Best Sides for Spaghetti and Meatballs: 22+ Perfect Pairings

As a passionate home cook, I’ve always believed that the perfect spaghetti and meatballs dinner is more than just the main dish. It’s about creating a complete, satisfying meal that tantalizes your taste buds.

That’s why I’m excited to share my favorite sides for spaghetti and meatballs that will take your Italian feast to the next level.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to add variety to your usual spaghetti dinner, I’ve got you covered.

From classic Italian favorites to healthy options and creative twists, let’s find the world of sides that go well with spaghetti and meatballs!

Classic Italian Side Dishes for Spaghetti and Meatballs

When it comes to sides for spaghetti and meatballs, you can’t go wrong with traditional Italian accompaniments. These classic side dishes complement the rich flavors of your main course perfectly.

• Bruschetta: I love starting my Italian meals with a light and refreshing appetizer like Bruschetta. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s the perfect way to whet your appetite before diving into your spaghetti and meatballs.

• Garlic Bread: No Italian dinner is complete without garlic bread! This crowd-pleaser is easy to make and adds a delicious, buttery crunch to your meal. I like to use a crusty Italian loaf, slather it with garlic-infused butter, and toast it until golden brown.

• Italian Salad: A crisp Italian salad is an excellent way to balance the richness of spaghetti and meatballs. I toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and olives with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.

• Caprese Salad: For a simple yet elegant side, you can’t beat a Caprese salad. Layer slices of ripe tomatoes with fresh mozzarella and basil leaves, then drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil. It’s a light and flavorful complement to your pasta dish. For more ideas on what to serve with Caprese salad, check out this helpful guide.

Vegetable Sides to Complement Spaghetti and Meatballs

Adding vegetables to your spaghetti dinner not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and variety to your plate. Here are some of my favorite veggie sides that pair well with spaghetti and meatballs:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables. I love tossing a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasting them until caramelized. The result is a flavorful and healthy side dish.

• Sautéed Spinach or Broccoli Rabe: For a quick and easy green side, sauté some spinach or broccoli rabe with garlic and red pepper flakes. This simple preparation adds a pop of color and a dose of nutrients to your plate.

• Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts are a delicious contrast to soft pasta. I like to halve them, toss with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then roast until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re a great way to add some crunch to your meal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Sometimes, simple is best. Lightly steamed broccoli seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice is a healthy and easy side that complements spaghetti and meatballs beautifully. It’s my go-to when I want to keep things light and fresh.

Bread and Grain-based Sides for Spaghetti and Meatballs

While spaghetti itself is a carb-heavy dish, sometimes you just can’t resist adding a delicious bread or grain-based side to soak up that flavorful sauce. Here are some of my favorite options:

• Focaccia: I absolutely adore serving focaccia alongside spaghetti and meatballs. This Italian flatbread is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and often topped with herbs and olive oil. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. If you’re looking for more ideas on what to serve with focaccia, check out this great resource.

• Breadsticks: Crispy, golden breadsticks are a classic accompaniment to any Italian meal. I like to make mine from scratch, brushing them with olive oil and sprinkling with sea salt before baking. They’re great for nibbling on between bites of spaghetti.

• Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a delightful contrast to spaghetti and meatballs. This comforting cornmeal dish can be served soft or grilled, adding a unique texture and subtle sweetness to your meal.

• Risotto: For a truly indulgent meal, consider serving a small portion of risotto alongside your spaghetti and meatballs. I know it might seem like carb overload, but a creamy Parmesan risotto can be a delightful contrast to the tomato-based sauce of your main dish.

Creative Sides to Serve with Spaghetti and Meatballs

Sometimes, you might want to think outside the box and serve something a little different with your spaghetti dinner. Here are some creative sides that I’ve found pair surprisingly well with spaghetti and meatballs:

• Caprese Skewers: Take the classic Caprese salad and make it fun by threading cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tasty, bite-sized appetizer.

• Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter is a great way to start your Italian feast. I like to include a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad can be a refreshing counterpoint to rich spaghetti and meatballs. The garlicky, tangy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a nice contrast in flavors and textures.

