What Goes Well With Lasagna? The Perfect Pairings for an Italian Feast
Lasagna, a classic comfort food, pairs well with a variety of dishes, from light and refreshing salads to hearty breads and complementary side dishes, ultimately enhancing the overall dining experience by balancing its richness and intensity.
Introduction: The Lasagna Love Affair
Lasagna. The name conjures images of bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and satisfying layers of pasta. It’s a dish synonymous with family gatherings, celebratory meals, and pure, unadulterated comfort. But even the most magnificent lasagna benefits from carefully chosen accompaniments. Selecting the right side dishes, appetizers, and beverages can elevate the entire meal, creating a truly memorable culinary experience. This isn’t just about filling plates; it’s about creating a balanced and harmonious symphony of flavors.
Salad Sensations: The Light and Refreshing Counterpoint
One of the best ways to offset the richness of lasagna is with a vibrant and refreshing salad. The acidity and lightness of the salad provide a welcome contrast, cleansing the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
- Classic Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offer a delightful textural contrast to the soft layers of lasagna.
- Italian Chopped Salad: Packed with crisp vegetables, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is a flavor explosion.
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery arugula and bright lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness of the lasagna.
Bread Winners: The Perfect Carb Complement
Let’s face it: bread and pasta are a match made in heaven. Serving a crusty loaf or some garlic bread alongside lasagna is almost a necessity.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread’s savory flavor complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce left on your plate.
- Focaccia: This Italian flatbread, often seasoned with herbs and olive oil, adds another layer of flavor and texture.
Side Dish Delights: Expanding the Flavor Profile
Beyond salads and bread, several side dishes can further enhance your lasagna feast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini offer a healthy and flavorful counterpoint to the richness of the lasagna. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness.
- Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: A simple yet elegant side dish that adds a touch of green to the plate.
- Mashed Potatoes: While not strictly Italian, creamy mashed potatoes can surprisingly complement the lasagna’s savory flavors.
- Meatballs: Pairing mini-meatballs in marinara as an appetizer will create a seamless flavor transition.
Beverages: Quenching Your Thirst
Choosing the right beverage is crucial for completing the lasagna experience.
- Wine: A light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, pairs well with lasagna.
- Sparkling Water: The bubbles help cleanse the palate and cut through the richness.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing and unsweetened iced tea can be a welcome alternative to alcoholic beverages.
- Italian Soda: Flavored Italian sodas, especially those with citrus notes, add a touch of sweetness and fizz.
Dessert Decadence: Sweet Endings
After indulging in lasagna, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end the meal.
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert that complements the lasagna’s Italian flavors.
- Cannoli: These crispy shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese are a delightful treat.
- Fruit Salad: A simple and refreshing way to end the meal on a light note.
- Gelato: Another excellent pairing that offers a cooling and delightful finish.
Common Mistakes: What NOT to Serve with Lasagna
While lasagna is a versatile dish, there are a few things that generally don’t pair well with it:
- Heavy Cream-Based Dishes: Avoid anything too heavy or creamy, as it can overwhelm the palate.
- Spicy Foods: Spicy dishes can clash with the rich flavors of the lasagna.
- Overly Sweet Dishes: Too much sweetness can overpower the savory flavors.
Table: Perfect Lasagna Pairings at a Glance
| Category | Suggested Pairings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Salads | Caesar Salad, Italian Chopped Salad, Arugula Salad | Provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of lasagna. |
| Breads | Garlic Bread, Crusty Italian Bread, Focaccia | Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. |
| Side Dishes | Roasted Vegetables, Sautéed Spinach, Mashed Potatoes | Adds variety and nutritional balance to the meal. |
| Beverages | Chianti, Pinot Noir, Sparkling Water, Iced Tea | Cleanses the palate and complements the flavors of the lasagna. |
| Desserts | Tiramisu, Cannoli, Fruit Salad, Gelato | Provides a light and refreshing ending to the meal. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of wine goes best with lasagna?
A light-bodied red wine with high acidity and moderate tannins, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, is generally considered the best pairing for lasagna. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, while the tannins complement the savory flavors. Avoid overly bold or oaky red wines that might overpower the lasagna.
Is garlic bread always a good choice with lasagna?
Yes, garlic bread is almost always a safe and delicious choice with lasagna. The garlicky, buttery flavors complement the tomato sauce and cheese beautifully. For a healthier option, consider using whole-wheat bread and opting for olive oil instead of butter.
Can I serve mashed potatoes with lasagna?
While it might seem unconventional, mashed potatoes can actually be a surprisingly good pairing with lasagna. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the mashed potatoes provide a comforting counterpoint to the richness of the lasagna. Season the mashed potatoes with garlic and herbs for an extra flavor boost.
What’s a good vegetarian side dish to serve with lasagna?
Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, are excellent vegetarian side dishes to serve with lasagna. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor. Season them with olive oil, herbs, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for added complexity.
Should I serve an appetizer before lasagna?
Serving an appetizer before lasagna is a great way to enhance the overall dining experience. A light appetizer, such as bruschetta, caprese salad, or olives, can stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the main course. Mini meatballs in marinara will provide a seamless transition.
What’s the best type of salad dressing for a salad served with lasagna?
A light and tangy vinaigrette is generally the best choice for a salad served with lasagna. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish. Avoid heavy, creamy dressings that might overwhelm the palate. A lemon vinaigrette or Italian vinaigrette are excellent options.
Can I serve soup with lasagna?
Serving soup with lasagna is generally not recommended, as both dishes are quite filling and heavy. However, if you’re set on serving soup, opt for a light and broth-based option, such as minestrone or tomato soup, to avoid overwhelming the palate.
What’s a good dessert to serve after lasagna that isn’t too heavy?
Fruit salad, gelato, or a light sorbet are all excellent choices for a dessert that isn’t too heavy after lasagna. These desserts offer a refreshing and light ending to the meal.
How can I make garlic bread healthier?
Use whole-wheat bread, brush with olive oil instead of butter, and incorporate herbs. You can also add roasted garlic for a richer flavor that is naturally sweet.
What is a unique pairing for lasagna?
Grilled corn on the cob. It offers a surprising sweet and smoky complement to the savory lasagna. It’s especially fitting if you are having a barbeque.
Can you pair risotto with lasagna?
While both are delicious Italian dishes, pairing risotto directly with lasagna is generally not recommended, as they are both quite heavy and carb-loaded. They would compete with each other rather than complement each other.
Is it ever okay to serve beer instead of wine with lasagna?
Yes, a lighter Italian lager can pair well with lasagna. Avoid very hoppy beers, which could clash. The lager will provide a refreshing contrast.