What to Serve With Ravioli? (Classic Sides and Easy Sauces)

Ravioli is already a delicious main dish, but pairing it with the right sides and sauces can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Whether you're making homemade ravioli for a special occasion or simply indulging in store-bought on a busy weeknight, these sides and sauces are perfect complements.

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Ravioli without sides is like a dinner table without conversation—it feels like something's missing. So, let’s dive into these 20+ great side dishes and sauces that will take your ravioli dinner from good to extraordinary.

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1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is a perfect texture contrast to ravioli. The garlic and butter add a rich flavor that compliments any ravioli recipe. Plus, it’s great for soaking up any extra tomato sauce or creamy sauce left on your plate. It’s a great way to ensure no flavor goes to waste, and it's one of the best side dishes to serve alongside ravioli. You can make it even better by sprinkling some parmesan cheese on top before baking.

2. Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad offers crisp lettuce and a tangy dressing that balances the richness of ravioli. The parmesan cheese and croutons add a satisfying crunch, while the dressing provides a zesty kick. This refreshing salad is a great option for those looking to add some greens to their meal without overpowering the pasta. It's a classic Italian cuisine favorite that pairs well with cheese ravioli or spinach ravioli.

Greens with shredded cheese and dressing on the side.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add a savory depth to your meal. The roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect complement to the richness of ravioli. This side dish not only adds color and nutrition to your plate but also provides a delicious side dish that pairs well with any main course. Sprinkle a bit of lemon juice and black pepper on top for an added flavor boost.

4. Bruschetta

Bruschetta, with its fresh cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and drizzle of olive oil, adds a vibrant flavor to your meal. The crunchy bread contrasts beautifully with the soft ravioli. It's an appetizer that can easily double as a side dish, offering a delicious and easy way to enhance your ravioli dinner. The fresh flavors of the bruschetta complement the creamy sauce or tomato sauce you might use on your ravioli.

5. Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil, offers a light and refreshing side. The balsamic vinegar glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cheese ravioli or spinach ravioli perfectly. This simple recipe is elegant and quick to prepare, making it a go-to for any special occasion or a regular dinner party. It’s one of those pasta dishes that never disappoints, especially when paired with a bowl of ravioli.

6. Parmesan Crisps

These crunchy, cheesy bites are a delightful addition to any ravioli dish. They’re great as a topping or a side, adding texture and flavor. Plus, they’re a fun way to enjoy parmesan cheese in a new form. Parmesan crisps are an easy and perfect side dish for when you want to add a bit of crunch to your ravioli dinner without too much effort.

7. Sautéed Spinach

Lightly sautéed fresh spinach with garlic adds a healthy, green boost to your meal. It pairs well with any ravioli sauce, adding a slight bitterness that balances out richer flavors. Plus, it's a good choice for those looking to incorporate more greens into their diet. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and a perfect complement to any ravioli, whether it's lobster ravioli, butternut squash ravioli, or mushroom ravioli.

8. Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, brings a rich, herbaceous flavor to ravioli. It’s a delicious sauce that serves as a fresh alternative to heavier cream sauces. The vibrant green color also adds a beautiful contrast to your dish. Pesto sauce is especially tasty with spinach ravioli or cheese ravioli, making it a great addition to any meal.

9. Alfredo Sauce

Creamy and indulgent, Alfredo sauce coats ravioli perfectly, making every bite luxurious. The butter, cream, and parmesan cheese blend together to create a rich and satisfying flavor. It's the ultimate comfort food pairing, especially when you’re looking for something a bit more decadent. This delicious sauce works well with lobster ravioli, spinach ravioli, or even butternut squash ravioli.

10. Marinara Sauce

Marinara sauce is a classic tomato-based sauce that’s bright, tangy, and full of flavor. It brings out the best in any stuffed ravioli, especially those filled with cheese or meat. This simple recipe never disappoints, making it a staple in any kitchen. It’s also an excellent easy ravioli sauce to prepare on a busy weeknight.

11. Balsamic Glaze

A drizzle of balsamic vinegar glaze adds a sweet and tangy twist to your ravioli. It cuts through the richness of the pasta, creating a well-balanced bite. Plus, it adds a beautiful finish to your dish, making it visually appealing. Balsamic glaze is particularly delightful when paired with cheese ravioli or spinach ravioli.

