Best Side Dishes to Serve with Classic Lasagna
The Perfect Pairings: Best Side Dishes for Classic Lasagna
Lasagna, with its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. But if you're looking to take your lasagna dinner to the next level, consider adding some delicious side dishes to complement this hearty dish. Here are some ideas for the best side dishes to serve with classic lasagna.
1. Crisp Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad is the perfect accompaniment to a slice of lasagna. The crunchy romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and salty Parmesan cheese provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna. Plus, the freshness of the salad helps to balance out the heaviness of the dish.
2. Garlic Bread with Herb Butter
There's nothing quite like a slice of warm, garlicky bread to soak up all the delicious sauce from your lasagna. Make your own garlic bread by slathering thick slices of Italian bread with herb-infused butter and toasting until golden brown. Your guests will thank you.
3. Roasted Vegetables
For a lighter side dish option, consider serving roasted vegetables alongside your lasagna. Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a burst of color to your meal. Plus, the charred edges of the vegetables provide a nice contrast to the soft texture of the lasagna.
4. Creamy Polenta
If you're looking for a heartier side dish, creamy polenta is a great choice to serve with lasagna. The creamy texture of the polenta pairs perfectly with the rich meat sauce of the lasagna, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Plus, you can top the polenta with extra cheese for an added layer of flavor.
5. Antipasto Platter
For a fun and interactive side dish option, put together an antipasto platter filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. The salty, tangy flavors of the antipasto help to cut through the richness of the lasagna, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Overall, the key to choosing the best side dishes for classic lasagna is to consider flavors and textures that complement and enhance the main dish. Whether you opt for a light and refreshing salad or a more substantial side like creamy polenta, there are plenty of ways to elevate your lasagna dinner to a truly memorable dining experience.