What To Serve With Eggplant Parmesan (10 Best Side Dishes)
When it comes to Eggplant Parmesan, what sides dishes go well together? There are many different options to choose from, but we’ll outline a few of our favorites.
No matter what you choose, we guarantee that your Eggplant Parmesan will be delicious.
So, check out these side dishes!
What To Serve With Eggplant Parmesan
- Gelato
- Italian Pasta Salad
- Buttered Noodles
- Stir-Fried Cabbage
- Spaghetti Squash Pasta
- Sauteed Green Beans
- Fresh Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette
- Roasted Broccoli
- Garlic Bread
- Italian Sausage
Gelato
While many people think of gelato as a dessert, it can be a great side dish for savory dishes like Eggplant Parmesan. The rich, creamy texture of gelato pairs well with the crispy breading on the eggplant, and the sweetness helps to offset the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Gelato is also a good source of calcium and other nutrients, making it a healthier choice than traditional side dishes like pasta or mashed potatoes.
When choosing a gelato flavor to pair with Eggplant Parmesan, look for one that complements the other flavors in the dish. For example, if your tomato sauce is very spicy, you might want to choose a gelato flavor with a hint of mint or lemon to cool things down.
Or if your eggplant is particularly flavorful, you might want to choose a rich chocolate or coffee gelato.
Italian Pasta Salad
This Italian pasta salad is the perfect side dish for eggplant Parmesan. It is packed with flavor and nutrients, and it helps to balance out the heaviness of the eggplant Parmesan.
The salad is also relatively simple to make, and it can be easily customized to your preferences. I like to use a mix of different vegetables in my salad, including tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olives. I also add in some shredded cheese and a bit of Italian dressing for extra flavor.
This salad is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables, and it pairs well with a variety of other dishes. If you are looking for a lighter option, you could try replacing the eggplant Parmesan with roasted vegetables.
Or, if you want a heartier meal, you could add some grilled chicken or sausage to the salad.
Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be used in a variety of recipes. One popular option is to pair them with eggplant parmesan. The creamy sauce and tender noodles complement the crispy eggplant and melty cheese perfectly.
Buttered noodles can also be used as a base for other dishes, such as chicken or veggie stir-fries. They are a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to your meal.
Additionally, buttered noodles are a healthy option as they are low in calories and fat. When choosing a recipe to pair with buttered noodles, be sure to select one that will not overpower the delicate flavor of the dish.
For a heartier meal, consider pairing them with a meat or vegetable-based sauce. For something lighter, consider using a simple tomato or Alfredo sauce.
Stir-Fried Cabbage
There are many reasons to make stir-fried cabbage for eggplant Parmesan. For one, it is a healthy and flavorful way to add vegetables to your diet.
Additionally, it is a quick and easy recipe that can be made in less than 30 minutes. Stir-fried cabbage is also a versatile side dish that can be used in a variety of recipes.
For example, it can be served with grilled chicken or fish, as well as pasta dishes such as spaghetti and meatballs. In terms of flavor, stir-fried cabbage is slightly sweet and slightly salty, with a slight crunch due to the vegetable’s natural crunchiness.
When compared to other side dishes, stir-fried cabbage is a healthier option that is just as tasty as its counterparts.
Spaghetti Squash Pasta
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and healthy alternative to pasta. It can be used in a variety of recipes, including eggplant parmesan. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a lower-carb option.
The spaghetti squash absorbs the flavors of the sauce, making it a delicious and filling side dish. When paired with a protein and vegetable, it makes for a well-rounded meal.
This dish can also be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply cook the spaghetti squash and then add your favorite sauce and toppings. Eggplant parmesan is just one of many recipes that pair well with this versatile side dish.
Other favorites include roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or shrimp scampi.
Sauteed Green Beans
Its versatility is its best quality. Green beans can be used as a side for nearly any dish from across the globe. It matches well with meat, poultry, fish, and vegetarian entrees.
Green beans are an excellent source of Vitamin C, A, K, and B vitamins. They’re also a good source of carotenoids, which are important for eye health. Carotenoids are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to boost the immune system. All of these qualities make green beans an excellent choice for a side dish.
Green beans can be used in so many different recipes. From Asian stir-fries to Italian pasta dishes, they’re versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes.
