What to Serve with Cioppino: 21 Best Side Dishes

You’ll need a fantastic side dish to go with Cioppino, an Italian-American seafood stew that demands a spoon and plenty of napkins.

Or maybe two.

Because the Cioppino is just half the dinner, your side dish should be as good but not overpowering.

Also see: Cioppino Wine Pairing The Best Cioppino Wines

A side of rice? Check.

Vegetables? Of course.

Bread to sop up the extra broth? Sure!

But how do you choose?

There are several alternatives for a side dish to accompany Saturday’s Cioppino.

In fact, this post has 21 of our personal favorites.

Sit back, relax, and keep reading to find out what meals should pair with your seafood soup this weekend.

What to Serve with Cioppino: 21 Best Side Dishes

Before we get into this list of delectable side dishes, I’d like to point you that you may serve any of them with your Cioppino.

The items are included in no particular sequence since they are all equally delicious and genuine to the cuisine.

If your Cioppino is already cooked and in bowls, you may want to select something less sauce and complicated.

Here are 21 side dishes to go with your Cioppino this weekend:

1. Garlic Bread

There is a reason why garlic bread is so popular. It’s crispy, garlicky, and great with just about every supper you can think of.

When in doubt about what to serve with your Cioppino, just toast some French bread till crispy. Make some garlic butter or olive oil and drizzle it over top.

You may also get creative with this one, perhaps adding some shrimp to the top to make it more like your Cioppino.

Why does this work: Bread is just bread. It’s a tried-and-true side dish that goes just as well with Cioppino as it does with pasta and marinara.

2. Garlic Italian Breadsticks

What goes better with a steaming hot cup of soup than a steaming hot breadstick?

And you won’t believe how easy it is to prepare fresh, hot breadsticks in your own home.

Simply combine yeast, water, salt, and flour, along with a few other ingredients, and you’ll have bread dough on your hands.

Allow the dough to rise before cutting it into strips. You may twist the strips into interesting shapes or just leave them as sticks. Bake for 10 minutes on a sheet pan in the oven, and you’re done!

Why this works: Bread is always a safe bet. It’s ideal for dipping into the broth of any soup or stew, and it’s simple to produce in any amount.

3. Parmesan & Parsley Potatoes

Potatoes are similar to bread in that they are a basic that goes with almost everything. And they taste even better with crunchy mashed potatoes!

You could also use waffle fries or bake these Parmesan and parsley potatoes until the outside is crispy. For added flavor, sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese.

These go well with Cioppino since they’re full but not heavy. Theyre very simple to prepare, so feel free to whip them up fast when you’re in a hurry!

Why this works: Potatoes are the ideal side dish since they are warm, substantial, and full.

4. Italian Green Beans with Roasted Garlic

Green beans in Italy are, well, green. They’re fresh, crisp, and excellent with almost everything, even Italian seafood meals.

You’ll need fresh green beans and a head of garlic to prepare these Italian green beans. Peel off all of the garlic’s outer layers before roasting it in the oven.

While everything is going on, blanch your green beans (cook them for a few minutes in boiling water). When they’re done, combine them with the roasted garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.

Green beans are light, fresh, and tasty, which is why this works. When garlic is roasted, it becomes sweet and candy-like.

5. Creamed Spinach with Parmesan

Cioppino already contains some seafood. However, if you want to add some greens to your dinner in a new manner, creamed spinach is a terrific option.

To create this recipe, begin by blanching some fresh spinach. After that, season it with nutmeg (for added flavor), salt and pepper (to taste), and lots of parmesan cheese.

This creamy spinach meal may be served on its own, or with some breadcrumbs and toast on the side.

Why this works: Creamy spinach is a traditional Italian meal that is simple to prepare. Plus, creamed spinach with parmesan is one of the most delectable side dishes available.

6. Grilled Asparagus

Have you ever cooked with grilled asparagus? If you haven’t already, you should!

To make it, first trim your asparagus. You should remove the lower half, leaving just the head.

Toss your asparagus onto a grill basket (or place it on a piece of foil if you don’t have one). The stalks should then be drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper.

Grill them for approximately 5 minutes, rotating halfway through. You may serve them with lemon slices after they’re done.

