Whether you’re planning a casual dinner party or a special occasion, lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a staple in many cuisines. However, as much as we adore this classic Italian dish, we also know that it’s just one part of the equation. The real magic happens when you pair it with the perfect side dishes.
When it comes to choosing sides for lasagna, the options are endless. But what makes a truly great accompaniment? Perhaps it’s something crunchy and fresh, like a green salad or garlic bread, which provides a delightful contrast to the rich pasta. Or maybe you prefer something comforting and familiar, like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, which complement the bold flavors of the lasagna.
Whatever your taste buds may desire, one thing is certain: with these delicious side dishes for lasagna, you’ll be well on your way to creating a meal that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Garlic Bread
In the world of Italian cuisine, few side dishes are as iconic as garlic bread. The harmonious union of garlic and tomato is a match made in culinary heaven, where the boldness of one flavor amplifies the depth of the other. This classic combination is more than just a tasty accompaniment – it’s a fundamental principle that elevates the entire dining experience.
Grilled Romaine Salad
When I’m serving lasagna, there’s one side that always steals the show: grilled romaine salad. Its simplicity belies its impact – it’s a match made in heaven with the rich flavors of the pasta dish. The key is to get that smoky flavor just right, and then add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Pesto Garlic Bread
Garlic bread, the ultimate comfort food, gets a flavorful boost from the addition of creamy pesto in this twist on a classic recipe. The best part? This delectable combination requires minimal effort to prepare, as the pesto can be quickly whipped up and spread onto garlic bread before baking. The result is a delightfully savory treat that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Vegan Garlic Knots
When it comes to vegan garlic knots, convenience and creativity come together in perfect harmony. These scrumptious treats can be prepared ahead of time and then warmed up when needed, making them an ideal choice for special occasions or everyday meals. By offering a delightful twist on traditional garlic bread, these knots are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re serving lasagna to a crowd or looking for a tasty accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes, these easy-to-make and flavorful garlic knots are the perfect way to ensure everyone gets a taste of the best sides.
Focaccia Bread
Indulge in the rich flavors of lasagna sauce by pairing it with a soft and spongy focaccia loaf. This Italian bread is remarkably easy to prepare – simply mix together the dough, let it rise, shape it into a pan, and bake until golden. The result is a satisfyingly effortless meal solution.
Take your creativity to the next level by adorning the top of the focaccia with colorful vegetables, fragrant herbs, or melted cheese. This rustic bread serves as the perfect canvas for your artistic expression.
Caprese Spinach Salad
A Caprese salad is the ideal accompaniment to lasagna, offering a harmonious contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta dish. Its simplicity – featuring just a few fresh ingredients – allows each component to shine, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The sweet Roma tomatoes, in particular, provide a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy mozzarella, making this salad an excellent choice for pairing with both lasagna and steak.
Vegetable Sides
When serving the rich and satisfying lasagna as the main course, it’s only natural to seek a harmonious side dish to round off the meal. To achieve this equilibrium, I’ve curated a list of 10 scrumptious options that will beautifully complement the bold flavors of your cheesy lasagna.
Grilled Broccoli
Indulge in this delectable grilled broccoli recipe that’s sure to delight! With just a few minutes of prep time while your lasagna bakes, you’ll be rewarded with tender, caramelized florets that burst with sweet flavor. The subtle char and satisfying crunch add an extra layer of complexity, making this a must-try side dish or snack.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Despite their reputation, Brussels sprouts can be incredibly delicious when prepared correctly. This recipe showcases the versatility of these little green vegetables by grilling them to perfection and coating them in a rich cheese sauce. The result is a dish that not only looks impressive but also packs a flavor punch. One key ingredient in this recipe is roasted garlic, which adds a depth of flavor without overpowering the sprouts. A pro tip for working with roasted garlic is to let it cool completely before using it, as this will allow its natural sweetness to shine through. This side dish pairs perfectly with pork chops and is sure to become a new favorite.
Air Fryer Green Beans
Indulge in a simple yet nutritious cooking method for your green beans. This recipe yields crunchy, savory results that pair seamlessly with a wide range of meals. To prepare these delectable side dishes, simply load the green beans into an air fryer and let them cook unattended until you’re ready to serve.
