Side Dishes to Perfectly Complement Your Spaghetti Dinner

Introduction

Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that can be found in households all over the world. It’s a great go-to meal because it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. But, if you’re looking to take your spaghetti to the next level, adding side dishes is a great way to do so. In this article, we’ll explore what side dishes go well with spaghetti and provide 7 delicious recipes to elevate your pasta night.

Spaghetti and the Perfect Side Dishes: A Guide to Complementing Your Meal

When choosing side dishes to pair with spaghetti, it’s important to consider the type of sauce you are using. Different sauces have different flavors and textures, which should be taken into account when selecting sides. For example, a light tomato sauce pairs well with fresh salads and lighter sides, while a heavier meat sauce is complemented by heartier sides like roasted vegetables or Italian sausage.

Another tip when pairing side dishes with spaghetti is to keep the flavors balanced. You don’t want one side to overpower the other, so try to select items that will complement each other. For instance, if you’re serving a heavy meat sauce, opt for a light side like a tossed salad or steamed vegetables. This will ensure that every component of the meal is enjoyed without any one flavor dominating the plate.

7 Delicious Side Dishes That Will Elevate Your Spaghetti Dinner

Now let’s take a look at some of the best side dishes to accompany spaghetti for an elevated meal. From garlic bread to eggplant parmesan, these seven recipes will leave your guests wanting more!

Garlic Bread

This classic side dish is a must-have for any spaghetti dinner. To make garlic bread, simply spread softened butter onto sliced Italian bread, sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, and Parmesan cheese, and bake until golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad is a great way to add some greens to your spaghetti dinner. Start by tossing together chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese. Then, whisk together a dressing made of mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste. Drizzle over the salad and serve.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables is a delicious and healthy way to add some extra flavor to your spaghetti. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and toss your favorite veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Enjoy as a side dish or top your spaghetti with them for an extra boost of flavor.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that is perfect for a spaghetti dinner. Start by heating up a baguette in the oven until lightly toasted. Meanwhile, mix together diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper. Spread the mixture onto the baguette slices and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Artichoke Dip

This dip is a great way to add some creaminess to your spaghetti dinner. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and mix together canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Spread the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown. Serve with crackers or pita chips for dipping.

Italian Sausage

If you’re looking for a heavier side dish to pair with your spaghetti, Italian sausage is a great option. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook your favorite Italian sausage links until fully cooked through. Serve alongside your spaghetti for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Baked Feta

Feta cheese is a great way to add some tangy flavor to your spaghetti dinner. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees and place a block of feta cheese on a baking sheet. Top with fresh herbs, olive oil, and black pepper. Bake for 20 minutes, until melted and bubbly. Serve with toasted pita wedges or crackers.

The Best Side Dishes to Accompany Spaghetti for a Balanced Meal

When selecting side dishes to pair with spaghetti, it’s important to choose items that will create a balanced meal. Start by selecting vegetables that will provide nutrients and fiber. Roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or sautéed spinach are all great options. Next, decide if you want to add a protein or starch to the meal. Grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or garlic bread are all tasty additions. Finally, don’t forget to enhance the flavors of your side dishes with herbs and spices. Fresh basil, oregano, and rosemary are all great options.

A Variety of Tasty Side Dishes to Complete Your Spaghetti Night

If you’re looking for more side dish ideas to accompany your spaghetti dinner, here are some delicious recipes to try.

Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter is a great way to start your spaghetti dinner. Arrange a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, peppers, and marinated vegetables onto a large platter. Serve with toasted bread or crackers for a flavorful appetizer.

Caprese Salad

This simple salad is a great way to add some freshness to your spaghetti dinner. Slice fresh mozzarella and tomatoes and layer onto a platter. Sprinkle with fresh basil and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a great way to add some smoky flavor to your spaghetti dinner. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and slice two zucchinis lengthwise. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly charred and tender. Serve warm with your spaghetti.

Fried Polenta

Fried polenta is a great side dish to pair with your spaghetti. To make, start by slicing store-bought polenta into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the polenta in olive oil until crispy and golden brown. Serve with your spaghetti for a delicious and comforting meal.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a great way to add some variety to your spaghetti dinner. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and mix together cooked sausage, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Stuff the mixture into large portobello mushroom caps and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm.

Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a spaghetti dinner. Start by slicing an eggplant into 1/4-inch thick slices. Dredge the slices in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Fry in hot oil until golden brown, then top with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with your favorite spaghetti recipe.

Mixing it Up: Creative Side Dishes to Enhance Your Spaghetti Plate

If you’re looking to get creative with your side dishes, there are plenty of delicious recipes to try. Here are some unique sides that will complement your spaghetti perfectly.

Mediterranean Couscous

Couscous is a great way to add some Mediterranean flair to your spaghetti dinner. Start by cooking couscous according to package instructions. Then, mix in chopped kalamata olives, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Serve warm as a side dish or as a topping for your spaghetti.

Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli

Ravioli is a great side dish for spaghetti. Start by mixing together ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Cut wonton wrappers into circles and spoon the filling onto half of the wrappers. Top with another wonton wrapper and press down to seal. Boil the ravioli in salted water until they float to the top. Serve with your favorite tomato sauce.

Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells are a great way to add some comfort food to your spaghetti dinner. Start by boiling jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Meanwhile, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic. Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture and place in a baking dish. Top with your favorite tomato sauce and bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with your spaghetti.

Gnocchi

Gnocchi is a great side dish for spaghetti. Start by boiling store-bought gnocchi in salted water until they float to the top. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the cooked gnocchi, along with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until the gnocchi is golden brown and serve with your spaghetti.

Lasagna Roll-Ups

Lasagna roll-ups are a great way to add some Italian flavor to your spaghetti dinner. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and mix together ricotta cheese, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Lay out lasagna noodles and spread the cheese mixture onto each noodle. Roll up the noodles and place in a baking dish. Top with your favorite tomato sauce and bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with your spaghetti.

Conclusion

Side dishes are a great way to take your spaghetti dinner to the next level. From roasted vegetables to fried polenta, there are plenty of delicious recipes to choose from. When selecting side dishes, it’s important to consider the type of sauce you are using and to keep the flavors balanced. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create the perfect meal every time. So, experiment with different side dishes and discover the perfect accompaniments to your favorite spaghetti recipes.