What To Serve With Lasagna For A Dinner Party

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Introduction

Planning a dinner party can be an exciting endeavor, but choosing the right dishes to serve can sometimes be a challenge. If you have decided to serve lasagna as the main course, you’re off to a great start! Lasagna is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to impress your guests. However, to make your dinner party truly memorable, it’s important to consider what to serve alongside your lasagna.

In this article, we will explore various options and ideas to complement your lasagna and create a well-rounded and delightful dining experience for your guests. From appetizers and starters to salads, bread, side dishes, desserts, and beverages, we have you covered.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect accompaniments for your lasagna dinner party!

Main Dish Options

While lasagna steals the spotlight as the main dish, you may want to consider serving a variety of complementary options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few main dish ideas that pair well with lasagna:

• Italian Roasted Chicken: Serve succulent roasted chicken seasoned with herbs and garlic to provide a flavorful contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• Eggplant Parmesan: A vegetarian alternative, eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish made with breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: For a seafood twist, prepare a zesty lemon garlic shrimp pasta dish that will lighten up the meal and add a burst of freshness.
• Beef Tenderloin: If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your dinner party, consider serving juicy and tender beef tenderloin. Slice it thinly and serve it alongside the lasagna for a surf-and-turf experience.

By offering a variety of main dish options, you can cater to the preferences of your guests and provide them with a well-rounded dining experience.

Appetizers and Starters

Before diving into the main course, it’s always nice to start the evening with some delicious appetizers and starters. Here are a few ideas to get your taste buds tingling:

• Bruschetta: Serve slices of toasted baguette topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that pairs perfectly with lasagna.
• Caprese Skewers: Create colorful skewers by alternating cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a delightful and refreshing bite.
• Antipasto Platter: Arrange a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto and salami, alongside an assortment of cheeses, olives, roasted red peppers, and breadsticks. This platter is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to kick-start the meal.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuff large mushroom caps with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake them until golden and savory, and watch them disappear quickly.

These appetizers will set the stage for a delicious and memorable dining experience. They provide a burst of flavors, textures, and colors that will whet the appetite and leave your guests eager for more.

Salad and Bread Options

No dinner party is complete without a refreshing salad and some warm, crusty bread. These options will complement the heartiness of the lasagna and add a touch of freshness to the meal:

• Caprese Salad: Combine slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for a light and vibrant salad that showcases the flavors of Italy.
• Caesar Salad: Toss crisp romaine lettuce with traditional Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons. The tangy dressing balances the richness of the lasagna.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, soft, and buttery garlic bread on the side. This classic accompaniment is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce of the lasagna.
• Focaccia: Bake or purchase some fragrant and fluffy focaccia bread. Serve it sliced and drizzled with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs like rosemary or thyme.

These salad and bread options add freshness, texture, and variety to your dinner party. They also provide a light and refreshing contrast to the indulgent lasagna.

Tip: Serve a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing alongside your lasagna to balance out the richness of the dish. It will add a refreshing contrast and complement the flavors.

Side Dish Ideas

Complement your lasagna with a selection of flavorful and vibrant side dishes that will elevate the dining experience. Consider these options:

• Roasted Vegetables: Toss a medley of colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them until caramelized and tender for a healthy and delicious side dish.
• Grilled Asparagus: Grill tender asparagus spears until slightly charred and crisp. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an elegant and tasty side.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Prepare silky and creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic for a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to the lasagna.
• Orzo Pasta Salad: Toss cooked orzo pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a zesty vinaigrette for a light and refreshing side dish.

These side dishes add depth, variety, and additional nutritional elements to your meal. They also offer a balance of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave your guests satisfied and impressed.

Dessert Choices

No dinner party is complete without a delightful and indulgent dessert. After enjoying the savory flavors of the main course, consider these sweet treats to satisfy your guests’ sweet cravings:

• Tiramisu: Serve a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and rum, creamy mascarpone cheese, and dusted with cocoa powder. Tiramisu is a crowd favorite and pairs perfectly with the richness of the lasagna.
• Cannoli: Offer a selection of homemade or store-bought cannoli filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and garnished with chocolate chips and powdered sugar. These crispy and creamy treats will add a touch of Italian authenticity to your dessert spread.
• Chocolate Lava Cake: Bake individual-sized chocolate lava cakes with a molten center of warm, gooey chocolate. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent and decadent dessert experience.
• Fruit Tart: Prepare a beautiful fruit tart filled with a luscious pastry cream and topped with an assortment of fresh fruits. This dessert is light, refreshing, and visually stunning.

These dessert choices will provide a sweet and satisfying ending to your dinner party. They offer a variety of flavors and textures that will leave your guests with a sweet and lasting impression.

Beverage Recommendations

Add the perfect finishing touch to your dinner party by offering a selection of beverages to complement the flavors of your meal. Consider these beverage recommendations to satisfy the varied preferences of your guests:

• Red Wine: Serve a full-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Sangiovese, to pair with the richness of the lasagna. The robust flavors and tannins in red wine provide a harmonious combination with the savory and hearty dish.
• White Wine: For those who prefer white wine, opt for a crisp and aromatic variety like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines offer a refreshing contrast and complement the flavors of the lighter side dishes.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus: Offer a non-alcoholic option by serving sparkling water infused with slices of lemon, lime, or orange. This refreshing beverage cleanses the palate and adds a burst of zest.
• Signature Cocktail: Get creative and prepare a signature cocktail that complements the Italian theme of the dinner party. Consider a refreshing Aperol Spritz or a classic Negroni to wow your guests with a unique and flavorful drink.

Remember to offer a variety of non-alcoholic options such as iced tea, lemonade, or a selection of soft drinks to cater to all preferences. Water should also be readily available for guests to stay hydrated throughout the meal.

By providing a thoughtful selection of beverages, you can enhance the overall dining experience and ensure that your guests have the perfect libation to accompany their meal.

Conclusion

Planning a dinner party is all about creating a memorable experience for your guests. When serving lasagna as the main course, selecting the right accompaniments is key to achieving a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. By considering a variety of options for appetizers, starters, salads, bread, side dishes, desserts, and beverages, you can ensure that your guests will be treated to a delightful and flavorful meal.

From the tantalizing aromas of bruschetta and the vibrant colors of caprese salad to the comforting taste of garlic mashed potatoes and decadent desserts like tiramisu, there are endless combinations to complement your lasagna. By offering a range of choices, you can cater to different dietary preferences and create a dining experience that is enjoyable for everyone.

Don’t forget to consider the importance of presentation and aesthetic appeal when serving your dishes. Arrange the food beautifully on platters and in serving bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of sauce, and ensure that each dish looks as appetizing as it tastes.

Remember, the key to a successful dinner party is not only the food but also the company and atmosphere. Create a warm and inviting ambiance, engage your guests in conversation, and ensure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable.

With these ideas and suggestions, you are well on your way to hosting a memorable lasagna dinner party that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and enjoy an evening filled with delectable flavors and joyful conversations!