Balsamic Roasted Asparagus
Transforming simple asparagus into a show-stopping side dish is as easy as combining the bold flavors of balsamic vinegar and feta cheese. The pungent tanginess of the feta masterfully harmonizes with the sweetness of the balsamic, yielding a match made in culinary heaven. This unforgettable duo, paired with lasagna, will leave your guests craving more until every last bite is devoured.
Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers
Indulge in the sweet, tender, and juicy delight that is these marinated peppers. As a perfectly balanced accompaniment to rich and savory lasagna, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palate. The harmonious blend of Italian herbs and pungent garlic expertly coaxes out the natural sweetness of the peppers, resulting in a flavor profile that’s both tantalizing and addictive. Serve them hot, and get ready for the plate to be cleared in record time – it’s a culinary experience that will leave everyone saying ‘arrivederci’ to their plates!
Lemon Parmesan Asparagus
The harmonious union of lemon, parmesan cheese, and asparagus creates a culinary symphony. The tangy acidity of the lemon and the velvety richness of the cheese perfectly balance the sweet, satisfying crunch of the asparagus, elevating this trio to a matchless level. This effortless dish can be prepared in no time, requiring only a pan and minimal ingredients to coax the natural flavors out of the asparagus, resulting in a truly scrumptious experience.
Purple Mashed Potatoes
The notion of serving purple mashed potatoes may seem unconventional, but rest assured that their taste is identical to regular potatoes. The real draw is the dramatic flair they add to the dining experience. As you present them at the table, you’ll be met with a chorus of shocked expressions and delighted gasps. This burst of color can elevate even the most mundane meal into an event worthy of attention. If you’re a potato aficionado, you might also appreciate this delectable apple sweet potato bake.
Broccoli Radish Salad
The humble combination of broccoli and radish takes center stage in this unexpected culinary pairing. The pungency of radish perfectly complements the earthy sweetness of broccoli, making it an ideal addition to a salad. When lasagna is introduced into the mix, the result is a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave everyone at the table eagerly seeking more. This side dish also pairs beautifully with a hearty brisket meal, offering a delightful contrast to its rich flavors.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Italian cuisine would be remiss not to include cherry tomatoes in its repertoire. A staple in Italy, sundried tomatoes are a must-have ingredient. To bring this recipe full circle, we can even make our own from scratch. What sets these sundried tomatoes apart is that they’re not fully dehydrated, leaving them with a luscious, juicy texture that’s simply divine. When you take a bite, the flavors will explode in your mouth.
Air Fryer Vegetables
Returning to our trusty air fryer, we’re joined by an ensemble of vibrant, nutritious vegetables – a stunning and wholesome accompaniment to any meal. To harmonize this medley with the essence of Italy, simply sprinkle garlic and salt throughout, allowing their pungent flavors to meld seamlessly with the colorful array.
Smothered Green Beans
The eternal quest for a healthier version of loaded fries has been a long-standing one, and I’m not alone in my desire for such a delight. The solution to this craving can be found in smothered green beans, which have the added benefit of being significantly more nutritious than their fried counterpart. These tender and flavorful green beans are slathered in a rich garlic sauce and studded with crispy bacon, making them an irresistible treat that’s sure to satisfy even the most ardent French fry enthusiast.
Healthy Sides for Lasagna
When indulging in the rich flavors of lasagna, it’s easy to forget about the nutritional value of this beloved pasta dish. Packed with cheese, creamy sauce, and carbohydrate-heavy noodles, a single serving can feel like a significant departure from a healthy meal. However, there are ways to balance out the richness and make your lasagna experience more well-rounded.
Simple Side Salad
This salad boasts an irresistible combination of crunchy walnuts and two mouth-watering dressings, guaranteed to impress your guests. To make a large batch for serving, simply follow this easy recipe. And don’t worry if you’ve got finicky eaters at home – the Caesar dressing and balsamic vinaigrette will surely win them over, even the most skeptical of kids.
