Lasagna, with its layers of flavorful pasta, meaty sauce, and melted cheese, is a delectable dish that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. But what’s the perfect accompaniment to this Italian favorite? Choosing the right side dish can elevate your lasagna experience to new heights, complementing the rich flavors and adding variety to your meal. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or a hearty side that can stand up to the robust flavors of lasagna, this article will guide you through a list of mouthwatering options that are sure to please your taste buds. Get ready to discover the perfect pairing for your lasagna feast!
Salads
Green Salad
A green salad is a classic and refreshing choice to serve alongside lasagna. With its vibrant colors and crisp textures, a green salad offers a delightful contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of lasagna. You can create a simple green salad by combining fresh lettuce leaves, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and carrots. To add a burst of flavor, consider adding some tangy vinaigrette dressing or a creamy Caesar dressing.
Caesar Salad
When it comes to serving a salad that complements lasagna perfectly, you can never go wrong with a Caesar salad. This classic salad is known for its creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese. The combination of romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that pairs exceptionally well with the robust taste of lasagna.
Caprese Salad
If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your lasagna meal, a Caprese salad is an excellent choice. This salad is a celebration of fresh and vibrant ingredients, featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle some balsamic glaze or olive oil over the salad to enhance the flavors and create a beautiful presentation. The light and refreshing nature of a Caprese salad perfectly balances the richness of lasagna.
Greek Salad
For a Mediterranean twist to your lasagna dinner, a Greek salad is a fantastic option. With its combination of flavors and textures, this salad brings a burst of freshness to your plate. Featuring crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, cucumber slices, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, a Greek salad offers a delightful mix of savory and tangy flavors. Drizzle some Greek dressing over the salad to tie all the ingredients together and create a truly satisfying accompaniment to your lasagna.
Antipasto Salad
If you’re looking to serve a more substantial and savory salad, an antipasto salad is the perfect choice. This Italian-inspired salad is a hearty combination of cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The antipasto salad offers a variety of flavors and textures, from the rich and smoky flavors of salami and prosciutto to the tanginess of marinated artichoke hearts and olives. To enhance the flavors, you can drizzle some balsamic glaze or Italian dressing over the salad.
Breads
Garlic Bread
No Italian meal is complete without a delicious serving of garlic bread. The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. A warm and crusty garlic bread perfectly complements the richness of lasagna. It’s easy to make at home by slicing a loaf of bread, generously spreading a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and herbs, and then toasting it in the oven until golden and fragrant. The crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior of garlic bread create a delightful contrast to the lasagna’s creamy and meaty layers.
Cheesy Breadsticks
If you’re looking for a handheld bread option to serve alongside your lasagna, cheesy breadsticks are an excellent choice. These delicious breadsticks are made with pizza dough or homemade bread dough, which is rolled into thin sticks, brushed with garlic butter, and then sprinkled with a generous amount of melted cheese. They are then baked until golden and gooey, creating a perfect combination of cheesy goodness and garlic-infused flavors. The soft and chewy texture of the breadsticks adds another dimension of enjoyment to your lasagna meal.
Focaccia
Another fantastic bread option to accompany your lasagna is focaccia. This Italian flatbread is characterized by its fluffy and pillowy texture and its aromatic crust. Focaccia can be easily made at home by combining flour, yeast, olive oil, water, and a sprinkle of salt. The dough is then shaped and allowed to rise before being baked to perfection. You can customize your focaccia by adding toppings such as rosemary, garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, or even caramelized onions. The savory and herbaceous flavors of focaccia complement the rich and savory flavors of lasagna beautifully.
Herb Buttered Rolls
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious bread option, herb buttered rolls are a great choice. These soft and fluffy rolls are brushed with a generous amount of melted butter infused with herbs and garlic. The aroma of the freshly baked rolls and the richness of the herb-infused butter make them a perfect accompaniment to lasagna. The soft and buttery texture of the rolls provides a satisfying contrast to the hearty lasagna.
Cornbread
For a touch of Southern comfort, cornbread is an excellent choice to serve alongside your lasagna. This slightly sweet and moist bread is made with cornmeal, flour, sugar, butter, and buttermilk. The combination of flavors and textures, with its crispy exterior and tender interior, creates a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of lasagna. Whether you prefer your cornbread plain or with added ingredients like cheese or jalapeños, it is sure to be a hit at your lasagna feast.
