What Are the Best Desserts to Follow a Pasta Feast?

Pasta is treat enough for many people — they push back from the table and don't want a bite more to eat. But what if you're someone who likes to end a meal with something sweet, even if you just had a big plate of rich pasta? What's the best dessert to follow a pasta feast?

Personally, I feel that something very light is best after a pasta meal. Sometimes I forgo dessert entirely and have a glass of port or another dessert wine instead.

If you do want dessert, what about a sorbet or granita? Here are two that would especially good after pasta:

• Blackberry Cabernet Granita (No Ice Cream Maker Necessary!)
• Faloodeh (Persian Rose Water Ice)

What do you think? What's your favorite sort of dessert to follow a big meal of pasta?

(Images: Emily Ho; Stephanie Barlow)

Comments (5)

ooh, good call with the granita. I'd say one of those or a fancy chocolate truffle that will give you the satisfaction of something sweet without being heavy.

I agree with the something light. Wine-poached fruit with a smidge of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream is easy and delicious. And more cold-weather-friendly than granita or ice cream.

Fresh fruit with chocolate is also delicious. A light creamy or eggy dessert dish like flan or clafoutis would also be good.

OR. Or. You could just eat less pasta and save room for dessert.

Bittersweet chocolate pudding topped with sweetened whipped mascarpone.

Panna cotta or poached pears.

I'm a dessert addict and often make complex desserts but after pasta in particular I like to serve espresso along with a small tray of miniatures: chocolates, cookies, roast almonds, apricots, fresh honeycomb. Everyone can nibble, a little or a lot or even not at all, without feeling compelled to dine on a full dessert.