with ravioli. Not only can the excess sauce be stopped up with this hearty toasted loaf, but the crunchy crispness is a nice contrast to the creamy softness of the pasta.

All you do is mix some softened butter in with garlic, parsley, and olive oil. Then split a nice baguette down the middle, and generously brush the butter mixture on top.Add some Parmesan cheese for even more flavor.

Pro-tip, be sure to go around the edges of the bread and really get in the nooks and crannies. This will make sure all the bread is full of flavor, not just the outside.

2.Creamy Polenta

This creamy cornmeal porridge is a staple of Italian cuisine. It's super easy, has only a few pantry staples, and it will be ready to serve in about 30 minutes. The starchy dish is filled with a rich buttery flavor that all ages will adore.

All it takes is boiling the polenta, then adding the butter, cheese, and some salt and pepper. It's a nice choice for ravioli when you don't want them to play second fiddle to another dish.

Be sure to use half water and half milk when you boil the polenta, for an extra decadent consistency.

3.Asparagus Wrapped In Prosciutto

Is it just me, or does serving asparagus automatically give your meal a touch of class? If you're not thinking that, this recipe may just change your mind. Covered in their prosciutto suits, they look ridiculously handsome on a platter.

They are not only a delicious combination of flavors, but are Keto friendly as well. The best part is they take only 20 minutes to make.

You can also add them to that antipasto platter we discussed earlier. It's a tasty way to get your veggie in when serving cheese, meat, or seafood ravioli.

4.Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables (ratatouille), are a tasty and nutritious side that will add color and texture to any main course. It's easy to pull together too.

Just chop up some eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, potatoes, and green beans. Drizzle some olive oil and seasonings, and pop it in the oven. These veggies will produce their own sugars that will naturally caramelize it into a sweetheart of a side.

Try to put your quick cooking veggies in after the slow cooking ones. This will ensure nothing gets overcooked or burned.

5.Italian Focaccia Bread

I love homemade bread, but I don't always care for the kneading and waiting on the loaf to rise. So what's a cook to do? Make focaccia bread of course! This flatbread is perfect for Italian meals.

With black olives, tomatoes, and rosemary, the bread keeps the same earthy, herby vibe of much of the cuisine. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare, and will be done in about 35.

Best Main Dishes to Serve With Ravioli

1.Harissa Roasted Chicken

When thinking about what to eat with ravioli, Harissa chicken doesn't usually top the list, but it should. This spicy chicken is the perfect dish to serve if you want to add some heat to your stuffed pasta. Prepping the red bells and chili's and turning into dressing is relatively easy.

However, once you cover your chicken in brightly colored sauce, you should let it marinate for 12 to 24 hours before cooking. Once it's in the oven, don't be afraid to baste it. The more you baste, the tastier and juicer it will be.

2.Osso Buco

This Mediterranean veal dish takes about two hours to slow cook, but the result is a veal so tender you may have trouble keeping it on the fork.

The lightly coated veal shanks are surrounded by fresh carrots and celery, and are finished off with a topping of gremolata which consists of garlic, parsley, and lemon.

It's easy to prepare, and is so impressive looking that everyone will think you ordered from a 5-star restaurant.

3.Seafood Risotto

Risotto is one of those sides we can always count on. It's extremely versatile, easy to make, quick in a pinch, and always satisfying. This seafood risotto is no different, and goes great with cheese ravioli.

The recipe calls for the freshest of seafood including shrimp, scallops, and live mussels. With all that, I promise, you'll still be done in about 15 minutes.

This risotto will round out your meal and fill everyone up, without taking over the other dishes.

4.Eggplant Parmesan

No list of Italian entrees is complete without the all-time favorite, the classic eggplant Parmesan. There are so many ways to make it, but this recipe is great because no frying and constant flipping is involved.

Simply skin your eggplant and slice it. Use cornflake crumbs to batter them and stick them in the oven. Flip once after about 20 minutes then gradually add the sauce and cheese.

This is a nutritious, filling addition to ravioli. Not to mention a great option for our vegetarian friends.