Arugula Shaved Fennel Salad
This delectable arugula shaved fennel salad is a masterclass in balance and flavor. With each successive bite, the palate is treated to a thrilling ride of contrasting tastes and textures. The pungent arugula provides an initial jolt, followed by the sweet, anise-like notes of the fennel. Just when you think it’s all about the bitter greens, the rich sweetness of the balsamic vinegar kicks in, only to be tempered by the creamy, tangy blue cheese crumbles. It’s a harmonious marriage of flavors that will leave you craving another bite.
Avocado Tomato and Arugula Salad
This refreshing salad is elevated by the creamy richness of avocado. For an added textural element, consider incorporating homemade croutons or crispy Parmesan bits. The savory flavors will harmonize perfectly with the Italian-inspired theme.
Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad
Kale’s versatility is truly impressive when treated correctly. Its delicate balance of fluffiness and crunch yields a rich, satisfying taste experience. Pairing the raw Brussels sprouts and kale creates a satisfying foundation for your salad. The addition of sweet grapes and crunchy almonds further enhances the sensory delight, as each bite melds together in harmony.
Fall Kale Apple Salad
The harmonious union of kale and fruit is a match made in heaven. The mild, slightly bitter taste of kale provides a delightful contrast to the natural sweetness of various fruits, making it an ideal foundation for creative salads like the Fall Apple Salad. As you take a bite, the flavors of apple and berry meld together in perfect harmony, while the added crunch from walnuts and sunflower seeds provides a satisfying textural element.
Arugula Parmesan Salad
Arugula, a versatile and trustworthy salad green, truly comes into its own in this simple yet impressive parmesan-infused side dish. With its health benefits and rapid preparation time, this recipe is an ideal solution for those seeking a quick and satisfying accompaniment to their meal, whether it be pork chops or something else entirely.
Roasted Artichoke and Mozzarella Salad
Savoring the essence of Italy, this dish is a masterclass in harmonious flavors. Roasted artichokes, a rich and earthy delight, are elevated by the creamy smoothness of mozzarella and the natural sweetness of Roma tomatoes. The crowning glory is the addition of fresh basil, which brings the entire ensemble together in a symphony of taste and aroma.
Savoury Vegan Muffins
Instead of relying on garlic bread as a supporting act, consider something more nutritious that still delivers in terms of flavor and texture. Enter these wholesome vegetarian muffins, which boast an impressive array of fiber, grains, and aromatic Italian herbs that complement the lasagna perfectly.
Tomato Basil Salad
The star of this salad is undoubtedly the balsamic vinaigrette, which expertly draws out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. To add depth and a touch of heat, top it off with thinly sliced red onions and bell peppers. For the most flavorful result, be sure to use fresh basil leaves. This salad holds up beautifully when made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for serving alongside dinner. Additionally, its bright flavors pair surprisingly well with grilled steak – a great alternative to traditional sides.
Caesar Salad
The timeless appeal of Caesar salad is undeniable, and its versatility only adds to its enduring popularity. When paired with a satisfying lasagna, a homemade Caesar salad is sure to delight your family and friends alike. One of the key attractions of this classic dish is its ability to be tailored to individual tastes, making it an ideal option for gatherings where varied palates are present.
Grilled Delicata Squash
Delicata squash may not get the same level of attention as its more popular winter vegetable counterparts, but it’s a hidden gem that deserves to be celebrated. The natural sweetness of this underrated gourd is elevated to new heights when grilled, resulting in a deep, smoky flavor that will leave you wanting more. This stunning salad is incredibly easy to assemble and boasts an impressive visual appeal that’s sure to impress guests. Its simplicity belies the depth of flavors it packs, making it a perfect addition to any winter gathering.
Pickled Beet Salad
Packed with nutritious antioxidants, this vibrant side dish brings not only a burst of color but also a boost of healthiness to the table. Its natural sweetness harmonizes perfectly with rich flavors like lasagna. The best part? It can be prepared up to four days in advance and stored in your fridge, waiting to elevate any meal.
Cauliflower Bread
Ever struggled with serving Italian dishes without compromising on taste while keeping an eye on nutritional value? The solution lies in a game-changing alternative to traditional buttery garlic bread – cauliflower bread. This innovative substitute boasts a similar flavor profile and satisfying texture, yet slashes the carb count significantly, making it an attractive option for those seeking healthier indulgence.
