Cheese ravioli, those delectable pockets of pasta filled with creamy, savory goodness, are a culinary delight all on their own. But to truly elevate your dining experience, pairing them with the right accompaniments is key. This guide explores a diverse range of options, from classic sauces and sides to unexpected flavor combinations, ensuring your next cheese ravioli meal is nothing short of exceptional.
Sauces That Sing with Cheese Ravioli
The sauce is arguably the most crucial element when complementing cheese ravioli. The right sauce can enhance the richness of the cheese filling, while the wrong one can overwhelm it. Let’s delve into some sauce selections that will harmonize with your ravioli.
Classic Tomato-Based Sauces: A Timeless Pairing
A simple, well-made tomato sauce is a classic choice for a reason. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Look for sauces that are bright and flavorful, not overly sweet or heavy. A good quality canned tomato sauce, simmered with garlic, onion, and herbs, can be transformed into a truly memorable accompaniment.
Consider adding a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth. Fresh basil leaves, scattered over the finished dish, provide a fragrant and visually appealing finishing touch.
Creamy Sauces: Indulgent and Luxurious
For a truly indulgent experience, opt for a creamy sauce. Alfredo sauce, with its rich blend of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, is a natural pairing for cheese ravioli. The key is to use a light hand, ensuring the sauce doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the filling. A simple cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms and shallots is another excellent choice, offering earthy notes that complement the cheese beautifully.
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to your cream sauce for a warm, aromatic touch. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere or Fontina, to create a more complex and flavorful sauce.
Pesto: A Burst of Freshness
Pesto, with its vibrant green color and herbaceous flavor, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of cheese ravioli. Whether you use classic basil pesto or experiment with other variations, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto, the bright flavors will invigorate your palate. Pesto is especially delicious when paired with ravioli filled with ricotta cheese.
Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to your pesto for extra brightness. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a satisfying crunch.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: Nutty and Aromatic
For a sophisticated and elegant pairing, consider a brown butter sage sauce. The nutty flavor of the browned butter complements the richness of the cheese, while the sage adds a fragrant and herbaceous note. This sauce is incredibly easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients: butter, fresh sage leaves, and a pinch of salt.
Be sure to watch the butter carefully as it browns, as it can burn easily. The sauce should have a rich, nutty aroma and a golden-brown color.
Marinara Sauce: A Simple Italian Staple
Marinara sauce, a staple in Italian cuisine, is another excellent choice. It’s a simple tomato-based sauce that is typically made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. The sauce is lighter than some other tomato sauces, making it a great choice if you’re looking for something that won’t overpower the cheese ravioli.
Vodka Sauce: Creamy, Tomatoey, and Delicious
Vodka sauce offers a unique blend of creamy and tomato flavors, creating a rich and complex taste that complements cheese ravioli exceptionally well. The vodka itself doesn’t impart a strong flavor but helps to emulsify the sauce, resulting in a smooth and luxurious texture. The tomato element provides acidity and sweetness, cutting through the richness of the cheese filling.
Side Dishes That Complement Cheese Ravioli
Beyond the sauce, selecting the right side dishes can further enhance your cheese ravioli experience. Consider dishes that offer contrasting textures and flavors, providing balance and visual appeal to your meal.
Simple Green Salad: A Refreshing Counterpoint
A simple green salad is a perfect accompaniment to cheese ravioli. The crisp, refreshing greens provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the pasta and sauce. Dress the salad with a light vinaigrette to avoid overpowering the flavors of the main dish. Consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
Arugula, with its peppery bite, is a particularly good choice for a salad alongside cheese ravioli. You can also add some shaved Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and Savory
Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers, provide a delicious and nutritious side dish that complements cheese ravioli. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while also adding a slightly smoky flavor. Season the vegetables simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or add some herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.
Brussels sprouts, roasted until caramelized and crispy, are another excellent choice. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Garlic Bread: A Classic Companion
Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to pasta dishes for a reason. The warm, garlicky bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate. Use a crusty bread for the best results, and be sure to use plenty of garlic butter. Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra touch of flavor.
Consider adding some fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano, to your garlic butter for a more complex flavor profile.
Sautéed Spinach: A Simple and Nutritious Addition
Sautéed spinach is a simple and healthy side dish that pairs well with cheese ravioli. Sauté the spinach with garlic and olive oil until it is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a bright and refreshing touch.
Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. You can also top the spinach with some grated Parmesan cheese.
Caprese Salad: A Summer Delight
For a lighter, refreshing side dish, consider a Caprese salad. This classic Italian salad features fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. The bright, fresh flavors of the Caprese salad provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the cheese ravioli, making it an ideal choice for a summer meal.
Beyond the Basics: Unexpected Pairings
While classic pairings are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to experiment with more unexpected flavor combinations.
Lemon Butter Sauce with Shrimp
A lemon butter sauce with shrimp offers a bright, zesty, and flavorful contrast to cheese ravioli. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the shrimp adds a delicate seafood element. The combination creates a balanced and sophisticated dish that is perfect for a special occasion.
Creamy Mushroom and Truffle Sauce
For a truly decadent experience, try pairing cheese ravioli with a creamy mushroom and truffle sauce. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and truffle complement the richness of the cheese, creating a luxurious and unforgettable dish. Be sure to use high-quality truffle oil or, if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, fresh truffles.
Puttanesca Sauce
Puttanesca sauce, with its bold flavors of tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, provides a sharp and savory contrast to the creamy cheese filling of the ravioli. This sauce is not for the faint of heart, but if you enjoy intense flavors, it’s a pairing that will tantalize your taste buds.
