52 Traditional Italian Side Dishes

Pasta is one of the most popular traditional side dishes. Pasta may be served as either a main entrée or a side dish. It is a versatile cuisine that may be cooked in a variety of ways. Pasta is an excellent accompaniment to meat, fish, and fowl.

If you want to enjoy a fantastic Italian supper, you must be familiar with Italian side dishes.

Italians like serving side dishes with their main entrée. It is an excellent technique to enhance the taste of a dish.

Side dishes are also an excellent way to get more vegetables into your diet.

There are a few things to consider while deciding which side dishes to offer. First, decide which side dish will complement the sort of cuisine you’re serving.

Second, do you want anything with a lot of components or do you just want a basic side dish? Finally, how much time and work will be required to prepare this dish?

So, what’s going to make your mouth water? We have 39 authentic Italian side dishes for you!

This article will look at classic Italian side dishes, various sorts of side dishes, and how they all function together.

But first

Why Consider Serving Traditional Italian Side Dishes?

Traditional Italian food is so diverse in terms of tastes and ingredients that it cannot be categorized.

This implies that you can’t just have one sort of side dish to go with your typical Italian supper.

In fact, eating a variety of side dishes is the greatest way to appreciate classic Italian cuisine.

You’ll be able to try a variety of tastes, and you’ll be astonished at how many different dishes you can consume at one meal.

Consider offering classic Italian side dishes whether you’re a novice or an expert chef.

It will allow you to broaden your culinary horizons and experiment with new dishes.

It’s also a great method to experiment with new recipes and food varieties.

52 Traditional Italian Side Dishes

There are several outstanding side dishes that have been passed down through centuries. The easiest way to get a taste of them is to try some of the following dishes:

1. Caponata

This recipe is so amazing that I’m shocked no one thought of it sooner!

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Its combination of sweet and salty components makes it an ideal side dish for a hearty supper.

Caponata, on the other hand, may be made at any moment since you can always add a little more of whatever you have on hand.

2. Crostini

Crostini is a simple, beautiful side dish with a satisfying crunch.

It’s an excellent side dish to present to visitors or to oneself after a dinner. It also goes well with drinks like the Spritz or a glass of Chianti.

It may also be prepared ahead of time since it is a fast and simple dish.

3. Gremolata

Gremolata is a spice blend that is often used to enhance the taste of fish meals. It’s incredibly simple to create at home.

It’s normally made with finely chopped parsley, oregano, and garlic, but I’ve also seen it with lemon peel or thyme.

This delectable combo goes well with almost any Italian pasta meal. It’s also delicious as a garnish on grilled or baked fish or pork.

4. Italian Green Beans

Italians love their beans.

Italians like the simplicity of a wonderful bowl of beans with their dinner when they are not having spaghetti or pizza.

They go well with just about anything!

5. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad, a typical Italian side dish, is a delightful blend of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves.

I believe the best way to eat this meal is to throw everything together in a bowl and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil on top.

It’s one of those things that tastes great right out of the bowl, but it’s even better with some spaghetti.

6. Italian Stuffed Tomatoes

Italian cuisine, like other cuisines, is often rich and substantial.

There are several traditional side dishes that Italians have loved for generations.

There are so many Italian side dishes that you could build a whole feast out of them!

This flavorful stuffed tomato is one of my personal favorites.

7. Friselle

A wonderful meal like friselle does not need a complicated preparation or expensive components.

It’s essentially a side dish with just three ingredients.

What’s the greatest part? It’s easy to prepare and affordable. You may prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for later use.

8. Italian Pickled Eggplant

The sweet and sour combo is a traditional Italian side dish that works well with virtually everything.

It’s a great way to use up an overabundance of eggplant while also providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the veggies.

This pickled eggplant is a great way to spice up a traditional meal.

9. Tuscan beans and spinach

I was cooking with a local Italian chef a few years back, and he offered a simple side dish of spinach and Tuscan beans.

I’d never heard of Tuscan beans before, and when I inquired about them, he explained that they were just white beans cooked with loads of garlic and olive oil.

As the day progressed, I inquired about the side dish, and he revealed that it was his mother’s recipe.

