Italian sausage, with its robust flavors and satisfying texture, is a versatile ingredient that can be the star of countless meals. But even the most delicious sausage needs the right supporting cast. Choosing the perfect side dishes can elevate your Italian sausage from a simple meal to a culinary masterpiece. This guide will explore a wide array of options, ensuring your next Italian sausage dish is a resounding success.
Classic Comfort Food Sides
When you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, classic side dishes are always a reliable choice. These options pair perfectly with the savory and slightly spicy nature of Italian sausage.
Potatoes: A Versatile Staple
Potatoes, in their various forms, are a natural complement to Italian sausage. Their mild flavor allows the sausage’s spices to shine, while their starchy texture provides a satisfying contrast.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a timeless pairing. Consider adding roasted garlic or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. A dollop of pesto or a swirl of olive oil can also elevate this simple side.
Roasted Potatoes: Roasting potatoes with herbs like rosemary and thyme brings out their natural sweetness. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for a crispy and flavorful side.
Potato Salad: A classic potato salad, whether creamy or vinegar-based, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of Italian sausage. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect combination.
Pasta: A Natural Pairing
It’s no surprise that pasta is a frequent accompaniment to Italian sausage. The two are a match made in culinary heaven.
Simple Tomato Sauce: A basic tomato sauce, simmered with garlic and herbs, is a simple yet satisfying option. Toss it with your favorite pasta shape and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Creamy Pesto Pasta: The bright, herbaceous flavor of pesto complements the savory notes of Italian sausage beautifully. Add a touch of cream for extra richness.
Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil (Aglio e Olio): This simple pasta dish allows the flavors of the sausage to really shine. The garlic-infused olive oil adds a delightful aroma and a subtle kick.
Polenta: A Creamy Delight
Polenta, a cornmeal-based dish, provides a creamy and comforting base that complements the boldness of Italian sausage.
Creamy Polenta with Parmesan: The creamy texture of polenta, combined with the salty tang of Parmesan cheese, creates a delightful contrast to the savory sausage.
Grilled Polenta Cakes: For a more substantial side, try grilling polenta cakes. The slightly charred exterior adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sausage.
Fresh and Flavorful Vegetable Sides
To balance the richness of Italian sausage, consider serving it with fresh and flavorful vegetable sides. These options add color, nutrients, and a refreshing contrast to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A Simple and Delicious Choice
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and creates a slightly caramelized texture.
Roasted Peppers and Onions: This classic combination is a natural pairing with Italian sausage. The sweetness of the peppers and onions complements the savory spices of the sausage. You can even add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts: Roasting broccoli or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese transforms these often-overlooked vegetables into a delicious and satisfying side.
Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus, with its delicate flavor and slightly bitter notes, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of Italian sausage.
Salads: A Light and Refreshing Option
A well-made salad can provide a light and refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of Italian sausage.
Caprese Salad: The classic combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze, is a simple yet elegant side dish.
Italian Chopped Salad: This vibrant salad typically includes lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, salami, and cheese, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It provides a variety of flavors and textures that complement Italian sausage.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: The peppery bite of arugula, combined with a bright and zesty lemon vinaigrette, provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing side.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and Flavorful
Grilling vegetables imparts a smoky flavor that complements the savory notes of Italian sausage.
Grilled Zucchini and Eggplant: These summer vegetables take on a delicious smoky flavor when grilled. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs for added flavor.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob, grilled to perfection, is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with Italian sausage.
Bean-Based Sides: Hearty and Satisfying
Beans provide a hearty and satisfying side that complements the robust flavors of Italian sausage.
Cannellini Beans with Herbs and Garlic
Cannellini beans, with their creamy texture and mild flavor, are a versatile base for a variety of side dishes. Simmer them with herbs like rosemary and thyme, along with garlic and olive oil, for a simple and flavorful side.
White Bean and Sausage Stew
For a heartier option, consider making a white bean and sausage stew. This flavorful dish combines cannellini beans, Italian sausage, tomatoes, and herbs in a rich and savory broth.
Baked Beans
A flavorful baked bean recipe can complement the sausage. Look for recipes that include molasses, brown sugar, and bacon for a sweet and savory flavor.
Bread and Grains: Essential Companions
Bread and grains are essential companions to Italian sausage, providing a vehicle for soaking up flavorful sauces and juices.
Crusty Bread: A Simple Pleasure
A loaf of crusty bread, served with olive oil for dipping, is a simple yet satisfying accompaniment to Italian sausage. The bread provides a textural contrast to the sausage and helps to absorb the flavorful juices.
Garlic Bread: A Flavorful Addition
Garlic bread, with its buttery garlic flavor, is a classic pairing with Italian sausage. It adds an extra layer of richness and complements the savory notes of the sausage.
Risotto: A Creamy and Flavorful Side
Risotto, a creamy rice dish, can be flavored with a variety of ingredients to complement Italian sausage. Mushroom risotto, with its earthy flavors, is a particularly good choice.
Unique and Unexpected Sides
For those looking to experiment with more unique and unexpected pairings, consider these options.
Pickled Vegetables: A Tangy Contrast
Pickled vegetables, such as giardiniera or pickled onions, provide a tangy and acidic contrast to the richness of Italian sausage. The acidity cuts through the fat and refreshes the palate.
Sauteed Greens: A Nutritious and Flavorful Choice
Sauteed greens, such as spinach or kale, provide a nutritious and flavorful side that complements Italian sausage. Sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a simple and delicious dish.
