Italy is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and one dish that stands out as a true icon of the country’s gastronomic tradition is lasagna. With roots dating back to around 1000 AD, this beloved pasta-based meal has been delighting palates across the globe for centuries. Characterized by layers of tender pasta sheets, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, lasagna embodies the essence of comfort food, effortlessly pleasing crowds from all walks of life.
As a staple of Italian cuisine, it’s no surprise that lasagna remains a crowd-pleaser, transcending cultural boundaries to become a mainstay on tables worldwide. When it comes to rounding out this satisfying meal, distinctly Italian side dishes offer an array of delightful options. For the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on these authentic choices, providing a comprehensive exploration of the perfect accompaniments to your lasagna.
A frequently asked questions section has also been included, offering clarification on any lingering queries.
Tomato Feta Salad
When pairing a side dish with lasagna, it’s wise to opt for something light and effortless. Salads are an excellent choice as they provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, heavy pasta. By serving a salad alongside lasagna, you’re giving your guests the opportunity to transition from a hearty main course to a lighter, more balanced option. To create a well-rounded green salad, consider combining various leafy greens such as kale, arugula, collard, spinach, or traditional romaine lettuce.
Alternatively, feel free to experiment with unique combinations to craft an incredibly nutritious and flavorful salad. Our chosen recipe is quick and easy to prepare, requiring only a few minutes of your time.
Antipasto
In Italy, antipasto refers to the traditional selection of appetizers served before a meal. This culinary tradition involves presenting a variety of flavors and textures to awaken the palate. For this recipe, we’ve curated a harmonious blend of fresh cheese, fragrant herbs, and cured meats, perfect for parties or gatherings. When pairing antipasto with lasagna, remember that moderation is key. The rich flavors of lasagna can be overwhelming, so it’s essential to strike a balance between the two.
Use these ingredients thoughtfully, allowing each component to shine without overpowering the others.
Garlic Bread
Transforming regular bread into a flavorful masterpiece is as easy as making garlic bread! This delectable treat requires mere minutes to prepare and can be customized with various bread options. For an authentic taste and texture, consider using French baguette or Italian bread. However, feel free to use whatever type of bread you have on hand if those options aren’t available.
Breadsticks
Breadsticks have become a staple food globally, with their origin tracing back to Italy and other countries. Characterized by their long, thin shape, crispy texture after baking, and subsequent cutting into bite-sized pieces, these savory treats have gained popularity worldwide. Interestingly, the name ‘breadstick’ varies across nations. In Italy, they are affectionately known as panettone, while in France, they are referred to as pain de mie.
Germany has its own version called brötchen, and in America, they are simply breadsticks. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just looking for a tasty snack, breadsticks are sure to satisfy.
Roasted Veggies
For a straightforward and satisfying snack, look no further than the humble roasted vegetable. By cooking vegetables at high temperatures until they’re tender and flavorful, roasting unlocks their natural goodness and makes them a healthier option compared to raw veggies. This popular snack or appetizer is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Here, we’ll focus on oven-roasted Italian staples, but feel free to get creative and add your own pantry staples to the mix.
Pasta Salad
Pasta salad – the perfect accompaniment to lasagna! When it comes to choosing the right pasta, the options are endless. Consider using penne, rotini, shells, fusilli, orzo, or linguine for a delicious and authentic Italian-inspired dish. Be sure to cook your pasta until it reaches al dente perfection, ensuring each bite is satisfyingly firm yet tender. Next, combine the cooked pasta with a zesty vinaigrette dressing and finish it off with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that complements lasagna to perfection.
Chicken Wings
For meat lovers, consider pairing their main course with a tasty and indulgent treat. Chicken wings can make an excellent accompaniment, especially when prepared with an easy-to-make baked Italian recipe. By timing your preparation correctly, you’ll be able to create crispy, juicy, and irresistible wings that will surely delight your guests.
Roast Tomatoes
In the world of Italian cuisine, tomatoes are an integral component. With their ease of cultivation and versatility in various dishes, it’s no surprise that they’ve become a staple. The connection between this simplicity and the core of lasagna sauce is undeniable. As such, we’re opting for a straightforward recipe that yields slow-roasted Italian tomatoes. This dish can be enjoyed as is or paired with your favorite pasta, including lasagna.
For those looking to add an extra layer of flavor and choice to their meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Baked Zucchini
In the realm of Italian cuisine, zucchini is a staple ingredient, and for good reason. Its mild flavor and versatility make it an ideal addition to various dishes. When paired with lasagna, baked zucchinis become a delightful accompaniment that can elevate the overall dining experience. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare! Simply combine bread crumbs, cheese, and sliced zucchini, and you’ll be ready to serve a tasty side dish in no time.
Cucumber Salad
As we conclude our culinary journey, let’s unwind with a refreshing and effortless salad. Cucumbers, in particular, bring a delightful pop of color to the plate when paired with lasagna. Their versatility is further emphasized by the subtle sweetness they add to this recipe, which is elevated by a harmonious blend of flavors from sugar, parsley, dill, ground pepper, red onion, salt, cider vinegar, and olive oil.
Caprese Salad
A delectable Italian salad that pairs perfectly as a side dish, this recipe combines the tanginess of balsamic vinegar with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella cheese, and freshness of basil. A simple yet satisfying blend of flavors and textures, it’s effortless to prepare and can be whipped up in no time – just like when you’re waiting for your lasagna to bake in the oven!
To make this delightful salad, you’ll need balsamic vinegar, ripe tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. The best part? It’s ready in a jiffy!
Friselle
A culinary gem from southern Italy, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. The most challenging aspect is shaping the dough into its signature ‘doughnut’ form, which requires a bit of finesse and attention to detail. With some care and patience, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious accompaniment that pairs perfectly with lasagna.
Final Thoughts
Lasagna’s versatility is one of its most appealing aspects, allowing you to pair it with a diverse range of side dishes that can help balance out its hearty nature. While lasagna itself can be quite filling, selecting lighter options to accompany it can make for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. By incorporating these suggestions into your cooking repertoire, you’ll be able to craft the ultimate lasagna dinner with ease.
