If you’re tired of serving salad as a side dish with lasagna, you’re not alone. While salad is a classic side dish, there are plenty of other options to explore. From cheesy potatoes to roasted vegetables, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll explore some tasty side dishes that pair perfectly with lasagna.
Lasagna is a popular Italian dish made with layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce. It’s a hearty and filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. While lasagna is delicious on its own, serving it with a side dish can take it to the next level. Whether you’re looking for something cheesy, crunchy, or healthy, there’s a side dish for everyone. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite side dishes to serve with lasagna.
Key Takeaways
- Lasagna is a hearty and filling meal that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
- There are plenty of options beyond salad, including cheesy potatoes, roasted vegetables, and garlic bread.
- With so many tasty side dishes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that complements your lasagna perfectly.
Understanding Lasagna
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish consisting of layers of pasta, cheese, and meat or vegetables, baked in an oven. It is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. Lasagna is a versatile dish that can be made with different types of pasta, cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
The classic lasagna consists of layers of lasagna noodles, tomato sauce, ground beef, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. However, there are many variations of lasagna that can be made with different types of meat, such as sausage or chicken, or vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms.
Lasagna can be served as a main dish or as part of a larger meal. It is a popular dish for holidays and special occasions, such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. Lasagna is also a great dish to make ahead of time and freeze for later use.
When it comes to serving lasagna, salad is a common side dish. However, there are many other side dishes that can be served with lasagna to complement its rich and hearty flavors. In the next section, we will explore some of the best side dishes to serve with lasagna besides salad.
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Vegetable Options
Lasagna is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of vegetables. Here are some vegetable options to consider:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth of flavor to your meal. Try roasting vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. You can also add some Italian seasoning or garlic for extra flavor.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are another delicious option to serve with lasagna. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the rich and savory taste of lasagna. Try grilling vegetables such as asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper before grilling.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a healthy and easy option to serve with lasagna. Steaming retains the natural flavors and nutrients of the vegetables without adding any extra fat or calories. Try steaming vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans. You can also sprinkle some lemon juice or herbs on top for extra flavor.
Sauteed Vegetables
Sauteed vegetables are a quick and easy option to serve with lasagna. Simply heat some olive oil in a pan, add your favorite vegetables, and saute until they are tender and lightly browned. Try sauteing vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also add some garlic or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
In conclusion, there are many vegetable options to consider when serving lasagna. Whether you choose to roast, grill, steam, or saute your vegetables, they are sure to add a delicious and healthy touch to your meal.
Potato Dishes
Potatoes are a versatile and filling side dish that pairs well with lasagna. Here are a few potato dishes to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic can be a comforting addition to your lasagna dinner. You can use red-skinned or Yukon gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Roasted Potatoes: Roasting potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs can add a crispy texture and savory flavor to your meal. You can use any type of potato, but baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes work well.
- Potato Gratin: A potato gratin is a rich and indulgent side dish that can complement the hearty flavors of lasagna. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with cream, cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden brown.
- Potato Salad: A cold potato salad can be a refreshing side dish that contrasts the warm and comforting flavors of lasagna. You can make a classic potato salad with mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs, or try a more creative version with roasted potatoes and a vinaigrette dressing.
Potatoes are a filling and comforting side dish that can complement the flavors of lasagna. Whether you prefer mashed, roasted, or gratin potatoes, there are many ways to incorporate this versatile vegetable into your meal.
Bread Varieties
Alongside lasagna, bread is a popular side dish that complements the flavors of the pasta dish. Here are some bread varieties that you can serve with lasagna:
- Garlic bread: This classic bread variety is a favorite among many lasagna lovers. It’s easy to make and pairs well with the tomato-based sauce of lasagna. You can make garlic bread by toasting bread and spreading garlic butter on top.
- Focaccia: This Italian flatbread is a great option for serving with lasagna. It’s soft and fluffy, making it perfect for sopping up the leftover sauce. You can also add toppings like rosemary or olives to give it an extra flavor boost.
- Baguette: This French bread is another great option for serving with lasagna. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it perfect for dipping in the sauce. You can also slice it and serve it with butter or olive oil.
- Ciabatta: This Italian bread is similar to a baguette but has a more rustic texture. It’s perfect for serving with lasagna because it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce. You can also toast it and add toppings like cheese or herbs.
- Sourdough: This bread has a tangy flavor that pairs well with the richness of lasagna. It’s also sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce. You can slice it and serve it with butter or toast it and add toppings like garlic or cheese.
Overall, bread is a great option for serving with lasagna besides salad. Choose a bread variety that you enjoy and that complements the flavors of the lasagna.
Cheese Platters
If you’re looking for a side dish to pair with lasagna that’s more substantial than a salad, a cheese platter is an excellent option. Cheese platters are versatile and customizable, making them a great option for any occasion.
When creating a cheese platter, it’s important to consider the types of cheeses you want to include. A good rule of thumb is to include a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavors. For example, you might include a soft cheese like brie, a hard cheese like cheddar, and a blue cheese like gorgonzola.
In addition to the cheeses, you can also include a variety of accompaniments on your cheese platter. Some popular options include:
- Crackers or bread
- Fresh or dried fruit
- Nuts
- Olives
- Honey or jam
When selecting accompaniments, it’s important to consider how they will pair with the cheeses you’ve chosen. For example, a mild cheese like brie pairs well with sweet fruits like grapes or figs, while a stronger cheese like gorgonzola pairs well with salty accompaniments like olives.
Overall, a cheese platter is a great option for a side dish to serve with lasagna. It’s versatile, customizable, and provides a range of flavors and textures to complement the lasagna.
