Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that combines layers of pasta, cheese, and savory sauce. While it’s delicious on its own, adding side dishes can take your meal to the next level.

The right sides complement the rich flavors of lasagna and create a balanced plate.

You have many options when choosing sides for lasagna. From fresh salads to roasted vegetables, there are sides to suit every taste.

Some popular choices include garlic bread, steamed broccoli, and Caesar salad. Trying new side dishes can make your lasagna dinners more exciting and varied.

1. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with lasagna. Its crispy exterior and soft interior complement the rich, saucy layers of the pasta.

You can easily make garlic bread at home. Start with a French baguette or Italian loaf.

Slice it lengthwise and spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on each half.

Pop it in the oven until golden brown and aromatic. The result is a warm, flavorful bread that’s ideal for soaking up extra lasagna sauce.

For a twist, try adding cheese to your garlic bread. Sprinkle some mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking for an extra indulgent treat.

2. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with lasagna. You’ll love the contrast between the rich pasta and the crisp, refreshing salad.

The salad features crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and savory Parmesan cheese. Crispy croutons add texture and soak up the tangy dressing.

You can make Caesar salad quickly and easily at home. For extra flavor, try adding grilled chicken or anchovies.

The cool, zesty salad provides a nice balance to the warm, cheesy lasagna.

3. Bruschetta

Bruschetta makes a great side dish for lasagna. This classic Italian appetizer consists of toasted bread topped with fresh ingredients.

To make bruschetta, start by slicing a baguette and toasting the pieces. Rub them with a clove of garlic for extra flavor.

Top the bread with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add mozzarella or parmesan cheese if you like.

The crisp, toasty bread and fresh toppings offer a nice contrast to the rich, hearty lasagna. The bright flavors help cleanse your palate between bites of pasta.

4. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad brings freshness to your lasagna meal. This Italian classic combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves.

The juicy tomatoes contrast nicely with the rich lasagna. Fresh mozzarella adds a soft, milky texture. Basil provides a pop of color and herbal flavor.

Drizzle your Caprese with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness. The tangy acidity balances the heavy pasta dish. This simple salad is quick to make and looks beautiful on the plate.

5. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus makes a great side for lasagna. It’s quick and easy to prepare.

Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill them for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.

The slight char from grilling adds nice flavor. The crisp texture contrasts well with soft lasagna.

Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Grilled asparagus brings color and nutrition to your plate. It’s a lighter option that balances out rich lasagna.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for lasagna. They add a nice crunch and slightly bitter flavor that balances out the rich pasta.

To make them, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.

For extra flavor, try adding garlic, balsamic vinegar, or Parmesan cheese before roasting. The crispy outer leaves and tender insides pair well with creamy lasagna.

Brussels sprouts also provide nutrients like vitamin C and fiber to round out your meal. Their small size makes them easy to serve alongside a slice of lasagna.

7. Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach makes a rich and tasty side for lasagna. You can whip it up quickly while your main dish bakes.

It’s smooth and velvety, with a mild flavor that goes well with the strong tastes in lasagna.

To make it, cook fresh spinach until wilted. Then mix it with a creamy sauce made from butter, cream, and cheese. Add some garlic for extra flavor if you like.

This side dish adds more greens to your meal. It’s also filling without being too heavy. Creamed spinach pairs nicely with both meat and vegetable lasagnas.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms make a tasty side dish for lasagna. You can fill them with a mix of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs for lots of flavor. They’re easy to make and look great on the plate.

Try baking the mushrooms until they’re tender and the filling is golden brown. The earthy taste of the mushrooms goes well with the rich flavors of lasagna.

You can serve stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer or side dish. They add a nice touch to your meal without being too heavy.

9. Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter is a great side for lasagna. It adds variety to your meal with its mix of flavors and textures.

You can include cured meats like salami and prosciutto on your platter. Add some cheeses like mozzarella and provolone too.

Don’t forget the vegetables. Marinated artichokes, olives, and roasted peppers work well. You can also add some fresh tomatoes and basil.

A good antipasto platter lets your guests nibble before the main course. It’s a tasty way to start your Italian-themed dinner.

10. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Balsamic glazed carrots are a tasty side dish for lasagna. They offer a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the rich pasta.

To make them, you’ll need carrots, balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil.

Peel and cut the carrots into sticks. Toss them with oil and roast until tender.

Mix balsamic vinegar and honey in a pan. Cook until it thickens into a glaze. Pour this over the roasted carrots and toss to coat.

The carrots come out shiny and flavorful. Their sweetness balances the savory lasagna. This colorful side adds visual appeal to your plate too.

11. Ratatouille

Ratatouille makes a great side dish for lasagna. This French vegetable stew adds color and flavor to your plate.

You can serve ratatouille warm or at room temperature. Its mix of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and peppers complements the rich lasagna perfectly.

