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Ravioli isn’t just for kids, and it definitely doesn’t have to come from a can.
Whether you’re enjoying homemade ravioli made from scratch or store bought varieties, ravioli on its own can already be a hearty and satisfying meal, but if you’re wondering what to eat with ravioli, then you’ve come to the right place.
I’ve asked a few of my food blogger friends to contribute some of their best recipes that pair well with ravioli, so you’re spoiled for choice the next time you enjoy these heavenly pasta pockets (some of my favourite types of dumplings in the world!)
And because ravioli comes in so many delectable flavors and sauces, the following list of what to eat with ravioli has suggestions that pair well with each, creating the perfect ravi-holy experience.
… Okay, enough with the ravioli puns. Let’s get to some recipes. Buon appetito!
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First: How Ravioli is Eaten in Italy
Below, you’ll find tons of recipe ideas for potential ravioli side dishes like different breads, salads, veggies, etc.
But if you want to eat your ravioli as they do in Italy, then you might want to consider structuring your meal a bit differently.
In Italy, ravioli is traditionally considered a “primo piatto”, a light, starchy course (e.g. pasta) that follows antipasto, but precedes a “secondo piatto”, which is usually a protein-based main course like fish or beef.
So, if you were following the typical structure of an Italian meal, your ravioli meal might look like this:
- Antipasto: Appetizers/nibbles often enjoyed with a cocktail to “awaken the appetite” e.g. Bruschetta or assorted meats/cheeses
- Primo Piatto: A lighter carbier course e.g. ravioli
- Secondo Piatto: A protein-based main dish e.g. fish or beef
- Dolce: Dessert e.g. Tiramisu
Of course, these days, ravioli can be enjoyed in all kinds of ways (yes, even straight from a can! Sorry, Italy) and there’s many ways it’s eaten beyond the bounds of a traditional Italian 4 course meal.
Plus, ravioli is now a beloved dish around the world, and eaten in all sorts of ways and combinations by its global throngs of adoring fans.
So, if you’re looking for delicious ideas on what to serve with your ravioli, even if they’re not necessarily the most traditional or authentically Italian ravioli sides, here are some ideas for you!
What to Serve with Spinach Ravioli
What side dishes go well with spinach ravioli? Here are some tasty ideas for you to try.
1. Easy Spelt Focaccia
If you’ve never before baked with spelt flour, I encourage you to give it a try and make this Easy Spelt Focaccia. I love homemade bread (who doesn’t?) and this is one of the easiest ways in which to enjoy it.
Click here to get the recipe from It’s Not Complicated.
2. Grilled Corn Panzanella Salad
Grilled Corn Panzanella Salad with tomatoes, charred corn, mozzarella cheese, basil, and homemade croutons is fresh, flavorful and so simple to make.
Click here to get the recipe from Chocolate Moosey.
3. Roasted Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad
This twist on the traditional Caprese salad recipe is perfect for serving along side ravioli and a piece of crusty bread.
Click here to get the recipe from It’s Not Complicated.
4. Cauliflower Parmesan
You’ll love the flavors, and textures in this Cauliflower Parmesan. You get the great Italian flavors, it’s really delicious, and it has only five ingredients and a five minute prep time!
Click here to get the recipe from Joy filled Eats.
5. Air Fryer Vegetables
This Air Fryer Vegetables recipe is sure to be your new favorite way to work veggies into any meal! It’s super quick, easy, and flavorful. Plus, you can use any combination of vegetables you like!
Click here to get the recipe from Chef Savvy.
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Ravioli
Butternut squash ravioli is another favourite of mine. Wondering what to serve with this type of ravioli? Here are some more great ideas.
6. No-Knead Artisan Bread
With just 4 simple ingredients, you can make this No Knead Artisan Bread Recipe. No kneading involved! The crust is golden and crackly, while the inside is soft and fluffy.
Click here to get the recipe from Vegan Huggs.
7. Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad
This Apple Walnut Cranberry Salad includes a mixed green spinach salad with green apples, dried cranberries, walnuts, and gorgonzola cheese. This salad explodes with flavor.
Click here to get the recipe from Flavor Mosaic.
8. Fennel, Pomegranate and Arugula Salad
This fennel, pomegranate, and arugula (and other baby greens) salad is both gorgeous and delicious. The salad is super crunchy from the fennel and the celery, and the honey mustard vinaigrette with champagne vinegar is tangy and delicious.
Click here to get the recipe from Karen’s Kitchen Stories.
9. Best Roasted Asparagus
This simple and quick asparagus is easy to prep and easy to cook. It’s flavorful and makes a great side dish with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Aubrey’s Kitchen.
10. Easy Carmalized Brussels Sprouts
These easy caramelized Brussels sprouts develop a savory umami flavor and aroma that make you want to pop them in your mouth.
Click here to get the recipe from A Meal in Mind.
What to serve with Lobster Ravioli
Does it get any better than lobster ravioli? If you’re wondering what side dishes to pair with your next lobster ravioli dish, here are some ideas.
11. Homemade Italian Bread
What goes better with Italian ravioli than a bit, chewy slice of hearty Italian bread? It’s easy to make at home.
