What Goes With Spaghetti Dinner? The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Pairings
A truly satisfying spaghetti dinner extends beyond just the pasta and sauce. The key lies in selecting complementary sides and accompaniments that enhance the overall flavor profile, offering a balanced and memorable meal experience.
Why Spaghetti Dinner Needs More Than Just Spaghetti
Spaghetti, while a beloved comfort food, can be a bit one-dimensional on its own. Adding side dishes and accompaniments introduces variety in both texture and taste, creating a more complete and enjoyable dining experience. A well-planned spaghetti dinner provides:
- Nutritional Balance: Incorporating vegetables, salads, and lean proteins ensures a well-rounded meal.
- Textural Contrast: Crisp salads, crusty bread, and creamy sides offer pleasing variations in texture.
- Flavor Enhancement: Complementary flavors elevate the spaghetti and prevent palate fatigue.
- Visual Appeal: Colorful side dishes make the meal more visually appealing.
Classic and Complementary Side Dishes
Choosing the right side dishes can transform a simple spaghetti dinner into a culinary delight. Here are some classic and complementary options:
- Garlic Bread: The quintessential spaghetti side. Its crispy exterior and garlicky flavor perfectly complement the sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A refreshing and tangy salad that cuts through the richness of the spaghetti.
- Caprese Salad: Simple yet elegant, the combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provides a burst of freshness.
- Green Salad with Italian Dressing: A light and refreshing option that adds fiber and vitamins.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with herbs and garlic add a healthy and flavorful element.
- Meatballs (as a side): Offer a lighter, less saucy version of meatballs to complement the spaghetti.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Unique Pairings
Don’t be afraid to experiment! There are many other options that can enhance your spaghetti dinner:
- Grilled Asparagus: Its slightly bitter flavor pairs well with the sweetness of the tomato sauce.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze offers a flavorful appetizer.
- Italian Sausage: Grilled or pan-fried Italian sausage provides a hearty and savory addition.
- Mushroom Sauté: A simple sauté of mushrooms with garlic and herbs adds an earthy element.
- Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette: The salty bacon and tangy vinaigrette complement the richness of the spaghetti.
- Olive Tapenade: Served with crusty bread, this adds a briny and savory element.
Wine Pairings to Elevate Your Meal
The right wine can significantly enhance the spaghetti dinner experience. Here’s a basic guide:
| Spaghetti Sauce Type | Wine Pairing Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara | Chianti Classico | High acidity, bright cherry flavors. |
| Bolognese | Barbera | Medium-bodied, fruity, good acidity to cut through richness. |
| Pesto | Vermentino | Light-bodied, citrusy, and herbaceous. |
| Creamy Alfredo | Chardonnay | Oaked Chardonnay offers buttery notes to complement the creaminess. |
Dessert: The Sweet Finale
Completing your spaghetti dinner with a delicious dessert is the perfect way to end the meal:
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa.
- Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
- Panna Cotta: A smooth and creamy Italian custard.
- Gelato: A refreshing and lighter option, especially in flavors like pistachio or hazelnut.
- Fruit Tart: A light and fruity dessert that provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best bread to serve with spaghetti?
Italian bread is the most common choice, offering a soft interior and a crusty exterior perfect for soaking up sauce. Garlic bread is also an excellent option, providing a flavorful complement to the pasta.
How can I make garlic bread healthier?
Use whole wheat bread and opt for olive oil instead of butter. Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano to enhance the flavor and reduce the need for excessive garlic.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish for spaghetti?
Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers are excellent choices. A Caprese salad also offers a fresh and flavorful vegetarian option.
Can I serve soup with spaghetti?
While not a traditional pairing, a light soup like minestrone can be a refreshing and healthy addition. Avoid heavy, creamy soups as they may be too rich alongside the spaghetti.
What is a good salad dressing to use with spaghetti?
A simple Italian vinaigrette is a classic choice. It provides a tangy and herby flavor that complements the tomato sauce. Avoid creamy dressings as they may be too heavy.
How can I make my spaghetti dinner healthier overall?
Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and load up on vegetables. Choose a tomato-based sauce over a cream-based sauce and be mindful of portion sizes.
What type of cheese is best to serve with spaghetti?
Grated Parmesan cheese is the traditional choice. Pecorino Romano offers a saltier and sharper flavor. Fresh mozzarella is also a great addition to Caprese salads.
What are some kid-friendly side dishes for spaghetti?
Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or steamed broccoli are generally well-received by children. Cut vegetables into fun shapes to make them more appealing.
Is it okay to serve polenta with spaghetti?
While not a common pairing, creamy polenta can actually complement spaghetti well, especially if the sauce is rich and meaty. Think of it as a different kind of “sauce sponge.”
What is a good alternative to traditional red sauce for spaghetti?
Pesto is a flavorful and vibrant alternative made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Creamy Alfredo sauce is another option, but it’s higher in calories.
How can I make a simple dessert to go with spaghetti?
A bowl of fresh fruit, like berries or grapes, is a light and refreshing option. Italian cookies are also a simple and satisfying choice.
What should I consider when planning a complete spaghetti dinner menu?
Think about balance. If the spaghetti sauce is heavy, opt for lighter side dishes and a refreshing dessert. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests. And most importantly, have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment!