Butternut squash ravioli, with its creamy, slightly sweet filling, is a dish that invites the imagination. The combination of flavors, from the rich butternut squash to the delicate pasta, can be elevated to a whole new level with the right accompaniments. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or hosting a gathering, finding the perfect pairings for this dish is essential. Let’s dive into what goes well with butternut squash ravioli to make your meal truly unforgettable.
What Goes Well with Butternut Squash Ravioli?
What Sauce Complements Butternut Squash Ravioli?
Butternut squash ravioli has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces. Choosing the right sauce is crucial to balancing the sweetness and adding depth to the dish.
Sage Brown Butter Sauce: A Classic Companion
One of the most popular choices is sage brown butter sauce. The nutty, rich flavor of browned butter combined with the earthy, slightly peppery taste of fresh sage perfectly complements the sweetness of the butternut squash. It’s a simple sauce, yet it brings out the best in the ravioli.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh sage leaves | 6-8 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated |
Instructions:
- In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to turn golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma.
- Add the sage leaves and cook until crispy.
- Season with salt and pour over the cooked ravioli.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and Decadent
For those who prefer a richer sauce, Alfredo is an excellent choice. Its creamy texture adds a luxurious feel to the dish, while the garlic and Parmesan cheese provide a savory contrast to the sweet ravioli.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce to enhance the butternut squash’s flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Nutmeg | A pinch |
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the cream, and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg until the sauce thickens.
- Toss with the ravioli and serve hot.
What Sides Go Well with Butternut Squash Ravioli?
The right side dish can turn your butternut squash ravioli into a complete meal. From crisp salads to roasted vegetables, here’s what to serve alongside.
Arugula Salad: Fresh and Peppery
A light and fresh arugula salad is a perfect side for butternut squash ravioli. The peppery notes of the arugula contrast nicely with the sweet ravioli, while a simple lemon vinaigrette adds brightness.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Arugula | 4 cups |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, shaved | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and serve alongside the ravioli.
Garlic Roasted Broccolini: Crunchy and Flavorful
Garlic roasted broccolini adds a delicious crunch and a slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the butternut squash. It’s a simple, yet elegant side dish that’s easy to prepare.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Broccolini | 1 bunch |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the broccolini with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm with the ravioli.
What Wine Pairs Well with Butternut Squash Ravioli?
Pairing wine with butternut squash ravioli can enhance the dining experience. The key is to choose a wine that complements the sweetness of the ravioli without overpowering it.
Chardonnay: A Buttery Match
A buttery Chardonnay is a classic pairing with butternut squash ravioli. The wine’s creamy texture and subtle notes of vanilla and oak harmonize beautifully with the richness of the dish.
Pro Tip: Look for a lightly oaked Chardonnay to avoid overwhelming the delicate flavors of the ravioli.
Pinot Noir: A Light and Fruity Choice
If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir is an excellent option. Its bright acidity and fruity notes of cherry and raspberry provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the butternut squash.
What Bread Complements Butternut Squash Ravioli?
Bread is a staple in many meals, and when paired with butternut squash ravioli, it adds a delightful texture and helps soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate.
Garlic Bread: A Flavorful Favorite
Garlic bread is a no-brainer when it comes to pairing with pasta dishes. The garlicky, buttery goodness complements the ravioli perfectly, and it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Baguette | 1 loaf |
| Butter, softened | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup, grated |
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the bread.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with the ravioli.
Focaccia: Soft and Herby
Focaccia, with its soft, airy texture and fragrant herbs, is another excellent bread option. The rosemary and olive oil in the focaccia bring out the earthy notes in the butternut squash, making it a perfect match.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Warm water | 1 1/2 cups |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Active dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh rosemary, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the warm water and yeast until dissolved.
- Add flour, olive oil, rosemary, and salt, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then let it rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Press the dough into a baking pan, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with rosemary and salt.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
- Serve alongside the ravioli.
What Desserts Pair Well with Butternut Squash Ravioli?
Dessert is the final touch to any meal, and when paired correctly, it can elevate your dining experience even further.
Tiramisu: A Creamy Classic
Tiramisu, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese, offers a rich and creamy contrast to the butternut squash ravioli. The slight bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the dessert, making it a delightful end to your meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ladyfingers | 1 package |
| Mascarpone cheese | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Espresso, brewed | 1 cup |
| Cocoa powder | For dusting |
Instructions:
- Brew the espresso and let it cool.
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
- Dip the ladyfingers in the espresso and layer them in a dish.
- Spread the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers and repeat the layers.
- Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Panna Cotta: Light and Creamy
For a lighter dessert option, panna cotta is an excellent choice. Its creamy, silky texture is complemented by a hint of vanilla, making it a subtle yet satisfying end to your meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla bean | 1, split |
| Gelatin | 1 packet |
| Fresh berries | For garnish |
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the cream, sugar, and vanilla bean over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Remove from heat and discard the vanilla bean.
- Stir in the gelatin until fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve with fresh berries on top.
Conclusion
Butternut squash ravioli is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sauces, sides, wines, breads, and desserts to create a truly memorable meal. Whether you prefer the simplicity of sage brown butter or the richness of Alfredo sauce, the key is to find the combinations that enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and bring out the best in each component of the meal. By carefully selecting the right accompaniments, you can turn a simple dinner into a gourmet experience that will leave your guests raving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the ravioli?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese in the filling with options like ricotta or goat cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
What other vegetables go well with butternut squash ravioli?
Roasted Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, and sautéed spinach are great vegetable options to pair with this dish.
Is there a vegan version of butternut squash ravioli?
Absolutely! You can use vegan pasta dough and a filling made with mashed butternut squash and cashew cream.
How can I make the ravioli filling spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix a bit of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño into the filling.
What’s the best way to store leftover butternut squash ravioli?
Store leftover ravioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a little butter or olive oil.