5.Grilled Steak

This mouthwatering steak is a great protein option for any type of pasta, especially cheese and spinach ravioli. The recipe highlights an easy to make homemade steak seasoning made with rock salt, peppercorns, dried garlic, onion, fennel, and red pepper flakes.

After the steak is seared and grilled to perfection, drizzle the equally amazing (and easy) buttery herb sauce on top for a steak so juicy and full of flavor, you may never go to a steakhouse again.

Best Sauces to Serve With Ravioli

1.Marinara Sauce

A good marinara sauce can make cheese and meat ravioli simply irresistible. I love this classic recipe because it's full of fresh herbs and healthy tomato goodness.

Another check in the plus column is that it only takes about 25 minutes to make.

Full of classic ingredients like onions, garlic, basil, and oregano the entire pot will only cost about $5 to $6.

Your family can eat like kings for days on a delicious homemade sauce for the cost of a small processed jar.

2.Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo is one of those sauces that I love to make when the weather outside is frightful. The cheesy garlic aroma fills the kitchen with warmth, as everyone waits impatiently for the creamy delight.

Alfredo may not be the first thing that pops up when we think about what kind of sauce goes with ravioli. But trust me, it's fabulous. It's especially nice with vegetable and seafood ravioli.

This silky smooth recipe is quick and easy with just a few ingredients like butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

The bonus is that it's gluten-free and keto friendly. Be sure to whisk and not stir. Serve it immediately, so it doesn't get pasty.

3.Pesto Sauce

I encourage you to give this pesto recipe a try, even if you haven't been a fan in the past. This one uses spinach and toasted pine nuts that mute the basil's zesty tones. If there's a ton of basil in your yard, this is a great way to use it.

You will need a good quality food processor for this green gem. Just toss in all the tasty ingredients like garlic, basil, toasted pine nuts, parmesan, lemon, and cracked pepper.

Drizzle some olive oil in as it works its magic. The consistency is up to you. I prefer a more spreadable pesto, so I can put it on bread while enjoying my ravioli.

4.Brown Butter And Sage

Ok. So this buttery sage creation is more of a drizzle or dressing than an all out sauce, but it will have your mouth watering nonetheless.

This is a great option for a ravioli topping for those that aren't into heavy sauces, or just aren't big on tomato or dairy.

It's especially good over ravioli that have earthy fillings like mushroom and squash. It's easy, and takes only 8 minutes out of your busy day.

The most important thing with this recipe is to resist the urge to stir the butter when it starts to foam.

When the foam starts to rise, drop in the sage. When the foam starts to go down, take the pan off the flame. Serve immediately.

5.Vodka Sauce

This full-bodied creamy tomato sauce is full of flavor, but it's smooth enough not to overpower the pasta. It's pretty pink color will dress up any type of ravioli.

Preparation takes a quick 15 minutes. Simply saute the onions and garlic, then stir in tomatoes, vodka, tomato paste, along with some herbs, and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Add some half-and-half and fresh Parmesan, then puree until your desired consistency. This is a great sauce for people that find regular marinara too acidic.

Salads to Serve With Ravioli

1.Caesar Salad

A creamy Caesar salad is a great way to kickstart any ravioli dinner. This tangy classic uses Parmesan cheese, crisp romaine lettuce, and croutons as a tasty base for the smooth, yet sharp dressing.

A big bowl of this salad makes a perfect centerpiece with its lovely green colors. While it's easy and quick to make, if you want a great dressing, you'll have to play the waiting game.

After you make the dressing, let it chill overnight. This will give the anchovies, mustard, Mayo, and garlic a chance to mix together.

2.Spring Mix Salad

This refreshing spring mix recipe is never out of season. It's a healthy and light contrast when served with hearty ravioli.

It will take only 15 minutes to toss together the greens, cucumbers, red onions, radish, tomatoes, and crumbly goat cheese.

Serve it with a nice balsamic dressing or some simple lemon drizzle. For some extra flavor, sprinkle some garlic and sunflower seeds on top.

