Eggplant Parmesan Sides

What to Serve with Eggplant Parmesan Sides: Delicious Side Dishes to Complete Your Meal

Introduction:

Picture this: golden-brown slices of eggplant Parmesan Sides, coated in breadcrumbs and smothered in marinara sauce and melted cheese. Yes, I’m talking about the irresistible delight that is eggplant parmesan. But while this dish is a star on its own, I’m here to share some exciting side dishes that will elevate your eggplant parmesan experience to new heights.

Classic Italian Sides:

1. Garlic Bread:
   • There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through the kitchen.
   • Slices of crusty bread slathered in garlic butter and toasted to perfection make the perfect accompaniment to eggplant parmesan.
   • The crunchy exterior and soft, garlicky interior of the bread provide a delightful contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dish.
2. Caesar Salad:
   • A classic Caesar salad tossed with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing is a refreshing and light side dish that complements the hearty flavors of eggplant parmesan.
   • The tangy dressing and savory Parmesan cheese add depth of flavor to the meal, while the crisp lettuce provides a satisfying crunch.
3. Caprese Salad:
   • Fresh slices of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze create a simple yet elegant Caprese salad that pairs beautifully with eggplant parmesan.
   • The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy cheese, and aromatic basil adds a burst of freshness to the meal, balancing the richness of the dish.

Hearty Grain Sides:

1. Creamy Polenta:
   • Velvety smooth polenta cooked with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese is a comforting and hearty side dish that complements the flavors of eggplant parmesan.
   • The creamy texture and subtle corn flavor of polenta provide a satisfying contrast to the crispy exterior and tender interior of the eggplant slices.
2. Garlic Risotto:
   • Creamy risotto infused with garlic and Parmesan cheese is a luxurious and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with eggplant parmesan.
   • The rich and velvety texture of the risotto, combined with the savory garlic flavor, adds a touch of elegance to the meal, elevating it to restaurant-quality status.
3. Herb-infused Couscous:
   • Fluffy couscous cooked with fragrant herbs like parsley, basil, and thyme is a light and flavorful side dish that complements the bold flavors of eggplant parmesan.
   • The delicate texture and aromatic flavor of the couscous provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty and robust flavors of the dish.

Fresh Veggie Sides:

1. Roasted Vegetables:
   • A medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, is a colorful and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with eggplant parmesan.
   • The caramelized edges and tender texture of the roasted vegetables add depth of flavor and sweetness to the meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
2. Grilled Asparagus:
   • Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt are a simple yet elegant side dish that complements the flavors of eggplant parmesan.
   • The smoky char from the grill and the crisp-tender texture of the asparagus spears provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
3. Sautéed Spinach:
   • Fresh spinach leaves sautéed with garlic and red pepper flakes until wilted and tender are a nutritious and flavorful side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The earthy flavor and delicate texture of the spinach provide a light and refreshing complement to the hearty flavors of the dish.

Tangy Sauce Pairings:

1. Marinara Sauce:
   • Classic marinara sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs is a tangy and flavorful accompaniment to eggplant parmesan.
   • The bright acidity and robust flavor of the marinara sauce cut through the richness of the dish, balancing the flavors and adding a burst of freshness.
2. Basil Pesto:
   • Fragrant basil pesto made with fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil is a vibrant and aromatic sauce that pairs beautifully with eggplant parmesan.
   • The bold and herbaceous flavor of the pesto adds a zesty kick to the dish, elevating it to gourmet status.
3. Balsamic Glaze:
   • Sweet and tangy balsamic glaze drizzled over eggplant parmesan adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
   • The complex flavor profile of the balsamic glaze, with its sweet and tangy notes, enhances the savory flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Unique Side Options:

1. Stuffed Mushrooms:
   • Juicy mushrooms stuffed with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese are a flavorful and satisfying side dish that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The umami-rich flavor and meaty texture of the mushrooms add depth and complexity to the meal, making it even more enjoyable.
2. Artichoke Hearts:
   • Tender artichoke hearts marinated in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice are a tangy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The briny flavor and tender texture of the artichoke hearts add a unique and flavorful element to the meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
3. Ratatouille:
   • Ratatouille, a classic French dish made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers and tomatoes cooked in olive oil and aromatic herbs, is a hearty and flavorful side dish that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The vibrant colors and robust flavors of the ratatouille add depth and complexity to the meal, creating a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

