What to Serve With Lasagna: 95+ Best Side Dishes
As the aroma of bubbling marinara sauce and rich, melted cheese wafts through your kitchen, the anticipation of enjoying a hearty serving of lasagna is hard to resist.
Crafting the perfect accompaniments to complement this beloved Italian dish is an art that can enhance the overall dining experience.
Whether you’re indulging in a classic beef and cheese lasagna, a vegetarian delight, or a unique twist on the traditional recipe, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights.
What to Serve With Lasagna: Best Side Dishes
With sides to serve with lasagna, there are no wrong choices, only exciting flavor combinations awaiting your exploration.
So pull up a chair, pour yourself a glass of your favorite wine, and together let’s discover these delicious sides to serve with lasagna that will result in the perfect dining experience your lasagna deserves.
Light and Refreshing Salads
When the search is for a light and refreshing side dish to serve with lasagna, salads are indeed the top choice.
Picture a crisp, fresh salad as a counterbalance to the rich, hearty lasagna.
From the classic Caesar salad to an arugula salad with a zesty vinaigrette, the options are endless.
The choice can lie between tossing up a green salad simply dressed, or experimenting with a tomato salad bursting with summer flavors which may be included in the dishes to serve with lasagna.
Kale salad, with its hearty leaves and robust flavor, can hold up well and is a nice contrast to the lasagna.
However you choose to design your salad recipe, remember, the goal is to create a refreshing salad that complements your lasagna, not competes with it.
So, dive in and explore the world of salads as delightful sides for lasagna.
Savory Roasted Vegetables
You’ll find that roasting vegetables can bring out a depth of flavor that’s truly a match for any lasagna dish.
As you ponder on what dishes to serve with lasagna, consider including a savory roasted vegetable side.
This lasagna side dish complements the robust flavors of your main course and offers a heart-healthy alternative.
Roasting is easy. All you need is your choice of veggies, a drizzle of olive oil, and some seasoning. Here are some of the best sides for lasagna:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, they become a tasty treat.
- Roasted Carrots: These become sweet and tender, the perfect easy side dish.
- Roasted Bell Peppers: With their vibrant colors, they’re not just an easy sides for lasagna, but also a feast for the eyes.
These selections will surely elevate your lasagna night.
Delicious Bread Varieties to Serve with Lasagna
Another must-consider when deciding what to pair with your lasagna is a variety of delicious breads.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crusty piece of garlic bread.
It’s the perfect companion to your homemade lasagna, a delightful combination that brings out the rich flavors of this Italian classic.
Or perhaps you’d prefer Italian focaccia, a rustic bread that’s as versatile as it’s delicious.
Sprinkled with herbs and drizzled with olive oil, it’s a slice of Italian comfort food that complements the hearty layers of your Italian lasagna beautifully.
Whether you’re cooking a family meal or recreating an Italian restaurant experience at home, these breads are delicious side dishes that elevate your bread with lasagna experience to new heights.
Rich Creamy Soups as a Side Dish
Dive into a bowl of rich, creamy soup as a flawless pairing with your lasagna.
Whether you’re serving lasagna for a casual dinner or a sophisticated gathering, the right soup can elevate your lasagna meal and enhance its flavors.
This is particularly true if you’re serving vegetarian lasagna, as a well-chosen soup can add depth and complexity.
Here are some of the best sides to consider:
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A classic combo that complements the tomato base of most lasagna dishes.
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Brings out the sweet, nutty flavors, especially when paired with a cheese-filled lasagna.
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Adds a hearty, cheesy touch to your lasagna night.
Experiment with these side dishes for lasagna and make your lasagna dinner unforgettable.
Delectable Potato Dishes: Easy Side
When it comes to adding a hearty touch to your lasagna meal, you can’t go wrong with delectable potato dishes.
Picture a creamy, garlic-infused mashed potato or a crispy, golden roasted potato as the perfect side dish.
These side dishes to serve go well with lasagna, complementing its cheesy richness.
The beauty of these potato side dish recipes is that each is easy to prepare.
They’re among the easiest side dishes you could opt for.
With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have the perfect easy side dish to accompany your easy lasagna.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just serving up a family meal, these best side dishes will elevate your lasagna experience, satisfying your palate and warming your heart.
