What To Serve With Ravioli (30 Best Sides & Sauces)

Ravioli is a classic Italian dish that never fails to delight. These delicate pockets of pasta filled with creamy cheese, savory meat, or even butternut squash are a delicious meal on their own.

But let’s be honest, the perfect side dish or sauce makes any meal even more memorable.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best side dishes to serve with ravioli. From flavorful salads to hearty vegetables, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Imagine garlic parmesan green beans, caprese salad, and creamy polenta alongside your favorite ravioli dish.

Sounds like a perfect night in, doesn’t it?

So, whether you’re serving simple three-cheese ravioli with tomato sauce or indulging in lobster ravioli with brown butter, these ravioli side dishes will complete your meal. Get ready to discover your new favorite side to serve with ravioli.

1. Garlic parmesan green beans

Garlic parmesan green beans are a delicious and easy side dish to serve with ravioli.

These crispy green beans are cooked in olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, and can be made quickly in an air fryer or instant pot.

The savory flavors of the green beans complement the rich and creamy flavors of the ravioli. For extra Italian flair, include a glass of white or red wine and some Italian bread on the side.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Green Beans (by Greens & Chocolate)

2. Caprese salad

Caprese salad is a great side dish to serve with ravioli. This light and refreshing tomato salad is a perfect complement to the rich and creamy sauce of the ravioli.

The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese drizzled with balsamic vinegar brings classic Italian flavors to your table. And it’s the easiest side salad to add to your main dish.

For a complete Italian meal, serve your ravioli with a side of Caprese salad, some focaccia, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil!

We love: Caprese Salad Recipe (by Natasha’s Kitchen)

3. Caesar salad

A filling Caesar salad is one of my favorite ravioli sides.

The creamy dressing and tangy flavor of the salad pair perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of the ravioli.

For a quick and easy meal, a Caesar salad is the perfect side dish for ravioli. It’s like having your bread and salad in one! So, why not add a glass of white wine while you have this whole thing going?

We love: The BEST Caesar Salad (+ Homemade Caesar Dressing) (by FoodieCrush)

4. Focaccia bread

Focaccia bread is another great option to serve as a side dish with any type of ravioli. Whether it’s butternut squash ravioli, beef ravioli, or even indulgent lobster ravioli, the soft and flavorful bread will be a welcome addition to the dinner table.

The Italian bread is a versatile side dish that you can easily find at your local grocery store or make at home. It’s a tasty side that can elevate your ravioli meal and add variety to the pasta dish. Why not try baking your own focaccia?

We love: The Best, Easiest Focaccia (by Alexandra’s Kitchen)

5. Italian chopped salad

Ravioli is a classic Italian dish that pairs well with many different side dishes. One of my top picks is Italian chopped salad.

This salad is made with crisp romaine lettuce, colorful bell peppers, fresh basil, and deli meat – like a platter posing as a salad. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal and add some freshness to the rich and creamy ravioli.

We love: Italian Chopped Salad (CPK Copycat) (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

6. Antipasto salad

When it comes to ravioli side salads, antipasto salad is a classic Italian option that never fails to impress. This colorful and flavorful salad is a great way to round out any pasta dish, especially creamy ravioli.

With a variety of vegetables and meats, such as salami, olives, roasted peppers, and artichokes, this salad offers a range of textures and flavors that complement the rich and creamy ravioli. A tangy balsamic glaze will add a burst of flavor to every bite.

It’s a perfect option for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy side dish to pair with store-bought or homemade ravioli.

We love: Antipasto Salad Recipe (by Wonky Wonderful)

7. Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto

Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto is a delicious and elegant side dish that pairs perfectly with ravioli. You can also serve it as a delicate appetizer to your favorite ravioli.

The rich and salty prosciutto complements the creamy and flavorful ravioli, while the crisp and fresh asparagus contrasts the dish. This crowd-pleaser is a great option for dinner parties or special occasions.

To make this dish, simply wrap a slice of prosciutto around a few asparagus spears and bake in the oven until golden brown. You can also add a balsamic reduction for an extra Italian flavor boost.

We love: Super Easy Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Appetizer (by Eat Picks)

8. Roasted broccoli

Roasted broccoli is a delicious and nutritious side dish that pairs well with any type of ravioli.

It’s a good choice for those looking to balance out their meal with a healthy vegetable side.

Plus, roasted broccoli is so versatile that it can be prepared in many ways to suit your taste. You can add Italian flavors like garlic and parmesan cheese.

