Eggplant parmesan (an Italian-American casserole of breaded eggplant layered with marinara sauce and melted cheese) is one of those dishes that makes us feel like we're dining at a fancy restaurant, even when we're just in our fuzzy slippers at home.
It's cheesy, it's saucy, and who are we kidding? We could probably eat the whole thing in one sitting!
Now, what do we serve with this heavenly creation? It's not just about the eggplant, folks.
We need sides that kick it up a notch and complement all that gooey goodness.
From salads to breads, let's talk about the best accompaniments that turn a simple meal into something special. Get your forks ready; it's about to get delicious in here!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Eggplant Parmesan
Here are our top picks for the best side dishes to serve with eggplant parmesan:
1 - Garlic Bread
Garlic bread (made from crusty baguette or ciabatta) is that comforting side we all crave. It's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it perfect for mopping up sauce.
We love how the garlic flavor hits just right, with a sprinkle of parsley adding a refreshing touch.
The buttery goodness takes eggplant parmesan to a new level and complements garlic shrimp side dishes for flavorful meals.
Seriously, who can resist it? It's simply irresistible!
2 - Caesar Salad
We all know that Caesar salad is a classic side dish (traditionally made with romaine, anchovy-based dressing, Parmesan, and croutons). The crisp romaine lettuce goes well with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons.
A sprinkle of parmesan adds a salty tang that ties everything together.
The bold garlic flavor really makes a statement. It contrasts with the refreshing greens, creating a lovely balance.
This salad is our go-to for adding freshness to any meal and pairs well with zesty complements for Caesar salad.
3 - Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are like little hidden gems on your plate. They burst with flavor in every bite, with savory, umami-rich notes.
We love how the earthy taste of the mushroom pairs with zesty fillings like cheese, garlic, or herbs. They're simple to make, and we can easily customize the stuffing.
It's a side dish that makes our meal feel extra special and they also pair well with hearty chicken side dishes for weeknight dinners.
4 - Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato basil soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. It's tangy and slightly sweet, thanks to those ripe tomatoes.
The fresh basil (Ocimum basilicum) adds a pop of herbaceous goodness that brightens every spoonful.
This soup goes well with crusty bread for dipping, and there's something so comforting about the simplicity of it all - it also complements tangy tomato pie side ideas for gatherings.
It's a classic that never disappoints.
5 - Antipasto Platter
Antipasto (an Italian appetizer assortment) is like a grazing table that begs us to snack all night. It usually includes cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies.
Each bite brings a pop of salty, tangy, and herbal flavors, and it pairs well with antipasto salad sides for sharing.
We love how the strong meats go with the creamy cheeses, creating a satisfying harmony.
Throw in some crusty bread for dipping and you've got a party on your plate. It's all about variety and fun with every bite!
6 - Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are like little pillows of yum. We love how creamy and cheesy they are, with a perfect combo of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach (a roughly 1:1 ratio of ricotta to mozzarella).
They come alive in the oven, bubbling up in marinara sauce-a delicious sight!
The flavors blend beautifully, and the garlic adds a nice kick. These shells hold all the goodness inside, making every bite a treat.
Easy to share, they're a good addition to any meal!
7 - Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Arugula salad is like a refreshing kick in the palate, with a peppery, mustard-like bite. It's peppery and bold, making every bite exciting.
The lemon vinaigrette adds zesty brightness that dances on our palates.
We love how the dressing balances the slight bitterness of arugula, improving the overall flavor. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and shaved parmesan for a pop of sweetness and creaminess.
It's light, bright, and a perfect companion to heavy meals and it also pairs nicely with light side dishes for arugula salads.
8 - Fried Zucchini
Fried zucchini is like a crunchy, golden hug for your cravings. The outside is crispy and seasoned perfectly, while the inside stays tender and juicy.
We dig the fresh, slightly sweet flavour of zucchini (a summer squash, Cucurbita pepo) mingling with a light batter.
A dip in marinara or ranch just makes it better. It's easy to whip up and disappears fast!
This dish offers a great twist on your typical veggie side.
Enjoy the munch!
9 - Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers (sweet red bell peppers, Capsicum annuum) are simple, yet they totally transform a dish. Their smoky sweetness brings a nice balance to any meal.
We love how they are versatile. You can toss them in salads, blend them into sauces, or use them as a topping.
They have a tender texture that just melts in your mouth, making every bite a pleasure. Their bright colour also adds a splash of excitement on our plates!
10 - Pesto Pasta Salad
Pesto pasta salad is a simple dish bursting with bold flavors. The fresh basil pesto adds a rich, herby kick that brightens up every bite.
Pairing creamy cheese with crunchy vegetables brings a nice contrast.
The nuts in the pesto give it a satisfying texture (often pine nuts). This dish is perfect for picnics or light lunches.
It's easy to customize with our favourite ingredients. We adore how versatile it is!
11 - Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Garlic parmesan risotto is creamy comfort on a plate. We love how the smooth texture wraps around that rich garlic flavor when made with Arborio rice.
Each spoonful brings a savory zing that just lingers, thanks to the parmesan.
The risotto is a bit indulgent, making it a great match for something lighter. It pairs well with all sorts of mains, especially those with bold flavors.
This dish is a classic that feels special yet cozy.
12 - Marinated Artichoke Hearts
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Marinated artichoke hearts are tangy little bites that we can't resist. Their briny flavor goes well with all kinds of dishes, made from globe artichokes (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus).
We love how they add a nice bite to salads, sandwiches, and antipasto platters. These artichokes bring a hint of garlic and herbs that really makes everything pop.
They're both versatile and easy to use, making them a must-have in our pantry.
13 - Bruschetta
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Bruschetta is a classic that never gets old. It's all about that crunchy bread (traditionally toasted ciabatta or baguette) topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
We love how the juicy tomatoes balance perfectly with the fragrant basil. This combo adds a refreshing pop to any meal.
The drizzle of olive oil gives it a rich finish. It's simple, bright, and brings life to your plate.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