Flavorful Stuffed Mushrooms
In your next dinner, consider serving flavorful stuffed mushrooms as a side with your lasagna for a delightful combination of earthy and cheesy flavors.
If you’re wondering what to serve, this dish is easy to make and a wonderful addition to any Italian dinner.
When you’re serving lasagna, these mushrooms just go with lasagna so effortlessly, they might just become your new favorite side dish.
- Stuffed mushrooms are a side dish everyone will love.
- They pair with lasagna so well, enhancing the lasagna’s robust flavors.
- They’re easy to serve alongside your main course.
Zesty Italian Antipasti Sides for Lasagna
Next up, you’ve got to try serving zesty Italian antipasti alongside your lasagna.
This classic Italian appetizer is a surefire way to get your dinner party started on a high note.
You can create an array of antipasti using zesty Italian dressing to enhance the flavors.
Consider a traditional caprese salad, drizzled with that zesty Italian dressing.
The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil is perfect for tantalizing your palate.
Alternatively, a panzanella salad, with crunchy bread chunks and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in the same zesty dressing, can be a refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a chopped salad featuring a medley of Italian flavors could be your go-to.
Whatever you choose, remember, the key is in the zesty Italian dressing!
Hearty Vegetable Casseroles go with Lasagna
You’ll love serving a hearty vegetable casserole as a side dish with your lasagna.
These casseroles are a healthy side dish that complements the rich, meaty layers of lasagna noodles perfectly.
The colorful medley of veggies brings out the flavors of lasagna, making it a great side dish and an easy side to prepare.
You can prepare them in advance and keep them stored in the refrigerator until it’s time to serve.
Here are a few ideas for your veggie side:
- Broccoli and Cheese Casserole: The cheesy goodness balances the vegetable’s earthy flavor.
- Ratatouille: This classic French dish pairs excellently with skillet lasagna.
- Green Bean Casserole: A traditional favorite that everyone loves.
These hearty vegetable casseroles will take your lasagna meal to new heights.
Grilled Vegetable Medley: Best Sides
Often, a grilled vegetable medley serves as a wonderful accompaniment to lasagna, offering a smoky contrast to its rich, hearty flavors.
This simple side dish can include a variety of veggies, but a combination of brussels sprouts, asparagus, green beans, and cherry tomatoes provides a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
You can easily toss these in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and then grill to perfection.
Add a touch of parmesan for that extra cheesy kick.
If you’re in a mood for greens, kale and cucumber can be added to make a refreshing side salad.
This grilled vegetable medley isn’t only a healthy choice but also a colorful and tasty addition to your lasagna meal.
Simple Homemade Bruschetta
Along with your grilled vegetable medley, why not whip up some simple homemade bruschetta for a delightful Italian touch to your lasagna feast?
It’s super easy to make and adds a crispy contrast to the velvety texture of lasagna.
Since lasagna is quite a rich dish, the freshness of a simple salad, like a caesar or a wedge, can balance it out.
- Caesar Salad: This salad comes together quickly and is dressed with a tangy vinaigrette that’s just perfect with lasagna.
- Wedge Salad: Got you covered if you’re looking for something a bit different. Crisp lettuce, creamy dressing, and the crunch of croutons – it’s a great companion for any pasta dish.
- Simple Salad: Light, vibrant, and packed with refreshing flavors. Just what’s needed for a perfect Italian meal.
Pair these with your lasagna and you’re in for a real feast!
Crispy Fried Zucchini
Why not consider crispy fried zucchini as another fantastic side dish to pair with your lasagna?
This delightful, crunchy side, when coated with a light batter and fried to perfection, provides a taste that beautifully complements the rich, hearty flavors of lasagna.
Its golden crust gives way to tender, juicy zucchini, creating a balance of textures that’s sure to impress.
Dress up your dish with a vibrant salad on the side.
A house salad, or perhaps a chickpea salad, can add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your meal.
This also brings a balance of temperatures, with the warm zucchini and the cool salad.
Tangy Pickled Vegetables
Continuing on, you’ll find that tangy pickled vegetables can add an unexpected yet delightful twist to your lasagna meal.
Not only do they provide a bright, vinegary contrast to the rich, creamy lasagna, but they also bring a satisfying crunch that can refresh your palate.
