What Salad to Serve with Eggplant Parmesan: Expert Recommendations

When it comes to serving eggplant parmesan, it’s important to pair it with the right salad to enhance the flavors of the dish. A well-chosen salad can add a refreshing and healthy touch to the meal, balancing out the richness of the eggplant parmesan. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best salad options to serve with eggplant parmesan, from classic Italian salads to creative and modern twists.

One classic salad to serve with eggplant parmesan is the Caprese salad. Made with fresh mozzarella cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, this salad is a perfect match for the rich and savory flavors of the eggplant parmesan. Another classic Italian salad to consider is the Caesar salad, which features crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing made with anchovies and Parmesan cheese. For a lighter and more refreshing option, you could try a simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.

Understanding Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that is a favorite of many. The dish is made by layering slices of eggplant with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. It is then baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It is also a great way to use up any leftover eggplant you may have in your fridge.

When making Eggplant Parmesan, it is important to choose the right eggplant. Look for eggplants that are firm, shiny, and free of blemishes. You can use any variety of eggplant, but the most commonly used is the large, dark purple Italian eggplant.

To prepare the eggplant for the dish, slice it into rounds or lengthwise into thin strips. Some people like to salt the eggplant slices to remove any bitterness, but this step is optional.

When it comes to the tomato sauce, you can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. A simple tomato sauce made with canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil works well with Eggplant Parmesan.

In terms of cheese, mozzarella and parmesan are the most commonly used. You can use fresh mozzarella or the shredded variety. For the parmesan cheese, it is best to use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.

Overall, Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With the right ingredients and preparation, you can make a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

The Importance of Salad Pairing

When it comes to serving a dish like eggplant parmesan, it’s important to choose the right salad to complement the flavors and textures of the main dish. A well-paired salad can enhance the flavors of the eggplant parmesan and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dish.

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a salad to pair with eggplant parmesan is the flavor profile of the salad. A salad with too many strong flavors can overpower the delicate flavors of the eggplant and cheese, while a bland salad can be unappetizing and fail to complement the flavors of the main dish. It’s important to strike a balance between flavors that complement and enhance the dish, without overpowering it.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a salad to pair with eggplant parmesan is the texture of the salad. A salad with too much crunch or too many hard vegetables can be jarring against the soft and creamy texture of the eggplant and cheese. On the other hand, a salad with too many soft ingredients can feel too mushy and unappetizing. A well-balanced salad with a mix of textures can provide a satisfying contrast to the main dish.

When it comes to specific salad ingredients that pair well with eggplant parmesan, there are several options to consider. Arugula, for example, is a peppery and fresh green that can add a wonderful flavor to any dish. It pairs particularly well with eggplant parmesan, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dish. Tomatoes are another great option, providing a juicy and acidic contrast to the creamy and cheesy flavors of eggplant parmesan.

Other salad ingredients that pair well with eggplant parmesan include zucchini, roasted broccoli, and a simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette dressing. Ultimately, the key to a successful salad pairing with eggplant parmesan is to choose ingredients that complement and enhance the flavors and textures of the main dish, without overpowering it.

Classic Italian Salads

Italian cuisine boasts a wide variety of salads that are perfect for pairing with eggplant parmesan. Here are two classic Italian salads that are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a simple and delicious salad that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. The salad is then drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and seasoned with salt and pepper.

To make a Caprese salad, simply slice the mozzarella and tomatoes into equal-sized rounds. Arrange them on a plate, alternating between the mozzarella and tomato slices. Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top of the salad. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Italian Chopped Salad

Italian chopped salad is a hearty salad that is packed with flavor. It is made with a variety of vegetables, meats, and cheeses. The salad is then dressed with a tangy Italian vinaigrette.

To make an Italian chopped salad, start by chopping up some romaine lettuce, radicchio, and endive. Add some diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and roasted red peppers to the salad. Top the salad with some diced salami, provolone cheese, and pepperoncini peppers. To make the dressing, whisk together some olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

These classic Italian salads are a great way to add some freshness and flavor to your eggplant parmesan meal.

Green Salads

When it comes to serving a salad with eggplant parmesan, a simple green salad can be a great option. Green salads are refreshing and complement the rich and savory flavors of eggplant parmesan. Here are a couple of green salads that you can consider.

