Butternut squash ravioli is a delicious, creamy dish that can be the star of any meal. It is one of those delicious dishes that can make any dinner feel special.
But let’s face it, nobody wants to spend all day in the kitchen making multiple dishes for the same meal.
So, what to serve with butternut squash ravioli? We’ve put together some creative side dishes that will make any butternut squash ravioli entrée spectacular!
Some of them I personally enjoy, and I am sure you will also enjoy these sides along with your butternut squash ravioli.
Read on to find out the best sides to serve with this classic Italian dish.
What is butternut squash ravioli? What does butternut squash ravioli taste like?
Butternut squash ravioli is a type of pasta dish that combines the naturally sweet flavor of butternut squash with fresh, handmade pasta.
The ravioli is filled with a combination of mashed butternut squash, ricotta cheese and parmesan cheese. It is then combined with garlic, olive oil, butter and herbs to create a savory sauce.
The taste of butternut squash ravioli is both creamy and savory. The sweetness of the butternut squash is balanced out by the saltiness of the cheeses and spices used in the filling and sauce.
The texture can be described as light yet satisfying – it’s not too heavy or overwhelming on your palate.
20 Sides to serve with butternut squash ravioli
1. Roasted Veggies
Roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts are a great way to add flavor to your dinner plate. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they also require minimal preparation time.
All you need to do is chop up your favorite veggies, toss them in olive oil and seasonings of your choice, and bake in an oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown.
Discover More: What Salad Goes with Lobster Ravioli
2. Salad
A fresh green salad is a great addition to any dinner table. Plus, it requires very little effort since all you have to do is mix together some lettuce (or other greens), add a few chopped vegetables or fruits, and dress it with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing.
You can also use pre-made salad kits from the store if you’re short on time.
3. Grains
Grains like quinoa or couscous are another excellent option for pairing with butternut squash ravioli because they absorb all the flavors from the dish while adding texture and nutrition.
All you need to do is cook the grains according to package instructions and then mix them together with herbs and spices of your choice.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots can be a great side for butternut squash ravioli if you want something more veggie-focused.
Roast some Brussels sprouts in olive oil and add some sliced carrots for an extra nutrient boost.
The sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of the Brussels sprouts and creates a beautiful contrast to the creaminess of the ravioli.
Plus, roasting gives them a richer flavor than other cooking methods, so they’ll really stand out in your meal.
5. Garlic Green Beans
Green beans are a classic side dish, but they don’t have to be boring! To kick up this dish, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
The garlic adds a nice heat and depth to a simple green bean side dish that pairs wonderfully with butternut squash ravioli.
If you want to add even more flavor, try adding shallots or mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile.
Explore More: What To serve with Lobster Ravioli
6. Sautéed Mushrooms
Mushrooms are an excellent addition to any meal because they provide an earthy flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with creamy dishes like butternut squash ravioli.
To make this side dish even tastier, sauté them in butter or olive oil before adding seasonings like salt and pepper or herbs like thyme or oregano.
You can also use balsamic vinegar as another way to create complexity in your dish!
7. Arugula Salad
A simple yet effective accompaniment, arugula salad is a great way to pair with butternut squash ravioli.
The peppery bite of the greens complements the sweetness of the squash while adding a fresh element to the dish.
8. Roasted Walnuts
A crunchy contrast to the soft texture of ravioli, roasted walnuts add earthy flavor and a unique texture to this classic Italian pasta dish. They can be sprinkled over the top or mixed in for enhanced flavor and crunch.
9. Fried Sage Leaves
Fried sage leaves are an elegant Italian-inspired garnish that brings out all the flavors in butternut squash ravioli. When fried until just crispy, these delicate leaves provide a subtle nuttiness and zesty aroma that pairs perfectly with the savory filling of this pasta dish.
10. Parmesan Cheese
Another classic topping for butternut squash ravioli is freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
This mild yet distinct cheese adds rich creaminess and sharpness to every bite, giving it an extra depth of flavor and sophistication on the plate.
11. Brown Butter Sauce
Brown butter sauce is an indulgent combination of butter and herbs that will bring out all the wonderful nuances in butternut squash ravioli. (Recipe)
It’s creamy, savory perfection paired with this fall-favorite pasta dish!
12. Caramelized Onions
Caramelize onions to add some sweet-savory balance to your butternut squash ravioli!
It’s a simple yet delicious way to dress up this comforting pasta dish with some added complexity and sweetness from slow-cooking onions for hours until they become golden brown and caramelized perfectly!
13. Crispy Prosciutto
For those who enjoy meatier dishes, prosciutto adds salty richness to any meal – especially when it’s crisply fried before serving!
Its delicate crispiness provides lovely contrast against silky smooth butternut squash ravioli for an overall winning combination!
14. Toasted Pine Nuts
Toasted pine nuts are another great topping choice for butternut squash ravioli that adds decadence without overpowering its subtle taste profile.
Toast them lightly in oil prior to service for best results – their sweet nuttiness goes great with this fall favorite pasta dish!
15. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes have deep, umami flavors that pair wonderfully against tender butternut squash ravioli!
When reconstituted in warm water prior to use, they can bring those intense flavors right onto your plate – the perfect pairing partner!
16. Fresh Basil Leaves
Fresh basil leaves are a fragrant herb option that makes any meal more special – especially if it’s used as part of our recipe featuring delightful butternut squash ravioli!
Either tear into small pieces or julienne them before sprinkling them on top – either way, it will provide an extra herby kick to your dinner!
17. Spinach Pesto
Spinach pesto is an incredibly flavorful condiment made from spinach, garlic, olive oil, nuts, parmesan cheese & salt. (Recipe)
Not only does it make a delicious dip for bread & vegetables, but it also gives added zing & zest when drizzled over succulent & hearty plates like our featured Butternut Squash Ravioli!
18. Roasted Garlic
Roasted garlic lends an amazing depth of flavor & aroma, which can really accentuate dishes like our Butternut Squash Ravioli.
Plus, its mellow sweetness balances perfectly against creamier sauces such as Alfredo or Cream Cheese sauces.
19. Peas
Peas may be small, but they definitely pack some flavor! Add them as part of your Butternut Squash Ravioli side dishes to give your meal added color, texture & sweetness.
Or you could even mix them into your filling mixture, too – let’s get creative!
20. Balsamic Reduction
Last but not least, why not finish off your beautiful Butternut Squash Ravioli masterpiece with a drizzle of balsamic reduction?
Its thick syrup consistency creates an enticing glossy glaze while providing tartness & acidity, which adds another layer of complexity & deliciousness!
What are the best flavors to go with butternut squash ravioli?
Some great flavors to pair with butternut squash ravioli include sage, nutmeg, garlic, parmesan cheese, brown butter sauce, walnuts, spinach and mushrooms.
If you’re looking for an added twist of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice.
To top it off, you can also garnish the dish with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese! Enjoy your savory creation!
How do you jazz up butternut squash ravioli?
One way to jazz up butternut squash ravioli is to use a white truffle cream sauce. The earthy, nutty flavors of the truffle pair perfectly with the mild sweetness of the butternut squash.
If you want to add even more depth of flavor, try adding roasted mushrooms and slivered almonds for a crunchy texture contrast.
You could also sprinkle some smoked paprika or freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
For an extra touch of color and sweetness, add a few thinly sliced pear slices on top before serving. To finish off, drizzle some aged balsamic vinegar over the dish and enjoy!
How do you display butternut squash ravioli on a platter?
To display butternut squash ravioli on a platter, start by arranging the ravioli in concentric circles on the platter. Make sure to leave a few inches of space in between each layer of ravioli.
Place some sprigs of fresh herbs or leaves around the edges of the dish for decoration. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Finally, sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and serve! Enjoy!
Wrap Up on What to Serve with Butternut Squash Ravioli
Whether you’re looking for something vegetable-focused or something richly flavored, these sides are sure to pair beautifully with your butternut squash ravioli entrée!
Roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots provide nutrients and sweetness, while garlic green beans offer up a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
Sauteed mushrooms bring earthiness while balsamic vinegar adds complexity—all perfect companions for this classic Italian dish!
So next time you make butternut squash ravioli, consider making one (or all!) of these sides too! Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
How much butternut squash ravioli per person?
It is recommended to serve approximately two ounces of butternut squash ravioli per person as part of a full meal.
This will provide a good balance between the other dishes and the rich, creamy flavor of the butternut squash.
To ensure that everyone gets enough to enjoy, it is suggested to make extra servings – one-third more than the amount calculated for each person.
The ravioli can be served as an entree on their own or as part of a larger dish with other ingredients mixed in. Either way, butternut squash ravioli can be a delicious addition to any meal!
What sauce goes with butternut squash ravioli?
A cream-based sauce is the perfect accompaniment to butternut squash ravioli.
Try a combination of butter, garlic, white wine, parmesan cheese and heavy cream for a delicious creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the squash.
You can also try an Alfredo sauce or creamy sage brown butter sauce for added flavor.
For something lighter, use olive oil as your base and add lemon juice or pesto for a bright and flavorful touch.
What meat to serve with butternut squash ravioli?
A great pairing for butternut squash ravioli is a light, pan-seared chicken breast. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs nicely with the savory flavor of the chicken.
For extra flavor and texture, top the ravioli with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pine nuts and serve it alongside steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Alternatively, you can add a bit of crunch by topping your dish with panko breadcrumbs.
To make it a complete meal, consider serving your butternut squash ravioli with a side salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette dressing. Enjoy!
What protein to serve with butternut squash ravioli?
A great protein to serve with butternut squash ravioli is grilled chicken.
Grilled chicken breast makes an excellent addition to any pasta dish, and its mellow flavor pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet taste of the butternut squash.
Alternatively, you could also consider serving salmon, which has a rich flavor that complements the subtle sweetness of the squash.
If you want something a bit heartier, try adding some Italian sausage or garlicky shrimp to your dish.
Any combination of these proteins will make for a delicious meal! Enjoy!
