Preparing lasagna for dinner is always a great choice, but choosing the right side dishes can make the meal truly unforgettable. While the lasagna itself is rich and satisfying, pairing it with complementary sides can enhance the flavors and provide a well-rounded dining experience.
What should you serve with your lasagna to make the meal even more delightful? From fresh salads to savory vegetable dishes, there are numerous options to consider. With a variety of flavors and textures, the perfect side dish can transform your lasagna dinner into something special.
1) Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna.
You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients. Start with a loaf of Italian or French bread. Slice it in half lengthwise.
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley.
Spread this mixture evenly on each half of the bread. Place the bread on a baking sheet.
Bake in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. For extra flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before baking.
Serve it hot, and enjoy the crisp, garlicky goodness along with your lasagna.
2) Caesar Salad
A Caesar Salad is a classic choice to serve with lasagna. The crunch of romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy layers of lasagna.
Adding freshly made croutons gives an extra crunch. You can make croutons easily by toasting bread cubes in olive oil with a bit of garlic.
The creamy Caesar dressing, usually made from ingredients like egg yolk, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and anchovies, adds a tangy and savory flavor. This balances well with the lasagna.
Don’t forget the grated parmesan cheese on top. It adds another layer of richness that works perfectly with both the salad and the lasagna.
A touch of freshly ground black pepper can also enhance the overall taste. This combination makes your meal satisfying and delicious.
3) Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is a colorful and tasty side that pairs well with lasagna.
You only need a few main ingredients: fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
Drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella creates a great balance.
Fresh basil leaves add a wonderful aromatic touch.
The contrasting textures and flavors make Caprese salad a refreshing addition to a hearty meal.
4) Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that’s perfect alongside lasagna. It’s made with slices of toasted bread, typically topped with a mix of fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.
You will love how bruschetta adds a bright, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich, hearty taste of lasagna. The crisp texture of the toasted bread also provides a pleasant crunch.
The tomato topping is simple but delicious. Fresh, diced tomatoes bring a juicy burst of flavor, while the basil adds a fragrant touch. A drizzle of olive oil ties it all together, making each bite refreshing.
Making bruschetta is easy. All you need to do is toast some bread slices, prepare the tomato mixture, and combine. It’s quick, tasty, and pairs well with many main dishes, including lasagna.
5) Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter is a great side for lasagna. It brings together a mix of flavors and textures. You can include a variety of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone.
Add some cured meats such as salami and prosciutto. These meats are flavorful and pair well with the rich taste of lasagna.
Don’t forget the marinated vegetables. Olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers add a nice tangy element.
You can also include some fresh elements like cherry tomatoes and basil. These add a pop of freshness to your platter.
Serve the antipasto platter on a large dish. Arrange the items in small groups. This makes it easy for your guests to pick and choose.
This mix of ingredients creates a balanced side dish. It is both light and satisfying.
6) Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a simple yet tasty side dish for lasagna. You’ll need fresh asparagus stalks, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and place them on a baking sheet.
Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
Roast the asparagus in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. The stalks should be tender but still slightly crisp.
Roasted asparagus adds a fresh and slightly crunchy complement to the rich, cheesy lasagna. It’s a healthy option that pairs well with many pasta dishes.
You can also add a bit of Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for extra flavor. This quick side dish is easy to prepare and delicious to eat.
7) Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a wonderful side dish for lasagna. It is a hearty Italian vegetable soup, often featuring beans, tomatoes, and pasta. This soup can be a great way to balance the rich flavors of lasagna with its lighter and fresher taste.
This soup is versatile; you can include various vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach. The broth is usually tomato-based and can be enhanced with herbs like basil and oregano. Beans add protein, making it not just tasty but also nutritious.
Minestrone soup and lasagna together create a filling and satisfying meal. The soup’s lightness complements the dense and cheesy lasagna well. Also, the soup’s varied textures offer a delightful contrast to the smooth, layered textures of lasagna.
You can serve minestrone soup in small bowls as an appetizer or alongside the main course. It’s also easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat when needed, making it convenient for dinner gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a perfect pairing with lasagna.