Seafood Complements
Lasagna is a hearty and filling dish, and seafood complements can add a lighter touch to the meal. Here are a few seafood options to serve with lasagna:
1. Garlic Shrimp
Garlic shrimp is a classic seafood dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna. The garlic and butter flavors in the shrimp complement the rich tomato sauce in the lasagna. You can serve the shrimp as a side dish or even add it to the top of the lasagna for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Lemon Herb Salmon
Lemon herb salmon is another great seafood option to serve with lasagna. The light and fresh flavors of the salmon pair well with the heavy and rich flavors of the lasagna. You can serve the salmon as a fillet or cut it into smaller pieces and serve it as a side dish.
3. Steamed Mussels
Steamed mussels are a delicious and easy seafood option to serve with lasagna. The mussels can be steamed in white wine and garlic, which pairs well with the tomato sauce in the lasagna. You can serve the mussels in the shell or remove them from the shell and serve them in a bowl.
4. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a great option for a summer barbecue or outdoor dinner party. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs well with the rich tomato sauce in the lasagna. You can also add vegetables to the skewers, such as cherry tomatoes and zucchini, for a complete meal.
Overall, seafood complements are a great way to add variety to your lasagna meal. Whether you choose to serve garlic shrimp, lemon herb salmon, steamed mussels, or grilled shrimp skewers, your guests are sure to be impressed.
Italian Classics
When it comes to pairing side dishes with lasagna, there’s no better way to go than with classic Italian options. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic Italian side dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna. The combination of warm, crusty bread and savory garlic is sure to please any palate. You can make your own garlic bread by spreading garlic butter on slices of Italian bread and toasting them in the oven. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-made garlic bread from your local grocery store.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a simple, yet delicious, Italian side dish that goes great with lasagna. Made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this salad is light and refreshing. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil for added flavor.
Bruschetta
Bruschetta is another classic Italian side dish that pairs well with lasagna. Made with toasted bread, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. You can also top your bruschetta with mozzarella cheese for added richness.
Antipasto Platter
An antipasto platter is a great way to add variety to your lasagna dinner. You can include a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables on your platter for a colorful and flavorful spread. Serve with crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
Italian classics are a surefire way to impress your guests and elevate your lasagna dinner. Try one or all of these options for a delicious and authentic Italian meal.
Desserts After Lasagna
After enjoying a hearty plate of lasagna, you might be wondering what sweet treats would complement it well. Here are some delicious dessert options that will satisfy your sweet tooth and perfectly balance out the savory flavors of your lasagna:
- Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert is a perfect choice for after lasagna. Its layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder make for a rich and indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of lasagna.
- Gelato: Another classic Italian dessert, gelato is a great option for those who prefer something cold and refreshing after their lasagna. Its creamy texture and wide range of flavors, from fruity to nutty to chocolatey, make it a versatile choice that can complement any type of lasagna.
- Panna Cotta: This light and creamy dessert is a great option for those who want something sweet but not too heavy after their lasagna. Its silky texture and delicate flavor make it a perfect palate cleanser that won’t overpower the flavors of your lasagna.
- Fruit Tart: If you’re looking for something light and refreshing after your lasagna, a fruit tart is a great option. Its buttery crust and fresh fruit toppings, such as berries or sliced peaches, provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of your lasagna.
- Cannoli: This crispy pastry filled with sweetened ricotta cheese is a classic Italian dessert that pairs perfectly with lasagna. Its crunchy texture and creamy filling provide a satisfying contrast to the savory flavors of your lasagna.
No matter what type of dessert you choose, be sure to serve it with a strong cup of coffee or espresso to balance out the sweetness and complete your post-lasagna meal.
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FAQs
What appetizer goes well with lasagna?
When choosing an appetizer to serve with lasagna, you’ll want to select something light and refreshing to balance the richness of the main dish. Bruschetta is an excellent choice, featuring toasted bread topped with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Another great option is a Caprese salad, which combines fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, creating a delightful contrast to the hearty lasagna. Both of these appetizers offer a burst of fresh flavors, preparing your palate for the delicious meal ahead.
How many layers should a lasagne have?
A traditional lasagna typically has three to four layers, although this can vary based on personal preference and specific recipes. Each layer consists of lasagna noodles, cheese, meat or vegetable filling, and sauce. It’s important to ensure that you have enough ingredients to create full layers, as this contributes to the structural integrity and overall flavor balance of the dish. Remember, the goal is to achieve a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
What sides go well with pasta?
Pasta is a versatile main dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. For a balanced meal, consider serving a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. If you’re serving a tomato-based pasta, garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the flavors of the sauce. Ultimately, the best side dish will depend on the type of pasta and sauce you are serving.
What is traditionally served with lasagna?
Traditionally, lasagna is served with a few key accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. A simple side salad, often made with mixed greens and a light dressing, helps to cut through the richness of the lasagna. Garlic bread is another classic choice, providing a savory and crispy element that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, meaty layers of the lasagna. For a complete Italian dining experience, you might also consider serving a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which complements the flavors of the lasagna beautifully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are numerous side dishes that go well with lasagna besides salad. Some of the best options include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and Italian chopped salad.
Garlic bread is a classic choice that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. You can either buy pre-made garlic bread or make your own by toasting slices of French bread with garlic butter and herbs. This side dish pairs perfectly with lasagna and helps to soak up any extra sauce.
Roasted vegetables are another great option that adds a healthy touch to your meal. You can roast a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms with olive oil and herbs. This side dish is not only delicious but also adds a pop of color to your plate.
Italian chopped salad is a refreshing and light side dish that complements the richness of lasagna. You can mix together chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and Parmesan cheese with a homemade Italian dressing. This side dish is easy to make and can be prepared in advance.
In summary, when it comes to serving lasagna, don’t limit yourself to just salad. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can find the perfect side dish that will elevate your meal and impress your guests.
