Okay, you’ve conquered the main event – those gorgeous homemade spinach ricotta ravioli are ready, bathed in one of the best sauces for spinach ravioli. Brava! But now… what else goes on the plate? Figuring out what to serve with spinach ravioli is all about balance. You want sides that complement the richness of the pasta without stealing the spotlight or weighing everything down. Think fresh, think simple, think delicious contrasts. Let’s find the perfect partners for your spinach ravioli meal.
Salads: Fresh & Crisp Counterparts
A bright salad is almost non-negotiable with rich pasta, cutting through the creaminess and adding a much-needed fresh element.
Simple Green Salad
You can never go wrong here. Mixed greens, maybe some cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices, tossed in a light vinaigrette (olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper – keep it easy!). It’s one of the best sides for ricotta ravioli because it’s effortless and effective.
Peppery Arugula Salad
What salad to serve with ravioli when you want a little more personality? Arugula! Its peppery bite is a fantastic contrast to creamy ricotta. Toss it simply with olive oil, lemon juice, shaved Parmesan, and maybe some toasted pine nuts. For a step-by-step, Cookie and Kate has a lovely simple version that gets it just right.
Classic Caesar Salad (Use Wisely!)
A creamy Caesar can work, especially if your ravioli sauce is lighter (like a marinara or brown butter). Just be mindful – pairing a heavy cream sauce on your ravioli with a creamy Caesar might be delicious overkill for some!
Heartier Option: Bean Salad
Feeling like something with a bit more substance than leafy greens? Our Dense Bean Salad offers fiber, protein, and vibrant flavor that holds its own without overshadowing the main dish.
Vegetable Sides: Earthy & Elegant Complements
Adding a dedicated veggie side is a great way to round out the meal and add color and nutrients. Think simple preparations!
Roasted Asparagus
What vegetable goes well with ricotta ravioli? Asparagus is a star! Toss spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F until tender-crisp. A squeeze of lemon at the end makes it pop. So elegant, so easy.
Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic
Earthy mushrooms are a natural partner for spinach and ricotta. Sauté sliced mushrooms (cremini are great) in butter or olive oil with plenty of garlic until golden brown. A splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar at the end adds depth.
Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Lean into the theme! Quickly sautéing fresh spinach with garlic until just wilted echoes the filling flavor and adds another layer of green goodness. Easy peasy.
Roasted Broccoli or Broccolini
Those slightly charred, crispy edges on roasted broccoli or broccolini add fantastic texture. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes, and roast until tender with crispy bits. These are fantastic vegetable sides for ravioli.
Breads: For Essential Sauce Mopping!
Let’s be honest, one of the best parts of a pasta dinner is the bread used to swipe up every last bit of sauce. It’s practically mandatory in my house!
Crusty Italian Bread
What bread goes with spinach ravioli? A simple loaf of crusty Italian or French bread is perfection. Warm it slightly in the oven and serve it alongside for tearing and dipping. Nonna always said leaving sauce on the plate was a peccato (a sin!) – bread prevents this!
Garlic Bread or Garlic Knots
The ultimate comfort food pairing. Whether you make your own garlicky masterpiece or grab some from the bakery, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Check out some inspiration in our Top-Rated Bread Recipes section if you’re feeling ambitious!
Light Proteins (Optional Additions)
While spinach ravioli is often satisfying on its own, sometimes you might want to add a little extra protein. Keep it light!
Grilled Chicken Strips
Simple, lean grilled chicken breast, sliced thin, can be served alongside or sometimes even tossed with a lighter sauce and the ravioli. Season it simply with salt, pepper, and maybe some Italian herbs.
Sautéed Shrimp
What meat goes with spinach ravioli beautifully, especially with lighter sauces like garlic butter or pesto? Shrimp! Quickly sauté some shrimp with garlic and olive oil until pink and cooked through. It adds a touch of elegance without being heavy.
Pairing Considerations: Finding the Balance
The golden rule? Balance!
- Rich Sauce (Alfredo, Creamy Pesto): Opt for lighter sides – a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, plain crusty bread. Avoid doubling down on creaminess (like with a heavy Caesar).
- Lighter Sauce (Marinara, Brown Butter, Pesto): You have more flexibility! You can go for slightly heartier sides like sautéed mushrooms, garlic bread, or even the optional light proteins.
- Goal: Aim for a mix of textures and flavors on the plate – something creamy (ravioli/sauce), something fresh/acidic (salad), something with texture (roasted veggies/crusty bread). These make for the best side dishes for spinach ravioli experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good side dish for spinach ravioli?
Simple salads (like arugula or mixed greens with vinaigrette), roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli), and crusty bread or garlic bread are all fantastic and popular choices. They complement without overpowering.
What vegetable goes well with ricotta ravioli?
Asparagus is a classic pairing! Roasted broccoli/broccolini, sautéed mushrooms, and simple sautéed spinach also work beautifully, adding earthy or green notes that enhance the ravioli.
What bread goes with spinach ravioli?
Crusty Italian or French bread is perfect for soaking up delicious sauce. Garlic bread or garlic knots are also classic, crowd-pleasing options.
What salad to serve with ravioli?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a winner. For more flavor contrast, try a peppery arugula salad with lemon and Parmesan.
What meat goes with spinach ravioli?
If adding meat, keep it light. Simple grilled chicken strips or quickly sautéed shrimp pair well, especially with less heavy sauces, without overwhelming the delicate ravioli.
Final Thoughts
See? Deciding what to serve with spinach ravioli is all about creating a balanced, delicious plate where everything works together. Whether you choose a crisp salad, some simple roasted veggies, or that essential piece of crusty bread (or all three!), these easy sides for ricotta ravioli dinner will turn your pasta night into a truly satisfying feast. No need for anything too complicated – let the ravioli be the star and the sides be the amazing supporting actors! What are your favorite ravioli sides? Share your go-to pairings in the comments below! Buon appetito!
