What Goes Well with Lasagna?

Lasagna is one of those dishes that can turn any meal into a celebration. It’s cheesy, it’s saucy, and it’s downright comforting. Whether you’re whipping up a classic lasagna for a family dinner or hosting a special gathering, you’re going to want to serve it with the perfect sides to round out the meal. But the big question is, what goes well with lasagna? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore here, from salads and soups to bread, veggies, and even desserts!

But before we dive in, let’s set the scene: Lasagna, with its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, is already a hearty and satisfying dish. You could just eat it on its own, but where’s the fun in that? Adding a few sides can take your lasagna game to the next level. For some great ideas on Italian accompaniments, check out this article on Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions. It’s all about finding that perfect balance between the rich, savory lasagna and something that complements it.

So, let’s talk about what you can serve with lasagna to make your meal truly unforgettable!

Why You Need the Right Side Dishes

Okay, so why do side dishes matter? Think of lasagna as the main event—it’s the star of the show. But every star needs a supporting cast to really shine. Side dishes can:

Balance the meal: Lasagna is heavy, so lighter sides like salads or veggies can help balance things out.
Add variety: You’re already indulging in a cheesy, meaty delight. Why not add something crunchy, tangy, or fresh to mix things up?
Boost the flavor: A good side can enhance the flavors in your lasagna. Think of a crisp, acidic salad that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Make it a feast: Lasagna on its own is great, but with a few well-chosen sides, you’re turning a simple meal into a full-blown Italian feast.

Alright, enough with the preamble. Let’s get into the good stuff: what to serve with lasagna!

Appetizers to Get Things Started

Before you dive into that big, cheesy slice of lasagna, it’s nice to start with something light and tasty. Here are some appetizers that are perfect for setting the stage.

Fresh Salads to Lighten Things Up

Salads are a no-brainer when it comes to pairing with lasagna. They’re light, refreshing, and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and shaved parmesan, all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing. This one’s a classic for a reason—it’s simple, satisfying, and the perfect way to start your meal.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: Arugula’s peppery flavor pairs beautifully with a bright lemon vinaigrette. Add some shaved parmesan and toasted pine nuts for a little extra something.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s like a little taste of Italy on your plate.

Soups to Warm You Up

Soup and lasagna? You bet! A small bowl of soup is a cozy way to start any meal, and it pairs surprisingly well with a hearty slice of lasagna.

Minestrone Soup: This classic Italian soup is loaded with veggies, beans, and pasta. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but light enough not to compete with your main dish.
Tomato Basil Soup: Creamy tomato soup with a hint of basil is a natural pairing for lasagna. It echoes the flavors of the marinara sauce without being too heavy.
Italian Wedding Soup: Little meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta pearls in a savory broth—this soup is as charming as it sounds.

Antipasto Platters for a Little Bit of Everything

An antipasto platter is like a little mini-buffet before the main event. It’s great for sharing and lets you offer a variety of flavors and textures.

Assorted Cured Meats and Cheeses: Think salami, prosciutto, and a selection of Italian cheeses like provolone or asiago. Throw in some olives and marinated artichokes, and you’re good to go.
Marinated Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, and mushrooms, all marinated in olive oil and herbs. Serve them with some crusty bread and you’ve got a winner.
Olives and Bruschetta: Simple, but so satisfying. A selection of olives and a platter of crispy bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil is a great way to kick off the meal.

Bread: Because More Carbs Are Always a Good Idea

Lasagna is already a carb-fest, so why not go all-in with some delicious bread on the side? There’s nothing quite like mopping up that leftover sauce with a piece of warm, garlicky bread.

Garlic Bread: A Classic Choice

Garlic bread and lasagna are like peanut butter and jelly—they just go together. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

Classic Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with the basics. Slices of crusty bread, slathered with garlic butter and herbs, then toasted to perfection. It’s simple, but oh-so-good.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Take your garlic bread up a notch with a generous sprinkling of mozzarella or parmesan. Melt it under the broiler until it’s gooey and bubbly.
Herb-Infused Focaccia: Soft, airy focaccia bread, brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs. It’s perfect for sopping up all that delicious sauce.