He was very proud of her.

And when I realized how easy it was, I knew it would make an excellent side dish for any meal.

10. Italian antipasto salad

As you are probably aware, antipasto is one of the most classic and easy side dishes you may prepare at home.

Antipasto in Italy consists of various cured meats, salami, cheeses, and fresh vegetables.

It’s also ideal for any get-together or holiday feast.

11. Rice balls in tomato sauce

Rice balls are a fantastic side dish due to its texture, taste, and adaptability.

I like them so much that I keep a little jar in my refrigerator for when I’m hungry.

They are excellent finger foods for a party and are also quite simple to prepare.

12. Italian Stuffed Artichokes

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The stuffed artichokes are the ideal side dish to offer during a big family supper.

They’re stuffed with flavorful cheese and herbs, making them an ideal choice for those looking to offer something different from the traditional green veggies.

13. Italian breadsticks

These thin, crunchy, and flaky Italian breadsticks complement your favorite pasta recipes.

They’re ideal for dipping in homemade tomato sauce or sprinkling with olive oil for a quick and flavorful appetizer.

The nicest thing about them is how simple they are to prepare; just mix the dough and let it to rise.

You wont believe how great they taste!

14. Italian macaroni and cheese

Macaroni and cheese from Italy It’s one of those recipes that tends to be a family favorite when there’s a special occasion.

For good reason, this is a traditional family dish. It’s easy to prepare, yet it has a deep, creamy, cheesy taste that nothing else can match.

The greatest thing is that you don’t need any costly equipment to make it. You just need a bowl, a whisk, some milk, and some pasta to get started!

15. Italian risotto

This typical Italian side dish goes well with practically any pasta, pizza, or meat.

Risotto is rice that has been patiently cooked until it is soft, creamy, and delicious.

Also see: 39 Easy Seafood Risotto Recipes I Can’t Get Enough Of

And since it’s often served in its own bowl, it’s simple to bring a tasty side dish to your next potluck or party!

16. Rosemary roasted potatoes

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Because Italian food is recognized for its rich and substantial tastes, you should not shy away from meals that highlight those characteristics.

When it comes to classics, the majority of them are substantial and meaty.

So I was thrilled to discover about a new side dish that is the ideal balance of light, healthful, and tasty.

It’s rosemary roasted potatoes, which are easy to make but will push you out of your comfort zone with their intense taste.

17. Italian ratatouille

Ratatouille is a traditional Italian side dish that consists of layered and cooked vegetables.

The crucial point is that the veggies must be cooked in olive oil. Another tip is to cook them on the stovetop rather than in the oven.

So, for this recipe, I took a standard ratatouille recipe and added garlic, onions, and tomatoes for a fantastic, flavorful, and very simple side dish.

18. Italian Giardiniera

Giardiniera is a typical Italian side dish made with fresh vegetables, olives, capers, pickled peppers, and celery.

I prefer to use it on burgers or steak, but you can put it on anything! It complements grilled or roasted meats, pasta dishes, and salads.

And what I appreciate most about this side dish is how close it tastes to the ones my mother used to prepare when I was growing up in Italy.

19. Parmesan knots

Parmesan knots are an Italian side dish that complements your favorite pasta recipes well.

They make an excellent appetizer for an exquisite dinner and are an excellent way to get youngsters (and adults) enthused about eating.

20. Caprese Salad Skewers

This simple side dish is one of my favorites since it is delicious, goes well with practically everything, and is simple to prepare.

The concept of mixing fresh tomatoes and mozzarella in a salad is not new, but it is now more popular than ever.

So, whether you like tomatoes or not, I promise you’ll find a way to enjoy this tasty side dish!

21. Tuscan White Bean Salad

What do you serve with pasta? Pasta and meat!

So, what do you serve with pasta and meat?

Well, the best answer would be salad of course!

In this situation, we’re referring to the well-known Tuscan white bean salad.

This is an excellent summer side dish since it is light, refreshing, and has just the right amount of flavor.

Biondi Sardo, Fior di Luna, and Sant are a few of my favorite brands.