Avocado Panzanella Salad
Transform your leftover loaf into a delectable Italian-inspired salad by crafting a panzanella. This traditional dish relies on stale bread as its foundation, making it an excellent way to repurpose old bread that’s been lingering in the pantry.
To create this tasty treat, start by combining the diced bread with fresh dressed greens, sweet and juicy roma tomatoes, and the star of the show: creamy avocado. The result is a refreshing and filling salad that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Good Sides for Lasagna
The pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the selection of outstanding side dishes that perfectly complement our star attraction – the mouthwatering lasagna. This impressive array boasts an astonishing ten options, each one carefully crafted to harmonize with the rich flavors of this beloved Italian classic.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
A potato casserole represents the ultimate mashup of comfort foods. It’s essentially mashed potatoes taken to the next level, with a bold new identity that breathes fresh life into leftovers. The dish thrives under a golden crust of melted cheese and crispy bacon, emerging from the oven as a satisfyingly savory treat. And the best part? You can enjoy it hot from the oven or chilled straight from the fridge, making it an excellent match for lasagna, when you want to offer a bonus serving option.
Garlic Pull Apart Bread
Garlic bread is an effortless way to bring everyone together for a delightful dining experience. The pull-apart format allows each person to simply dig in, eliminating the need for utensils. This convenient option also makes it easy to prepare ahead of time, such as a day in advance when serving with lasagna. By preparing the garlic bread beforehand, you can reduce the overall workload and focus on other aspects of your meal preparation.
Herb and Cheese Pull Apart Bread
If garlic bread isn’t your top choice, consider this herb and cheese version of the pull-apart bread as a delightful alternative. Not only is it surprisingly quick and effortless to prepare, but its flavor profile is also robust enough to leave a lasting impression. This versatile loaf can be paired with an array of dishes beyond lasagna, including hearty winter soups and stews or even your next impromptu neighborhood gathering. Its adaptability makes it an excellent addition to any occasion.
Air Fryer Garlic Cheese Stuffed Crescent Rolls
The air fryer is not just limited to cooking traditional dishes – it can also be used to cook crescent rolls in a unique and delicious way. To take these rolls to the next level, simply stuff them with mozzarella cheese for added flavor and texture. Next, brush them with garlic butter for an earthy depth that complements the cheesy center. Finally, set the air fryer to work its magic, cooking the rolls quickly and evenly.
Homemade Coleslaw
A well-balanced coleslaw should strike the perfect harmony between sauciness and texture – not too runny, yet full of flavor that can hold its own as a side dish or serve as a standalone treat. I appreciate this recipe’s versatility, allowing me to prepare a generous batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
Tapioca Breadsticks
Italian nights are made complete with the presence of crispy, golden breadsticks on the dinner table. It’s a culinary staple that’s hard to imagine without. But what if I told you that achieving this perfect crunch is simpler than you think? In just 30 minutes, you can master the art of making tapioca bread sticks, and they’ll quickly become your new go-to companion for family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Texas Toast Garlic Bread
Satisfy your garlic bread cravings without breaking out the packaged goods. With a mere handful of pantry staples at your disposal, you can whip up a comparable alternative in no time. Simply gather the essentials – likely already stocked in your kitchen – and pair it with a hearty serving of lasagna for an unbeatable combination.
Roasted Bell Pepper Puff Pastry Bites
Elevate your dinner table with this sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish, perfect for a impressive appetizer or main course. The Italian flavors shine through, making it a standout addition to any meal.
The secret to success lies in achieving the perfect level of puffiness and golden brown color on the pastry. Keep a close eye on it as it bakes, ensuring it reaches that ideal texture.
Rosemary Parmesan Bread
When it comes to this rosemary parmesan bread, the combination of flavors is nothing short of magical. With its quick and easy preparation, you’ll be treated to a culinary experience that will leave you craving more. When paired with lasagna, the rosemary and parmesan notes come together in perfect harmony, elevating each component to create a truly harmonious union on your palate.
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
As the final side dish on our list, we’re thrilled to introduce the ultimate one-pot wonder: a mouthwatering mushroom delight that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget about it while you focus on crafting your lasagna masterpiece. As the aromas waft through the air, you’ll be rewarded with tender and succulent mushrooms that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.