Breadsticks and Crostini: Something a Little Different

If you’re looking for a lighter option or just want to mix things up, try these alternatives:

Parmesan Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for dipping in a little marinara.
Rosemary Crostini: Toasted slices of baguette brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with rosemary. These are great with a little tapenade or even just plain.
Pesto Crostini: Spread some basil pesto on your crostini for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.

Gluten-Free Bread Options

If you or your guests are gluten-free, there’s no need to miss out on the bread fun. There are plenty of delicious gluten-free options:

Gluten-Free Garlic Bread: Made with gluten-free flour, this bread still has all the buttery, garlicky goodness you love.
Almond Flour Bread: A bit denser than traditional bread, but still perfect for toasting and spreading with garlic butter.

Vegetables: Because We All Need a Little Green

With a rich dish like lasagna, it’s always a good idea to add some vegetables to the table. They add a nice contrast and make the meal feel a little more balanced.

Roasted Vegetables: Easy and Delicious

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables and adds a bit of caramelization, which is always a good thing.

Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears roasted until tender and sprinkled with parmesan. It’s simple, elegant, and delicious.
Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelization on the sprouts pairs beautifully with the acidity of the balsamic.
Roasted Bell Peppers and Zucchini: These veggies add a burst of color to your plate, and their slight sweetness complements the savory lasagna perfectly.

Sautéed and Grilled Vegetables: Quick and Flavorful

If you’re short on time or just want something quick and easy, sautéed or grilled veggies are a great choice.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: Fresh spinach sautéed with garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor.
Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini: Slices of eggplant and zucchini grilled until they’re tender and smoky. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and balsamic for extra flavor.
Italian-Style Green Beans: Green beans sautéed with tomatoes, garlic, and a splash of white wine. It’s a fresh and flavorful side that’s easy to make.

Stuffed Vegetables: For When You Want to Impress

Stuffed vegetables are a little more work, but they’re totally worth it if you’re looking to impress your guests.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then baked until golden and bubbly. They’re a bite-sized burst of flavor.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, cheese, and herbs. They’re colorful, healthy, and delicious.
Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Zucchinis hollowed out and filled with a savory mix of breadcrumbs, cheese, and tomatoes. They’re as tasty as they are pretty.

Starchy Sides: Because You Can Never Have Too Many Carbs

If you’re anything like me, you believe that carbs are life. So why not add a few more starchy sides to your lasagna meal?

Potato Dishes: Always a Good Idea

Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and they pair surprisingly well with lasagna.

Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned with rosemary and garlic. These are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic. It’s like a big, warm hug in a bowl.
Scalloped Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cheese and cream, then baked until bubbly and golden. It’s indulgent, but hey, you’re already eating lasagna.

Pasta Alternatives: For When You Want to Switch Things Up

Lasagna is already a pasta dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t serve it with other carb-loaded goodies.

Polenta: Soft, creamy polenta makes a great base for roasted veggies or a light sauce. Or you can let it set, slice it, and grill it for a deliciously crispy side.
Risotto: Creamy risotto, either plain or with mushrooms or saffron, is a luxurious accompaniment to lasagna.

Rice and Grain Sides: Something a Little Lighter

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter than potatoes or more pasta, try one of these grain-based sides:

Italian-Style Rice Pilaf: Rice cooked with broth, onions, and herbs. It’s simple, flavorful, and a great way to round out your meal.
Quinoa Salad with Herbs: Light and fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil. It’s a refreshing counterpoint to the rich lasagna.
Farro Salad with Roasted Vegetables: Nutty farro grains mixed with roasted vegetables and a simple vinaigrette. It’s hearty, healthy, and full of flavor.

Beverages: What to Drink with Your Lasagna

Choosing the right beverage to go with your lasagna can elevate your meal even further. Whether you’re a wine lover or prefer something non-alcoholic, here are some great options.

Wine Pairings: Because Wine Not?