3.Arugula Salad

Arugula is unique and delicate In appearance, but make no mistake, this peppery leaf packs a powerful punch. This recipe uses it to the fullest to give us a healthy side that is full of flavor.

The Parmesan, dried cranberries, and toasted almonds give it a nutty taste that cuts down on what some consider the bitterness of the arugula.

The dressing, made from honey and lemon will give the salad a nice citrus sweet touch.

The best part is, this attractive side takes only 15 minutes to prepare.

4.10 Minute Italian Chopped Salad

What exactly is the point of chopped salad? Well, you know how in a regular salad we get 1 or 2 ingredients on the fork at a time? With a good chopped salad each forkful is fully covered in all the tastiness the salad has to offer.

This chopped salad recipe offers a happy blend of sweet, sour, earthy, and nutty in every mouth full. It combines colorful ingredients like romaine and iceberg lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, salami, and chickpeas.

It takes only 10 minutes to make and is a crunchy contrast to any ravioli.

Dessert to Serve With Ravioli

1.Tiramisu

Nothing rounds out a great pasta dinner than a rich and creamy dessert. Tiramisu is guaranteed to hit the spot.

This layered masterpiece is made from ladyfingers, powerful espresso, and creamy mascarpone cheese will put smiles on everyone the second this gorgeous treat hits the table.

Add a bit of rum to the mix for an extra layer of flavor, but this is totally optional. It only takes 30 minutes to make, but allow 3 hours for it to chill.

2.Cannoli

A good cannoli can be hard to find. Some people travel for miles to find one that is perfectly made.

But good news, this recipe will give you the velvety smooth ricotta filling and the crispy fried shell, without ever leaving the kitchen.

They only take 30 minutes to make, and it will give you a nice sized batch of 18. Have some fun and out your own twist on them by adding chocolate or mint chips, espresso powder, nuts, cinnamon, or whatever you like.

3.Panna Cotta

Panna cotta is kind of like the more in shape cousin of the cannoli. It's just as creamy, but uses milk, gelatin, and vanilla instead of ricotta. Rather than a fried shell panna cotta uses a fluid gel topping of strawberries and blueberries.

This stunning dessert takes only 10 minutes to whip up, but it needs to chill in the fridge for about 6 hours. It's a nice light way to end the evening after a plate full of rich ravioli.

4.Espresso Affogato

I've always loved putting a few scoops of vanilla ice cream in my coffee from time to time. It was a little secret I kept, because I thought it was odd. Then I saw this recipe for espresso affogato, and felt so much better.

This bold dessert combines sweet affogato (or gelato) and drowns it in a rich espresso. This is the perfect end of the night treat, and the best way to get some caffeine in.

All it takes is to plop the gelato into a bowl and pour the coffee over it. Just be sure to serve immediately.

Best Drinks To Serve With Ravioli

1.Red Wine

When I think about what to drink with ravioli, red wine always tops the list. A nice red is the perfect pairing to any red sauce. The robust, fruity flavors also help bring out the flavors in meat and cheese filled ravioli.

Chianti is a nice choice when serving ravioli with marinara sauce because it matches the acidity of the tomatoes.

2.White Wine

A nice, dry white wine can really amp up any Italian meal, including ravioli. The crisp, oak flavors can stimulate the taste buds and dig into a great meal.

My personal suggestion would be a nice Chardonnay, especially when serving ravioli with seafood, and vegetable ravioli.

3.Prosecco

This bubbly white wine is a staple on many Italian tables. It can vary from sweet to dry. The dry (brut) works perfectly with any red or creamy sauce. It's also a nice choice to serve with cheese ravioli, as it has the ability to cleanse the palate in between courses.

4.Aperol Spritz

This Italian favorite is a refreshing, citrus based, bubbly treat. It has a lovely orange color, and there's no shaking or stirring involved.

The simple yet tasty ingredients include Aperol (a bitter liqueur), soda water, Prosecco (white sparkling wine), and orange slices. It's lower in alcohol than other co*cktails, so it's a nice before dinner drink.

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