Manicotti, with its rich, cheesy filling and tender pasta shell, is a beloved dish in many households. But, you might wonder, what goes well with manicotti? Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, pairing this Italian classic with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. In this guide, we’ll explore the best accompaniments for manicotti, ensuring a well-rounded, delicious dining experience. Let’s dive in!
What Salads Go Well with Manicotti?
A fresh salad can balance out the richness of manicotti, offering a crisp, refreshing contrast. The key is to choose a salad that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a timeless favorite that pairs beautifully. The crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing provide a delightful texture and taste contrast.
Caesar Salad Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Romaine Lettuce | 1 head | Crisp and fresh, the base of the salad |
| Croutons | 1 cup | Adds crunch and flavor |
| Caesar Dressing | 1/2 cup | Creamy and tangy, binds the salad together |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup | Grated, adds a salty, savory note |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Adds a fresh, tangy kick |
Caesar salad, with its bright, tangy dressing, complements the cheesy, tomato-rich flavors of your meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad, with its fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, is another excellent choice. The simplicity of this salad allows the flavors of the manicotti to shine while adding a touch of freshness to the plate.
Caprese Salad Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Mozzarella | 8 oz | Soft and creamy, the star of the salad |
| Tomatoes | 4 medium | Juicy and ripe, provides sweetness |
| Fresh Basil | 1/2 cup | Fragrant and peppery, adds freshness |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Rich and fruity, enhances the flavors |
| Balsamic Glaze | 1 tbsp | Sweet and tangy, drizzled on top |
The Caprese salad’s lightness and vibrant colors make it a perfect companion to the meal.
What Breads Go Well with Manicotti?
Bread is a must-have when serving manicotti. Whether you use it to scoop up extra sauce or enjoy it as a side, the right bread can complement your meal beautifully.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic choice, with its buttery, garlicky flavor adding richness to your meal. The crunch of the bread pairs perfectly with the softness of the manicotti.
Garlic Bread Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| French Baguette | 1 loaf | Crispy and light, the base of the bread |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 cloves | Minced, adds a punch of flavor |
| Butter | 1/2 cup | Melted, binds the garlic to the bread |
| Parsley | 1/4 cup | Chopped, adds freshness and color |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup | Grated, adds a savory touch |
Garlic bread is the ideal sidekick to your meal, enhancing the dish’s flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
Focaccia Bread
Focaccia, with its soft, airy texture and olive oil-infused crust, is another delightful option. It’s less dense than garlic bread but still offers that satisfying bite.
Focaccia Bread Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 4 cups | The base, gives the bread structure |
| Yeast | 1 packet | Helps the bread rise |
| Olive Oil | 1/2 cup | Infuses the bread with rich flavor |
| Rosemary | 2 tbsp | Fresh, adds a fragrant note |
| Sea Salt | 1 tsp | Sprinkled on top for a salty finish |
The herbaceous, slightly chewy focaccia can soak up the marinara sauce from the manicotti, making every bite even more flavorful.
What Vegetables Go Well with Manicotti?
Vegetables bring color, nutrition, and variety to your meal. Choosing the right vegetable sides can complement the richness of manicotti and create a well-rounded plate.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs wonderfully with your meal. The slightly bitter, earthy flavor of asparagus contrasts nicely with the creamy filling of the pasta.
Roasted Asparagus Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Asparagus | 1 bunch | Fresh and tender, the star of the dish |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Coats the asparagus, helps it roast evenly |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Adds a subtle garlic flavor |
| Lemon Zest | 1 tsp | Brightens up the dish |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Enhances the natural flavors |
Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness while adding a delightful crisp-tender texture that goes well with the soft manicotti.
Sautéed Spinach
Spinach, with its mild flavor and tender texture, is another excellent vegetable side. Sautéing spinach with garlic and a bit of lemon juice keeps it light and flavorful, making it a great companion to manicotti.