The vegetables in ratatouille provide a lighter contrast to the heavy pasta dish. Its slightly tangy taste from the tomatoes also helps cut through the creamy cheese in lasagna.

Try making a big batch of ratatouille. You can enjoy the leftovers as a standalone meal or with other dishes later in the week.

12. Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini noodles offer a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta in lasagna. You can make them easily with a spiralizer or vegetable peeler.

To prevent soggy lasagna, salt the zucchini slices and let them sit. This draws out excess moisture. Pat them dry before using.

Layer zucchini noodles with your favorite lasagna ingredients like meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Zucchini noodles add a fresh, light twist to lasagna while keeping it satisfying. They’re perfect for a healthier version of this classic dish.

13. Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is a tasty Italian bread that goes great with lasagna. It has a soft, chewy texture and a crispy crust.

You can make focaccia at home or buy it from a bakery. The bread is often flavored with olive oil, herbs, and salt.

Try dipping focaccia in the lasagna sauce or using it to soak up any extra sauce on your plate. You can also slice it and make small sandwiches with leftover lasagna.

For a fun twist, top your focaccia with cheese, tomatoes, or olives before baking. This adds extra flavor that pairs well with the rich lasagna.

14. Panzanella Salad

Panzanella salad is a tasty Italian dish that pairs well with lasagna. It uses stale bread cubes mixed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.

You’ll toss the bread with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and red onions. Add some fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

The dressing is simple – olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings. This light salad balances out the richness of lasagna nicely.

It’s easy to make ahead of time. The flavors get better as the salad sits, soaking into the bread. Serve it cold or at room temperature alongside your lasagna.

15. Chickpea Salad

Chickpea salad makes a tasty and nutritious side for lasagna. This protein-packed dish offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

To make it, mix canned chickpeas with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Add some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.

Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like parsley or mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This light side balances out the heaviness of lasagna. It’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. The salad also provides a good source of fiber and vitamins.

16. Marinated Olives

Marinated olives make a tasty side for lasagna. They add a tangy, salty flavor that complements the rich cheese and sauce. You can buy pre-marinated olives or make your own at home.

To marinate olives, mix them with olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Let them sit for a few hours or overnight to soak up the flavors.

Try using a mix of green and black olives for variety. You can also add other marinated veggies like artichokes or peppers to create a colorful antipasto platter. Serve the olives at room temperature for the best taste.

Pairing Principles

Choosing the right sides for lasagna enhances the whole meal. The key is to balance flavors and textures that complement the rich, hearty pasta dish.

Balancing Flavors

Pick sides that contrast with lasagna’s savory taste. Light, acidic options cut through the richness.

Try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables add sweetness and depth.

Garlic bread is a classic choice. Its buttery flavor matches the lasagna while offering a different taste. For a twist, serve bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil.

Avoid heavy, cheese-based sides. They can make the meal too rich. Instead, go for bright, fresh flavors like lemon-dressed asparagus or a citrusy slaw.

Complementary Textures

Mix up textures to keep the meal interesting. Lasagna is soft and layered, so add some crunch.

A Caesar salad with crisp romaine and crunchy croutons works well. Grilled or roasted vegetables offer a nice bite. Try zucchini, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.

Breadsticks or garlic knots provide a chewy contrast. For a lighter option, serve a crisp cucumber and tomato salad.

Don’t forget about temperature. A cool side like caprese salad pairs nicely with hot lasagna. It gives your taste buds a break from the warm pasta.

Vegetarian Pairing Options

Vegetarian sides can add variety and nutrition to lasagna meals. These plant-based options offer unique flavors and textures while boosting the meal’s health benefits.

Nutritional Benefits

Vegetarian sides provide important nutrients to balance out lasagna dishes.

Leafy green salads give you vitamins A and K. Roasted veggies add fiber and antioxidants. Try a kale Caesar salad with homemade dressing and crunchy croutons. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

Grilled asparagus spears are rich in folate and vitamin C. Drizzle them with olive oil and lemon juice for a bright flavor.

Roasted Brussels sprouts offer vitamin K and potassium. Toss them with balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tangy taste.

For a protein boost, serve quinoa salad with chickpeas and chopped veggies. This combo gives you complete plant-based protein. It also adds fiber and B vitamins to your meal.

Cultural Variations

Different cultures put unique spins on veggie sides for lasagna.

In Greece, try a classic Greek salad. Mix tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese. Add olives and oregano for authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Italian cuisine offers caprese salad.

Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet finish. It’s simple yet delicious.

For a Middle Eastern twist, serve baba ganoush. This creamy eggplant dip pairs well with warm pita bread. It adds smoky flavors to complement your lasagna.

French-inspired ratatouille is another tasty option.

Stew eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes together. The mix of veggies creates a colorful side dish full of flavor.