Why does this work: Grilled asparagus is one of the greatest side dishes, and it tastes much better when cooked on the grill. It also works well with Cioppino!

7. Potato Salad

You’re probably thinking: potato salad with seafood? Yes. Potato salad is a go-to side dish that works well with almost any dinner, including Cioppino.

To make it, first boil your potatoes for around 15 minutes. When they’re done, set them aside to cool before adding the other ingredients.

Add some red onion, celery, dill pickles, mustard, sour cream, mayonnaise (experiment here), and bread crumbs now. Season everything with salt and pepper, or even better, Old Bay!

and theyre ready to serve.

Why does this work: Potato salad complements fish well since it is light and tasty, which makes it an excellent side dish. You may also season with Old Bay if desired.

8. Fried Zucchini

Hold on to your hats, because we’re returning to Italian greens for a moment. Fried zucchini is another delicious side dish that goes nicely with Cioppino!

To create these, you’ll need some fresh zucchini, as the name suggests. You may use fresh zucchini spears or chop the zucchini into rounds to prepare them. It’s fine either way! Just remember to cut off the ends of your vegetables before you begin slicing them.

Every decent fry requires a proper dredge, which involves coating your slices in flour, egg wash (eggs and water), and breadcrumbs. If you like, you may season it with Italian seasoning or Old Bay.

Fry your slices in a deep fryer for approximately 3 minutes, then drain on paper towels to remove excess fat. Serve with lemon wedges and sliced olives (not too many since they’re quite salty).

Why does this work: cooked zucchini is gently cooked, crunchy on the exterior and soft on the inside, making it ideal for combining with seafood. They also go well with lemon wedges!

9. A Simple Green Salad

A green salad is an excellent side dish for a number of dishes.

It’s not only healthful and delectable, but it’s also fast and simple to make.

1. Begin with a foundation of fresh greens to produce a basic green salad.
2. Then, toss in any more veggies or fruits you like.Include some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch.
3. Finally, top it off with your favorite dressing.

A green salad is usually a nice option for a picnic lunch or a supper for two.

And best of all, its so simple to make!

10. Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed spinach is a nutritious and tasty side dish that complements a range of main dishes.

Sautéing helps to keep the nutrients in spinach, making it a healthful complement to any meal.

Furthermore, sautéing spinach brings forth its inherent sweetness.

The secret to producing a delicious sautéed spinach meal is to use fresh spinach and not overcook it.

Spinach that has been overcooked may be bitter and unappealing.

When shopping for spinach, aim for dark green leaves with no brown patches.

When cooking the spinach, simply cook it until it is wilted and brilliant green.

Enjoy with a little garlic or lemon juice for added taste!

11. Creamy Polenta

Creamy polenta is a versatile side dish that goes well with a wide range of dishes.

It’s quick to prepare and only takes a few ingredients, making it an excellent choice for hectic weekday meals.

Polenta is created by cooking coarsely crushed cornmeal in water or broth until it thickens.

Once cooked, it is generally combined with butter, cheese, and milk to produce a creamy texture.

My favorite toppings are sautéed mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, and crispy pancetta.

But really, the possibilities are endless.

It goes well with grilled chicken or shrimp, braised beef short ribs, or roasted veggies.

Give creamy polenta a try the next time you’re searching for a great and simple side dish.

12. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthful side dish that goes well with any dinner.

They are rich in nutrients, and roasting brings forth their inherent sweetness.

1. Trim the ends of the sprouts and chop them in half to create roasted Brussels sprouts.
2. Then drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and golden brown, in a preheated oven.

Enjoy!

13. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a traditional side dish that goes well with a variety of main dishes.

They’re creamy and tasty, with a faint garlic bite that’s guaranteed to delight.

Best of all, they are relatively easy to make.

1. Simply boil potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and garlic.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re done.
3. Serve immediately for best results.

So, the next time you’re searching for a tasty side dish, consider garlic mashed potatoes.

You wont be disappointed.

14. Baked Sweet Potato

Baked sweet potatoes are a tasty and healthful side dish that is simple to prepare.

Sweet potatoes are abundant in fiber and antioxidants, and their inherent sweetness complements savory meals wonderfully.

