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Lasagna is beloved for good reason. With its rich layers, it’s a meal that feels both comforting and celebratory. The right side dishes bring freshness, texture, and balance to the table, turning a simple pan of lasagna into a feast. In this collection, you’ll gather ideas on What to Serve with Lasagna to help you create a complete meal for any occasion.
One of my favorite things about making lasagna is deciding what else will share the table with it. A simple salad with a sharp vinaigrette, a basket of warm bread, or a platter of roasted vegetables can completely change the experience of the meal.
These are the pairings I return to again and again, each one chosen to bring a different flavor, texture, and little touch of joy to a classic pan of lasagna.
A few simple appetizers are the perfect way to begin a lasagna dinner without taking away from the main event. If you’re serving a large crowd, lean towards finger foods like Brie Bites or Stuffed Mushrooms.
4.84 from 6 votes
Italian Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
This easy Italian bread dipping oil is made with high-quality extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. A simple yet elegant appetizer that feels straight out of an Italian restaurant — perfect for dipping crusty bread and sharing with friends.
Need a warm and cheese appetizer to bring everyone into the kitchen before a meal? This easy cheesy and addictive Hot Mascarpone Spinach Artichoke Dip will do the trick! You can prep it a day ahead of time and bake just before serving to save time on busy days.
These marinated mozzarella balls are what I put on the table when I want people hovering in my kitchen. Creamy, milky mozzarella soaked in good olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon zest, and just enough garlic to make it interesting. It’s effortless, elegant, and tastes like something you’d be served on a terrace in Italy.
Homemade Italian marinated olives just like in Sardinia: briny, citrusy, and infused with fresh herbs and rich olive oil. An easy make-ahead appetizer that beats store-bought every time.
Arancini rice balls, arancini di riso in Italian, are made with Arborio rice, filled with ragù, cheese, and peas, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until crispy perfection. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or as a meal.
Polenta Fries– with a crispy exterior and a creamy interior, these fries will make your heart skip a beat. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and generously coated with Parmesan cheese, each bite brings a yummy delight. Whether hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a flavorful snack, get ready to savor the magic of these sensational polenta fries that will leave you craving more!
This Air Fryer Calamari is a simple and delicious Italian dish with perfectly tender calamari, a crispy breadcrumb coating, and bright lemon flavor. You can enjoy the classic taste of fried calamari with a lighter cooking method that still delivers the perfect crunch.
Fresh salads are a wonderful contrast to the rich, comforting layers of lasagna. If none of these salads are what you’re looking for, create your own using my Parmesan Vinaigrette or Apple Cider Vinegar Salad Dressing.
5 from 8 votes
Pear Gorgonzola Salad Recipe
This Pear and Gorgonzola Salad encompasses the perfect flavors with the sweetness of pear and the tangy, sharpness of gorgonzola, and tangy delightful flavor of the orange honey dressing – a classic Italian pairing. Everyone loves this salad. It’s super easy to make. You can toss it up in just a few minutes, so it’s fresh right when you’re ready to serve it.
This Tomato Burrata Salad with basil pesto is fresh, creamy, and ready in 10 minutes. The ultimate Italian summer dish with simple, high-quality ingredients.
This Classic Italian Chopped Salad Recipe is a delicious and colorful Italian-American dish that combines a variety of fresh vegetables, Italian deli meats, cheeses, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It's easy to make and one the best salads for any occasion.
This festive Christmas Salad is a burst of bright flavors, combining sweet, tangy, and savory elements. The combination of candied pecans, fresh oranges, and creamy gorgonzola makes it the perfect holiday dish.
This salad balances savory, sweet, and nutty flavors with layers of texture, from crisp Brussels sprouts to crunchy pine nuts and rustic pancetta-toasted breadcrumbs. It’s a showstopper side dish for everyday meals or festive gatherings.
Simple vegetable sides add color, texture, and a lighter touch to a lasagna dinner. Whether roasted, grilled, or sauteed, these recipes let fresh ingredients shine while complementing the rich flavors of the pasta.
5 from 42 votes
Crispy Brussels Sprouts
These Longhorn Steakhouse Crispy Brussels Sprouts remain tender with perfectly crispy edges. The ideal amount of sweet & spicy flavors leaves you craving more after every bite. Ready in less than 30 minutes!