Wine and lasagna are a match made in heaven. Here are a few options that will complement your dish perfectly:

Red Wines: Chianti and Sangiovese are classic choices for lasagna. Their acidity and tannins cut through the richness of the cheese and meat.
White Wines: If you prefer white, go for a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines have enough acidity to balance the flavors without being overpowering.
Sparkling Wines: Prosecco is a great option if you’re looking for something a little lighter and more festive. The bubbles are refreshing and help cleanse your palate between bites.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Keeping It Family-Friendly

Not everyone drinks, and that’s totally cool. Here are some non-alcoholic options that pair well with lasagna:

Sparkling Water with Citrus: Add a few slices of lemon or lime for a refreshing, palate-cleansing drink.
Italian Sodas: Flavored sodas like blood orange or lemon are a fun and tasty alternative to wine.
Herbal Iced Teas: Mint or chamomile iced tea is a light and refreshing option that won’t compete with the flavors of your meal.

Desserts: Ending on a Sweet Note

No meal is complete without dessert, and lasagna is no exception. After such a hearty dish, you might want something a little lighter—or you might want to go all-out. Here are some ideas for both!

Classic Italian Desserts: Because When in Rome…

Finish your Italian feast with one of these classic desserts:

Tiramisu: Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s light, creamy, and the perfect way to end your meal.
Panna Cotta: This creamy, custard-like dessert is subtly sweet and incredibly satisfying. Add a few fresh berries or a drizzle of fruit sauce for a little extra flavor.
Cannoli: Crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese, sometimes with a sprinkle of chocolate chips or a hint of citrus zest.

Fruit-Based Desserts: For Something a Little Lighter

If you’re feeling a bit full after your lasagna (understandable!), try one of these lighter, fruit-based desserts:

Fruit Tart with Berries: A buttery tart filled with creamy custard and topped with fresh berries. It’s light, sweet, and oh-so-pretty.
Lemon Sorbet: Light, refreshing, and just the right amount of tartness to cleanse your palate.
Poached Pears: Pears poached in red wine and spices, served with a dollop of mascarpone or a drizzle of caramel. It’s elegant, delicious, and not too heavy.

FAQs: Your Lasagna Questions Answered

Can You Serve Seafood with Lasagna?

You bet! While it might not be the most traditional pairing, light seafood dishes like shrimp scampi or a seafood salad can actually complement lasagna quite well. The freshness of the seafood provides a nice contrast to the richness of the lasagna.

What is the Best Salad to Serve with Lasagna?

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice. It’s fresh, light, and won’t compete with the flavors of the lasagna. You can also go with a Caesar salad if you’re looking for something a bit more substantial.

Can You Serve Lasagna with Bread?

Absolutely! Bread is almost a must-have with lasagna. Whether you go with classic garlic bread, cheesy breadsticks, or a soft, herb-infused focaccia, it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.

What Beverages Go Well with Lasagna?

Wine is a classic choice—red wines like Chianti or Sangiovese are great, but a crisp white like Pinot Grigio can work too. If you’re not into alcohol, try sparkling water with a twist of citrus or a flavorful Italian soda.

What Are Some Low-Carb Sides for Lasagna?

If you’re watching your carbs, try serving lasagna with roasted or sautéed vegetables. Zucchini noodles, cauliflower mash, or a fresh green salad are all great options that won’t overload you with extra carbs.

Can You Serve Soup with Lasagna?

Yes, you can! Light soups like minestrone or tomato basil are perfect for serving alongside lasagna. They complement the flavors without being too heavy, and they’re a great way to start the meal.

Conclusion: Time to Get Cooking!

There you have it—a comprehensive guide to what goes well with lasagna. Whether you’re looking to keep things simple with a salad and garlic bread or go all-out with multiple sides and desserts, there’s something here for everyone. So, the next time you’re planning a lasagna night, don’t stop at just the main dish. Add a few of these sides, pour yourself a glass of wine (or Italian soda), and enjoy a meal that’s truly buonissimo!

Happy cooking, and even happier eating!