What Goes With Cheese Ravioli? Unveiling the Perfect Pairings
Cheese ravioli, a delightful pocket of pasta perfection, offers a blank canvas for culinary creativity. The best accompaniments enhance its richness and delicate flavor, ranging from simple sauces to sophisticated sides.
Understanding the Allure of Cheese Ravioli
Cheese ravioli is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a comfort food staple with a fascinating history. Its origins can be traced back to the 14th century, when filled pastas began to appear in Italian cookbooks.
- The Basics: Traditionally, cheese ravioli is made with fresh pasta sheets, a filling of ricotta, parmesan, and other cheeses, and sometimes herbs and spices.
- Versatility is Key: The mild flavor of the cheese filling makes it incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide array of sauces, side dishes, and even wines.
- Simplicity vs. Sophistication: You can opt for a simple preparation with butter and sage, or create a more elaborate dish with a complex tomato sauce and grilled vegetables.
Sauce Sensations: Perfect Pairings for Ravioli
The sauce is arguably the most important element in determining what goes with cheese ravioli. The ideal sauce complements the cheese without overpowering it.
- Tomato-Based Sauces: A classic choice. A simple marinara, arrabbiata (spicy), or a richer meat sauce all work well.
- Cream-Based Sauces: Alfredo, pesto cream sauce, or a simple butter and parmesan sauce offer a luxurious and decadent experience.
- Brown Butter Sauces: Brown butter with sage and toasted nuts creates a nutty and aromatic flavor that complements the cheese filling beautifully.
- Vegetable-Based Sauces: Roasted red pepper sauce, spinach pesto, or a creamy butternut squash sauce add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Consider the following table for a quick guide to sauce pairings:
| Sauce Type | Flavor Profile | Ideal Ravioli Enhancement |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara | Tangy, slightly sweet | Brightens the richness, provides acidity |
| Alfredo | Rich, creamy | Enhances the creamy texture, adds indulgence |
| Brown Butter Sage | Nutty, aromatic | Complements the cheese, adds depth of flavor |
| Pesto | Herbaceous, nutty | Adds freshness, vibrant color |
Side Dish Symphony: Completing the Cheese Ravioli Experience
While the sauce is central, side dishes elevate the meal and provide balance. Opt for sides that offer contrasting textures and flavors.
- Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes, or a Caesar salad all pair well.
- Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a healthy and flavorful addition.
- Bread: Crusty bread, garlic bread, or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Soup: A light broth-based soup, like minestrone, can be a refreshing starter.
Wine Wisdom: Selecting the Perfect Wine Pairing
Choosing the right wine can significantly enhance your cheese ravioli experience.
- Light-Bodied White Wines: Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pair well with light cream sauces or vegetable-based sauces.
- Medium-Bodied Red Wines: Chianti or Merlot are excellent choices for tomato-based sauces or meat sauces.
- Rosé Wines: A dry rosé can be a versatile option that complements a variety of ravioli dishes.
- Sparkling Wines: Prosecco or other sparkling wines can be a festive and palate-cleansing option.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Pairing with Cheese Ravioli
While cheese ravioli is versatile, certain combinations are best avoided.
- Overly Rich Sauces: Heavy cream sauces, when combined with a cheese-filled pasta, can become overwhelmingly rich and heavy.
- Strong Cheeses: Pairing with very strong, pungent cheeses can clash with the delicate flavor of the ravioli filling.
- Overpowering Spices: Excessive use of spicy or overpowering spices can mask the flavor of the cheese and pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best simple sauce for cheese ravioli?
A simple brown butter and sage sauce is often considered the best and easiest option. The nutty flavor of the browned butter combined with the aromatic sage perfectly complements the richness of the cheese filling.
Can I serve cheese ravioli with pesto?
Yes, pesto is a fantastic choice! A classic basil pesto or even a more creative version, like sun-dried tomato pesto, adds a burst of fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with cheese ravioli.
What vegetables go well with cheese ravioli?
Roasted vegetables are a great option. Consider asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. The slight char from roasting adds a smoky sweetness that complements the richness of the ravioli.
Is meat sauce a good choice for cheese ravioli?
Absolutely! A well-made meat sauce provides a hearty and savory element that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese filling. Just be sure the sauce isn’t too heavily spiced, allowing the ravioli’s flavor to still shine through.
What kind of salad complements cheese ravioli?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice. The freshness of the salad and the tang of the vinaigrette help to balance the richness of the ravioli. A Caprese salad is also a winning choice.
Can I use store-bought sauce with cheese ravioli?
Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought sauce! Look for high-quality brands with simple ingredients. Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs, garlic, or a splash of wine.
What are some vegetarian side dishes that pair well with cheese ravioli?
Grilled or roasted vegetables, a Caprese salad, or a simple spinach salad are all excellent vegetarian side dish options. Consider adding a side of sauteed mushrooms with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
Is it okay to top cheese ravioli with extra cheese?
Yes, but be mindful of the type of cheese. Freshly grated parmesan cheese is a classic and always a good choice. Avoid overly strong cheeses that might overpower the ravioli.
What is the best way to cook cheese ravioli?
Boil the ravioli in salted water according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Cook until they float to the surface and are slightly tender.
Can I bake cheese ravioli?
Yes! Baking cheese ravioli in a casserole dish with sauce and cheese is a delicious and comforting option. This is a great way to use up leftover ravioli.
What herbs pair well with cheese ravioli?
Basil, oregano, parsley, and sage are all excellent choices. Use them fresh whenever possible for the best flavor.
Is cheese ravioli a good appetizer?
Yes, cheese ravioli can be a great appetizer. Serve them in small portions with a dipping sauce or as part of an antipasto platter. For example, a single lightly fried cheese ravioli served on a small bed of marinara can be a delicious and elegant starter.