8) Panzanella
Panzanella is a Tuscan bread salad that works wonderfully as a side for lasagna. It is made with chunks of stale bread, ripe tomatoes, onions, and fresh basil.
The bread soaks up the flavors of the vinaigrette, which often includes olive oil and vinegar. The mix of fresh vegetables adds a crisp texture that complements the rich, cheesy lasagna.
You can customize your panzanella with additional ingredients like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives. This makes it easy to adjust the salad to your taste or what you have on hand.
To make panzanella, start by toasting or grilling the bread until it is crispy. Then, combine it with chopped vegetables and toss with the dressing. Let it sit for a bit before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
9) Focaccia Bread
Focaccia bread is a perfect side for lasagna. The warm, soft texture of focaccia pairs well with the rich and hearty flavors of lasagna.
You can bake focaccia with various herbs like rosemary or thyme, which add aroma and taste. A simple drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of coarse salt can enhance its flavor.
To have a balanced meal, serve the focaccia with some olive tapenade or garlic herb butter. These additions boost the savory profile and complement the lasagna’s taste.
A Caprese salad, with its tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, also goes well with focaccia. You can dip the bread in balsamic glaze for a flavorful bite.
Focaccia can be easily made ahead and reheated before serving. This makes it a convenient addition to your lasagna dinner.
10) Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty and elegant side dish that pairs well with lasagna. These bite-sized delights are filled with a mix of cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat or breadcrumbs. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, then simply baked before serving.
Start by selecting fresh mushrooms. Clean them by gently wiping with a damp cloth and remove the stems.
Prepare a filling using ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Add in some chopped basil, garlic, and a dash of salt and pepper. You can also include cooked sausage or breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.
Fill each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
If you want a crispier topping, you can broil the mushrooms for an additional minute. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
Stuffed mushrooms can be garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving. They add a delightful bite to your lasagna meal and are sure to impress your guests.
Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful treats as a perfect complement to your main dish.
11) Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a great side dish to serve with lasagna. It’s a traditional French vegetable stew that’s both flavorful and healthy.
This dish features a mix of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions. These vegetables are cooked with garlic and herbs like thyme and basil.
Ratatouille’s rich and tangy flavors pair perfectly with the cheesy and savory lasagna. The vegetables add a fresh note that balances the richness of the pasta.
You can serve ratatouille warm or at room temperature. It also reheats well, making it a convenient side dish for any meal with lasagna.
12) Italian Green Beans
Italian green beans are a wonderful side dish that pairs well with lasagna.
These green beans are usually cooked with garlic and tomatoes, giving them a rich, savory flavor.
Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil until it’s golden brown.
Next, add the green beans and cook until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch.
You can then add diced tomatoes and let them cook until they blend well with the beans.
For added flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning over the top.
If you like a little heat, you can also add some red pepper flakes.
This dish is both healthy and delicious.
The freshness of the green beans complements the hearty, cheesy lasagna.
Italian green beans are easy to make and serve.
Try them for your next lasagna meal and enjoy the tasty combination.
13) Caponata
Caponata is a colorful Sicilian side dish that pairs wonderfully with lasagna. It is made from eggplant, tomatoes, celery, olives, and capers, all simmered in a rich, tangy sauce. This combination provides a delightful contrast to the creamy, cheesy layers of lasagna.
You can serve caponata warm or at room temperature. It also works well as an appetizer or as a topping for crusty bread. The sweetness from caramelized vegetables and the slight sourness from vinegar make it a rich and flavorful addition.
The vegetables in caponata offer a nice variety of textures. The cooked eggplant is tender, the olives are firm, and the sauce brings it all together. This variety makes each bite interesting and satisfying.
Adding caponata to your meal also boosts the nutritional value with its mix of vegetables. If you’re looking for a tasty side dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious, this is a great choice.
14) Prosciutto Melon
Prosciutto and melon make for a simple, yet elegant side dish. The salty taste of prosciutto pairs perfectly with the sweet juiciness of melon.
You can prepare this side dish in just a few minutes. Slice the melon into thin pieces, then wrap each slice with a piece of prosciutto. The combination is both refreshing and satisfying.
This side dish adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your lasagna dinner. It’s light, fresh, and provides a contrast to the rich and hearty lasagna.