International Flavors:

1. Greek Salad:
   • A refreshing Greek salad made with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese tossed in a tangy vinaigrette is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with eggplant parmesan.
   • The combination of salty feta cheese, briny olives, and tangy dressing adds a burst of Mediterranean flavor to the meal, transporting your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.
2. Spanish Patatas Bravas:
   • Crispy fried potatoes tossed in a spicy tomato sauce and served with creamy aioli are a bold and flavorful side dish that complements the rich flavors of eggplant parmesan.
   • The crispy exterior and tender interior of the potatoes, combined with the spicy tomato sauce and creamy aioli, create a delicious and satisfying contrast of flavors and textures.
3. Indian Cucumber Raita:
   • Cool and creamy cucumber raita made with yogurt, cucumbers, mint, and spices is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The refreshing cucumber and mint provide a cooling contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the dish, making it the perfect accompaniment for a hot summer day.

Homemade Dips and Spreads:

1. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus:
   • Creamy and flavorful roasted red pepper hummus served with pita bread or fresh vegetables is a delicious and satisfying side dish that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The smoky-sweet flavor of the roasted red peppers adds depth and complexity to the creamy hummus, creating a flavorful and addictive dip that’s perfect for dipping and spreading.
2. Garlic Aioli:
   • Creamy and garlicky aioli made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil is a rich and flavorful side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The bold flavor of the garlic and the tangy acidity of the lemon juice add a zesty kick to the creamy aioli, making it the perfect accompaniment for the savory flavors of the dish.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato Tapenade:
   • Tangy and savory sun-dried tomato tapenade made with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and herbs is a flavorful and versatile side dish that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The bold flavors of the sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and capers add depth and complexity to the tapenade, creating a delicious and satisfying spread that’s perfect for slathering on crusty bread or crackers.

Bread Basket Favorites:

1. Focaccia Bread:
   • Soft and fluffy focaccia bread topped with olive oil, sea salt, and herbs is a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The chewy texture and savory flavor of the focaccia bread provide the perfect canvas for soaking up the rich sauces and juices of the dish, making it the perfect accompaniment for a hearty Italian meal.
2. Olive Ciabatta:
   • Crusty and flavorful olive ciabatta bread studded with briny olives is a delicious and satisfying side dish that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The salty-sweet flavor of the olives adds depth and complexity to the chewy ciabatta bread, creating a delicious and addictive bread that’s perfect for dipping and savoring.
3. Rosemary Sourdough:
   • Fragrant and flavorful rosemary sourdough bread infused with fresh rosemary is a delicious and satisfying side dish that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The earthy aroma and robust flavor of the rosemary add a delightful twist to the tangy sourdough bread, creating a delicious and aromatic bread that’s perfect for savoring with a hearty Italian meal.

Dessert Options:

1. Tiramisu:
   • Rich and creamy tiramisu layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder is a decadent and indulgent dessert that pairs beautifully with eggplant parmesan.
   • The combination of coffee, chocolate, and creamy mascarpone cheese creates a luscious and irresistible dessert that’s perfect for ending a meal on a sweet note.
2. Cannoli:
   • Crispy and flaky cannoli shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips are a delicious and satisfying dessert that complements eggplant parmesan.
   • The creamy ricotta cheese and crunchy cannoli shells create a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it the perfect sweet treat to enjoy alongside a savory Italian meal.
3. Lemon Sorbet:
   • Refreshing and tangy lemon sorbet made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water is a light and refreshing dessert that pairs well with eggplant parmesan.
   • The bright and citrusy flavor of the lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and refreshes the senses, making it the perfect way to end a meal on a light and refreshing note.

In conclusion, the options for what to serve with eggplant parmesan are endless and delicious. Whether you prefer classic Italian sides, international flavors, homemade dips and spreads, or bread basket favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you whip up a batch of eggplant parmesan, don’t forget to consider the perfect side dishes to complete your meal and elevate your dining experience to new heights of flavor and enjoyment. Cheers to delicious dining and happy eating!

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