1. Simply preheat the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, wash the potato, and cut it into thin wedges to make baked sweet potato.
2. After that, sprinkle the wedges with olive oil and sea salt before baking for 20-25 minutes.

Drizzle the potato with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon for an added flavor boost.

Baked sweet potatoes are a flexible side dish that may be served with a number of main dishes.

So, the next time you’re searching for a nutritious and delectable side dish, consider roasted sweet potatoes.

15. Quinoa Pilaf

Quinoa is a nutrient-dense grain that has more protein than any other grain.

It’s also low in calories and gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative for those who have food allergies or sensitivities.

Quinoa pilaf is a tasty and simple way to eat this nutrient-dense grain.

1. Simply cook the quinoa according to the package guidelines to create quinoa pilaf.
2. Then add your preferred veggies and seasonings.

Cooked chicken or turkey may be added for a heartier meal.

Quinoa pilaf is a flexible side dish that may be served both hot and cold. And, best of all, it’s nutritious and tasty!

16. Farro Salad

Farro is a variety of wheat that has long been popular in Mediterranean cuisine.

It has a nutty taste and a chewy texture, making it an excellent salad ingredient.

Farro is also high in fiber and protein, as well as important vitamins and minerals.

1. Cook the farro in broth or water until soft before making a farro salad.
2. Then, add your favorite veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. You may also use feta or another sort of cheese.
3. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste after dressing it with olive oil and vinegar.

Farro salad is a tasty and nutritious side dish that complements practically any dinner.

17. Kale and Cranberry Salad

A tasty and healthful side dish for any occasion, kale and cranberry salad.

The sharpness of the kale complements the sweetness of the cranberries, and the goat cheese provides a creamy richness that elevates the meal.

Furthermore, kale is high in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for individuals searching for a nutritious dinner.

In a mixing dish, add chopped kale, dried cranberries, crumbled goat cheese, and preferred dressing.

You may also add toasted nuts or seeds for added taste.

Try it the next time you need a tasty and healthful side dish!

18. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a tasty and nutritious side dish that is ideal for autumn and winter feasts.

Roasting brings out the squash’s inherent sweetness, and a few simple spices make it even more tasty.

1. Simply peel and dice the butternut squash before tossing it with olive oil and your chosen seasonings to roast.
2. The squash should then be spread out on a baking pan and baked at 400 degrees until soft.

This easy dish allows you to get the advantages of butternut squash without spending hours in the kitchen.

19. Broccoli Rabe

Broccoli rabe is a kind of leafy green vegetable related to broccoli and kale.

It has a somewhat bitter flavor and is often served as a side dish with cioppino.

This veg can be steamed, sauteed, or roasted.

1. To prepare broccoli rabe, first remove the rough ends of the stalks.
2. Then, wash the broccoli rabe in cool water.
3. In a large pan over medium heat, heat some olive oil.
4. Cook the broccoli rabe in the skillet for 3-5 minutes, or until it has wilted.
5. Finally, season to taste with salt and pepper and serve immediately.

20. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a tasty and flexible complement to any dish.

They may be cooked and eaten as a side dish or added to soups, stews, casseroles, and sauces.

Sautéed mushrooms are an excellent alternative for a fast and simple side dish.

They cook quickly and have a rich taste that goes well with a variety of major meals.

Look for solid, fresh mushrooms with undamaged caps when selecting mushrooms for sautéing.

Avoid any mushrooms that are slimy or have begun to brown.

1. Simply wipe the mushrooms clean with a moist towel before slicing them into thin pieces.
2. After slicing the mushrooms, sauté them in butter or olive oil until golden brown and soft.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve right away.

Sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic accompaniment to grilled chicken or steak.

They’re also wonderful as an appetizer or snack on their own.

Try sautéed mushrooms the next time you need a fast and simple side dish.

You’ll be blown away by their taste and adaptability.

21. Roasted Garlic

Roasted garlic is a tasty and adaptable side dish that can be used in a number of dishes.

It not only has a rich, nutty taste, but it is also high in nutrients.

Roasted garlic is also incredibly easy to make.

1. Simply split the head of garlic in half, sprinkle with olive oil, then cover in foil.
2. Then, bake in a preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.