We love: The BEST Crispy Oven-roasted Broccoli (by Baking Mischief)

9. Panzanella salad

When it comes to pairing with pasta dishes, a refreshing salad is always a must. And for an Italian-inspired meal, a panzanella salad is the perfect choice.

This Italian bread salad is super easy to whip up, making it a great option for a special occasion or a dinner party. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover or stale bread.

You can customize the flavors depending on the season, but my favorite will always be a summer panzanella with sweet cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.

We love: Summer Panzanella Salad (Tomato Bread Salad) (by Dishing Out Health)

10. Antipasto platter

An antipasto platter is a great side dish to serve with ravioli when you’re feeding a crowd.

An antipasto platter typically includes cured meats, cheeses, olives, and various vegetables, making it the perfect accompaniment to ravioli when you have a few picky eaters at the table. Everyone get’s to assemble their own version of a perfect side dish for ravioli!

It also makes a great appetizer for ravioli,

We love: Antipasto Platter (by The Mediterranean Dish)

11. Charcuterie platter

A charcuterie platter is another perfect side dish to serve with ravioli or as an appetizer.

Include various types of cured meats, such as prosciutto and Italian salami. Then add some cheeses, such as parmesan, manchego, or even feta cheese.

Not only is a charcuterie platter a great accompaniment to the ravioli, but it also makes a great appetizer.

Pick YOUR favorite: 27 Epic Charcuterie Board Ideas (by Life on Kaydeross Creek)

12. Pesto sauce

The best way to boost the flavor of store-bought ravioli? A great Italian sauce. And pesto sauce is just that!

Opt for classic Genovese pesto with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan cheese to create a herbaceous flavor that complements the filled ravioli. Or stir in some heavy cream for a creamy pesto sauce.

Learn: How to make Fresh Basil Pesto (by Dishes & Dust Bunnies)

13. Brown butter sauce

While ravioli is delicious on its own, drizzling it with brown butter sauce can take it to the next level. The rich sauce is a classic with butternut-filled ravioli pockets and crispy sage leaves.

We love: Browned Butter Sauce (by Better Homes & Gardens)

14. Marinara sauce

Marinara sauce is a classic and versatile sauce to serve with ravioli. This simple tomato-based sauce can be flavored in many different ways allowing you to customize your ravioli.

A traditional marinara sauce is especially delicious with beef ravioli. Serve it alongside a arugula salad and a glass of vino for the ultimate Italian-inspired dinner.

We love: The Best Homemade Marinara Sauce (by A Little and A Lot)

15. Cream sauce

Who doesn’t love cream sauce with perfectly al dente pasta? Whether it’s a classic alfredo sauce or a flavorful tomato cream sauce, it pairs well with any type of ravioli.

Customize your cream sauce with minced garlic or white wine to suit your chosen type of ravioli.

We love: Creamy Garlic Sauce (by Platings + Pairings)

16. Oven roasted vegetables

When it comes to side dishes for ravioli, oven-roasted vegetables are an easy choice.

The roasted vegetables pair well with creamy tomato sauce or white sauce ravioli. And for a complete and well-rounded meal, serve with some sourdough rolls.

We love: Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables (by The Roasted Root)

17. Sugar snap peas with burrata and mint

If you don’t know burrata cheese, you’re in for a treat! The creamy cheese, refreshing mint, and lemon vinaigrette turn these sugar snap peas into a delicious side dish for ravioli.

It’s also super easy to make and comes together quickly. Add some bruschetta or toasted bread on the side for a complete meal.

We love: Charred Sugar Snap Peas with Burrata and Mint (by I’m Bored, Let’s Go…)

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/891994269954296997

18. Cheesy garlic bread

Cheesy garlic bread is a great addition to any ravioli meal. What’s not to love about warm, gooey cheese and garlic flavors to pair with perfectly al dente pasta?

It’s a simple recipe that can easily be made at home, or you can opt for a store-bought version to save time. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this trusty side dish.

We love: Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread (by The Recipe Critic)

19. Sautéed spinach

Sautéed spinach is yet another great side dish to serve with ravioli.

This simple recipe comes together in no time. Add some freshly grated parmesan and minced garlic for a quick and tasty Italian meal.

We love: How To Make Simple Italian Sautéed Baby Spinach (by The Fed Up Foodie)

20. Roasted Brussels sprouts

Crispy and golden brown, these roasted sprouts adds texture to the soft and creamy ravioli.

Add garlic and parmesan to your roasted Brussels sprouts for a classic Italian flavor.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts (by Eatwell101)

21. Grilled zucchini

The simple preparation and fresh flavors make grilled zucchini a versatile side dish.