Prosciutto melon is also visually appealing. The vibrant colors make your dining table look more inviting. It’s an easy way to impress your guests without spending much time in the kitchen.
15) Risotto
Risotto can be a wonderful side for lasagna. Its creamy texture complements the flavors of the lasagna without overpowering it.
You can make a simple risotto using Arborio rice, chicken broth, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Stirring constantly helps to release the starch from the rice, giving risotto its signature creamy consistency.
Try adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor. If you prefer, mix in some peas or asparagus to bring a touch of greenery to your plate.
You can also finish your risotto with a squeeze of lemon juice to add a bright acidity. This can balance out the rich and cheesy layers of the lasagna.
Whether you stick with a classic risotto or get creative with added ingredients, this dish brings a deliciously creamy side to your lasagna meal.
Why Side Dishes Matter
Side dishes are crucial to complementing your main dish, like lasagna. They can enhance the flavors and offer extra nutrients that might be missing from the main course.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
Side dishes can make your lasagna taste even better. A classic Italian dish like bruschetta, made with fresh tomatoes and basil, adds freshness and a tangy kick.
Garlic bread with a crispy crust and soft center pairs well with lasagna’s creamy layers. These sides don’t just add extra tastes; they balance out the rich, hearty flavors of the lasagna itself. You can also try a light and zesty salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and tomato sauce.
Balancing Nutrients
Eating lasagna alone might not give you all the necessary nutrients. Adding a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans can increase your fiber intake.
A light soup, such as chicken and gnocchi, can provide protein and vitamins without being too heavy. Also, incorporating whole-grain bread or a grain salad offers complex carbs for sustained energy.
Potatoes, whether mashed or baked, offer potassium and vitamin C. With these balanced side dishes, your meal will be more nutritious and well-rounded.
Pairing Recommendations
Choose sides that enhance lasagna’s rich and savory taste. Focus on both complementary flavors and contrasting textures to elevate your meal.
Complementary Flavors
Pairing lasagna with foods that highlight its ingredients can enhance the meal. Stewed squash, with its mild and slightly sweet taste, makes a good match. You can mix chopped sweet onion and fresh squash, cooking with a bit of salt and pepper.
A Caprese Salad is another great option. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella slices bring out the flavors of the pasta and meat. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish that complements the richness of the lasagna.
Contrasting Textures
When choosing sides, think about texture. Crisp bruschetta, topped with tomatoes and basil on toasted bread, offers a delightful crunch. This balances the soft and gooey texture of the lasagna.
A Caesar salad provides a mix of crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing. Add some roasted garlic and kale for extra flavor and texture contrast.
These side dishes not only add variety but also make each bite of lasagna even more enjoyable.
Cultural and Regional Variations
Different cultures and regions have their own unique side dishes that complement lasagna. In Italy, traditional sides vary by region, while modern twists have created new and exciting pairings.
Italian Traditional Sides
In Italy, side dishes for lasagna often reflect local produce and culinary traditions. Stewed squash is popular, especially when made with fresh squash, sweet onion, salt, and pepper. This simple yet flavorful dish enhances lasagna without overshadowing it.
Bruschetta is another classic choice. Made with crisp toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil, this side dish provides a refreshing contrast to hearty lasagna. The juiciness of the tomatoes and the fragrant basil make it a must-try.
Regions like Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia have sweet variations like Lasagne da Fornel, incorporating apples to give a unique twist. This reflects the bountiful orchards near the Adriatic Sea and offers a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Modern Twists on Classic Pairings
Modern twists on traditional sides can make your lasagna meal even more exciting. Spinach and tomato salad replaces traditional tomato slices with cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach. This not only adds vibrant colors but also packs in more nutrients and flavor.
Sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables such as zucchini and eggplant can be layered between lasagna noodles or served on the side. These veggies add depth and a rich, earthy taste.
For a contemporary treat, try roasted garlic bread. It’s a simple update that involves spreading roasted garlic on baguette slices before baking, resulting in a deeply aromatic and delicious side that complements lasagna beautifully.
Experimenting with these modern sides allows you to enjoy lasagna in fresh and delicious ways.
