Sure, lasagna is THE classic Italian meal, but the cheesy pasta is nothing without mouthwatering sides! Imagine a crispy cheesy garlic bread or a colorful salad with bite. These 46+ lasagna sides are so good, you might forget there’s a main dish too!
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Appetizers to Complement Lasagna: My Top Picks
When I'm planning appetizers to serve before lasagna, I always aim to balance flavors and textures to complement the hearty main dish. By choosing a mix of these appetizers, I can ensure my lasagna dinner is both well-rounded and memorable, offering a variety of flavors and textures that enhance the dining experience. Here are some of my favorites:
Classic Italian Starters
Bruschetta: I love starting with bruschetta. This traditional Italian appetizer features toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. The crisp texture and tangy flavors provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of lasagna.
Antipasto Platter: This versatile choice can include an assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, and crusty bread. The variety allows guests to pick and choose their favorites, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Caprese Salad: Combining fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, often drizzled with balsamic glaze, this light and flavorful salad pairs well with lasagna's robust flavors.
Soups
Minestrone Soup: A classic Italian vegetable soup that's hearty yet light, making it an ideal starter. Its blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta can whet the appetite without being too filling.
Roasted Garlic Soup: For a warm and savory start, this soup provides a rich garlic flavor that complements the cheesy goodness of lasagna.
Finger Foods and Dips
Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with cheese, herbs, and sometimes sausage, these bite-sized delights are both savory and satisfying.
Spinach Artichoke Dip: Served with bread or crackers, this creamy dip offers a delightful combination of flavors that are perfect for snacking before the main course.
Sweet Pea Pesto Crostini: Combining sweet peas and basil on toasted bread, this appetizer is both flavorful and easy to eat.
Vegetable-Based Options
Sautéed or Roasted Vegetables: Options like sautéed broccolini, roasted asparagus, or balsamic Brussels sprouts provide a healthy and delicious way to start the meal. These vegetables add a burst of color and a light, refreshing taste to balance the heaviness of lasagna.
Vegetable Skewers: Grilled or roasted vegetable skewers, possibly with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, offer a simple yet tasty appetizer that pairs well with Italian cuisine.
Side Dishes To Serve With Lasagna
As a lasagna lover and someone who constantly craves variety in my meals, I’m excited to share some of my favorite side dishes that perfectly complement this Italian classic.
Vegetables
Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sprouts are seasoned to perfection. They add a delightful crunch to your lasagna meal.
- Roasted Carrots with Parmesan: Sweet roasted carrots topped with a crispy Parmesan crust. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
- Roasted Broccoli: Perfectly seasoned broccoli florets roasted until crisp and caramelized. A simple yet flavorful addition.
- Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan and Garlic: Asparagus spears roasted with garlic and Parmesan for added flavor. These are always a hit at my dinner parties.
- Roasted Cauliflower: Golden-brown roasted cauliflower with a sweet, nutty flavor. It’s a delicious and healthy option.
Sautéed or Steamed Vegetables
- Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Quick and easy spinach sautéed with garlic. It’s a fresh and tasty side.
- Sautéed Broccoli Rabe: Lightly blanched and sautéed broccoli rabe, reducing bitterness and enhancing flavor. It’s a unique and delicious choice.
- Steamed Asparagus: Simply steamed asparagus with a fresh, crisp texture. Perfect for balancing out the richness of lasagna.
- Sautéed Zucchini with Lemon and Garlic: Zucchini sautéed with lemon and garlic for a light, flavorful side. A great way to add some zest to your meal.
Vegetable Casseroles
- Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole: A cheesy baked casserole loaded with broccoli and cauliflower. It’s comfort food at its best.
- Creamy White Sauce Cauliflower Casserole: Cauliflower baked in a creamy white sauce with a crunchy cheese topping. It’s indulgent and satisfying.
Salads
Leafy Salads
- Caesar Salad: Classic salad with chopped romaine, Parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing. It’s a timeless favorite.
- Arugula Salad: Fresh arugula with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. Light and refreshing.