- Pickled cucumbers: You’ll love the refreshing, tart flavor that cuts through the richness of lasagna.
- Pickled radishes: Their vibrant color and spicy bite can add an exciting dimension to your meal.
- Pickled onions: These bring a sweet, sour, and slightly spicy note that complements the hearty lasagna.
Traditional Italian Polenta
In spite of its simplicity, traditional Italian polenta, when served with lasagna, can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.
This rustic side dish, made from cornmeal, offers a creamy texture that beautifully complements the robust flavors of lasagna.
You’ll love how it can balance the richness of the cheese and tangy tomato sauce.
Cooked slowly with butter and parmesan, polenta becomes a canvas for flavor, absorbing the essence of whatever it’s paired with.
Its versatility also allows you to experiment with toppings, from sauteed mushrooms to a drizzle of truffle oil.
Creamy Cheese Fondue
A few people realize that creamy cheese fondue can make an exceptional side dish to your lasagna meal, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
This creamy, rich, and luxurious dip, when paired with a hearty piece of lasagna can take your meal to new, delicious heights.
It’s the perfect blend of savory and cheesy that just elevates your dining experience.
To make your cheese fondue more interesting, consider the following:
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Add a splash of white wine for an added depth of taste.
- Include a variety of dippers like bread, vegetables, and even pieces of meat.
Sweet and Sour Slaw
For a lighter, refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna and creamy cheese fondue, try whipping up a bowl of sweet and sour slaw.
This tangy side dish is a medley of crisp shredded cabbage, carrots, and other veggies, dressed in a vibrant mix of vinegar and sugar.
It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
The bright, crunchy textures and sharp flavors of the slaw provide a wonderful balance to the deep, hearty lasagna.
Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate.
You’ll love the way the tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese, making each bite of lasagna even more delightful.
It’s an unexpected pairing that’s sure to impress your dinner guests.
Crunchy Parmesan Asparagus
You’ll adore these 10-minute crunchy Parmesan asparagus spears, a perfect side dish that complements the rich flavors of lasagna.
This quick and easy recipe involves baking the asparagus in the oven until they’re perfectly crisp, then sprinkling a generous amount of finely grated Parmesan cheese on top.
The result? A side dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Here are the three main steps:
- Toss fresh asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until they’re tender and slightly crispy.
- Sprinkle a handful of Parmesan cheese on top and broil until it’s golden and bubbly.
The flavors of the asparagus and Parmesan create a delightful contrast to lasagna’s hearty taste. Enjoy this crunchy, cheesy, and absolutely savory side dish!
Warm Artichoke Dip
Next up, let’s dive into the creamy world of warm artichoke dip, an indulgent side dish that pairs wonderfully with lasagna.
This dip is a delight to the senses, with its rich texture, the tanginess of artichokes, and the indulgent creaminess of cheese.
The warm, gooey dip brings a comforting contrast to lasagna’s robust, hearty flavors.
You’ll love how easy it’s to make.
Just mix canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and your favorite cheeses, then pop it into the oven until golden and bubbly.
Don’t forget the crusty bread or crispy crackers for dipping.
They add a delightful crunch that complements the dip’s creaminess perfectly.
Fancy Prosciutto Platter
While you might typically think of a fancy prosciutto platter as an appetizer, it can also be a fantastic side dish to your lasagna.
This Italian cured ham brings a delicate, savory flavor that can perfectly complement the rich, hearty taste of your main dish.
To create an enticing prosciutto platter:
- Use a variety of high-quality prosciuttos. Each has its unique flavor profile, from sweet and mild to robust and savory.
- Add accompaniments like olives, cheese, and crusty bread. These classic pairings enhance the prosciutto’s taste.
- Don’t forget to include fresh fruits. Figs, pears, or melons can balance the saltiness of the ham.
Spicy Marinated Olives
For a kick of heat alongside your lasagna, consider whipping up a batch of spicy marinated olives.
These tiny flavor bombs aren’t only easy to prepare, but they also add an exotic touch to your meal.
Just imagine biting into a juicy olive, its flesh infused with a vibrant blend of garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs.
The heat from the spices contrasts beautifully with the creamy, rich lasagna, while the tangy brine cuts through the heaviness, refreshing your palate.
They’re perfect for grazing on as you savor your pasta.
