Spaghetti bolognese, a classic Italian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. This rich and flavorful pasta sauce, made with ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, is a staple in many Italian households. However, the question remains: what goes nice with spaghetti bolognese? In this article, we will explore the perfect sides, wines, and desserts to pair with this beloved dish.
Classic Italian Sides to Pair with Spaghetti Bolognese
When it comes to pairing sides with spaghetti bolognese, the Italians know best. Here are some classic Italian sides that complement the rich flavors of the dish:
Garlic Bread: A Timeless Favorite
Garlic bread is a simple yet delicious side that pairs perfectly with spaghetti bolognese. The crispy bread, infused with garlic butter, helps to soak up the savory sauce. To make garlic bread, simply slice a baguette in half, spread garlic butter on each half, and bake until crispy.
Bruschetta: Toasted Bread with Fresh Tomatoes
Bruschetta is another popular Italian side that pairs well with spaghetti bolognese. Toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: A Healthy and Delicious Option
Roasted vegetables are a tasty and healthy side that complements spaghetti bolognese nicely. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, and bell peppers are easy to make and add a pop of color to the dish. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.
Other Delicious Sides to Pair with Spaghetti Bolognese
While classic Italian sides are always a great option, there are many other delicious sides that pair well with spaghetti bolognese. Here are a few ideas:
Grilled Asparagus: A Delicious and Easy Side
Grilled asparagus is a simple yet elegant side that pairs well with spaghetti bolognese. The smoky flavor of the asparagus complements the rich flavors of the pasta sauce. To make grilled asparagus, simply brush the asparagus with olive oil and grill until tender.
Sauteed Spinach: A Quick and Nutritious Side
Sauteed spinach is a quick and nutritious side that pairs well with spaghetti bolognese. The iron-rich spinach helps to balance the richness of the pasta sauce. To make sauteed spinach, simply heat some olive oil in a pan, add a handful of spinach, and cook until wilted.
The Perfect Wines to Pair with Spaghetti Bolognese
When it comes to pairing wine with spaghetti bolognese, there are several options to choose from. Here are a few wines that pair well with this classic Italian dish:
Chianti: A Classic Italian Red Wine
Chianti is a classic Italian red wine that pairs perfectly with spaghetti bolognese. The bold flavors of the wine complement the rich flavors of the pasta sauce. Chianti is a medium-bodied wine with moderate acidity and firm tannins.
Montepulciano: A Fruity and Affordable Red Wine
Montepulciano is a fruity and affordable red wine that pairs well with spaghetti bolognese. The wine has a bright acidity and moderate tannins, making it a great match for the rich pasta sauce.
Desserts to Pair with Spaghetti Bolognese
While spaghetti bolognese is a filling dish, there’s always room for dessert. Here are a few Italian desserts that pair well with this classic dish:
Tiramisu: A Classic Italian Dessert
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that pairs perfectly with spaghetti bolognese. The creamy mascarpone cheese and espresso provide a nice contrast to the rich pasta sauce.
Panna Cotta: A Creamy and Delicious Dessert
Panna cotta is a creamy and delicious dessert that pairs well with spaghetti bolognese. The sweet cream and vanilla provide a nice ending to the meal.
Conclusion
Spaghetti bolognese is a classic Italian dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, wines, and desserts. Whether you prefer classic Italian sides like garlic bread and bruschetta or other delicious options like grilled asparagus and sauteed spinach, there’s something for everyone. When it comes to wine, Chianti and Montepulciano are great options to pair with this rich and flavorful dish. Finally, Italian desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta provide a sweet ending to the meal. So next time you’re cooking spaghetti bolognese, be sure to try out some of these pairing options.
| Sides | Wines | Desserts |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Chianti | Tiramisu |
| Bruschetta | Montepulciano | Panna Cotta |
| Roasted Vegetables | ||
| Grilled Asparagus | ||
| Sauteed Spinach |
In conclusion, spaghetti bolognese is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, wines, and desserts. By trying out some of these pairing options, you can elevate this classic Italian dish to new heights.
What are some classic Italian sides that pair well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
Classic Italian sides that pair well with Spaghetti Bolognese include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and a simple green salad. Garlic bread is a timeless favorite that complements the rich flavors of the bolognese sauce. Simply slice a baguette, spread garlic butter on each slice, and bake until crispy.
Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts are also a tasty and healthy option. Simply toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is also a refreshing side dish that cuts the richness of the pasta.
What type of wine pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
A medium-bodied red wine with moderate acidity and firm tannins pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese. Some popular options include Chianti, Dolcetto, and Montepulciano. These wines have bright acidity and moderate tannins that help to cut through the richness of the bolognese sauce.
When selecting a wine, consider the type of meat used in the bolognese sauce. If the sauce is made with beef, a full-bodied wine with robust tannins may be more suitable. If the sauce is made with pork or a combination of meats, a medium-bodied wine with bright acidity may be more suitable.
Can I pair Spaghetti Bolognese with white wine?
While red wine is a classic pairing for Spaghetti Bolognese, white wine can also be a good option. A dry and crisp white wine with high acidity can help to cut through the richness of the bolognese sauce. Some popular white wine options include Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, and Arneis.
When pairing white wine with Spaghetti Bolognese, consider the type of meat used in the sauce. If the sauce is made with chicken or turkey, a white wine with bright acidity may be more suitable. If the sauce is made with beef or pork, a red wine with robust tannins may be more suitable.
What are some non-traditional sides that pair well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
Some non-traditional sides that pair well with Spaghetti Bolognese include grilled asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, and roasted sweet potatoes. Grilled asparagus adds a nice char and texture to the dish, while sautéed mushrooms add an earthy flavor. Roasted sweet potatoes add a nice sweetness and creamy texture.
When selecting non-traditional sides, consider the flavors and textures that you want to add to the dish. If you want to add some crunch and freshness, consider a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. If you want to add some earthy flavors, consider a side of sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant.
Can I pair Spaghetti Bolognese with sparkling wine?
While sparkling wine may not be the first choice for pairing with Spaghetti Bolognese, it can be a good option for a special occasion or celebration. A dry and crisp sparkling wine with high acidity can help to cut through the richness of the bolognese sauce. Some popular sparkling wine options include Prosecco, Cava, and Franciacorta.
When pairing sparkling wine with Spaghetti Bolognese, consider the type of meat used in the sauce. If the sauce is made with beef or pork, a red wine with robust tannins may be more suitable. If the sauce is made with chicken or turkey, a white wine with bright acidity may be more suitable.
What are some sides that can help to balance the richness of Spaghetti Bolognese?
Some sides that can help to balance the richness of Spaghetti Bolognese include a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, and grilled asparagus. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can help to cut the richness of the pasta. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts can also help to balance the richness of the dish.
Grilled asparagus can also help to balance the richness of the dish by adding a nice char and texture. Other options include sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, and grilled portobello mushrooms. When selecting sides, consider the flavors and textures that you want to add to the dish.
Can I pair Spaghetti Bolognese with dessert wine?
While dessert wine may not be the first choice for pairing with Spaghetti Bolognese, it can be a good option for a special occasion or celebration. A sweet and rich dessert wine with low acidity can help to balance the savory flavors of the bolognese sauce. Some popular dessert wine options include Moscato, Vin Santo, and Brachetto.
When pairing dessert wine with Spaghetti Bolognese, consider the type of meat used in the sauce. If the sauce is made with beef or pork, a sweet and rich dessert wine may be more suitable. If the sauce is made with chicken or turkey, a dry and crisp dessert wine may be more suitable.