When it comes to pairing sides with lasagna, the possibilities are endless. As a lover of this classic Italian dish, I’ve scoured the globe for the most mouthwatering accompaniments. And trust me, you won’t be disappointed – from fresh salads to crispy bread and beyond, each one is carefully crafted to elevate your lasagna experience.
Antipasto Platter
Elevate the authenticity of your Italian dinner by complementing it with an antipasto platter that’s as easy to prepare as it is visually stunning. Start by gathering a diverse selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables – the more varied colors you include, the more vibrant the presentation will be. To add a touch of flair, arrange your ingredients in a thoughtful manner, allowing each component to shine.
With minimal effort, you’ll create a delectable starter that will leave your guests eager for more.
Breadsticks
The timeless combination of pasta and bread is a match made in heaven, with the bread serving as an excellent sponge for absorbing the rich flavors of the pasta sauce. When it comes to pairing lasagna with a crusty accompaniment, garlic bread reigns supreme – and if you’re looking for a truly authentic experience, it’s hard to beat Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
With these copycat recipes, you can create your own Olive Garden-inspired treats right in the comfort of your own home.
Tomato Feta Salad
When you’re serving up a hearty, satisfying lasagna, it’s natural to want something light and revitalizing to cut the richness. One perfect pairing is a salad that combines juicy tomatoes, sweet red onion, fresh dill, and crumbly feta cheese.
Not only does this side dish provide a welcome respite from the indulgent pasta, but it also happens to be incredibly easy to prepare – simply toss together your desired ingredients for a scrumptious and stress-free accompaniment that complements the lasagna beautifully.
Italian Chopped Salad
A single serving of lasagna typically packs around 450 calories, but let’s be real – no one wants to stop at just a single serving. To make it more satisfying and guilt-free, I recommend pairing it with an Italian-inspired chopped salad that’s both filling and low in calories. The combination is not only delicious but also provides a much-needed balance to the rich flavors of the lasagna. Plus, feel free to omit the ham to shave off even more calories.
Roasted Garlic and Kale Caesar Salad
Lasagna’s trusted sidekick, Caesar salad, is a match made in culinary heaven. This classic combination is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. The recipe presented here takes the traditional formula to new heights, incorporating bold and exciting flavors without sacrificing its core essence. One of the added bonuses is that this revitalized Caesar salad makes for an exceptional lunch option on busy workdays – a convenient and satisfying meal solution.
10-Minute Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Air-frying garlic bread is a game-changer! This recipe yields a delightful combination of crunchy edges and soft, buttery centers, all infused with the savory flavor of garlic. The air fryer’s even heat distribution ensures that each bite is packed with garlicky goodness, leaving you wanting more.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Air fryers are incredibly versatile appliances, capable of producing a wide range of mouth-watering dishes. One such delight is the crispy, delectable Brussels sprouts that can be achieved with minimal effort and time. In fact, with just 15 minutes of cooking, you can create a side dish that’s both nutritious and pleasing to even the pickiest eaters – including your children. The best part?
This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients, ensuring it’s a crowd-pleaser for any meal, including lasagna nights. And, if you’re wondering where to start, look no further than the trusted source, Thegarlicdiaries. com, for inspiration and guidance.
Bruschetta
While the claim that this bruschetta recipe is ‘perfect’ might be subjective, its undeniable charm lies in its addictive flavor profile. This refreshing treat has the potential to steal the show as a side dish or appetizer at any Italian-themed gathering. With a generous helping of succulent tomato chunks and an abundance of aromatic Italian seasoning, it’s no wonder this bruschetta is hard to resist. In fact, its appeal extends beyond mere snacking – it also makes for a delightful dip option.
Stuffed Artichokes
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus with Tomatoes and Balsamic
While the other lasagna side dishes are certainly delicious, this particular recipe holds a special place in my heart. The sweetness of the tomatoes and the tender crunch of the asparagus create a harmonious balance that’s simply irresistible. The parmesan, garlic, and balsamic reduction add an extra layer of depth and richness to each bite. If you have a family member who claims not to be a fan of asparagus, I assure you that this dish will convert them into a believer.