- Kale Salad: Nutrient-rich kale dressed with your choice of vinaigrette. It’s a healthy and tasty option.
- Italian House Salad: Mixed greens with tomatoes, onions, and a light Italian dressing. A great addition to any Italian meal.
- Endive Salad: Crisp endive leaves with orange vinaigrette, toasted walnuts, and Parmesan. It’s a sophisticated and flavorful salad.
Specialty Salads
- Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a beautiful and delicious choice.
- Shredded Brussels Sprouts and Arugula Salad: A mix of shredded Brussels sprouts and arugula with pecans and cherries. It’s a unique and tasty salad.
- Cranberry Raspberry Jello Salad: Festive salad with raspberry jello, cranberry sauce, pineapple, and a creamsicle topping. It’s a sweet and fun addition.
Breads
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slices spread with garlic butter. A must-have with lasagna.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, chewy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter. Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
- Focaccia Bread: Various types including no-knead focaccia and focaccia with tomatoes and herbs. It’s flavorful and versatile.
- No-Knead Ciabatta Bread: Simple, airy ciabatta bread without the need for kneading. Perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
Other Sides
Polenta
- Pan-Fried Polenta Slices: Crispy, golden-brown polenta slices served with dipping sauces. They’re a delightful and unique side.
Bean and Legume Sides
- Green Beans Almondine: Green beans with sautéed shallots and buttery sliced almonds. It’s a classic and delicious choice.
- Italian Green Beans with Tomatoes and Garlic: Green beans tossed with tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. A flavorful and healthy side.
Miscellaneous
- Mushroom and Goat Cheese Crostini: Rich, savory crostini topped with mushrooms and goat cheese. They’re a perfect appetizer or side.
- Fried Zucchini: Crispy, breaded zucchini slices. They’re always a hit.
Soups
Broth-Based Soups
- Minestrone: Hearty vegetable soup with beans and pasta. It’s a classic and comforting choice.
- Italian Wedding Soup: Savory broth with meatballs and greens. A delicious and warming option.
- Vegetable Soup: A light, nutritious soup packed with vegetables. Perfect for a healthy side.
Cream-Based Soups
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Rich, creamy soup made with fresh tomatoes and basil. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Mushroom Soup: Earthy, creamy mushroom soup. Perfect for mushroom lovers.
- Potato Leek Soup: Smooth, creamy soup with potatoes and leeks. It’s hearty and satisfying.
Cheese and Charcuterie
Cheese Boards
- Assorted Italian Cheeses: A selection of cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta. Perfect for a pre-dinner snack.
- Fresh Burrata with Tomatoes and Basil: Creamy burrata paired with tomatoes and basil. It’s a luxurious and tasty choice.
Charcuterie
- Italian Cured Meats: A variety of meats including prosciutto and salami. Perfect for meat lovers.
- Olives and Pickled Vegetables: Assorted olives and pickled veggies for a tangy bite. Great for adding some variety.
Grains and Starches
Rice Dishes
- Parmesan Risotto: Creamy risotto with Parmesan cheese. It’s rich and delicious.
- Mushroom Risotto: Rich risotto with sautéed mushrooms. A perfect match for lasagna.
Potato Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes with garlic. Always a favorite.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes with Herbs: Baby potatoes roasted with herbs until crispy. They’re simple and delicious.
Unique Sides
Stuffed Vegetables
- Stuffed Artichokes: Artichokes stuffed with a mixture of cheese and breadcrumbs. They’re a unique and tasty side.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with a savory stuffing. They’re flavorful and filling.
Savory Pies and Tarts
- Spinach and Ricotta Tart: A savory tart filled with spinach and ricotta. It’s a delightful addition.
- Tomato Basil Tart: Fresh tomatoes and basil in a flaky tart shell. It’s light and delicious.
Desserts to Pair with Lasagna
When I serve a hearty and savory dish like lasagna, I always make sure to follow it up with a dessert that complements its rich flavors. Here are some of my favorite classic Italian desserts, fruit-based options, and refreshing frozen treats that pair beautifully with lasagna.