12. Lemon Butter Sauce

Lemon butter sauce is a simple yet flavorful addition to ravioli. The zesty lemon adds brightness, while the butter makes it rich and creamy. It’s perfect for cutting through the heaviness of cheese-filled ravioli. This sauce is versatile and can be used with lobster ravioli, spinach ravioli, or butternut squash ravioli.

13. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic make for a hearty, comforting side. They’re rich and smooth, complementing the soft texture of ravioli. This pairing is perfect for a cozy, indulgent meal, especially on a chilly evening. The garlic flavor enhances the richness of the ravioli without overpowering it.

14. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus adds a slightly smoky flavor and a nice crunch to your plate. The fresh, green flavor pairs well with rich ravioli sauces. It’s a great option when you’re looking for a simple side that adds elegance to your meal. This delicious side dish works well with almost any type of ravioli.

15. Garlic Parmesan Green Beans

Crispy green beans tossed in garlic and parmesan cheese are a fresh and crunchy side dish. They offer a nice contrast to the soft texture of ravioli. The garlic and parmesan cheese add extra flavor without overpowering the main dish. This is one of those easy recipes that can quickly become a family favorite.

16. Italian Sausage

Juicy, flavorful Italian sausage adds protein and a savory kick to your ravioli meal. The spiciness of the sausage pairs well with creamy sauces or tomato-based sauces. It’s a hearty addition that makes your meal more filling and satisfying. Italian sausage is a must-try, especially when you’re looking to add more substance to your dinner.

17. Crispy Prosciutto

Salty, crispy prosciutto adds a delightful crunch and enhances the savory flavors of ravioli. It’s like bacon’s Italian cousin, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. This great addition is perfect for sprinkling on top of your ravioli or serving alongside it. Prosciutto works particularly well with lobster ravioli or butternut squash ravioli.

18. Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula tossed with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast to rich, creamy ravioli. The bitterness of the greens cuts through the heaviness of the dish, making it a good choice for those who prefer lighter sides. This salad is a simple recipe that adds freshness and balance to your meal.

19. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with ravioli. The filling can be customized to your liking, whether it’s cheese, breadcrumbs, or even sausage. These bite-sized appetizers are a delicious and elegant addition to any ravioli dinner. They’re perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.

20. Garlic Knots

Soft, buttery, and garlicky, garlic knots are a delicious side dish that complements any ravioli recipe. They’re great for mopping up extra sauce and adding a bit of indulgence to your meal. Garlic knots are a great addition to any pasta dish, making your dinner more satisfying and complete.

21. Polenta

Creamy or grilled polenta is a unique and flavorful side that pairs beautifully with ravioli. The mild flavor of polenta allows the rich sauce and filling of the ravioli to shine. It’s a good option for those looking to try something different. Polenta is also very versatile and can be flavored with herbs, cheese, or even a touch of lemon juice.

22. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and savory, sautéed mushrooms add depth to your ravioli dinner. They complement both tomato-based sauces and creamy sauces, making them a versatile side dish. Mushrooms are a great way to add some extra umami to your meal, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

23. Baked Zucchini Fries

Baked zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a crispy texture and a mild flavor that pairs well with ravioli. They’re lightly breaded and baked to perfection, making them a good choice for a lighter side dish. Zucchini fries are a fun and tasty way to add some veggies to your meal.

24. Artichoke Hearts

Tender artichoke hearts add a unique flavor and texture to your plate. They pair well with creamy or cheesy ravioli. Artichokes bring a slightly tangy taste that balances the richness of the pasta, making it a great option for those who enjoy bold flavors. This simple recipe is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it a delicious addition to your meal.

25. Baked Brie

Creamy baked brie with a touch of sweetness from honey or jam is a luxurious side that pairs well with ravioli. The rich cheese complements the pasta, while the sweet topping adds a delightful contrast. It’s a perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your meal, especially for a special occasion. Baked brie is a showstopper side dish that’s sure to impress.

Baked Brie with hot honey, topped with fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and a sprinkle of nuts.

Pairing your ravioli with the right sides and sauces can transform a simple meal into an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing like a Caesar salad or something rich and indulgent like Alfredo sauce, there’s a perfect match for every ravioli recipe. So, the next time you’re planning a ravioli dinner, consider these great side dishes and sauces to elevate your meal. Your dinner table will thank you!

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