Click here to get the recipe from Amanda’s Cookin’.
12. Watermelon Feta Balsamic Salad
Refreshing watermelon balsamic salad with feta, basil, and mint, this is the perfect aromatic side dish for eating with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Where is My Spoon.
13. Slow Roasted Tomato Salad
When it comes to time in the kitchen, not all recipes should be rushed. Allow these heirloom tomatoes to be slow-roasted as it basks in its own sweet juices. Serve up with some asparagus and avocado for some crunchy and creamy textures.
Click here to get the recipe from The Devil Wears Salad.
14. Cauliflower Gratin
This cauliflower gratin is a side dish recipe everyone loves! It’s loaded with fresh cauliflower, gruyere cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping. This recipe is a true crowd pleaser.
Click here to get the recipe from Salt & Baker.
15. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This satisfying side dish that goes beyond the basic, boring Brussels Sprouts with its rich oven-roasted flavor enhanced with just a hint of sweetness.
Click here to get the recipe from Kim Schob.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Ravioli
The flavours of pumpkin ravioli are pretty hard to beat! Here are some yummy side dishes that go great with pumpkin ravioli.
16. Parmesan Garlic Rolls
Made with frozen dinner rolls it’s easy to make this flavorful parmesan garlic bread to eat with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Little Dairy on the Prairie.
17. Mediterranean Salad with Prunes
This refreshing salad is loaded with veggies and sweet prunes. It’s healthy, balanced and great for digestion.
Click here to get the recipe from Amy Gorin.
18. Apple Salad
This is a fresh, crunchy Apple Salad that is full of flavor! It’s a sweet and savory Apple Salad Recipe with butter lettuce and wholesome ingredients.
Click here to get the recipe from Julie Blanner.
19. Ranch & Parmesan Green Beans
Tangy ranch, light parmesan cheese, and crisp bacon make these Ranch & Parmesan Green Beans the best side dish you’ll have this year! This quick veggie recipe is perfect as a side dish for ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from The Soccer Mom Blog.
20. Roasted Baby Carrots
These roasted baby carrots with honey make the perfect tender carrots with just the right amount of sweetness. This is the perfect quick side dish that goes great with Ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from On My Kids Plate.
What to Serve with Fried Ravioli
Looking for yummy dishes to go with fried ravioli? These ones are sure to be a hit:
21. Chicken Caesar Pizza
This simple pizza with chicken and a tasty Caesar dressing is fun to serve along side your favorite ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Simply Stacie.
22. Greek Salad
Greek Salad is a refreshing, light, and flavorful salad with bright flavors of cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, olives, onion, bell peppers, feta cheese, and homemade Greek dressing. It’s a perfect salad to eat with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Will Cook for Smiles.
23. Antipasto Salad
Say goodbye to plain, boring salads! Instead, make this tangy and rejuvenating Antipasto Salad. It’s a low-carb option that will keep you satisfied but boasts tons of flavor to keep your taste buds happy too.
Every fork full is filled with salami, pepperoni, artichoke hearts, juicy tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, banana peppers, and tangy olives. It’s all drizzled in a homemade balsamic vinegar and mustard dressing.
Click here to get the recipe from Marathons and Motivation.
24. Roasted Cabbage Steaks
These Roasted Cabbage Steaks are so easy and delicious. Made with only six ingredients, this simple recipe makes a flavorful snack or side that you’re going to just love!
Click here to get the recipe from Eat Something Vegan.
25. Italian Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe for authentic Italian chicken drumsticks is bursting with flavor thanks to an easy lemon, pepper, garlic, and herb marinade. The seasonings in this recipe pack a lot of flavor with just a few simple ingredients. Start with a fried ravioli appetizer and finish with these tasty drumsticks.
Click here to get the recipe from The Short Order Cook.
What to Serve with Mushroom Ravioli
Mushroom ravioli is a classic. If you’re looking for dishes that pair well with it, here are some yummy ideas.
26. Extra Cheesy Garlic Bread
Turn a store-bought loaf of bread into an incredibly decadent and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for serving with ravioli or any of your favorite Italian dishes.
Click here to get the recipe from Karen’s Kitchen Stories.
27. Cheesy Spinach Croissants
These quick and simple croissants are filled with cheese and spinach before baking. They taste so good with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from In the Kids Kitchen.
28. Balsamic Chickpea Cucumber Salad
This no-cook Balsamic Chickpea, Tomato & Cucumber Salad is a delicious spin on a classic summer salad. It’s the perfect appetizer or side dish to eat with Ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Plant Powered Cooking.
29. Napa Cabbage Caesar Salad
Traditional style Caesar salad made with Napa cabbage is a fun twist on a classic that pairs perfectly with ravioli.
Click here to get the recipe from Healthy Seasonal Recipes.
30. Garlic Roasted Beets
Roasting beets brings out a wonderful nutty flavor that is hard to describe. They are colorful and tasty and look fun on the plate.
Click here to get the recipe from Wholesome Family Living.
Did I miss any of your favourite ravioli side dishes?
Let me know in the comments!