Comprehensive Guide to Spaghetti Pairings: Best Side Dishes and Toppings

Looking for the perfect side dishes and toppings to serve alongside your spaghetti for a complete meal? This guide is your ultimate resource to discover the best combinations that will elevate your spaghetti to a delicious culinary experience. Whether you prefer a classic Italian twist or an American take on this beloved pasta, you'll find a variety of options to choose from depending on your preferences and occasion.

The Classic Pairing: Salad and Crusty Garlic Bread

For many, the traditional pairing of salad and crusty garlic bread is a winning combination. Here's why:

Salad: A fresh green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of spaghetti. Include elements such as crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette dressing for balance. Crusty Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, garlic-infused bread is the perfect accompaniment to your pasta, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor.

For a simple yet delicious touch, consider topping your spaghetti with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.

My Favorite Spaghetti Preparation: Lemon and Garlic Broccoli Pasta

One of my personal favorite ways to prepare spaghetti is with a lemon and garlic broccoli sauce. Here's how to make it:

Cook the pasta as usual, but reserve a bit of the pasta water for later. While the pasta is cooking, prepare a flavorful broth of chicken stock, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Add shrimp, salmon, or cod fillet to the broth and allow it to poach until done. Add a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce and mix it well. Add the cooked pasta and sautéed broccoli to the hot sauce mix. Taste and adjust with salt, lemon juice, or more garlic as needed.

This dish is versatile and can be made with leftover chicken, turkey, or thinly sliced pork if desired. It's a simple and delicious preparation that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Spaghetti Variations: Chicken Parm, Meatballs, and Sausage

Looking for more traditional Italian flavors? Consider these popular spaghetti pairings:

Spaghetti with Chicken Parm: A classic with a traditional red meat sauce and cheese. Topped with fresh basil, this is a hearty and satisfying meal. Meatballs and Sausage: Add some meaty flavor to your spaghetti byTopping it with homemade meatballs or sausages, simmered in a flavorful sauce. Eggplant Parmesan: Another Italian classic, eggplant parm is a great addition to your spaghetti menu.

Or, for a twist, you can serve spaghetti with fish such as shrimp or salmon, which adds a light and fresh flavor to the dish.

American Style: Spaghetti and Meats in Casseroles

If you lean towards more robust, American-style meals, consider these options:

Spaghetti Pie: An American adaptation of pasta al forno, this involves tossing the spaghetti with cheese, meatballs, or sausage, and a tomato sauce. Add another layer of sauce and cheese on top, then bake until bubbly and golden brown. Slow-Simmered Ragu: Serve the spaghetti with a slow-simmered ragu, a comforting and flavorful sauce that can be made with various types of meat and vegetables. Contrast with Southern Flavors: In areas like the bayou, where they may use sausage and shrimp in their spaghetti, you might enjoy a similar twist in your meal.

Or, you could take the Southern twist to the next level by adding a side of fried chicken or pork chops, making a hearty and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

While traditionally spaghetti is served as a side dish or separate course, you can enjoy it as a main dish if you're not adhering to authentic Italian cuisine. Experiment with different side dishes and toppings to find your perfect combination. Whether you're leaning towards a simple and fresh salad or an intricate casserole, there's a spaghetti pairing that will satisfy your cravings. So, dive into the world of spaghetti pairings and enjoy the versatility and richness of this beloved pasta dish!