Mushroom Gravy: Earthy and Savory
A rich mushroom gravy, made with a variety of mushrooms, provides an earthy and savory sauce that pairs well with Italian sausage. Serve it over mashed potatoes or polenta for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Choosing the Right Sides Based on Sausage Type
The type of Italian sausage you’re using can influence your choice of side dishes.
Sweet Italian Sausage
Sweet Italian sausage, with its mild and slightly sweet flavor, pairs well with a wide variety of sides. Consider options like roasted vegetables, creamy pasta dishes, or polenta.
Hot Italian Sausage
Hot Italian sausage, with its spicy kick, benefits from sides that can help to cool down the palate. Consider options like salads with a tangy vinaigrette, pickled vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Italian Sausage with Fennel
Italian sausage with fennel has a distinct anise flavor that pairs well with vegetables like roasted fennel, sauteed greens, or cannellini beans.
No matter which side dishes you choose, remember to consider the overall balance of flavors and textures in your meal. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a truly memorable Italian sausage experience. Enjoy!
What are some classic vegetable sides that pair well with Italian sausage?
Classic vegetable sides that complement Italian sausage often feature robust flavors and textures. Options like roasted bell peppers and onions, especially when caramelized, provide sweetness that balances the savory sausage. Similarly, sautéed spinach with garlic offers a simple yet flavorful accompaniment, adding a touch of freshness and nutritional value.
Other excellent choices include grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, or a hearty serving of roasted broccoli florets seasoned with herbs and Parmesan cheese. These vegetable dishes not only taste great alongside Italian sausage, but they also contribute to a well-rounded and balanced meal.
Can I serve a salad as a side with Italian sausage? If so, what kind of salad is best?
Absolutely! A salad can be a refreshing and complementary side to Italian sausage, especially if the sausage dish is rich or heavy. The best salads to serve are those with bold flavors and textures that can stand up to the sausage’s savory profile. A simple Italian salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a vinaigrette is a classic choice.
Alternatively, consider a heartier salad like a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. Or, a salad with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and eggplant, tossed with a light dressing can offer a satisfying and flavorful contrast to the sausage. Avoid salads that are overly sweet or delicate, as they may be overwhelmed by the sausage’s taste.
What grain-based sides work well with Italian sausage?
Grain-based sides provide a satisfying and grounding element to a meal featuring Italian sausage. Polenta, a creamy cornmeal dish, is a particularly excellent choice, as its mild flavor allows the sausage’s spices to shine. It can be served soft and creamy or grilled for a firmer texture. Another option is risotto, especially a simple Parmesan or mushroom risotto, offering a comforting and flavorful accompaniment.
Beyond polenta and risotto, couscous or quinoa, seasoned with herbs and a touch of lemon, can offer a lighter alternative. These grains absorb the flavorful juices from the sausage, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Additionally, a crusty Italian bread is always a welcome addition, perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce.
Are there any potato-based sides that are particularly good with Italian sausage?
Potato-based sides are a classic comfort food pairing with Italian sausage. Roasted potatoes, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil, offer a rustic and flavorful complement to the sausage’s richness. The crispy exterior and soft interior of roasted potatoes create a delightful textural contrast.
Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes, perhaps with a touch of Parmesan cheese or roasted garlic, provide a smooth and comforting counterpoint to the sausage’s heartiness. For a simpler option, consider boiled or steamed potatoes tossed with butter and herbs. Avoid overly elaborate potato dishes, as they may compete with the sausage’s flavor.
What types of sauces or condiments should I consider serving alongside Italian sausage and its sides?
The right sauce or condiment can elevate the entire meal when serving Italian sausage and its sides. A classic marinara sauce is a timeless choice, offering a tangy and slightly sweet counterpoint to the savory sausage. Pesto, with its vibrant basil flavor, provides a fresh and aromatic element that complements both the sausage and any vegetable sides.
Other excellent options include a simple garlic aioli, a spicy arrabiata sauce, or even a dollop of ricotta cheese. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider serving a Calabrian chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Ultimately, the best sauce or condiment depends on the specific flavors of the sausage and the chosen side dishes.
How can I create a cohesive Italian-themed meal with Italian sausage as the main course?
Creating a cohesive Italian-themed meal centered around Italian sausage involves selecting sides and accompaniments that complement the sausage’s flavor profile and evoke a sense of Italian culinary tradition. Start with a simple appetizer like bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil, or a platter of olives and cheeses. For the main course, choose a preparation method for the sausage that suits your taste, such as grilling, baking, or pan-frying.
Accompany the sausage with classic Italian sides like roasted vegetables, polenta, or a simple pasta dish tossed with olive oil and garlic. To complete the meal, consider a dessert like tiramisu or cannoli, and serve with a glass of Italian wine. By carefully selecting each element of the meal, you can create a truly authentic and satisfying Italian dining experience.
Can Italian sausage be paired with coleslaw?
While it might not be the most traditional pairing, Italian sausage can be paired with coleslaw if you’re aiming for a less conventional and more casual meal. The key is to choose a coleslaw recipe that isn’t overly sweet, as the sweetness might clash with the savory flavors of the sausage. A coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing or one that incorporates herbs like parsley or dill would be a better choice.
Consider adding elements to the coleslaw that complement Italian flavors, such as fennel, which has a subtle anise flavor that pairs well with sausage. Ultimately, the success of this pairing depends on balancing the flavors and ensuring the coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast without overpowering the Italian sausage. It’s a great option for a barbecue or picnic where you want to offer a variety of options.