The deliciously tasty cannellini beans are the major component in this dish (See Also: Canned Cannellini Beans Recipes).

They’re creamy and smooth, with a lovely bean taste that pairs well with a rich tomato sauce.

22. Italian Greens with Sauteed Onions and Garlic

Although Italian food may be highly intricate, basic side dishes do not have to be elaborate.

When making easy sides like this one, you don’t need to spend much time on the recipe; just combine all of the ingredients and cook.

The flavors will emerge spontaneously, and your visitors will appreciate it!

23. Italian Garlic Bread

The Italians have a vast variety of delectable side dishes. It doesn’t matter whether it’s polenta, spaghetti, or plain old veggies; they’re all great!

Italian Garlic Bread is an easy side dish that I often prepare. It just takes a few minutes to cook and tastes delicious either warm or at room temperature.

24. Italian Marinated Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a typical Italian side dish that is frequently served uncooked.

Thats why I thought Id include this recipe.

I marinade them in olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving as an appetizer.

25. Radicchio Salad

One of my favorite classic Italian side dishes is radicchio salad.

It’s tasty and delicious, but it’s also quite easy to prepare.

The key to this meal is how you serve it. It tastes well with toasted bread or creamy polenta.

You may cultivate radicchio in your vegetable garden for this dish.

It has a peppery taste that pairs well with the creaminess of the cheese, crunchiness of the almonds, and sweetness of the caramelized onions.

26. Italian Farro Salad

I’m not sure how it earned its name, but I can assure you it’s excellent.

The mix of textures from the grains, cheese, and tomatoes is absolutely fantastic. When you try it, you’ll be amazed at how well it comes together!

27. Zucchini Bites

Zucchini is a versatile veggie that works with almost anything.

You may slice it and serve it as a side dish, or bake it to make it crispy and wonderful!

And if you intend on cooking it, it pairs well with grilled meat!

28. Italian Wedding Soup

There is no doubt that this is one of the most popular classic Italian recipes.

It’s simple to prepare, tasty, and always makes people happy.

I can’t think of a finer accompaniment to pasta or risotto than Italian Wedding Soup.

29. Savory Parmesan Cookies

When it comes to Italian food, most people know that a platter of crusty bread is generally served with spaghetti.

But what about sides that don’t go with pasta?

When we speak about Italian side dishes, we’re talking about typical Italian sides like bruschetta or antipasto.

Both are excellent, but there is one additional side dish that is often served on its own Parmesan cookies!

30. Italian Chickpea Salad

A simple and basic side dish that works well with anything, such as pasta or pizza.

An Italian chickpea salad will always provide an excellent flavor boost and make your dish taste better.

This meal is high in protein and beneficial nutrients.

It’s a wonderful Mediterranean staple with a rich blend of tomatoes, olives, and garlic that you should absolutely try!

31. Cacio e Pepe Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a simple side dish that is high in fiber and minerals and is also extremely tasty!

If you like brussels sprouts, you’ll enjoy this easy cacio e pepe Brussels sprouts dish!

They have a typical pasta taste that everyone will like!

32. Italian Pasta Salad

One of the most popular foods in Italy is pasta salad. Because the components are so adaptable, you can create them for a big group.

Simply add enough oil, vinegar, and spices to make them palatable.

33. Italian Roasted Potatoes

Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual supper with guests, I believe Italian cuisine tastes best when prepared simply.

A simple meal like Italian roasted potatoes is the secret to that easy recipe.

That’s what I’m presenting today, and it’s sure to delight!

34. Italian Pinwheels

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One of the most typical side dishes in an Italian restaurant is Italian Pinwheel Pasta. It’s often accompanied with pasta and meat sauce.

At home, you may simply build your own version. You just need a few basic materials to get started!

35. Burrata Salad

I’ve heard that Italian cuisine is basic food done well. This burrata salad, on the other hand, says the exact opposite. It’s a sophisticated recipe that seems to take a lot of effort for a basic mix of ingredients, but that’s what makes it so wonderful.

It’s a fresh, bright, and light salad with a distinct flavor that will delight your visitors while also wow your taste buds.

