What to Serve With Cannelloni – 15 Best Sides

What to Serve With Cannelloni, you ask?

As a food lover and hostess extraordinaire, I’m always on the hunt for the perfect side dishes to complement my main courses.

And when it comes to serving cannelloni, the possibilities are endless!

In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 15 favorite sides that will take your cannelloni game to the next level.

From crispy garlic bread to refreshing caprese salad, these dishes are sure to make your taste buds dance with delight.

So, grab a seat at the table and get ready to indulge in the ultimate cannelloni experience.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a delicious option to serve alongside cannelloni. I absolutely love the combination of the rich and creamy cannelloni with the warm and garlicky bread.

The crispy crust of the bread and the soft and fluffy interior make it the perfect accompaniment to this pasta dish. The aroma of the freshly baked garlic bread fills the kitchen, making everyone’s mouths water in anticipation.

As I take a bite, I am greeted with a burst of flavors – the garlic, butter, and herbs all melding together in perfect harmony. The bread adds a delightful crunch and texture to each bite of the cannelloni, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Garlic bread truly elevates the meal and leaves everyone satisfied and wanting more.

Caprese Salad

To complement your cannelloni, you should definitely try a refreshing Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. The combination of these simple ingredients creates a burst of flavors that perfectly complements the rich and savory cannelloni.

I love the way the sweet and tangy tomatoes pair with the creamy mozzarella, creating a delightful contrast of textures. The fragrant basil adds a touch of freshness and earthiness to the salad, elevating it to a whole new level. Plus, the vibrant colors of the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make this salad a feast for the eyes as well.

It’s light, yet satisfying, and adds a refreshing element to your meal. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this classic Italian salad alongside your cannelloni.

Roasted Vegetables

For a healthy and flavorful addition to your meal, try roasting a variety of vegetables together. I love roasting vegetables because it brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor.

All you need to do is chop up your favorite vegetables, toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized.

The possibilities are endless – you can roast a medley of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant and tasty side dish. Or you can go for a more earthy flavor by roasting root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips.

Either way, roasted vegetables are a simple and delicious way to elevate any meal.

Caesar Salad

The Caesar salad dressing is a creamy and tangy combination of mayonnaise, anchovies, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. It’s one of my favorite dressings to pair with a fresh and crisp Caesar salad.

I love the rich and velvety texture that the mayonnaise adds, while the anchovies bring a hint of saltiness and depth to the flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and savory element, while the lemon juice brightens everything up with its zesty and refreshing taste.

When tossed with crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, the Caesar salad becomes a delicious and satisfying side dish. It’s the perfect complement to any meal, adding a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a delicious Italian appetizer made with toasted bread, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. It’s one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something light and flavorful.

The combination of the crispy bread with the juicy tomatoes and aromatic garlic is simply irresistible. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a perfect bite every time.

It’s so easy to make too! Just toast some bread, rub it with garlic, and top it with diced tomatoes and chopped basil. Drizzle some olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, and you’re good to go.

Whether I’m serving it as an appetizer or a snack, bruschetta always impresses my guests and satisfies my cravings.

Antipasto Platter

I love creating antipasto platters because they offer a variety of flavors and textures in one delicious spread. It’s like a culinary adventure on a plate!

I start by selecting a selection of cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and coppa. Then, I add an assortment of cheeses such as sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy blue cheese.

To balance out the richness, I include marinated vegetables like artichokes, roasted red peppers, and olives. Fresh slices of crusty bread and crispy breadsticks are the perfect vehicles for enjoying all the different components.

The best part is that you can customize your antipasto platter to your liking, adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, pickles, or even grilled vegetables. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress!

Italian Green Beans

Italian green beans are a great addition to any antipasto platter. They bring a burst of freshness and vibrant color that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

I love how these beans add a touch of crunchiness to the platter, making it even more enjoyable to eat.

The flavors of the green beans are enhanced by the simple yet delicious dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

The combination of these flavors creates a delightful balance that elevates the overall taste of the dish.

Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or as part of a larger spread, Italian green beans never fail to impress and satisfy.

Stuffed Mushrooms

To make stuffed mushrooms, start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. It’s a simple yet delicious appetizer that never fails to impress.

First, I carefully wash the mushrooms, making sure to remove any dirt or debris. Then, I gently twist off the stems, creating a hollow space in each mushroom cap.

The filling is where the magic happens. I sauté some onions and garlic until fragrant, then mix in breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs like thyme and parsley.

I generously stuff each mushroom cap with the flavorful mixture, and pop them in the oven until golden and bubbly.

The result is a mouthwatering bite-sized treat that’s perfect for parties or as a tasty snack.

Baked Zucchini

Baked zucchini is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. I love making this dish because it’s so simple and flavorful.

I start by slicing the zucchini into thin rounds and tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, I arrange the slices on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes, until they’re tender and golden brown.

The result is a zucchini that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s the perfect side dish to serve with grilled chicken or fish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any extra zucchini you may have on hand.

Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!

Tomato and Mozzarella Salad

I’m always in the mood for a refreshing tomato and mozzarella salad during the summer months. It’s the perfect combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. The vibrant colors and flavors make it an ideal side dish for any meal.

I love how the sweetness of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella. The tangy balsamic dressing adds a nice kick to the salad. It’s light, yet satisfying, and it’s a great way to incorporate fresh produce into your diet.

Whether I’m hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a simple lunch, a tomato and mozzarella salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a classic summer dish that never fails to impress.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

You’ll love the crispy texture and cheesy flavor of these Parmesan roasted potatoes. They are the perfect side dish to accompany any meal.

The potatoes are cut into bite-sized pieces and tossed with olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices. Then, they are roasted in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

The Parmesan cheese adds a deliciously savory flavor and creates a crispy crust on the outside of the potatoes. The combination of the crispy texture and cheesy taste is simply irresistible.

These Parmesan roasted potatoes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. They are easy to make and will elevate any meal to the next level.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

After enjoying the delicious Parmesan Roasted Potatoes, I couldn’t help but think of another fantastic side dish that would perfectly complement cannelloni – Spinach and Artichoke Dip.

This creamy and savory dip is a crowd-pleaser and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of cannelloni. The combination of tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and melted cheese creates a delightful harmony of tastes and textures.

The dip can be served warm and bubbly, straight out of the oven, or chilled for a refreshing contrast. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed with bread, crackers, or even raw vegetables.

The Spinach and Artichoke Dip adds a touch of indulgence to any meal and will surely leave your guests wanting more.

Grilled Asparagus

To grill asparagus, simply toss the spears in olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. The olive oil adds flavor and prevents sticking. Cook on a preheated grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. This results in perfectly grilled asparagus with a slight char and a tender yet crisp texture.

Grilled asparagus is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s my go-to method for cooking this delicious vegetable. The generous amount of salt and pepper enhances the natural taste. It’s a favorite option for summer barbecues and gatherings.

Creamy Polenta

I’m a big fan of creamy polenta because it’s a comforting and versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side. There’s something about its smooth texture and rich flavor that just warms my soul.

Whether I’m enjoying it on its own or pairing it with a delicious sauce or protein, creamy polenta never disappoints. It’s the perfect accompaniment to dishes like cannelloni, adding a hearty and satisfying element to the meal.

I love how it can be dressed up with savory ingredients like cheese, herbs, or even mushrooms, or kept simple with just butter and salt. Creamy polenta truly is a blank canvas that allows me to get creative in the kitchen, and that’s why it’s always a go-to for me when I’m looking for a delicious side dish.