Cannelloni, those delightful tubes of pasta filled with savory goodness, are a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. But what elevates cannelloni from a simple meal to a culinary experience? The answer lies in the accompaniments. Choosing the right side dishes, sauces, and beverages can transform your cannelloni from satisfying to spectacular. This comprehensive guide will explore a myriad of options to perfectly complement your cannelloni, ensuring a balanced and memorable meal.
The Perfect Sauce: Enhancing Cannelloni’s Flavor Profile
The sauce is arguably the most crucial element in complementing cannelloni. It’s the bridge that connects the pasta and its filling to the rest of the meal. The ideal sauce should enhance, not overpower, the cannelloni’s existing flavors.
Classic Tomato Sauce: A Timeless Choice
A simple, well-made tomato sauce is a classic pairing for cannelloni. Its acidity cuts through the richness of the filling, providing a refreshing contrast. Consider using San Marzano tomatoes for their superior flavor and sweetness. A touch of garlic, basil, and oregano will elevate the sauce further. For an extra layer of richness, you can add a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese to the tomato sauce. Ensure the tomato sauce is not too chunky, as a smoother consistency works best with the delicate cannelloni.
Creamy Béchamel: A Luxurious Indulgence
Béchamel, a classic white sauce, offers a creamy and luxurious alternative to tomato sauce. Its richness complements cannelloni filled with meat or cheese beautifully. A hint of nutmeg adds warmth and complexity to the sauce. You can also incorporate grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese into the béchamel for an even more decadent flavor. Remember to cook the béchamel slowly and stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Pesto: A Burst of Freshness
For a lighter and more vibrant option, consider serving your cannelloni with pesto. The bright, herbaceous flavors of basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese create a delightful contrast to the rich filling. Freshly made pesto is always best, but high-quality store-bought pesto can also work well. You can also use other types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto, to experiment with different flavor profiles.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: An Elegant Choice
A brown butter sage sauce offers a nutty and aromatic complement to cannelloni, especially those filled with ricotta and spinach. The subtle sweetness of the browned butter pairs beautifully with the earthy sage, creating a sophisticated and elegant flavor profile. To make brown butter sage sauce, simply melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for a minute or two until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn the butter, as this will result in a bitter taste.
Side Dishes: Creating a Balanced Meal
While the sauce is important, side dishes complete the meal, adding texture, flavor, and nutritional balance. Choose side dishes that complement the cannelloni’s filling and sauce, creating a harmonious culinary experience.
Green Salad: A Refreshing Counterpoint
A simple green salad is a classic and refreshing accompaniment to cannelloni. The crispness of the lettuce and the acidity of the vinaigrette provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the pasta and sauce. Choose a variety of greens for added texture and flavor, such as romaine, arugula, and spinach. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard is the perfect finishing touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Adding Depth and Flavor
Roasted vegetables offer a heartier and more flavorful side dish option. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a delicious and satisfying accompaniment to cannelloni. Choose vegetables that complement the cannelloni’s flavor profile. For example, if you are serving cannelloni with tomato sauce, roasted zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers would be a great choice. If you are serving cannelloni with béchamel sauce, roasted asparagus, broccoli, or cauliflower would be a better option.
Garlic Bread: A Classic Pairing
Garlic bread is a classic Italian side dish that pairs perfectly with cannelloni. The crispy bread, infused with garlic and butter, provides a satisfying and flavorful accompaniment to the pasta and sauce. Use a baguette or Italian loaf and slice it into thick slices. Mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Spread the mixture evenly over the bread slices and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and crispy. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic bread before baking.
Sautéed Spinach: A Simple and Nutritious Choice
Sautéed spinach is a simple, healthy, and delicious side dish that complements cannelloni beautifully. The earthy flavor of the spinach pairs well with the rich pasta and sauce. To sauté spinach, simply heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. For added flavor, you can also add some minced garlic or shallots to the skillet before adding the spinach.
Meat & Poultry: For a More Substantial Meal
While cannelloni is often a main course in itself, adding a small portion of meat or poultry can elevate the meal and make it more substantial. Be mindful of the cannelloni filling when making this choice.
Italian Sausage: A Flavorful Addition
Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, is a great complement to cannelloni, particularly those filled with meat or cheese. The savory sausage adds a robust flavor and hearty texture to the meal. Grill or pan-fry the sausage until cooked through and serve it alongside the cannelloni. Consider removing the sausage from its casing and crumbling it into the tomato sauce for an even more integrated flavor.
Chicken Piccata: A Light and Zesty Option
Chicken piccata, with its bright lemon and caper sauce, offers a lighter and more refreshing counterpoint to cannelloni. The acidity of the sauce cuts through the richness of the pasta and filling, creating a balanced and flavorful meal. Pound chicken breasts thin, dredge them in flour, and sauté them until golden brown. Make a quick sauce with lemon juice, white wine, capers, and butter. This option is particularly well-suited for cannelloni filled with ricotta and spinach.
Meatballs: A Hearty Comfort Food
Small, flavorful meatballs are another hearty option that complements cannelloni, especially when both are served with a classic tomato sauce. The meatballs add a comforting and satisfying element to the meal. Make sure the meatballs are well-seasoned and cooked thoroughly before adding them to the sauce.
Beverages: Completing the Culinary Experience
No meal is complete without the right beverage. Choose a wine or other drink that complements the cannelloni’s flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.
Red Wine: A Classic Pairing
For cannelloni served with tomato sauce or meat-filled cannelloni, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot is an excellent choice. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the sauce and complement the savory flavors of the filling. If you prefer a lighter red wine, consider a Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
White Wine: A Lighter Option
For cannelloni served with béchamel sauce or vegetable-filled cannelloni, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay is a better choice. These wines have enough acidity to balance the richness of the sauce and complement the delicate flavors of the vegetables. If you prefer a sweeter white wine, consider a Riesling or Gewürztraminer.