Plus, these marinated olives get better with time, making them a fantastic make-ahead side.
Sweet Corn on the Cob
After savoring those spicy marinated olives, you’ll want to sink your teeth into another classic side dish: sweet corn on the cob.
Fresh, juicy, and full of summer flavor, this side dish is a must-have to accompany your lasagna.
The sweetness of the corn is a perfect contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
Here are three ways you can prepare your sweet corn on the cob:
- Grilled: This method gives your corn a smoky flavor, adding a depth of taste that’s irresistible.
- Boiled: This traditional way of cooking corn keeps it juicy and sweet.
- Roasted: With a slight crunch, roasted corn offers a unique texture that’s a pleasure to bite into.
Classic Caesar Salad
If you’re looking for a light, crisp side to balance out your hearty lasagna, a classic Caesar salad can’t be beat.
This traditional dish, featuring crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy, creamy dressing, is a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy lasagna.
The cool, crisp lettuce provides a refreshing break from the hearty pasta, while the croutons add a satisfying crunch.
The Parmesan offers a hint of sharpness, and the creamy dressing rounds everything out with its rich, tangy flavor.
The beauty of a Caesar salad is its simplicity; each ingredient shines, complementing the others without overshadowing them.
Fluffy Garlic Knots
When you’re craving something warm, fluffy, and garlicky to pair with your lasagna, garlic knots can’t be beat.
These delightful little rolls, tied into a knot, are brushed with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection.
The result? A bite-sized piece of heaven, bursting with flavor, and just the right amount of crunch on the outside.
The buttery garlic glaze provides a savory contrast to the sweet tomato sauce of your lasagna.
Their light, airy texture complements the denseness of the pasta dish, providing a balance in your meal.
Plus, they’re versatile. You can dip them in marinara sauce, drizzle them with olive oil, or simply enjoy them as they are.
Aromatic Herb Focaccia
For your next lasagna night, let’s not overlook the role of aromatic herb focaccia as a delicious and fragrant side dish.
This Italian bread, baked to golden perfection, is a perfect companion to your hearty lasagna.
The focaccia’s crusty exterior gives way to a soft, chewy interior, delighting your palate with every bite.
The real charm, though, lies in the herbs. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano blend together, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your home.
Olive oil, drizzled on top, enhances the flavors, adding a subtle richness.
You’ll love tearing off a piece, savoring the warm, herby goodness, and using it to mop up the last of your lasagna sauce.
Trust me, aromatic herb focaccia won’t just accompany your meal, it’ll elevate it.
Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers
Switching from bread to veggies, consider savory stuffed bell peppers as another splendid side dish for your lasagna feast.
These vibrant veggies, packed with a variety of fillings, offer a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft, cheesy lasagna.
Here are three stuffing ideas you might want to try:
- Classic Beef and Rice: A hearty blend of ground beef, rice, and a dash of tomato sauce. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra kick.
- Quinoa and Black Bean: For a healthier twist, stuff your peppers with cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices.
- Cheese and Spinach: Overflowing with melted cheese and fresh spinach, it’s a vegetarian’s dream come true.
Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your own favorite combinations.
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Next up, you’ve got to try the cheesy spinach and artichoke dip as an amazing side dish to accompany your lasagna.
This creamy, savory dip is a delightful contrast to the rich and robust flavors of lasagna.
It’s made from a blend of tender spinach and artichoke hearts, mixed with a concoction of oozy, melted cheeses.
The result is a luscious dip that’s simply irresistible.
It’s not just the taste, but the texture too that makes it a winner.
The creaminess of the dip complements the layered goodness of lasagna, while the slight crunch of the artichoke offers an exciting contrast.
Best served with some crusty bread or crispy tortilla chips, the cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is a side dish that’ll take your lasagna meal to the next level.
Final Thoughts: Best Side Dishes for Lasagna
So, you’ve got your lasagna ready and now need the perfect side? Look no further!
From light salads to savory roasted veggies, delectable potato dishes to fluffy garlic knots, there’s a side dish for everyone’s taste.
Don’t forget about the rich soups, cheesy dips, and aromatic focaccia.
No matter what you choose, these side dishes are sure to make your lasagna meal even more delightful.
Enjoy experimenting with these delicious options and make your dinner unforgettable!
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