One of my favorite recipes is sauteed green beans with eggplant parmesan. The green beans add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to the dish, while the eggplant parmesan adds rich flavor and depth.
This dish is a great example of how green beans can be used as a side dish to enhance the flavor and texture of a recipe.
Fresh Salad With Lemon Vinaigrette
A fresh salad is the perfect side dish for eggplant parmesan. The acidity of the lemon vinaigrette helps to cut through the richness of the dish, while the crispness of the lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce and tender eggplant.
The salad also adds a pop of color to the plate, making it a visually appealing dish.
There are many different ways that you can vary this salad recipe to suit your taste. For example, you could use a different type of lettuce, such as spinach or arugula.
You could also add in some additional vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots. And if you want a bit more protein, you could always top the salad with some grilled chicken or shrimp.
Roasted Broccoli
Roasted Broccoli is the perfect side dish for Eggplant Parmesan. There are several reasons why this particular vegetable works so well as a side.
First of all, the natural flavor of broccoli pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce used in Eggplant Parmesan. The slight bitterness of the broccoli helps to offset the sweetness of the sauce, creating a more well-rounded dish.
In addition, the texture of roasted broccoli provides a nice contrast to the creamy eggplant and cheesy mozzarella. The florets hold their shape well when roasted, making them easy to eat with a fork.
Finally, broccoli is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice as a side dish. It is high in fiber and vitamins A and C, and it also contains calcium and iron.
When selecting broccoli for roasting, look for firm, brightly colored florets. Avoid any broccoli that appears wilted or yellowed.
For the best results, roast the broccoli at a high temperature until it is tender but still slightly crisp. Serve immediately for maximum flavor. Enjoy!
Garlic Bread
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare side dish to accompany your eggplant Parmesan, garlic bread is a perfect option. This classic Italian bread is flavored with garlic and olive oil, and it pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of eggplant Parmesan.
Additionally, garlic bread helps to soak up any excess tomato sauce, preventing the dish from becoming too soggy. And because it’s so easy to prepare, garlic bread is a great option for busy home cooks who want to get dinner on the table quickly.
To make garlic bread, simply brush a loaf of Italian bread with olive oil and garlic, then bake it in a hot oven until it’s crispy and golden brown. Serve immediately alongside your eggplant Parmesan, and enjoy!
Italian Sausage
Italian sausage is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be used with a variety of recipes. When paired with eggplant parmesan, the sausage adds a touch of flavor and spice to the dish, while the eggplant helps to balance out the richness of the sausage. Other great recipes to pair with Italian sausage include pasta dishes, pizzas, and stews.
Italian sausage is also a great addition to a traditional Sunday gravy. While it is typically used as a side dish, Italian sausage can also be served as an appetizer or main course.
When choosing a recipe to pair with Italian sausage, keep in mind that the sausage will add both flavor and heat to the dish. If you are looking for a milder flavor, you may want to choose a recipe that includes tomatoes or another type of acidic ingredient. Furthermore, if you want a spicier dish, you may look for recipes that include peppers or other spices.
Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing What To Serve With Eggplant Parmesan
What is the best side dish for eggplant Parmesan?
Many different side dishes go well with eggplant Parmesan, but some of the most popular choices include roasted broccoli, garlic bread, and Italian sausage.
What can I serve with eggplant Parmesan if I don’t like broccoli?
If you’re not a fan of broccoli, there are plenty of other vegetables that would go well as a side dish for eggplant Parmesan. Some good options include spinach, arugula, tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.
What is the best bread to serve with eggplant Parmesan?
Garlic bread is a classic and popular choice for many, but any type of Italian bread would also be a good option. Other good choices include ciabatta bread, sourdough bread, and baguettes.
I don’t like tomato sauce. Can I still make eggplant Parmesan?
Yes! Eggplant Parmesan can be made without tomato sauce. Simply omit the tomato sauce from the recipe, and substitute your favorite marinara sauce or Alfredo sauce instead. Your eggplant Parmesan will still be delicious!
Conclusion
Many delicious and healthy side dishes go well with eggplant Parmesan.
Whether you’re looking for something light or hearty, there’s sure to be a recipe that suits your needs.
And because there are so many different options to choose from, you’re sure to find a side dish that everyone in your family will enjoy.
So what are you waiting for? Give one of these recipes a try today!