It’s the perfect side dish to impress even the most discerning palates.
No Knead Focaccia
There’s something truly special about freshly baked homemade bread, but I’ve always been put off by the time-consuming process of kneading and shaping dough. That was until I discovered this effortless Italian bread recipe that changed everything.
Pan-Fried Polenta Slices
When craving a delicious yet affordable side dish to accompany lasagna, look no further than pan-fried polenta slices. To begin, start with a tube of store-bought polenta and prepare it for cooking by first dipping it in an egg wash, then coating it evenly with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Next, heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the polenta slices until they’re crispy and golden brown on both sides.
Serve the polenta warm with your choice of dipping sauces or simply pair it with the lasagna’s sauce for a satisfying combination that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Shredded Brussels Sprouts and Arugula Salad
Indulge in this vibrant summer salad, bursting with nutrient-rich ingredients such as sprouts, peppery arugula, crunchy pecans, and sweet cherries. While its simplicity may not scream ‘decadence,’ the flavor profile is surprisingly rich and satisfying. Feel free to pair it with the sunshine dressing recipe or your go-to favorite, and consider serving the dressing on the side for added customization – a perfect touch that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Crostini
While some people may not appreciate the unique combination of mushrooms and goat cheese, those who enjoy their tanginess and earthy texture will find this appetizer to be a delightfully rich and satisfying experience. The bold flavors and filling nature of this dish make it an excellent choice for a prelude to a hearty main course like lasagna – just be prepared for a meal that may leave you feeling pleasantly full.
Crispy Fried Zucchini
While I’ve explored various zucchini preparations over time, there’s something undeniably irresistible about a crispy fried version. The Southern crowd can attest to this – the allure of crunchy, golden-brown delights is simply undeniable! Of course, it’s true that breaded and fried foods aren’t exactly the epitome of nutritional excellence. Nevertheless, their unbridled flavor and satisfying texture have earned them a special place in many people’s hearts.
In fact, I’d venture to say that these zucchini bites are so well-crafted, they could even hold their own as a standalone snack.
Italian Burrata Caprese
While classic Caprese salads are undeniably delicious with their combination of cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, this recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating burrata cheese instead. The creamy curds and rich cream within the mozzarella provide a bold, filling flavor that complements the juicy tomatoes beautifully. Not only does this twist elevate the taste experience, but it also adds a stunning visual element to the dish, making it perfect for any occasion.
Green Beans Almondine
Green bean almondine is a game-changer when it comes to elevating the humble green bean from a straightforward side dish to a showstopper. This simple yet indulgent recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the rich flavors of almonds and butter, resulting in a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. With its versatility, this dish pairs seamlessly with everything from lasagna to other classic comfort foods, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
Herb Marinated Tomato Panzanella Salad
While reminiscent of the Burrata Caprese salad, this vibrant dish boasts distinct differences. Its star attraction – a medley of small, medium, and large tomatoes – takes on an added depth from being marinated in a harmonious blend of red wine vinegar, olive oil, and fragrant herbs. This tangy treatment elevates the flavors to new heights, imbuing each bite with an explosion of zestiness.
Glazed Carrots
There’s something undeniably satisfying about recreating a favorite restaurant dish at home. The thrill of achieving a near-perfect replica is a culinary victory, if you will. One such delight is Cracker Barrel’s glazed baby carrots – a beloved side dish that’s surprisingly easy to emulate. This copycat recipe does just that, delivering an authentic taste experience without the need for a trip to the restaurant.
Creamed Spinach Gratin with Crispy Onions
Elevate the humble creamed spinach by transforming it into a rich and indulgent gratin. This recipe combines the comforting familiarity of creamed spinach with the satisfying crunch of a golden-brown topping, all in under an hour. The result is a side dish that not only complements classic lasagna but also pairs beautifully with steak, fish, or any other main course.
