Sides for Lasagna: Mouthwatering Recipes That Complement Perfectly

Lasagna, with its layers of cheesy goodness and rich tomato sauce, is a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

But have you ever wondered what sides could elevate this Italian classic to new heights?

Fear not, for we have compiled a tantalizing list of suggested accompaniments that will transform your lasagna experience.

From crusty fresh bread to refreshing salads and delectable vegetarian options, prepare your taste buds for a mouthwatering journey.

Get ready to discover the perfect pairing for your lasagna masterpiece!

Table of Contents

sides for lasagna

There are various side dishes that pair well with lasagna.

Some options include fresh bread, garlic bread or knots, salads such as arugula or balsamic vinegar salad, and a vegetarian antipasto platter.

Recipe ideas for side dishes include easy stovetop Brussels sprouts, air fryer squash, cashew basil pesto, Mediterranean roasted vegetables, Italian green bean salad, and vegan Mediterranean chickpea salad.

These side dishes vary in ingredients and cooking time, with a focus on vegetarian or vegan options.

Key Points:

Fresh bread, garlic bread or knots, and salads such as arugula or balsamic vinegar salad and a vegetarian antipasto platter are popular side dishes for lasagna.
Recipe ideas for side dishes include:
Stovetop Brussels sprouts
Air fryer squash
Cashew basil pesto
Mediterranean roasted vegetables
Italian green bean salad
Vegan Mediterranean chickpea salad
The side dishes mentioned have different ingredients and cooking times.
The side dishes prioritize vegetarian or vegan options.
Pairing lasagna with various side dishes adds variety to the meal.
Side dishes can enhance the flavors of the lasagna.

sides for lasagna – Watch Video

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Pro Tips:

1. Lasagna is traditionally made with alternating layers of pasta and a variety of fillings. However, in ancient Rome, they used to use sheets of dried meat as the “pasta” in their lasagna, called “lagana.”

2. Although the specific origin of lasagna is debated, some believe it dates back as far as Ancient Greece. The name “lasagna” traces its roots to the Greek word “lasanon,” which means “chamber pot” or “cooking pot” – referring to the shape of the dish.

3. While lasagna is widely associated with Italy, variations of similar layered pasta dishes exist in numerous other countries. For example, in England, a similar dish called “Cottage Pie” or “Shepherd’s Pie” is made by layering meat and mashed potatoes instead of pasta.

4. In the United States, lasagna became significantly popular during World War II, as it was a hearty and economical dish that could easily feed a large number of people. Lasagna recipes using canned tomatoes, cheese, and ground meat were often distributed to troops and their families.

5. The world record for the largest serving of lasagna was set in 2010 in Bologna, Italy. It weighed a staggering 4,849 pounds, 12 ounces (2,201.5 kg) and its preparation required over 5,000 pounds of beef, 1,900 pounds of cheese, and countless layers of pasta and sauce.

Fresh Bread Options

When it comes to enjoying lasagna, there’s no better companion than a freshly baked loaf of bread. The warm, crusty exterior, coupled with the soft, doughy interior, creates the perfect balance of textures to complement the hearty lasagna. Here are a few delectable bread options that will take your lasagna experience to the next level.

One classic choice is a rustic Italian baguette. Its crispy crust and tender center provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of lasagna. Simply slice the baguette, drizzle it with some extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle it with sea salt and herbs like rosemary or thyme. If you want to add a little extra flair, you can even top the slices with thinly sliced mozzarella or grated Parmesan before toasting them in the oven.

For those who prefer a softer bread, a homemade focaccia is an excellent choice. This Italian flatbread is light and fluffy on the inside, with a deliciously chewy crust. When serving it with lasagna, you can enhance the flavors by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or garlic to the dough before baking. The aromas will fill your kitchen and leave your taste buds craving more.

Lastly, you can never go wrong with a classic dinner roll. These soft, buttery delights are incredibly versatile and pair well with almost any meal. Freshly baked and still warm from the oven, they are the perfect vessel for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate. Additionally, you can elevate your dinner rolls by brushing them with melted garlic butter and sprinkling them with herbs. This will transform them into irresistible garlic knots that will have your guests raving.

Rustic Italian baguette: crispy crust and tender center, slice, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle sea salt and herbs, top with mozzarella or Parmesan, toast in the oven.
Homemade focaccia: light and fluffy on the inside, chewy crust, enhance flavors with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, garlic in the dough before baking.
Classic dinner roll: soft and buttery, pairs well with any meal, perfect for mopping up sauce, brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with herbs for irresistible garlic knots.

Delicious Garlic Bread And Knots

Garlic bread is a timeless accompaniment to lasagna that never fails to please. Its aromatic garlic flavor and buttery richness perfectly complement the bold flavors of the lasagna. Whether you prefer the classic baguette-style garlic bread or a fancier version like garlic knots, these recipes will set your taste buds ablaze.

To make classic garlic bread, start by slicing a baguette lengthwise, but not completely through. This will keep the loaf intact while allowing you to spread the garlic butter mixture evenly. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture generously over the sliced sides of the baguette, making sure to reach every nook and cranny. Finally, toast the garlic bread in the oven until golden and crispy. The result is a mouthwatering loaf that will have everyone diving in for seconds.