Sautéed Spinach Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 1 lb | Leaves, tender and nutritious |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 cloves | Minced, adds depth of flavor |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Sautéing medium, adds richness |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Adds a bright, tangy finish |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Balances and enhances flavors |
Sautéed spinach is quick to prepare and adds a nutritious element to your meal without overpowering the main dish.
What Meats Go Well with Manicotti?
While manicotti is often served as a main course, you can also add a protein to round out the meal. The key is to choose meats that won’t overshadow the delicate flavors of the pasta.
Italian Sausage
Italian sausage, whether grilled or sautéed, is a flavorful addition that pairs well with manicotti. The savory, slightly spicy sausage complements the rich, cheesy filling of the pasta.
Italian Sausage Options:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Sweet Italian | Mild and flavorful, with hints of fennel and garlic |
| Hot Italian | Spicy and bold, adds a kick to the meal |
| Chicken Sausage | Lighter option, still flavorful |
Serving Italian sausage alongside manicotti adds a hearty element to the meal, making it even more satisfying.
Meatballs
Meatballs, made with a mix of beef, pork, or even turkey, are another great option. Their rich, meaty flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy, tomatoey manicotti.
Meatball Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Rich and flavorful, the base of the meatball |
| Ground Pork | 1/2 lb | Adds extra richness and moisture |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | Binds the meatball together |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/4 cup | Adds a salty, savory note |
| Egg | 1 | Helps bind the ingredients together |
| Italian Herbs | 2 tbsp | Adds depth of flavor |
Meatballs can be served on the side or even nestled in the sauce alongside the manicotti for an extra indulgent meal.
What Desserts Go Well with Manicotti?
No meal is complete without a sweet finish! When considering desserts to pair with manicotti, think about light, refreshing options that won’t weigh you down.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu, with its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese, is a classic Italian dessert that pairs beautifully with manicotti. The rich, creamy dessert offers a satisfying contrast to the savory meal.
Tiramisu Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ladyfingers | 24 | Soaked in coffee, the base of the dessert |
| Mascarpone Cheese | 16 oz | Creamy and rich, the filling |
| Espresso | 1 cup | Strong and bitter, adds depth of flavor |
| Cocoa Powder | 2 tbsp | Dust on top for a finishing touch |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetens the cream mixture |
Tiramisu is indulgent yet light enough to enjoy after a hearty serving of manicotti.
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta, a smooth, creamy dessert, is another excellent choice. It’s light, easy to make, and can be flavored in various ways, from vanilla to fresh berries.
Panna Cotta Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups | Rich and creamy, the base of the dessert |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetens the cream |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Adds a classic flavor |
| Gelatin | 1 packet | Sets the dessert into a smooth texture |
| Fresh Berries | 1 cup | Adds a fresh, tangy topping |
Panna cotta’s smooth texture and light flavor make it a delightful way to end your meal.
Conclusion
Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, from fresh salads and crusty breads to savory meats and light desserts. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these pairings will help you create a balanced and satisfying dining experience. So, the next time you’re making manicotti, don’t hesitate to try out some of these delicious options!
FAQs
What wine pairs well with manicotti?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a Sangiovese pairs beautifully with manicotti. The acidity of these wines complements the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce.
Can I serve manicotti with seafood?
Yes, seafood like grilled shrimp or a light seafood salad can pair well with manicotti, adding a fresh, oceanic flavor to the meal.
What kind of cheese is best for manicotti?
Ricotta is the traditional choice for manicotti, but you can also mix in mozzarella or Parmesan for added flavor and creaminess.
Can manicotti be made ahead of time?
Yes, manicotti can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great dish for entertaining.
What herbs go well with manicotti?
Basil, oregano, and parsley are all excellent herbs to use with manicotti. They add a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
This article has provided a comprehensive guide on what goes well with manicotti, ensuring that your meal is well-rounded, flavorful, and enjoyable. With the right sides and accompaniments, you can elevate this classic dish to new heights!