Pancetta and Pea Sauce
The salty, savory pancetta combined with the sweetness of peas makes for a delightful and balanced sauce that complements cheese ravioli beautifully. The crispy pancetta adds a textural element, while the peas provide a pop of freshness.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Sage Sauce
The sweetness of roasted butternut squash paired with the earthy aroma of sage creates a comforting and flavorful sauce that is perfect for fall. This sauce offers a unique and seasonal twist on traditional ravioli pairings.
Beverages to Enhance Your Ravioli Experience
The right beverage can further elevate your cheese ravioli meal. Consider wines that complement the sauce and side dishes you’ve chosen.
Wine Pairings
- Tomato-based sauces: A light to medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, is a classic pairing.
- Creamy sauces: A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, will cut through the richness of the sauce.
- Pesto: A dry rosé or a light-bodied white wine, such as Vermentino, will complement the herbaceous flavors of the pesto.
- Brown butter sage sauce: A nutty white wine, such as Chardonnay, will enhance the flavors of the sauce.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a lemon wedge, iced tea, or a refreshing lemonade.
In conclusion, the possibilities for pairing with cheese ravioli are vast and varied. From classic sauces and sides to unexpected flavor combinations, there’s a perfect pairing for every palate. By considering the flavors and textures of the various components, you can create a truly memorable and satisfying meal. Remember to experiment and discover your own favorite pairings. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
What kind of sauce is best with cheese ravioli?
The best sauce for cheese ravioli often depends on personal preference, but generally, lighter sauces that complement the cheese filling without overpowering it are ideal. Consider options like a simple tomato sauce, a brown butter sage sauce, or a creamy Alfredo sauce. These sauces provide a balance of flavors and textures that enhance the ravioli’s cheesy goodness.
A more complex sauce like a pesto or a rosé sauce can also be delicious, but be mindful of the intensity. Pesto’s strong basil flavor should be balanced, while a rosé sauce, blending tomato and cream, offers a delightful richness. Ultimately, choose a sauce that complements the cheese filling and your overall meal preferences.
Can I pair cheese ravioli with a protein? If so, what are good options?
Yes, cheese ravioli pairs exceptionally well with various proteins, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. Consider lean proteins like grilled chicken breast or shrimp scampi as lighter options that won’t weigh down the dish. These proteins offer a delicate flavor profile that complements the richness of the cheese ravioli.
For a heartier meal, try pairing cheese ravioli with Italian sausage or meatballs in a tomato-based sauce. These proteins add depth and robustness to the dish, creating a more substantial and flavorful experience. Remember to consider the sauce you’re using when selecting your protein to ensure a harmonious pairing.
What vegetables complement cheese ravioli?
Many vegetables enhance the flavors of cheese ravioli, adding freshness and nutritional value to your meal. Leafy greens like spinach or arugula, sautéed with garlic and olive oil, provide a slightly bitter counterpoint to the richness of the cheese. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers offer a sweet and savory element that complements the dish beautifully.
Beyond leafy greens and roasted options, consider incorporating vegetables directly into your sauce. Adding diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or onions to a tomato-based sauce enriches the flavor and provides additional texture. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect vegetable pairing that balances the cheese ravioli’s richness.
What wine pairs best with cheese ravioli?
The ideal wine pairing for cheese ravioli depends largely on the sauce accompanying it. For a simple tomato sauce, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese offers a bright acidity that cuts through the sauce’s richness. These wines complement the tomato flavor without overpowering the cheese.
If your ravioli is served with a cream-based sauce like Alfredo, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice. These wines provide a refreshing acidity and citrusy notes that balance the creaminess of the sauce. A rosé wine can also be a versatile option, pairing well with a variety of sauces.
Are there any salads that pair well with cheese ravioli?
Yes, a refreshing salad is a great accompaniment to cheese ravioli, offering a light and contrasting element to the richness of the pasta. A simple Italian salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is a classic choice. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate between bites of the ravioli.
Alternatively, a Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing can also be a delicious pairing. The creamy dressing and salty Parmesan provide a complementary flavor profile to the cheese ravioli, while the crisp lettuce offers a refreshing contrast. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad for a more substantial meal.
What are some easy side dishes to serve with cheese ravioli?
Beyond salad, several simple side dishes can elevate your cheese ravioli meal. Garlic bread, whether homemade or store-bought, is always a welcome addition, offering a crispy and flavorful accompaniment for soaking up the sauce. Steamed or sautéed green beans with a touch of olive oil and garlic provide a fresh and healthy side.
Another quick and easy option is roasted garlic cloves served with crusty bread. The sweetness of the roasted garlic complements the cheese in the ravioli, while the bread provides a satisfying texture. Consider a simple caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing and flavorful side dish.
Can I use cheese ravioli in other dishes besides pasta with sauce?
Absolutely! Cheese ravioli is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into various dishes beyond traditional pasta with sauce. Consider using them in a baked ravioli casserole, layering them with sauce, cheese, and vegetables for a hearty and comforting meal. Alternatively, you can deep-fry or pan-fry ravioli for a crispy appetizer or snack.
Another creative idea is to use cheese ravioli as a filling for hand pies or empanadas. Season the ravioli filling with herbs and spices, encase it in pastry dough, and bake until golden brown. These savory pies are perfect for picnics, parties, or a quick and easy meal on the go. Let your creativity guide you in exploring the many possibilities of cheese ravioli!