Vegetable Sides
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a versatile and flavorful side dish that pairs exceptionally well with lasagna. By roasting vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes in the oven, you can bring out their natural sweetness and enhance their flavors. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, and then roast them until tender and slightly caramelized. The combination of the roasted veggies’ hearty flavors and the savory lasagna creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Sautéed Spinach
If you’re looking to incorporate some greens into your lasagna meal, sautéed spinach is a simple and nutritious choice. Heat some olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Then, add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors. The tender and nutrient-packed spinach adds a vibrant burst of green to your plate and complements the richness of the lasagna beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a delicious and elegant side dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna. The charred and smoky flavors achieved from grilling asparagus spears make them irresistible. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs, and then grill them until they are slightly tender and have beautiful grill marks. The earthy and slightly nutty flavors of grilled asparagus provide a delightful contrast to the robust taste of lasagna.
Steamed Broccoli
For a simple and nutritious vegetable side, steamed broccoli is an excellent choice. Steam the broccoli until it is bright green and tender, and then season it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The mild and slightly sweet flavors of steamed broccoli are a pleasant addition to the rich and savory flavors of lasagna. You can also drizzle some lemon juice over the broccoli to add a hint of brightness.
Zucchini Parmesan
For a twist on the traditional eggplant Parmesan, zucchini Parmesan is a flavorful and lighter alternative. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds, dip them in egg wash, coat them in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and herbs, and then bake or fry them until golden and crispy. Serve the zucchini Parmesan alongside your lasagna for a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the zucchini, combined with the melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce, create a delectable contrast to the lasagna’s creamy and robust flavors.
Starchy Sides
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to classic comfort foods, mashed potatoes are an unbeatable choice. Creamy, buttery, and rich, mashed potatoes perfectly complement the flavors of lasagna. You can make them by boiling peeled and diced potatoes until tender, mashing them, and then adding butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper. The creamy and velvety texture of mashed potatoes adds a comforting element to your lasagna meal.
Garlic Butter Pasta
For a carb-loaded delight, garlic butter pasta is a fantastic choice to serve alongside your lasagna. Cook your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, according to the package instructions. Then, in a pan, melt butter with minced garlic until fragrant and add cooked pasta, tossing until coated with the garlic butter. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs, such as parsley or basil. The flavors of the garlic-infused butter and the al dente pasta provide a heavenly pairing with the rich and flavorful lasagna.
Risotto
If you’re looking to elevate your lasagna experience, risotto is a luxurious side dish that will impress your guests. This creamy Italian rice dish is made by slowly cooking Arborio rice in broth while continuously stirring. The result is a velvety and buttery rice with a delicate yet satisfying texture. You can add ingredients such as mushrooms, peas, or Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors. The creamy and decadent nature of risotto elevates the lasagna experience to new heights.
Polenta
A wonderful option for a starchy side dish is polenta. This Italian cornmeal dish has a creamy and smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with lasagna. Polenta is made by simmering cornmeal in water or broth until it thickens and becomes soft. You can then stir in butter, cheese, herbs, or any desired flavorings to enhance the taste. The velvety and slightly sweet nature of polenta adds a comforting element to your lasagna meal.
Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness and a little crunch to your lasagna meal, sweet potato fries are an excellent choice. These crispy and flavorful fries are made by cutting sweet potatoes into thin strips, tossing them in oil, and baking them until golden and slightly caramelized. The natural sweetness of the fries pairs perfectly with the savory and robust flavors of lasagna, creating a memorable combination.
Protein Sides
Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a versatile protein side dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna. Marinate chicken breasts or thighs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, and then grill them until they are juicy and cooked through. The tender and flavorful grilled chicken adds a protein-packed element to your lasagna meal and complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Italian Sausages
If you’re craving a bold and savory protein to accompany your lasagna, Italian sausages are a delightful choice. Whether you prefer sweet or spicy Italian sausages, grilling or pan-frying them brings out their flavorful juices and creates a crisp exterior. The rich and robust flavors of Italian sausages perfectly complement the flavors of lasagna, creating a satisfying and hearty meal.
Meatballs
Meatballs are a classic Italian dish that can be served as a protein side alongside your lasagna. Whether you choose beef, pork, or a combination of meats, meatballs are versatile and flavorful. Season the meat mixture with herbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and eggs, and then shape them into small balls. You can cook them in marinara sauce or bake them in the oven until they are cooked through and slightly browned. The tender and savory meatballs add another layer of texture and flavor to your lasagna meal.
Baked Salmon
For a lighter and healthier protein option, baked salmon is an excellent choice to serve alongside lasagna. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and herbs, such as dill or lemon zest, and then bake them until they are flaky and tender. The delicate and mild flavors of baked salmon provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and robust taste of lasagna.
Eggplant Parmesan
For a vegetarian delight and a twist on the classic Italian dish, Eggplant Parmesan is a perfect protein side to serve with lasagna. Slice the eggplant into rounds, coat them in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, and then fry them until golden and crispy. Layer the fried eggplant slices with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and then bake until bubbly and golden. The crispy exterior, tender interior, and cheesy goodness of Eggplant Parmesan elevate the lasagna experience to new heights.