The garlic will be tender and aromatic after it has completed roasting.

It may be eaten on its own or used to season a variety of meals.

What Pasta to Serve with Cioppino?

One of the nicest aspects of cioppino is that it may be served with a range of pasta shapes and sizes.

Choose a thick noodle like fettuccine or spaghetti if you want something heartier to go with the powerful flavors of cioppino.

Choose a long, thin pasta, such as angel hair or vermicelli, for a lighter choice.

Shells and ravioli are other excellent alternatives for soaking up the delectable sauce.

Cioppino will be a hit no matter what pasta you use!

What Dessert to Serve with Cioppino?

While there are numerous delectable accompaniments to cioppino, one of our favorites is this simple and elegantStrawberry Shortcake.

The light and fluffy shortcake contrasts well with the thick seafood stew, and the sweetness of the strawberries enhances the tomato and wine flavors.

Plus, it’s simple to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying your dinner!

What Wine to Serve with Cioppino?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a wine to pair with cioppino.

• To begin, the wine should be acidic enough to cut through the richness of the seafood stew.
• Second, the wine must be powerful enough to withstand the intense flavors of the fish and herbs.

With these considerations in mind, many people believe that a dry white wine or a light red wine complements cioppino nicely.

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chianti are all excellent options. When in doubt, consult your local wine store for recommendations.

They would gladly assist you in selecting the ideal wine to complement your cioppino.

What Kind of Bread to Serve with Cioppino?

There are several breads that may be eaten with cioppino, a fish stew.

A crusty loaf of sourdough bread is a traditional accompaniment, since the sourdough complements the acidity of the tomatoes in the stew.

A substantial, rustic bread, such as an Italian Tuscan bread or a French baguette, is another choice.

These breads can withstand the heartiness of the cioppino and absorb up all of the delectable flavors.

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider serving cioppino with cornbread or flatbread.

Whatever bread you select, it will go well with the cioppino!

What Salad to Serve with Cioppino?

While there are several ways to serve cioppino, one of our favorites is over a bed of fresh greens.

This not only gives a splash of color to the meal, but it also serves to balance out the cioppino’s heavy tastes.

We propose combining baby spinach, arugula, and radicchio for a simple but attractive salad.

Then drizzle with a mild vinaigrette and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.

The sharpness of the greens will balance the acidity of the tomatoes in the cioppino, and the cheese will offer a creamy richness that elevates the meal.

Bon appetit!

What Meat to Serve with Cioppino?

When it comes to the sort of meat to put in cioppino, there are a few distinct schools of thought.

The classic recipe calls for a variety of seafood, including shrimp, lobster, and scallops.

See Also: best sauce for scallops

Some folks, though, like to keep things simple and just incorporate shrimp.

Others choose to include a protein-rich ingredient, such as chicken or beef.

It’s ultimately up to you to determine what goes into your cioppino.

If you want something heartier, chicken or beef may be the way to go.

Shrimp may be your best choice if you want something simpler and closer to the classic recipe.

Whatever route you choose, you’ll end up with a great and pleasant lunch.

Why Consider Serving A Side Dish For Cioppino?

Cioppino is another simple recipe that is great for the home chef.

It’s a tasty seafood stew that incorporates numerous different kinds of fish and veggies.

While there are a few versions to this meal, they always feature salmon, clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, mussels, and a variety of other fish and shellfish.

However, not everyone eats cioppino just because they must.

Many people eat it because they appreciate the flavor and texture of cioppino combined.

As a result, providing side dishes is a terrific opportunity to experiment with the dinner and keep it new.

Cioppino’s excellent side dishes are anything that compliments or contrasts the main.

Consider serving it with a fruit salad to lighten the meal.

Serve with burgers or sandwiches to make an interesting culinary pairing.

However, regardless of how you serve your cioppino, keep it basic. Experiment with flavors and textures, but keep it traditional.

Conclusion

Cioppino is a traditional Italian seafood stew that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

However, since it is often served as a main course, it is vital to match it with other dishes to ensure that everyone has their fill.

These side dishes are our top recommendations because they offer a unique taste combination that makes them both tasty and simple to eat with cioppino.