Sparkling Wine: For a Celebration
Sparkling wine, such as Prosecco or Champagne, is a festive and elegant choice for any occasion. Its bubbles and acidity cleanse the palate and complement a wide range of flavors. Sparkling wine is especially well-suited for cannelloni served with a lighter sauce or filled with seafood.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing Choices
For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, sparkling water with lemon or lime, iced tea, or a refreshing fruit juice are all excellent choices. These beverages provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the cannelloni and cleanse the palate between bites. Consider making a homemade lemonade or iced tea for a more personalized touch.
Choosing what to serve with cannelloni is all about creating a balanced and harmonious meal. By carefully considering the sauce, side dishes, meat or poultry (if desired), and beverages, you can transform a simple dish of cannelloni into a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Experiment with different combinations to find your own perfect pairings and enjoy the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine.
Cheese & Garnish: Finishing Touches
A sprinkle of the right cheese or a thoughtful garnish can add the perfect finishing touch to your cannelloni dish.
Parmesan Cheese: The Italian Staple
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is almost always a welcome addition to cannelloni. Its salty, nutty flavor enhances both tomato-based and cream-based sauces. Invest in a good-quality Parmesan cheese and a microplane grater for the best results.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and Mild
A dollop of creamy ricotta cheese can add a touch of richness and moisture to cannelloni. It works particularly well with tomato-based sauces and vegetable fillings. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Fresh Herbs: A Burst of Freshness
Fresh herbs, such as basil, parsley, or oregano, can add a burst of freshness and flavor to cannelloni. Sprinkle them over the finished dish just before serving. Choose herbs that complement the sauce and filling.
Red Pepper Flakes: A Touch of Heat
For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick to cannelloni. Be careful not to overdo it, as a little goes a long way. Red pepper flakes work particularly well with tomato-based sauces.
What are some simple side salads that pair well with cannelloni?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent way to balance the richness of cannelloni. Opt for mixed greens like romaine, arugula, and spinach, and add some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion for freshness. The vinaigrette should be acidic, using ingredients like lemon juice or balsamic vinegar, to cut through the creamy sauce of the cannelloni.
Alternatively, a Caprese salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil, provide a refreshing and vibrant counterpoint to the hearty cannelloni. The fresh, simple ingredients complement the savory pasta without overwhelming the palate.
Besides salads, what vegetable dishes complement cannelloni effectively?
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic way to add both flavor and nutrients to your cannelloni meal. Consider roasting asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. The roasting process caramelizes the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness and creating a delicious contrast to the richness of the cannelloni.
Another excellent choice is sautéed spinach with garlic and a squeeze of lemon. The slight bitterness of the spinach and the pungency of the garlic help to cleanse the palate between bites of cannelloni. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that brightens the dish and prevents it from feeling heavy.
What kind of bread is best to serve with cannelloni to soak up the sauce?
Crusty Italian bread, such as ciabatta or a simple baguette, is the ideal choice for soaking up the delicious sauce from your cannelloni. The sturdy crust and soft interior provide a satisfying texture that holds up well to the sauce without becoming soggy. The neutral flavor of the bread allows the flavors of the cannelloni and its sauce to shine.
Alternatively, focaccia bread with herbs and olive oil is another excellent option. The herby flavor adds a subtle aromatic element that complements the savory nature of cannelloni. The olive oil-soaked bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce from your plate, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Can I serve soup before cannelloni, and if so, what kind?
A light broth-based soup can be a wonderful appetizer before serving cannelloni. A classic minestrone, packed with vegetables and beans in a tomato broth, is a hearty but not overly heavy option. The vegetables provide a range of flavors and textures, while the broth helps to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the main course.
Another good choice is a simple chicken broth with orzo pasta and a squeeze of lemon. The light and refreshing flavors of the broth and lemon cleanse the palate, preventing it from becoming overwhelmed by the richness of the cannelloni that follows. Avoid creamy or heavy soups as they might be too filling before the main course.
What meat dishes, if any, pair well as a side to cannelloni?
While cannelloni is often a complete meal on its own, small portions of certain meats can complement it nicely. Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, adds a hearty and flavorful element. Ensure the sausage is cooked thoroughly and served in bite-sized pieces to avoid overpowering the cannelloni.
Another option is thinly sliced prosciutto or another cured Italian ham. The salty and savory flavors of the prosciutto offer a delightful contrast to the creamy and rich flavors of the cannelloni. Serve it alongside the cannelloni or wrap it around melon slices for a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment.
What dessert options are ideal to finish a meal after cannelloni?
After a rich and savory dish like cannelloni, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end the meal. A classic Italian dessert like panna cotta, a creamy cooked cream dessert, is a delicate and elegant choice. Its subtle sweetness and smooth texture provide a soothing finish without being overly heavy.
Alternatively, a lemon sorbet offers a vibrant and tangy contrast to the richness of the cannelloni. The acidity of the lemon cleanses the palate and leaves a refreshing aftertaste. A small scoop is all you need to complete the meal perfectly.
Are there any specific wine pairings that enhance the cannelloni experience?
For cannelloni with a tomato-based sauce, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti Classico is an excellent choice. The acidity of the Chianti cuts through the richness of the tomato sauce, while its fruity notes complement the flavors of the pasta and filling. Look for a Chianti with good structure and tannins to balance the dish.
If your cannelloni has a creamy béchamel or ricotta-based sauce, a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be a better match. These wines offer refreshing acidity and citrusy notes that complement the creamy texture and flavors of the cannelloni. The lightness of the wine prevents it from overpowering the dish.