Italian Appetizers
Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer that serves as an excellent way to start your lasagna feast. It consists of grilled or toasted bread slices rubbed with garlic, drizzled with olive oil, and topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The combination of the crispy bread, garlicky flavors, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a burst of flavors that prepares your palate for the main course.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a delightful and visually stunning appetizer that brings together the classic ingredients of Caprese salad on a skewer. Alternate grape tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves on skewers, and then drizzle them with balsamic glaze or olive oil. The combination of the sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and tangy glaze creates a delicious bite-sized appetizer that pairs beautifully with the flavors of lasagna.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and savory appetizer that can be easily prepared ahead of time. Large mushroom caps are filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, herbs, and olive oil, and then baked until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and crispy. The earthy and meaty flavors of the mushrooms, combined with the aromatic herbs and cheesy filling, make for a delightful appetizer before enjoying your lasagna.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon
For a refreshing and elegant appetizer, prosciutto-wrapped melon is an excellent choice. Sweet and juicy melon, such as cantaloupe or honeydew, is wrapped with thin slices of prosciutto, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the melon perfectly balances the salty and savory prosciutto, offering a tantalizing combination that prepares your taste buds for the lasagna feast.
Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)
Arancini, also known as Italian rice balls, are a delightful and indulgent appetizer that will make a memorable addition to your lasagna meal. These crispy and golden balls are made by combining cooked risotto with cheese, shaping them into balls or cones, rolling them in breadcrumbs, and then frying them until golden and crispy. The creamy rice interior and the crisp exterior create a satisfying contrast, and the melted cheese adds a burst of flavor. Arancini is a delicious and satisfying way to start your lasagna feast.
Dips and Sauces
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce is an essential accompaniment to any Italian meal, including lasagna. This classic tomato-based sauce is made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and olive oil. It simmers slowly to develop rich and robust flavors. Marinara sauce can be used as a topping for lasagna or as a dip for garlic bread or breadsticks. Its tangy and savory nature perfectly complements the cheesy layers and meaty flavors of lasagna.
Alfredo Sauce
For a creamy and indulgent sauce to serve with your lasagna, Alfredo sauce is a fantastic choice. This velvety and rich sauce is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a luscious and sauce that coats the lasagna noodles beautifully. The creamy and delicate flavors of Alfredo sauce marry perfectly with the comforting taste of lasagna.
Pesto Sauce
Pesto sauce is a vibrant and herbaceous sauce that brings a burst of flavor to your lasagna. This sauce is traditionally made by combining fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. The result is a vibrant and aromatic sauce that adds a touch of freshness and tanginess to your lasagna. Pesto sauce can be used as a topping, a filling, or a dip to enhance the flavors of your lasagna.
Tomato Basil Dip
For a unique and flavorful dip to serve alongside your lasagna, tomato basil dip is an excellent choice. This dip is made by combining fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil leaves, cream cheese, mayonnaise, and spices. The combination of tangy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy textures creates a dip that perfectly complements the lasagna’s flavors. Serve it with breadsticks, bread slices, or even vegetable crudites for a delightful appetizer.
Cheese Dip
If you’re looking to add a touch of indulgence to your lasagna meal, a cheese dip is a perfect choice. This creamy and cheesy dip can be made with a variety of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyere. Melt the cheese with cream or milk, add some spices or herbs for extra flavor, and then serve it warm alongside your lasagna. The creamy and rich nature of the cheese dip creates a delightful contrast to the robust flavors of lasagna.
Soups
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a hearty and flavorful Italian soup that makes for a satisfying side dish to accompany your lasagna. This vegetable-based soup is traditionally made with a medley of vegetables, beans, pasta, and a savory broth. The combination of flavors and textures in minestrone soup, with its tender vegetables, al dente pasta, and savory broth, provides a comforting and nutritious addition to your lasagna meal.
Tomato Soup
For a classic and comforting soup option, tomato soup is an excellent choice to serve alongside your lasagna. This velvety and rich soup can be made with fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a hint of cream. The tangy and savory flavors of tomato soup pair perfectly with the rich and robust taste of lasagna. Serve it with some crusty bread or grilled cheese for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup is a flavorful and hearty soup that consists of meatballs, vegetables, and pasta. Traditionally made with a combination of ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, the meatballs are cooked in a savory broth along with vegetables like spinach, carrots, and onions. The addition of small pasta shapes like orzo or acini di pepe adds another level of heartiness to the soup. The savory broth, tender meatballs, and aromatic vegetables in Italian wedding soup complement the flavors of lasagna wonderfully.
Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta e Fagioli, which translates to “pasta and beans,” is a rustic and satisfying Italian soup that can be served alongside lasagna. This soup is traditionally made with a combination of pasta, beans (such as cannellini or kidney beans), vegetables, tomato-based broth, and aromatic herbs. The soup is rich, hearty and packed with flavors, making it an excellent choice to enhance your lasagna experience.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
For a twist on the classic tomato soup, creamy tomato basil soup is a fantastic option to serve with lasagna. This soup combines the tangy and savory flavors of tomato soup with the freshness and herbaceousness of basil. The addition of cream or milk creates a velvety and comforting texture. The creamy and slightly sweet nature of this soup perfectly complements the savory and robust flavors of lasagna.
Wine Pairings
Chianti
Chianti is a classic choice for pairing with lasagna. This Italian red wine hails from the Tuscany region and is known for its medium body, bright acidity, and fruity flavors. The flavors and aromas of cherries, plum, and spices in Chianti complement the rich and savory flavors of lasagna beautifully. Whether you prefer a traditional Chianti Classico or a more modern Chianti Riserva, this wine is sure to enhance your lasagna dining experience.
Barbera
Barbera is another excellent wine choice to serve with lasagna. This Italian red wine variety is known for its vibrant acidity, medium body, and fruity flavors. Barbera wines typically exhibit flavors of dark berries, cherries, and herbs. The high acidity of Barbera helps to cut through the richness of lasagna and refreshes the palate with every sip. Whether you choose a Barbera d’Alba or a Barbera d’Asti, this wine is sure to elevate your lasagna meal.
Sangiovese
Sangiovese is a classic Italian red wine that pairs wonderfully with lasagna. This grape is the backbone of many famous Italian wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Sangiovese wines are characterized by their medium body, high acidity, and flavors of red fruits, herbs, and spices. The bright acidity and earthy flavors in Sangiovese are an excellent complement to the rich and savory flavors of lasagna. Whether you choose a Sangiovese from Tuscany or another Italian region, this wine is sure to enhance your dining experience.
Merlot
Merlot is a versatile and crowd-pleasing red wine that can be successfully paired with lasagna. This grape variety is known for its medium to full body, smooth tannins, and flavors of blackberries, plums, and herbs. The soft and approachable nature of Merlot makes it an excellent choice to complement the richness of lasagna. Whether you choose a Merlot from Bordeaux or from another wine-growing region, this wine is sure to add depth and enjoyment to your lasagna meal.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is an elegant and delicate red wine that makes for a fantastic pairing with lasagna. This grape variety is known for its light to medium body, low tannins, and flavors of red berries, cherries, and spices. The silky texture and subtle flavors of Pinot Noir do not overpower the flavors of lasagna but rather enhance them. Whether you choose a Pinot Noir from Burgundy or another wine region, this wine is sure to bring an element of finesse and grace to your dining experience.
Desserts
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that is a must-have after a lasagna meal. This exquisite dessert consists of layers of ladyfinger cookies soaked in coffee and liqueur, creamy mascarpone cheese filling, and a dusting of cocoa powder. The combination of flavors and textures in tiramisu, from the tender and soaked ladyfingers to the rich and luscious mascarpone cream, creates a heavenly treat that perfectly rounds off your lasagna feast.
Cannoli
Cannoli is a beloved Italian dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds after a lasagna meal. These crispy and shell-shaped pastries are filled with a creamy and sweet ricotta cheese mixture. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and some chopped pistachios or chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence. The contrasting textures and flavors in cannoli, from the crunchy shell to the smooth and sweet filling, provide a delightful and satisfying end to your lasagna dinner.
Panna Cotta
For a light and creamy dessert option, panna cotta is an excellent choice after a hearty lasagna meal. This Italian dessert is made by simmering cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla until the mixture thickens and then setting it with gelatin. The resulting dessert has a velvety and delicate texture that melts in your mouth. Panna cotta can be served as is or with a drizzle of fruit sauce or caramel. The subtle and creamy flavors of panna cotta provide a refreshing and satisfying end to your lasagna feast.
Gelato
Gelato is a classic Italian frozen dessert that offers a refreshing and delightful option after enjoying lasagna. Made with milk instead of cream, gelato has a lower fat content than traditional ice cream, resulting in a denser and silkier texture. The flavors of gelato range from classic options like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry to more unique and adventurous choices like pistachio, hazelnut, or fruit flavors. The creamy and smooth nature of gelato provides a cooling and indulgent experience after a flavorful lasagna meal.
Biscotti
Biscotti are delightful Italian cookies that are perfect for dipping into a hot beverage after enjoying lasagna. These twice-baked cookies are characterized by their crispy and crunchy texture. Biscotti are often flavored with almonds, pistachios, or chocolate. The dry and crunchy nature of these cookies allows them to hold up well in hot drinks like coffee or tea. The combination of flavors and textures in biscotti, from the nutty or chocolatey flavors to the satisfying crunch, adds a delightful bite-sized treat to your lasagna dining experience.
