Are you looking to create the perfect Italian-inspired dinner? Manicotti is a great dish that can be paired with several sides to complete your meal.

We’ve compiled a list of our top 5 favorite accompaniments for this delicious pasta dish.

Discover what food goes best with manicotti and find out how you can make it part of an unforgettable culinary experience!

What Food Groups Compliment Manicotti?

Manicotti is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed as part of any meal. To truly make the most out of this delicious pasta, it should be complemented with other food groups. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Fruit: Fresh fruit such as oranges, apples and grapes add sweetness and acidity to the creamy ricotta filling in manicotti.
• Vegetables: A variety of vegetables can provide colour and nutrients to your plate. Try roasted peppers or zucchini for crunchy texture, broccoli or spinach for added greens, or sautéed mushrooms for umami flavour.
• Grains: Whole-grain breads are an excellent accompaniment to manicotti dishes. The nuttiness from whole grains pairs well with the rich flavours of cheese sauce.

These food groups help round out the meal and create a balanced plate full of flavourful goodness!

READ MORE: 5 Delicious Foods To Serve With Frittata

Examples of Food Pairings For Manicotti

What Wine Goes Well With Manicotti?

When deciding what wine to pair with manicotti, consider a light-bodied red such as Sangiovese or Pinot Noir.

These varietals are known for their bright fruit and earthy undertones that will enhance the cheesy layers of your dish.

The acidity in the wine will help to cut through the richness of the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, while its tannins provide a balance to round out this meal.

If you prefer something more full-bodied, opt for an Italian Chianti or Barolo; these robust wines can stand up to bold flavors and complement heavier sauces like marinara or bolognese.

What Herbs and Spices Should You Use With Manicotti?

Manicotti is an incredibly flavorful pasta dish that can be enhanced with some of the most delicious herbs and spices. To make this classic a true masterpiece, consider adding:

• Basil: This aromatic herb has a sweet yet pungent flavor that pairs perfectly with tomatoes in sauces.
• Oregano: Another classic Italian herb, oregano adds earthy notes to sauces and complements the flavors of cheese.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder brings out the savory qualities in any dish, making it more complex and flavorful.
• Parsley: With its bright green hue and slightly bitter taste, parsley can add zing to any plate without overpowering other ingredients.

These fresh flavors will bring life to your manicotti!

Should You Add More Manicotti To Your Diet?

Adding manicotti to your diet is a smart way to get more vegetables. It’s also a great source of protein and calcium, as well as providing essential vitamins and minerals that help keep you healthy. Manicotti is an Italian-style pasta that is stuffed with ricotta cheese, spinach, mushrooms, or other fillings. The combination of flavors creates a delicious dish that can be served hot or cold. You can even use it in lasagna for a unique twist!

Manicotti has many health benefits:

• Low in fat: Manicotti contains no saturated fats making it ideal for those looking to reduce their calorie intake.
• High in fiber: Eating manicotti boosts your daily fiber intake which helps promote digestive regularity.
• Rich in antioxidants: Spinach and mushrooms are two key ingredients used when preparing manicotti; both foods contain powerful antioxidants which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

It’s easy to incorporate more manicotti into your diet; just substitute the traditional red sauce for pesto or olive oil when preparing it. Making this simple substitution will not only save calories but also add flavor without sacrificing nutrition! So if you’re looking for a tasty yet nutritious meal option, adding some extra manicotti might be exactly what you need!

So What Goes Well With Manicotti?

Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or main course. The creamy ricotta cheese filling and delicious pasta make it a favorite among Italian food lovers.

As far as side dishes go, there are many options to pair with manicotti. A garden salad topped with tomatoes and feta cheese provides the perfect balance of flavor while garlic bread gives you something crunchy to enjoy alongside your meal.

For dessert, why not try serving tiramisu for an added touch of sweetness? With so many choices available, finding the right complement for your manicotti shouldn’t be hard!

READ MORE: What Goes Well With Oranges?