36. Italian Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetizer. It is often served as an appetizer, consisting of pieces of crusty Italian bread drizzled with olive oil and garlic and topped with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.

This is the ideal moment to use up that loaf of Italian bread you’ve been saving in the freezer.

37. Focaccia Bread

Because it is flavorful and chewy, focaccia bread is an excellent accompaniment to Italian cuisine. It’s also fantastic since it complements so many various types of foods.

It may be served either warm or cold. When combined with a pasta dish, it may even be served as a main meal!

38. Italian Stuffed Zucchini Flowers

This Italian side dish is a timeless and delectable combo that should be on your menu rotation.

This dish was inspired by one of my favorite Italian restaurants.

This dish is not only simple to prepare, but also economical. It’s also a lovely meal to offer at any time of year.

39. Italian Stuffed Artichokes

These artichoke hearts are packed with cheese and served hot or cold in Italian cuisine.

They also create a wonderful and easy side dish that goes well with meat entrees.

40. Calamari Fritti

Fritti means fried in Italian.

Calamari fritti is generally served with risotto, although it may be served as an appetizer at any time.

Calamari is fried before being mixed in a basic marinara sauce.

I love this side for its simplicity.

41. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a tasty, classic side dish that is often served at Italian dinner tables.

Also see: 33 Easy Side Dishes to Serve with Stuffed Mushrooms

Theyre always a tasty side dish to compliment a dinner, whether you make them yourself or order them.

They’re simple to prepare and a great way to use up some of your favorite mushroom species.

So why not give them a go and expand your mushroom repertoire?

42. Creamy Polenta

Polenta is one of my favorite pasta side dishes. It’s not heavy, but it’s creamy and wonderful!

This specific side dish is really simple to prepare and can be served either warm or cold.

46. Caponata alla Siciliana

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What happens when you mix caponata with focaccia? You get a truly excellent Italian side dish that is ideal for your holiday table.

It’s an incredible blend of fresh, ripe summer fruits and crisp, fresh bread.

44. Panzanella Salad

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Panzanella is a classic Italian side dish. It is a basic salad comprised of stale bread topped with tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil.

It’s light and refreshing, and it complements everything from pizza to pasta to seafood.

45. Risotto alla Milanese

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Risotto is a typical Italian dish that may be eaten alone or as a side dish to other meals.

Risotto alla Milanese comes in hundreds of varieties. The most significant need is that it be prepared using arborio rice.

That is why this traditional Italian side dish is ideal for your dining table.

46. Tricolore Salad with Grapefruit Saba Vinaigrette

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Italy is famed for its vivid salads, whether it’s pasta or a tasty side dish like this one.

This is a simple side dish that goes well with pasta as well as on its own!

There are just three ingredients, all of which can be found at your local grocery shop. You can get grapefruit saba vinaigrette at most grocery stores, or you can make your own!

47. Mortadella and Fontina Slab Pie

This cheese pie is the ideal Italian side dish, and it goes well with any sort of meat.

The mortadella adds a faint note of spiciness, while the fontina cheese’s nutty taste balances it out.

48. Italian Sweet and Sour Cipollini Onions

Cipollini onions are little sweet onions that may be used as a garnish or as an appetizer. They go well with nearly any Italian dinner.

They’re sweet, juicy, and tangy, and they’re certainly worth adding to your repertoire!

49. Cherry Tomato Tarte Tatin

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Cherry tomatoes with bacon were a favorite side dish of mine growing up. I love how soft they are, and the sweetness from the cherries is incredible.

I never imagined I’d use them in a recipe, but if you know me, you know how much I like experimenting.

50. Artichoke Risotto with Capocollo and Pecorino

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This risotto is the ideal accompaniment to a holiday dinner. It’s the ultimate comfort meal, and it’s ideal for an Italian-themed celebration.

Related: 17 Pecorino Cheese Recipes I Cant Resist

It offers all of the taste of traditional Italian cuisine without the guilt.

The artichoke gives the risotto a great earthy taste.

And the cheese lends a delightful richness to the meal!

You may serve this with any dinner, but it goes especially well with anything that needs to be very snug and toasty.