Classic Italian Desserts:
Tiramisu:
One of my absolute favorites, Tiramisu is a quintessential Italian dessert made of layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. The creamy texture and coffee flavor perfectly contrast the robust taste of lasagna.
Cannoli:
Cannoli are delightful crispy pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese mixed with chocolate chips, candied fruit, or nuts. These pastries offer a satisfying crunch and a rich, creamy filling that balances the savory notes of lasagna.
Panna Cotta:
This silky, creamy dessert made with sweetened cream thickened with gelatin and often flavored with vanilla is a dream. Panna Cotta is usually served with a fruity sauce, such as raspberry or strawberry, adding a refreshing element that complements lasagna’s flavors.
Fruit-Based Desserts:
Lemon Bars:
Lemon bars are a refreshing dessert with a tangy lemon filling on a buttery shortbread crust. Their bright citrus flavor and light texture provide a nice contrast to the heaviness of lasagna.
Fresh Fruit Salad with Mint:
I love a simple yet elegant option like a fresh fruit salad with a hint of mint. Using a variety of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and citrus helps cleanse the palate and adds a burst of freshness after a rich meal.
Italian Apple Cake (Torta di Mele):
This traditional Italian cake, made with apples, olive oil, and a touch of cinnamon, is moist and flavorful. It’s a comforting end to a lasagna meal without being overly sweet or heavy.
Frozen Treats:
Gelato:
Gelato, Italy’s version of ice cream, is denser and more flavorful than its American counterpart. I like to choose classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio to keep it simple, or go for fruit flavors like strawberry or lemon for a refreshing finish.
Sorbet:
Sorbet, a dairy-free frozen dessert made from fruit puree, sugar, and water, is light and refreshing. It’s an excellent choice to cleanse the palate after a rich lasagna. Popular flavors I recommend include lemon, raspberry, and mango.
Tips for Pairing Desserts with Lasagna
Consider the Meal’s Flavors
It's important to choose desserts that either contrast or complement the rich, savory flavors of lasagna. For example, a dessert with a creamy texture like Tiramisu contrasts beautifully with lasagna, while something like Panna Cotta can complement the flavors perfectly.
Keep It Light
Lasagna is quite filling, so during the summer or warmer months, I find that lighter desserts like fruit salads or sorbets are often more appealing. These options are refreshing and won't leave you feeling overly stuffed.
Balance the Sweetness
To maintain a balanced meal experience, I avoid overly sweet desserts. Instead, I opt for desserts with a hint of tartness or natural sweetness. Lemon bars or a fresh fruit salad with mint are perfect examples of how to end a rich meal on a lighter note.
Drinks That Go Well with Lasagna
When I'm pairing drinks with lasagna, I love to explore both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options that can truly enhance the dining experience by complementing the dish's rich, layered flavors.
Alcoholic Drinks
Wine:
Red Wines: Lasagna pairs beautifully with acidic and fruity red wines. Chianti Classico, with its bright cherry flavors and high acidity, is a classic choice that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat. Other suitable red wines include Barbera, known for its low tannins and refreshing acidity, and Pinot Noir, which offers a light, fruity profile that complements mushroom lasagna.
White Wines: For seafood or vegetable lasagna, I recommend a dry Italian white like Gavi or a rich Chardonnay. These wines balance the delicate flavors of seafood or the earthy notes of vegetables perfectly.
Cocktails:
Bloody Mary: The tomato juice in a Bloody Mary echoes the tomato sauce in lasagna, while the cocktail's spiciness adds an exciting contrast to the creamy cheese layers.
Aperol Spritz: This cocktail’s effervescence and bittersweet taste can refresh the palate between bites of lasagna, making it an excellent choice.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks
Lemonade: Its sweet and tangy flavor cuts through the lasagna’s richness. Adding herbs like basil or thyme can enhance its freshness, making it even more delightful.
Sparkling Water: This option cleanses the palate between bites, and adding a slice of lemon or lime provides extra zest. It’s a simple yet effective choice to keep things light.
Ginger Ale: With its spicy and sweet profile, ginger ale balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and helps settle the stomach after a heavy meal.