Roasted Green Beans Recipe with Garlic and Lemon is a fresh and delicious way to enjoy fresh green beans. These easy Roasted Green Beans are seasoned with garlic and lemon and roasted to perfection in olive oil. So simple!
Easy Oven Roasted Zucchini and Yellow Squash Recipe
These Roasted Zucchini and Squash are perfectly caramelized, tender on the inside, and lightly seasoned to bring out their natural sweetness. Quick to prepare and effortlessly delicious, this is a simple side dish you’ll find yourself making on repeat all season long.
This Parmesan Roasted Broccoli combines the earthy flavor of roasted broccoli with the brightness of lemon vinaigrette and the richness of Parmesan cheese. It's a quick recipe even picky eaters will eat!
This Easy Italian Grilled Eggplant Recipe (Melanzane Grigliate) highlights simple ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavor. Each tender slice is infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and extra-virgin olive oil, creating a dish that’s light, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect easy side or appetizer that brings a taste of Italy to your table.
This vibrant and savory dish combines sweet peas with crispy pancetta and aromatic shallots for an irresistible side dish or light main course. The touch of olive oil and optional red pepper flakes elevate the flavors, making this simple recipe a family favorite. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or fish.
Italian Stuffed Zucchini Recipe (Zucchine Ripiene)
These Italian Stuffed Zucchini (Vegetarian) are hearty, wholesome, and bursting with summery goodness. With a clever use of the entire squash and a rich, savory filling, it’s the kind of no-fuss recipe that brings comfort to any table.
This simple Steamed Asparagus (Quick and Easy) is the best! Bright green, tender, juicy, and full of fresh flavors, these steamed asparagus are a tasty and healthy side dish ready in less than 10 minutes with a few basic ingredients.
Italian Flat Green Beans (with Tomatoes and Garlic) is your next easy and flavorful side dish that comes together in 25 minutes! This Italian green beans with tomatoes and garlic are one of the healthiest, tastiest and easiest side dishes.
From lighter to heartier options, these recipes add warmth to your table. Make sure to pair with a slice of No Knead Italian Ciabatta Bread!
5 from 3 votes
Cauliflower Leek Soup
A cozy and comforting Tuscan-inspired soup made with tender potatoes, vibrant kale, aromatic fennel, garlic, and a touch of cream. This authentic Zuppa Toscana is simple, wholesome, and full of rustic Italian flavor—just like you’d find in a countryside kitchen in Tuscany.
Delicious and fresh Minestrone soup recipe! Full of vegetables in a light broth that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. This is an authentic Italian recipe my family has made for generations!
This artichoke soup is hearty and heavenly in taste and texture. It is simple to make and full of flavor. Serve it with a main dish, or make it your light and healthy meal.
Cozy up with this hearty Itlaian Sausage White Bean Soup! Packed with savory sausage, tender beans, fresh spinach, and fragrant herbs, it’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for any chilly evening.
This delicious, hearty Italian lentil soup with sausage is perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy the robust flavors from fresh vegetables, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs. This recipe provides options for both stovetop and slow cooker methods.
Copycat Panera Autumn Squash Soup Recipe (Easy)– is a delicious blend of butternut squash, and pumpkin simmered in a savory broth with coconut cream and warm spices. A cozy roasted butternut squash soup for the fall season.
Breads: A warm loaf of bread is the perfect companion to lasagna, ideal for soaking up every bit of sauce. From crusty Italian Bread to soft Tomato Focaccia, these recipes make the meal feel even more complete.
Desserts: End your lasagna dinner on a sweet note with a classic Italian treat. Try something like a Cannoli Cake, or lean towards a simplier option like Anginetti Cookies.
FAQs
Can these sides be made for a big group?
Absolutely! You can adjust the recipes as needed.
can i make these sides ahead-of-time?
A lot of these recipes can be made fully or partially ahead-of-time. I reccomend checking each individual recipe page for more details.
how do i store leftovers?
Store your leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. Again, check each individual recipe page for more storage information!
Mix and match your favorites to bring fresh flavors, contrasting textures, and a touch of Italian warmth to the table. Most of all, enjoy the simple pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with the people you love. Buon appetito!
My dream is to share delicious wholesome recipes that you will share around the table with all your loved ones. The memories surrounded by food are the heart and soul of CucinaByElena.
