Perfect Side Dishes to Accompany Lasagna and Pasta: Italian Delights Without Fail

Lasagna and pasta are hearty and satisfying main courses that often stand on their own. However, there's something to be said for enhancing your dining experience with the right side dishes. Whether you're serving a homemade classic or a store-bought convenience option, a well-chosen side can elevate your meal and leave your guests wanting more. Here are some excellent side dish ideas for lasagna and pasta that complement your chosen Italian dish perfectly.

When Side Dishes Aren't Necessary

For those who see lasagna as a complete meal, the idea of adding extra sides might seem superfluous. In many households, a simple green salad or garlic bread is enough to round out the meal. The richness and complexity of lasagna mean that additional carbs or other flavors might overshadow the dish’s flavors and textures. However, it's always nice to provide a side that enhances, not overwhelms, the meal.

For instance, at our house, a fresh salad with my mom’s vinegar and oil dressing and possibly Italian bread is the norm. Everything else is in the lasagna, and additional sides are not necessary. 'We've never met a lasagna we didn’t like,' whether homemade or from the freezer aisle at the grocery store. Thus, it's about striking a balance that's right for your tastes and the occasion.

What to Serve with Lasagna: Side Dish Ideas

While lasagna is packed with enough flavors like cheese, meat, and even veggies, it's always nice to pair it with a simple side dish. Here are some easy and delightful side dishes that can complement your lasagna and pasta.

Crisp, Crunchy, and Oh-So-Refreshing Summer Salad

Introduce a summer salad that's not only refreshing but also a whimsical addition to your lasagna meal. This salad is crisp, crunchy, and oh-so-refreshing, perfect for a warm day. It features a vibrant mix of vegetables that are often used in cooked dishes, such as celery, fennel, and scallions. The addition of cucumbers brings a cool, sweet flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Recipe: - Sliced celery - Sliced fennel - Sliced scallions - Sliced cucumbers - Olive oil - Lemon juice - Grated Parmesan (optional)

Combine the sliced vegetables with a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a wonderful nutty flavor and enhances the vegetables' natural sweetness.

Great Side Dish Ideas for Italian Delights

Below are some top side dishes that pair wonderfully with lasagna and pasta. Each of these options complements the flavors and textures of your main dish without overwhelming them.

1. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic choice that adds a crusty, garlicky element to your meal. You can make it with an easy garlic butter spread applied to slices of baguette or a split loaf, baked until golden and crispy.

Recipe: - Baguette slices or split loaf - Soft butter - Minced garlic - Salt and pepper - Grated Parmesan (optional)

Spread softened butter mixed with finely chopped garlic over the bread, add salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if you like. Bake until golden and crispy.

2. Breadsticks

Light and airy breadsticks are a great option for a crunchy side that's easy to make. They’re perfect for dipping in sauces and add a satisfying texture to your meal.

Recipe: - 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup olive oil - 1/4 cup warm water - 1 tsp salt - 1 tsp baking powder - 1 tsp sugar

Combine the flour, water, oil, salt, baking powder, and sugar in a large bowl. Knead until a soft dough forms. Shape into a log, cut into sticks, and bake until golden.

3. Tomato Dill Red Onion and Feta Salad

A creamy and tangy salad with a fresh tomato dill red onion dressing is an excellent side dish for lasagna. It provides a contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna, with a fresh and light flavor profile.

Recipe: - Cherry tomatoes, halved - Red onion, thinly sliced - Pickled dill - Feta cheese, crumbled - Olive oil - Lemon juice - Dill

Mix the halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, and dill to make the dressing and drizzle over the salad.

4. Arugula Salad

An arugula salad brings a peppery, earthy flavor that provides a nice contrast to the rich, savory flavors of lasagna. It's light, flavorful, and a perfect side dish for a balanced meal.

Recipe: - Arugula leaves, thoroughly washed - Lemon juice - Extra virgin olive oil - Salt and pepper

Massage the arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until wilted. Serve immediately for peak freshness.

5. Antipasto Platter

Create a festive Italian antipasto platter with a selection of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. This not only adds variety but also complements the flavors of lasagna and pasta without overwhelming them.

Items: - Prosciutto di Parma - Mozzarella di Bufala - Caprese tomatoes - Assorted olives - Sweet peppers - Sliced salami

Arrange the antipasto items on a large platter and serve it with whole-grain crackers or crusty bread for your guests to enjoy.

6. Garlic Prosciutto Brussel Sprouts

these can be a tasty and easy side with a peppery bite from the Brussels sprouts, and some sweet caramelized goodness from the roasting. It’s a side that brings out the best in both flavors.

Recipe: - Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved - Garlic cloves, minced - Olive oil - Prosciutto, thinly sliced - Salt and pepper

Drizzle the halved brussel sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Roast in the oven until they are crispy and caramelized.

7. Garlic Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Roasted cherry tomatoes with garlic are a wonderful side dish that helps bring out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. It can serve as a fresh and flavorful addition to your lasagna.

Recipe: - Cherry tomatoes - Garlic cloves, minced - Olive oil - Salt and pepper

Coat the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.

8. Honey Roasted Carrots

A sweet and mildly spiced side dish, honey roasted carrots are a delightful accompaniment. They bring a special touch of sweetness and are easy to prepare.

Recipe: - Carrots, peeled and sliced - Honey - Olive oil - Ground cinnamon - Salt and pepper

Toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, honey, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender and lightly caramelized.

Conclusion

The best side dish for lasagna and pasta greatly depends on your personal taste. Whether you are in the mood for something light and fresh, a traditional garlic bread, or a touch of Italy, having these options on hand will ensure you have a memorable dining experience every time. By following the above recipes, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that celebrates the flavors of Italy. Enjoy and happy cooking!