Iced Tea: A refreshing choice, iced tea offers a balance of sweetness and acidity that complements the flavors of lasagna, making it a great non-alcoholic option.
How to store side dishes for lasagna
Storing side dishes for lasagna properly is crucial to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here are my go-to tips and methods:
Salads
Green Salads: To prevent sogginess, I always keep the components separate until serving. Store the greens in a sealed container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, and keep the dressings in a separate container.
Pasta Salads: These can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. I keep them in airtight containers and add any fresh herbs or delicate ingredients just before serving.
Bread and Breadsticks
Garlic Bread/Breadsticks: After baking, I let them cool completely, then wrap them in aluminum foil. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Reheat in the oven wrapped in foil to retain moisture and crispness.
Roasted Vegetables
I store roasted vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator, where they generally last 3-4 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain their texture.
Soups
Soups like minestrone or tomato basil can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. I use airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion if freezing. Reheat on the stove over medium heat.
Bruschetta and Crostini
For bruschetta, I store the toasted bread and the topping separately. The topping goes in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Assemble just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
Cooked Vegetables
Vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach should be stored in airtight containers in the fridge, where they usually last for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking.
Desserts
If I’m serving desserts like tiramisu or panna cotta with lasagna, these can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Tiramisu can last for up to a week, while panna cotta is best consumed within 3-4 days.
The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Perfect Lasagna Dinner Party
Hosting a lasagna dinner party is one of my favorite ways to gather friends and family around a table filled with comfort food. To make your dinner party memorable and stress-free, it's essential to have the right products for preparation, cooking, serving, and cleanup. Here’s my guide to the best products that will elevate your lasagna dinner party experience.
Preparation
High-Quality Bakeware: Investing in a durable lasagna pan is key. I love the USA Pan Nonstick Aluminized Steel Lasagna Pan for its sturdy construction and excellent heat distribution. Its nonstick surface makes cleanup a breeze, and its depth is perfect for multiple layers of lasagna.
Efficient Cutting Tools: A good chef’s knife is indispensable for prepping ingredients. My go-to is the Wüsthof Classic Chef’s Knife, which provides precision and control, making it easier to slice vegetables and meats for your lasagna.
Mixing Bowls: Sturdy mixing bowls like the Pyrex Smart Essentials Mixing Bowl Set are perfect for mixing cheese, sauces, and other ingredients. They are microwave and dishwasher safe, ensuring easy use and cleanup.
Cooking
Reliable Cookware: For making sauces and boiling noodles, the All-Clad Stainless Steel Pot is ideal. It heats evenly and is easy to clean, making it a staple in my kitchen.
Slow Cooker: To prepare meat sauces in advance, a slow cooker like the Crock-Pot Programmable Slow Cooker is perfect. It allows you to simmer your sauce to perfection without constant monitoring.
Serving
Elegant Serveware: The Le Creuset Signature Roaster not only cooks your lasagna evenly but also looks beautiful on the table. Its cast-iron construction retains heat well, keeping your lasagna warm throughout the meal.
Buffet Setup: Setting up a buffet can streamline serving and give your guests the freedom to serve themselves. I like to use labels to identify dishes and place plates at the beginning of the line with cutlery at the end for easy access.
Drink Station: Create a separate station for drinks to avoid congestion. This setup ensures smooth flow and prevents spills. Include essentials like water, wine, and coffee, along with necessary accessories.
Cleanup
Dishwashing Tools: Efficient cleanup starts with good tools. I highly recommend the Bosch Dishwasher for its quiet operation and powerful cleaning capabilities. For handwashing, the OXO Good Grips Dish Brush is perfect for scrubbing tough spots on bakeware.
Surface Cleaners: Keep your kitchen spotless with Method All-Purpose Cleaner. It's effective on countertops and safe for various surfaces. Regularly wiping down surfaces during and after cooking helps maintain a clean environment.
Laundry Setup: Prepare for laundry by setting up a load for table linens immediately after the party. Treat stains with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water before washing in cold water to prevent setting and shrinking.
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