51. Carrot Salad with Burrata and Pomegranate

Vegetable side dishes in Italian cuisine are often quite basic and frequently involve a salad-like preparation.

Carrots are a popular element in such recipes, which are often served with pasta or pizza.

They are one of my favorite veggies to offer with more elaborate dinners.

Carrots may be used in almost every meal since they are so versatile and simple to prepare.

52. Roasted Garlic Polenta with Herbs and Mascarpone

If you’re searching for something easy and wonderful to serve with your favorite Italian meal, this recipe is a great option!

And while we’re on the subject of mascarpone, check out these simple mascarpone pasta dishes.

Its delicious!

There are several methods for making polenta, but this one takes it to a whole new level.

I know, I’ve been wanting to tell you about it since the beginning of summer!

And it was worth the wait.

9 Tips for Choosing A Traditional Italian Side Dish

If you’re still stumped on what to serve as a side dish, consider the following suggestions:

Tip 1: Avoid Any With A Lot Of Oil

While most Italian side dishes are tasty and rich in olive oil, this is not always the case. If you want a typical Italian side dish for your dinner party, search for one seasoned with herbs and garlic. In addition, these foods are often mildly salted or seasoned with lemon juice.

Tip 2: Look For The Right Balance Of Salt And Pepper

Don’t be hesitant to season classic Italian side dishes liberally with salt and pepper. This indicates that the meal was appropriately cooked and seasoned.

Tip 3: Avoid Any That Have Added Dairy

Italian side dishes are normally dairy-free, but if you want a classic Italian side dish with dairy, seek for one prepared with ricotta cheese. It will have a somewhat sour, creamy taste as a result of this.

Tip 4: Ask Your Guests What They Like

If you’re presenting an Italian side dish, look for something straightforward, like zucchini or eggplant parmigiana. If your visitors are unfamiliar with Italian cuisine, a more sophisticated meal like ravioli may scare them. Instead, inquire as to what they want in an Italian meal.

Tip 5: Go With Something Familiar

If you’re hosting a dinner and providing a typical Italian side dish, odds are your guests will recognize it. If you’re not sure, stick with something they’ll like, like stuffed artichokes or eggplant parmigiana.

Tip 6: Stick To The Classics

While it is always possible to try something new and interesting, sometimes sticking to the classics is the best option. Because Italian food is often regarded as one of the most sophisticated cuisines available, offering ravioli will be more well accepted than providing spinach and ricotta ravioli or meat-filled ravioli.

Tip 7: Look for the Perfect Balance of Flavors

A side dish with too much of one taste or component will be unappealing. However, when a meal is balanced, the tastes are harmonized and the overall impression is agreeable.

Tip 8: Don’t Be Afraid To Try Something New

There’s nothing wrong with experimenting with new recipes or ingredients. However, don’t feel obligated to try something that everyone else is eating or that is already on your table. There is no reason why you cannot try a new meal. Just make sure you try it on a night when you aren’t vegetarian.

Tip 9: Pick a Dish That’s Easy to Make

When choosing a side dish to offer for a dinner party, choose one that can be readily made ahead of time and reheated.

FAQ

What’s a good Italian vegetable?

Choosing the best Italian vegetable is a question of taste. Consider your family’s tastes, as well as the season and availability of certain veggies. Zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and peppers are among the most popular.

What are the best Italian pasta side dishes?

A simple yet excellent side dish complements any dinner. Pasta is the most common side dish in Italy, and it may be served as a main meal or as a side dish. While there are several options, the most frequent is undoubtedly penne. However, there are many more tasty alternatives, such as rigatoni and fusilli.

Conclusion

Side dishes in Italy come in a range of forms and sizes.

They are also available in a range of flavors and tastes.

But which ones should you try?

Well, you dont need to make the same thing twice.

So be creative and have fun experimenting.

Theres no wrong choice!

You should experiment to discover what you and your visitors like.

However, don’t overload consumers with too many selections at once.

Just pick one or two dishes and have fun.

The remainder will be gratuity for you and your guests.

Of course, if you’re throwing a party or entertaining a big gathering, a couple of these foods are appropriate.

This manner, customers will have something to eat while they wait for the main entrée.