What to Eat With Spaghetti: 25 Best Side Dishes

When you’re planning a spaghetti dinner, you’re probably wondering what to eat with spaghetti?

Choosing the right side dishes can transform your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

You’re likely familiar with classics like garlic bread and Caesar salad, but have you considered branching out to roasted red pepper hummus or a tasty Tuscan white bean salad?

Each side dish brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, perfectly complementing the heartiness of spaghetti.

As you explore these 25 top picks, think about how the different flavors will blend with your pasta.

Aren’t you curious to discover which combinations will elevate your next spaghetti night?

Classic Garlic Bread

What’s spaghetti without the irresistible aroma of classic garlic bread wafting through the air?

As you twirl those spaghetti noodles drenched in homemade marinara sauce, don’t forget the garlic bread!

It’s the perfect side dish, elevating any spaghetti dinner.

Whether you’re mastering pasta recipes or just enjoying a classic Italian dish, garlic bread complements both spaghetti sauce and the overall experience deliciously.

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing, perfectly cuts through the richness of a hearty spaghetti dish.

It’s a classic Caesar salad that brings fresh flavors with bursts of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Add some cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a dash of black pepper, and you’ve got a healthy side dish that’s a great addition to your meal.

Caprese Skewers

For a light and flavorful side, consider Caprese skewers, which pair beautifully with the simplicity of spaghetti. Thread fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and homemade mozzarella sticks onto sticks and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. It’s like having the best tomato salad on a stick!

Perfect alongside classic tomato sauce or as part of antipasto platters. Don’t forget the best garlic bread on the side!

Roasted Vegetables

While your spaghetti simmers, toss a mix of colorful vegetables in olive oil and roast them to enhance their natural sweetness and add a delightful crunch to your meal.

• Golden brown brussels sprouts sizzling softly
• Sweet bell peppers turning a vibrant red
• Carrots caramelizing into a rich orange
• Zucchini slices crisping up around the edges

These roasted veggies are a great side to your plate of spaghetti!

Meatballs in Marinara

You’ll find that meatballs in marinara sauce perfectly complement your spaghetti, adding a rich and hearty flavor to the dish.

These classic sides, with ground beef simmered in a delicious sauce of tomatoes and red pepper flakes, turn any pasta meal into a main dish.

Gathered around the dinner table, you’ll savor one of your favorite comfort foods—classic spaghetti topped with meat sauce.

Bruschetta

After enjoying the hearty meatballs, consider adding bruschetta to your meal for a fresh, flavorful contrast.

• Picture the crunch of toasted bread against the creamy tomato pasta.
• Savor the burst of fresh tomatoes, a lively match for your al dente, homemade spaghetti.
• Basil leaves add a hint of green, teasing different flavors into your bowl of spaghetti.
• Olive oil drizzles introduce a silky texture, enhancing your weeknight dinner.

Parmesan Zucchini

To complement your spaghetti, try Parmesan zucchini, a dish that’s both cheesy and light. It’s an easy recipe, sure to win over picky eaters and delight the whole family.

On busy weeknights, whip this up as a great way to excite your taste buds. Serve it alongside whole wheat pasta or a quick salad, and maybe even some cheesy garlic bread for different ways to enjoy!

Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Spinach stuffed mushrooms offer a savory and nutritious complement to your spaghetti meal. Whether you’re serving regular spaghetti, cacio e pepe, or exploring spaghetti squash recipes, these mushrooms fit right in.

• Picture plump mushrooms overflowing with creamy spinach.
• Envision the garlic and herbs mingling with earthy notes.
• Visualize pairing them with roast chicken or chicken breasts.
• They’re a stellar addition to your list of favorite recipes!

Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter serves as the perfect starter to awaken your palate before diving into a hearty spaghetti dish.

Envision a little bit of everything—zesty lemon zest blended into cream cheese, whipped cream atop focaccia bread—it’s the perfect combination!

It’s one of the first things you’d want to whip up, especially if you’re making instant pot spaghetti.

The best part? Each bite is a delightful surprise!

Lemon Butter Asparagus

After enjoying the varied flavors of an antipasto platter, you’ll love the simplicity and zest of lemon butter asparagus as your next side dish.

• Glistening spears: fresh asparagus shimmering in tangy lemon butter
• Sprinkle of zest: grated lemon peel adding a bright pop
• Hint of garlic: just enough to tickle your taste buds
• Splash of pasta water: for that silky, clinging sauce

It’s got a star rating for good reason on every external site!

Creamy Pesto Pasta

Next, consider the rich and flavorful creamy pesto pasta, a perfect complement to your spaghetti dish. This side swirls basil, garlic, and pine nuts into a creamy sauce that hugs each noodle. It’s like a green velvet coat for your pasta!

Pair it with a simple spaghetti, and you’ll double the wow without doubling the effort. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!

Italian Wedding Soup

Immerse yourself in a bowl of Italian Wedding Soup, where hearty meatballs and tender greens mingle in a savory broth that perfectly complements your spaghetti.

• Picture plump, juicy meatballs bobbing around.
• Envision bright, crisp spinach leaves wilting just right.
• Visualize the rich, golden broth steaming up your glasses.
• Feel the warmth spreading through you with each spoonful.