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, garlic knots are an excellent choice. Start by preparing a basic pizza dough and letting it rise. Once the dough has doubled in size, divide it into small portions and roll each one into a thin rope. Tie the ropes into knots and then bake them until golden brown. While the knots are still warm, toss them in a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. This creates a heavenly combination of flavors that will make every bite irresistible.

Tasty Salad Ideas

Adding a refreshing salad to your lasagna feast can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the dish. Whether you’re looking for a simple, leafy green salad or something a bit more adventurous, these recipes will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Arugula salad with balsamic vinegar dressing is a classic choice that pairs well with lasagna. The peppery bite of arugula provides a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the lasagna, while the tangy balsamic vinegar dressing adds a delightful acidity. To prepare the salad:

Toss fresh arugula leaves with cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
Drizzle the salad with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper right before serving.

Another delicious option is a Caprese salad. This vibrant and colorful salad features slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves drizzled with olive oil and balsamic glaze. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Serve this salad alongside your lasagna for a refreshing and light addition to the meal.

For those who want to explore beyond traditional salads, a Cavolo Nero salad is worth considering. Cavolo Nero, also known as Tuscan kale or lacinato kale, has dark, crinkled leaves that are both tender and flavorful. To make the salad:

Remove the tough veins from the Cavolo Nero leaves and slice them into thin ribbons.
Toss the kale with a lemony vinaigrette made from lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
For added richness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese on top.

This salad provides a unique texture and flavor profile, making it a standout addition to your lasagna spread.

Vegetarian Antipasto Platter

If you’re looking for a substantial side dish to accompany your lasagna, a vegetarian antipasto platter is the perfect option. This assortment of Italian-inspired appetizers and finger foods will not only satisfy your hunger but also add an exciting variety of flavors and textures to your meal.

Begin by selecting a variety of marinated vegetables and olives. Classic antipasto options include roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes. Arrange these on a platter, creating a colorful mosaic of flavors.

Next, add slices of fresh mozzarella and creamy burrata cheese. Both cheeses provide a mild, milky flavor that complements the robust lasagna. To elevate the presentation, sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top and drizzle the cheeses with balsamic glaze or extra virgin olive oil.

Complete the platter with a variety of sliced cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and coppa. Not only do these add a savory element to the spread, but they also provide a nice contrast to the vegetarian options.

To complete the experience, serve the antipasto platter with a basket of fresh bread and a selection of dips or spreads. Classic choices include olive tapenade, sun-dried tomato spread, and creamy hummus. These additions will take your antipasto platter to new heights, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal alongside your lasagna.

Select a variety of marinated vegetables and olives (roasted red peppers, marinated artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes)
Add slices of fresh mozzarella and creamy burrata cheese
Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top and drizzle with balsamic glaze or extra virgin olive oil
Complete the platter with sliced cured meats (prosciutto, salami, coppa)
Serve with fresh bread and a selection of dips or spreads (olive tapenade, sun-dried tomato spread, creamy hummus)

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You may need to know these questions about sides for lasagna

What is a good side dish for lasagna?

One excellent side dish to accompany lasagna is a classic Caesar salad with garlicky croutons. The savory and crunchy croutons add texture to the meal, while the combination of romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and tangy Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty lasagna.

Another great option is oven-roasted asparagus. The slight bitterness of the asparagus complements the flavors of the lasagna, while the roasting process enhances its natural sweetness. This side dish adds a touch of elegance to the meal and provides a nutritious and vibrant addition to the plate.

Does coleslaw go with lasagna?

Coleslaw can certainly be an interesting accompaniment to lasagna. While traditionally not paired together, the fresh and tangy flavors of coleslaw can provide a pleasant contrast to the hearty, cheesy lasagna. The crisp texture and refreshing dressing of coleslaw add a unique element to the meal, making it a great choice for those looking to experiment with new flavor combinations. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or even as a topping for the lasagna, coleslaw can bring a refreshing twist to your lasagna dinner.

Does rice go with lasagna?

Although rice and lasagna are not typically paired together, the combination can offer a unique and delightful culinary experience. The soft and creamy rice complements the hearty layers of lasagna, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The unexpected twist adds a refreshing touch to the traditional lasagna recipe, making it a winner for any level of cooking expertise.

What appetizers go good with lasagna?

Elevate your lasagna experience by tantalizing your taste buds with a selection of complementary appetizers. One delightful option is to present an antipasto platter, featuring an enticing array of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. The vibrant flavors and contrasting textures of the antipasto will perfectly complement the rich and hearty nature of the lasagna. Alternatively, serve some delectable bruschetta, topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The crispy bread base and burst of zesty and herbaceous flavors will provide a refreshing contrast to the comforting lasagna. Lastly, indulge in the savory delight of stuffed mushrooms – bite-sized morsels packed with a delicious medley of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. This appetizer will add an extra touch of elegance and enhance the overall dining experience when enjoyed alongside a piping hot serving of lasagna.

Reference source
https://watchlearneat.com/what-to-serve-with-lasagna/
https://www.southernliving.com/side-dishes-for-lasagna-7569809
https://www.corriecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-lasagna/
https://www.thescramble.com/recipes/spinach-and-rice-lasagna/