Grilled zucchini is a good idea for any dinner party or large gathering, you can easily prepare it in advance and serve it at room temperature. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese or crumbled ricotta cheese, shredded fresh basil, and some red pepper flakes for a gentle touch of heat (if you want).

We love: Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan (by Wholefully)

22. Balsamic roasted vegetables

Balsamic roasted vegetables are a delicious side dish to serve alongside ravioli.

It’s also simple to make and you can use any veggies you have in the house. Try it with broccoli, sweet potato, red bell pepper, red onion wedges or even Brussels sprouts. Coat in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. And roast in a hot oven until tender and caramelized.

It’s a simple yet delicious side dish that comes together with just a few simple ingredients.

We love: Balsamic Roasted Vegetables Recipe (by Joy Food Sunshine)

23. Creamy polenta

Creamy polenta is a firm favorite Italian comfort dish. Served as a delicious side, it will complement any type of ravioli.

The creamy and rich polenta pairs perfectly with the delicate ravioli. Make it cheesy if you’re feeling indulgent on a cold day, or keep it light and fresh if it’s hot outside.

We love: Easy Cheesy Italian Polenta (by Comfort & Peasant)

24. Sautéed broccoli rabe

When it comes to ravioli dinner, sautéed broccoli rabe is the perfect Italian side dish for ravioli pasta.

With just a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, this simple side dish comes together quickly and adds a pop of freshness to your meal. For a more indulgent option, sauté the broccoli rabe in garlic butter and finish with freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes.

We love: Sauteed Rapini with Garlic and Lemon (by No Plate Like Home)

25. Chicken piccata

Looking to add some protein to your ravioli dinner? If The Bear taught us anything, you don’t need to look further than chicken piccata.

This classic American-Italian dish features tender chicken pieces smothered in a tangy lemon and caper sauce. Its light and refreshing flavors are the perfect complement to the rich and robust flavors of ravioli.

We love: Chicken Piccata Pasta (by The Wooden Skillet)

26. Garlic and herb-roasted sweet potatoes

For a well-rounded Italian meal, serve ravioli with a side of garlic and herb-roasted sweet potatoes.

The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of ravioli, and the garlic and herb seasoning adds a delicious depth of flavor.

This vegetable side dish is also a healthier alternative to some traditional sides.

We love: Savory Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Garlic & Herbs (by Cooking Classy)

27. Roast chicken with lemon and herbs

Grilled chicken with lemon and herbs is another dish to serve alongside ravioli if you want to boost your protein.

Plus, it pairs well with other side dishes like a crisp romaine and cucumber salad, or indulgent creamed spinach. No matter the occasion, roast chicken will be a hit at the dinner table.

We love: Lemon and Herb Roast Chicken (by PureWow)

28. Prosciutto and melon

Proscuitto-wrapped melon is not just a tasty appetizer for ravioli, it also makes a delicious salad to serve alongside ravioli.

The sweet and salty combination of the prosciutto and melon pairs beautifully with the rich and savory flavors of the ravioli.

The best part of prosciutto-wrapped melon as an appetizer? It requires no cooking – simply wrap thin slices of prosciutto around bite-sized pieces of melon and serve. Or create a delicious prosciutto and melon salad with a refreshing basil vinaigrette or basil pesto.

We love: Melon Prosciutto Salad with Mint Basil Vinaigrette (by My Modern Cookery)

29. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes

Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish to serve with any main course – and ravioli is no exception. Double up on the carbs and serve your ravioli and sauce on top of creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes for the ultimate indulgence.

Add a crisp green salad if you want, or simply indulgent in the combination of creamy mashed potatoes, al dente stuffed ravioli and a brown butter sauce with crispy sage leaves.

We love: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes (by Fox and Briar)

30. Grated Parmigiano Reggiano

When I ordered a bowl of ravioli, the only side was a generous bowl of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. And, honestly, it was all I wanted to complement my bowl of perfect ravioli.

Technically, it’s not a side DISH. But it is a necessity for the ultimate Italian ravioli experience. Place it a large bowl of freshly grated Parmigiano in the middle of the table and fight over who gets the first go.

With these delicious side dish options, including ravioli in your midweek dinner repertoire just got even better. From flavorful vegetable dishes to rich cream sauces or a pile of grated Parmigiano, there are many ways to elevate your ravioli dish.

Let me know in the comments below which side dish you think pairs wonderfully with this classic Italian dish!