When it comes to an Italian dinner centered around spaghetti, the right side dishes can elevate the entire meal from ordinary to extraordinary. These side dishes not only complement the rich flavors of spaghetti but also add variety and balance to your plate. Let's explore some of the best options that answer the age - old question, "what goes with spaghetti?"

First up, simple salads are a classic choice. A fresh Caesar salad is a timeless option. The crisp romaine lettuce, tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing made with garlic, anchovies, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of lemon juice, provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty spaghetti. The crunch of the lettuce and the tangy dressing cut through the richness of the pasta sauce. You can top it with some croutons for an extra textural element. Another great salad option is a Caprese salad. Slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with extra - virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of balsamic glaze create a symphony of flavors. The sweetness of the tomatoes, the creaminess of the mozzarella, and the herbal notes of the basil make it a perfect side for spaghetti.

Roasted vegetables are also a fantastic addition to your spaghetti dinner. Roasted Brussels sprouts are a trendy choice. Cut them in half, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder, then roast them in the oven until they are caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside. The slightly bitter flavor of the Brussels sprouts pairs well with the savory spaghetti sauce. Roasted bell peppers are another option. You can roast different colors of bell peppers - red, yellow, and green - to add a pop of color to your plate. The sweet and smoky flavor of the roasted peppers complements the pasta beautifully. You can also roast carrots, which become naturally sweet when roasted. Their bright orange color adds a visual appeal to the meal.

Bread is a staple in Italian cuisine and is a must - have side for spaghetti. Garlic bread is a crowd - pleaser. Take a loaf of French bread, slice it in half lengthwise, spread a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on the cut sides, and then bake it until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside. The garlicky aroma and the buttery goodness of the bread are irresistible. Another option is focaccia bread. This Italian flatbread is often topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs like rosemary or thyme. Its soft and chewy texture makes it perfect for sopping up the extra spaghetti sauce on your plate.

Meatballs are a classic Italian side that goes hand - in - hand with spaghetti. Homemade meatballs are the best. You can make them with a combination of ground beef, ground pork, or ground veal. Add breadcrumbs, eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley and oregano to the meat mixture. Shape the mixture into balls and then cook them in a tomato sauce. The juicy and flavorful meatballs add a protein - rich element to your spaghetti meal. You can serve them on top of the spaghetti or on the side.

In conclusion, there are numerous side dishes that can enhance your spaghetti dinner. Whether you prefer the freshness of salads, the warmth of roasted vegetables, the comfort of bread, or the heartiness of meatballs, these sides are sure to make your next Italian meal a memorable one. So, the next time you're planning a spaghetti dinner, don't forget to include one or more of these delicious side dishes.