18 Perfect Side Dishes to Elevate Your Spaghetti Meal

Kale Salad

This quick and easy kale salad comes together in just 10 minutes and pairs wonderfully with almost any meal. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy sunflower seeds, and sweet dried cranberries adds depth and texture to this light dish. Some recommend massaging the kale first to enhance its flavor. Try it as a refreshing starter or a side dish alongside Chef John's Spaghetti al Tonno.

Balsamic Bruschetta

Bruschetta, an iconic Italian antipasto, makes for an excellent snack, appetizer, or side dish. 'A simple appetizer — the balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. Let the mixture sit for an hour or two to let the flavors meld together before serving,' says recipe creator Kathy Bias. For the perfect Italian dinner on the patio, pair it with a glass of wine and some Spaghetti Italian.

Traditional Restaurant-Style Caesar Salad

Reviewer Susie O. raves, 'This is a salad to die for! I no longer have to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy a table-side Caesar salad. Now I can make it myself, and it tastes absolutely amazing!' This highly-rated recipe uses a traditional restaurant method to create an authentic Caesar Salad. Pair it with Mariu's Spaghetti with Meat Sauce for the perfect meal.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

"This was a hit with the whole family. My husband always says, 'Why can't restaurants make asparagus this good?' It's a quick, elegant side dish that makes your plate look restaurant-worthy," shares reviewer Susie P. With just three simple ingredients, you can create this sophisticated dish. Serve it warm or chilled alongside Chef John's Spaghetti alla Carbonara.

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

Recipe creator stefychefy shares, "Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction and olive oil. It's simple, elegant, and delicious! Many grocery stores now offer prepared balsamic reductions, and they're surprisingly just as tasty!" Caprese is not only a flavorful salad but also a feast for the eyes. Try this highly-rated recipe with a side of Light Lemon Pesto Pasta.

Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan

Reviewer Chef4Six raves, "This is amazing — and so much easier than making traditional Eggplant Parmesan!" This creative spin on a classic dish makes for a hearty and satisfying side to serve with Sicilian Spaghetti.

Roasted Garlic Lemon Broccoli

Roasting broccoli may just be one of the best ways to enjoy this vegetable. After tossing it with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic, finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon right after it comes out of the oven. This unexpected veggie side is the ideal complement to Win's Shrimp and Spaghetti.

Zucchini Saute

A quick and versatile vegetable saute that can be made with any veggies you have on hand. While it's perfect alongside pasta, it's also great as an addition to any dish. This simple side is a fantastic way to use up the last of your summer squash. Pair it with Quick and Easy Chicken Spaghetti for a healthy and easy weeknight dinner.

Italian Leafy Green Salad

The key to this salad lies in its dressing. While many recipes call for olive oil, the creator suggests using grape seed oil instead. Filled with tomatoes, bell peppers, and a mix of four types of leafy greens, this vibrant side salad is a show-stopper and pairs beautifully with a rich Baked Spaghetti Casserole.

Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Reviewer Sarah Jo shares, 'This is one of my favorite ways to prepare Brussels sprouts. I like to add a pinch of crushed red pepper when I toss in the parmesan for a bit of heat, but otherwise, I stick to the recipe.' The combination of parmesan, garlic, and butter makes this the perfect vegetable side to pair with a hearty Italian meal. Try it with some Spaghetti Aglio e Olio for an unbeatable meal.

Byrdhouse Marinated Tomatoes and Mushrooms

'I created this dish for my son, Jordan, who absolutely loves both tomatoes and mushrooms. The flavors meld together beautifully, so it's delicious the day it's made and even better the next day,' says recipe creator SunnyByrd. For a side dish bursting with flavor, use fresh tomatoes from the garden. Pair it with Jenn's Out Of This World Spaghetti and Meatballs — you won't regret it.

Lemon Green Beans with Walnuts

'Steamed green beans tossed in butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and toasted walnuts. This also pairs wonderfully with asparagus. If you prefer, pecans can be used instead of walnuts,' says recipe creator Karen David. This simple yet flavorful green bean dish is as delicious as it looks. Serve it alongside Spaghetti with Garlic and Basil for a perfect meal.

My Sicilian Ex-Mother-in-Law's Peperonata

'Camilla's take on a Sicilian contorno (a meatless side dish) made with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs,' explains Buckwheat Queen. 'It’s typically prepared in large batches, so there are always leftovers to mix with pasta or rice the next day. You can make it in the oven or on the stovetop. This version is stovetop, and it tastes even better the following day!'

Great Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic spaghetti side, but this recipe takes it to a whole new level. Say goodbye to frozen garlic bread and hello to this Italian bread loaded with cheesy, garlicky goodness. Reviewer Noelle C shares, 'It steals the show and gets more compliments than the main course!' You can't go wrong serving it alongside Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef.

Easy Arugula Salad

Reviewer SMARIGOLD717 shares, 'This salad is fantastic and incredibly easy to prepare. It's perfect for summer when the farmers' market is brimming with fresh produce!' The peppery bite of arugula in this simple salad makes it a great companion to rich spaghetti dishes like Creamy Garlic Pasta.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

'We always make sure to keep fresh tomatoes and cucumbers on hand so we can quickly throw together this refreshing side salad. It's fast and simple!' says jess1127. This light and vibrant salad pairs perfectly with almost any dish. Try it alongside Creamy Bay Scallop Spaghetti for a delicious meal.

Sautéed Swiss Chard with Parmesan Cheese

This quick and flavorful side dish is sure to elevate any meal. The crinkly green leaves and celery-like stalks transform into a tender, cheesy delight once cooked. One reviewer says, 'I've always boiled Swiss chard, but I'll never go back after trying this method.' They add, 'I followed the recipe exactly the first time, and the second time I added bacon bits. Both were outstanding.'

Fried Stuffed Squash Blossoms

Fried squash blossoms, filled with a zesty goat cheese mixture, make for an irresistible side to any spaghetti dish. This crispy Italian delicacy is guaranteed to impress. Reviewer Aida E says, 'This recipe has replaced my husband's family's long-standing zucchini blossom recipe.'

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