• Greek Salad: For a Mediterranean twist, try serving a Greek salad. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese makes for a light and flavorful side dish.

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Cream cheese stuffed mushrooms are a delicious appetizer that can double as a side dish. I love the earthy flavor of mushrooms paired with the rich, creamy filling. It’s an unexpected but delightful addition to your spaghetti dinner.

Healthy Side Dishes for Spaghetti and Meatballs

If you’re looking to balance out the richness of spaghetti and meatballs with some lighter options, here are some healthy sides that I often turn to:

• Lentil Salad: A protein-packed lentil salad is a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meal. I like to toss cooked lentils with diced vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette.

• Arugula and Parmesan Salad: The peppery bite of arugula paired with shaved Parmesan makes for a simple yet sophisticated salad. A light lemon vinaigrette is all you need to dress this salad.

• Cucumber Vinegar Salad: This refreshing salad is a staple in my household. Thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in vinegar, a touch of sugar, and dill create a tangy, crisp side that cuts through the richness of the main dish.

• Roasted Chickpeas: For a crunchy, protein-rich side, try roasted chickpeas. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices before roasting until crispy. They’re a healthier alternative to croutons and add a nice texture to your meal.

• Zucchini Noodles: If you’re watching your carb intake, consider serving some zucchini noodles alongside your spaghetti. They’re a great way to add extra vegetables to your plate while mimicking the texture of pasta.

Beverage Pairings for Spaghetti and Meatballs and Sides

No Italian feast is complete without the perfect beverage to accompany it. Here are some of my favorite drink pairings that complement both the spaghetti and meatballs and the side dishes we’ve discussed:

Wine Selections

1. Red wine options:

• Chianti: This classic Italian red wine is my go-to for spaghetti and meatballs. Its medium body and high acidity cut through the richness of the dish perfectly.
• Sangiovese: Another great Italian option, Sangiovese has bright acidity and cherry notes that pair well with tomato-based sauces.
•  Zinfandel: If you prefer a bolder wine, try a Zinfandel. Its fruit-forward profile and higher alcohol content stand up well to hearty meatballs.

2. White wine choices:

• Pinot Grigio: For those who prefer white wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio can be a refreshing choice, especially if you’re serving lighter sides like salads.
• Vermentino: This Italian white has good acidity and a slight bitterness that can complement both the main dish and vegetable sides.

Non-alcoholic Beverages

1. Italian sodas: I love offering a variety of Italian sodas for a fun, non-alcoholic option. Flavors like blood orange or lemon can add a festive touch to your meal.

2.  Sparkling water with fruit: For a lighter option, try sparkling water infused with lemon, lime, or berries. It’s refreshing and helps cleanse the palate between bites.

Tips for Balancing Your Spaghetti and Meatballs Meal

Creating a well-balanced meal is key to enjoying your spaghetti and meatballs to the fullest. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:

Portion Control

1.  Recommended serving sizes:

• Spaghetti: Aim for about 2 oz (56g) of dry pasta per person
• Meatballs: 2-3 medium-sized meatballs per serving
• Side dishes: 1/2 to 1 cup of vegetables or salad

2. Balancing carbs, proteins, and vegetables: Try to follow the plate method:

• 1/4 of your plate for spaghetti
• 1/4 for meatballs
•   1/2 for vegetables or salad

Timing Your Side Dishes

1. Preparation order:

• Start with dishes that can be served cold or at room temperature (like salads)
•  Prepare hot sides last to ensure they’re fresh and warm when served

2.     Keeping dishes warm:

• Use a warming drawer if you have one
• Cover dishes with foil and keep in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) until ready to serve

Conclusion

Exploring the world of sides for spaghetti and meatballs opens up endless possibilities to elevate your Italian feast.

From classic garlic bread to healthy roasted vegetables, there’s something for every palate and dietary preference.

Remember, the key is to balance flavors and textures while considering your personal taste. Don’t be afraid to mix traditional sides with more creative options to keep your meals exciting.

With these ideas, you’re well-equipped to create a memorable dining experience that goes beyond just the main dish. Buon appetito!

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