Tomato Basil Mozzarella Salad

Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Tomato Basil Mozzarella Salad as a light, invigorating complement to your spaghetti.

You’ll love how the juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella meld together.

Just drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar, toss it all up, and voilà!

It’s not just a salad; it’s a burst of Italian sunshine on your plate!

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

Why not elevate your spaghetti night with Baked Parmesan Tomatoes, a side that combines the tangy richness of tomatoes with the savory crunch of toasted Parmesan?

• *Imagine juicy, ripe tomatoes under a golden blanket of melted Parmesan.*
• *Crusty edges of cheese, crisped to perfection.*
• *Aromatic herbs sprinkling the vibrant red surface.*
• *Each bite releasing a warm, cheesy aroma that makes your mouth water.*

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Pair your spaghetti with Grilled Shrimp Skewers for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. You’ll love how the smoky, slightly charred taste of the shrimp complements the rich, savory spaghetti sauce.

It’s super easy to make, too—just thread the shrimp on skewers, season to your liking, and grill.

It’s a fun way to add some pizzazz to your pasta night!

Mushroom Risotto

Adding a creamy mushroom risotto as a side dish can beautifully enhance the texture and flavor profile of your spaghetti meal. Envision the blend of flavors as you immerse yourself in:

• Earthy, sautéed mushrooms
• Rich, velvety Arborio rice
• A sprinkle of fresh, aromatic parsley
• A hint of garlic, melding perfectly with each bite

It’s a delight that’ll make your spaghetti night unforgettable!

Pesto Garlic Knots

If you’re looking for a lighter but equally tantalizing option, consider serving pesto garlic knots alongside your spaghetti. These twisty, buttery delights are slathered in rich, herby pesto and sprinkled with just the right amount of garlic to tickle your taste buds.

They’re perfect for mopping up that last bit of sauce, too! Give ’em a try, and watch them disappear from the plate!

Caprese Pasta Salad

For an invigorating twist, toss a Caprese pasta salad with your spaghetti to blend creamy mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil.

• Picture biting into juicy, sun-kissed tomatoes.
• Feel the smooth, rich mozzarella melting in your mouth.
• Savor the peppery snap of fresh green basil.
• Experience the drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze mingling with every forkful.

This combo packs a flavorful punch that’ll jazz up your spaghetti night!

Sautéed Green Beans

Next, consider pairing your spaghetti with sautéed green beans for a crisp, flavorful contrast. Toss them in a hot pan with a little garlic and olive oil until they’re just tender.

They add a lovely pop of color and a satisfying crunch that’s sure to delight. Plus, they’re a healthy choice that’ll make you feel good about digging in for seconds!

Ricotta Stuffed Shells

You’ll love complementing your spaghetti with ricotta stuffed shells, a rich and creamy option that perfectly balances the meal.

• Imagine biting into a shell filled with smooth, creamy ricotta.
• The golden, bubbly cheese topping catches your eye.
• Fragrant herbs like basil and oregano waft through the air.
• The slightly crisp edges provide a delightful texture contrast.

Arugula Prosciutto Salad

While the ricotta stuffed shells offer a comforting richness, an Arugula Prosciutto Salad brings a fresh and vibrant contrast to your spaghetti meal.

You’ll love how the peppery arugula complements the salty prosciutto. Toss it with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil for an instant zing.

It’s the perfect, crisp side that cuts through the pasta’s heartiness. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Lemon Garlic Broccoli

Adding Lemon Garlic Broccoli to your spaghetti dinner can invigorate your palate with its bright and savory flavors.

• Imagine the vibrant green florets soaking up the zesty lemon juice.
• Envision bits of minced garlic clinging to each piece, releasing their aroma.
• Picture a light drizzle of olive oil giving it a glossy sheen.
• Think of the final sprinkle of Parmesan adding a salty, cheesy finish.

Tuscan White Bean Salad

Consider pairing your spaghetti with a Tuscan White Bean Salad, a revitalizing blend of cannellini beans, crisp vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette.

This salad adds a rejuvenating crunch to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of pasta. Plus, it’s a snap to whip up!

Just toss everything together and you’ve got yourself a delightful side that’s as healthy as it’s tasty.

Pesto Caprese Avocado

Elevate your spaghetti night with a Pesto Caprese Avocado salad, where ripe avocados meet classic caprese ingredients, all drizzled with vibrant pesto.

• Juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor
• Silky mozzarella balls that melt in your mouth
• Fresh basil leaves adding a pop of green
• Luscious avocados sliced to creamy perfection

It’s a revitalizing twist that’ll make your pasta dish unforgettable!

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Explore the smoky richness of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, a perfect complement to your spaghetti dish.

This zesty side adds a splash of color and a punch of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

It’s easy to scoop up with a warm slice of garlic bread or a crisp veggie.

Don’t be shy—dive in and let this creamy delight transform your meal!

Enjoy Your Spaghetti

So, next time you’re twirling that spaghetti on your fork, why not pair it with some zesty Caesar salad or crunchy garlic bread?

Whether you choose to go light with a lemon garlic broccoli or indulge with meatballs in marinara, these side dishes are sure to make your meal even more delightful.

Mix and match to find your favorite combos, and don’t forget to save room for seconds. After all, who can resist just one more bite of that perfect pasta pairing?