Arugula Salad

Arugula is a peppery green that adds a nice bite to any salad. To make an arugula salad, start by washing and drying a bunch of arugula. Then, add some sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan cheese. You can also add some toasted pine nuts for added crunch. For the dressing, a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard can work well.

Spinach Salad

Spinach is another great green to use in a salad. To make a spinach salad, wash and dry a bunch of spinach leaves. Then, add some sliced mushrooms, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted almonds. For the dressing, you can use a balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing.

Overall, green salads can be a simple and delicious option to serve with eggplant parmesan. By using fresh ingredients and a flavorful dressing, you can create a salad that complements the dish without overpowering it.

Fruit Salads

If you’re looking for a refreshing and light salad to pair with your eggplant parmesan, a fruit salad is a great option. Here are two delicious fruit salad recipes to try:

Citrus Fennel Salad

This salad is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. The fennel adds a slightly licorice taste, while the citrus provides a burst of freshness. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges, peeled and sliced
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and sliced
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the oranges, grapefruit, fennel, and red onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, white wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve chilled.

Apple Walnut Salad

This salad is a great way to incorporate fall flavors into your meal. The sweetness of the apples pairs perfectly with the nuttiness of the walnuts. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the apples, walnuts, mixed greens, and blue cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve chilled.

Both of these fruit salads are easy to make and pair perfectly with eggplant parmesan. Try them out for your next Italian-inspired meal!

Grain Salads

Grain salads are a great way to add some texture and substance to your meal. They are filling, nutritious, and delicious, and they pair perfectly with eggplant parmesan. Here are two of our favorite grain salads to serve with this classic Italian dish.

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that is perfect for salads. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly crunchy texture that adds a nice contrast to the soft and creamy eggplant parmesan. Here is a simple recipe for a quinoa salad that you can serve with your eggplant parmesan.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and place it in a medium saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
2. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl.
3. Add the bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Serve the quinoa salad alongside your eggplant parmesan.

Farro Salad

Farro is an ancient grain that has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture. It is a great source of protein, fiber, and nutrients, and it pairs perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of eggplant parmesan. Here is a simple recipe for a farro salad that you can serve with your eggplant parmesan.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup farro
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the farro in a fine-mesh strainer and place it in a medium saucepan with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the farro is tender.
2. Fluff the farro with a fork and transfer it to a large bowl.
3. Add the dried apricots, toasted almonds, parsley, and mint to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Serve the farro salad alongside your eggplant parmesan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, serving a salad with eggplant parmesan is a great way to balance out the richness of the dish and add some freshness to the meal. With a variety of options to choose from, you can customize your salad to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Some of the best salads to serve with eggplant parmesan include:

• Antipasto Salad: A classic Italian salad that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
• Caprese Salad: A simple salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
• Arugula Salad: A peppery salad that pairs well with the rich flavors of eggplant parmesan.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives.

When choosing a salad to serve with eggplant parmesan, consider the flavors and textures of the dish. You want to choose a salad that complements the flavors of the eggplant parmesan without overpowering it.

Remember to also consider any dietary restrictions or preferences of your guests. You can easily customize a salad to be vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free by swapping out ingredients or using alternative dressings.

Overall, serving a salad with eggplant parmesan is a simple and delicious way to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What meat to serve with aubergine parmigiana

Aubergine parmigiana is a vegetarian dish, so it doesn’t necessarily need to be served with meat. However, if you want to add some protein to your meal, you can serve it with grilled chicken or fish.

What goes with eggplant parmesan besides pasta

Eggplant parmesan is a hearty dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, and a simple green salad.

What pasta to serve with eggplant parmesan

If you want to serve pasta with eggplant parmesan, a simple spaghetti or linguine will do. You can also try penne or rigatoni for a heartier dish.

Side dishes to go with eggplant

In addition to pasta, there are many side dishes that go well with eggplant parmesan. Some options include roasted potatoes, sautéed spinach, or a classic caprese salad.

What to serve with fried eggplant

Fried eggplant can be served as an appetizer or a side dish. To balance out the richness of the fried eggplant, try serving it with a light and refreshing salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad.

What do Italians eat with parmigiana?

In Italy, parmigiana is often served as a main course, accompanied by a simple green salad and a glass of red wine. However, it can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meat or fish.