Garlic bread is an ideal popular and delicious side dish that can be served with various meals. It is a classic side dish that is enjoyed by many.
With its perfectly crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, it’s no wonder why garlic bread is a favorite among many.
Whether you are making it from scratch or buying it from the store, it is a delicious accompaniment to many meals. But have you ever wondered what to serve with garlic bread to elevate your meal?
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some quick and amazing dishes that you can serve with garlic bread to take your meal to the next level.
What is garlic bread? What does garlic bread taste like?
Garlic bread is an ideal popular dish made of bread sliced and spread with garlic butter or olive oil.
It can also include other seasonings, such as parsley, oregano, and basil. The flavor of garlic bread is savory and slightly spicy from the addition of garlic.
It pairs well with Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza and makes an excellent accompaniment to salads or soups.
Garlic bread can be found in many restaurants around the world, although it is often homemade for a more authentic flavor.
Best Sides to Serve with Garlic Bread
1. Spaghetti Bolognese
Garlic bread and spaghetti are a classic combination. The buttery and garlicky flavor of the bread pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce of the spaghetti Bolognese.
Serve with a side of garlic bread to make a satisfying and complete meal.
2. Caesar Salad
Garlic bread and Caesar salad is another classic combination. The sharp and tangy flavors of the salad go perfectly with the buttery and savory garlic bread.
To add some protein to the meal, you can also serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Discover More: Quick and Amazing Dishes to Serve with Chicken Caesar Salad
3. Minestrone Soup
Garlic bread is also a great side dish for soup. Minestrone soup is a hearty and nutritious soup packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta.
Serve garlic bread on the side to dip into the soup or soak up the broth.
4. Grilled Chicken
Garlic bread is the perfect side dish to serve with grilled chicken. Whether you’re grilling chicken breasts, thighs, or wings, garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the meal.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.
5. Caprese Salad
Garlic bread also pairs well with a light and refreshing Caprese salad.
The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic vinegar goes perfectly with the buttery and garlicky flavor of the bread.
6. Lasagna
Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs perfectly with garlic bread.
The layers of pasta, cheese, and meat in the lasagna are complemented by the bread’s savory and buttery flavor. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a classic Italian meal.
7. Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a creamy and delicious dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Serve garlic bread on the side to dip in the rich and savory sauce. Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad to balance out the meal.
8. Roasted Vegetables
Garlic bread also pairs well with roasted vegetables. The nutty and sweet flavors of the vegetables are complemented by the buttery and savory flavor of the bread.
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a protein source like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal.
9. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup and garlic bread is a classic combination that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal.
The buttery and savory flavor of the bread goes perfectly with the tangy and sweet flavors of the soup. Serve with a side of garlic bread to dip into the soup or soak up the broth.
10. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for a special occasion.
The layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, cheese, and breadcrumbs are complemented by the buttery and garlicky flavor of the bread.
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a green salad to make it a complete meal.
11. Chicken Parmesan
The crispy chicken cutlets melted cheese, and garlic tomato sauce are a delightful combination, and garlic bread only enhances it even more.
It is a great combination of flavors that are sure to satisfy any craving.
12. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer made of toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
It is the perfect appetizer to serve with garlic bread as it enhances the delicious flavors.
Also Try: 33 Creative Side Dishes to Elevate Your Bruschetta
13. Meatball Sub
A meatball sub is a classic sandwich that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
The soft bread, crispy garlic bread, and juicy meatballs are a match made in heaven, and it is easy to make.
14. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Grilled shrimp skewers are a great meal to make on a hot summer day.
The garlic bread pairs perfectly with the grilled shrimp, and it is a quick and easy meal to make.
15. Fried Calamari
Fried calamari is an ideal classic dish that is perfect for an appetizer or a meal. Garlic bread is a perfect great side dish to serve with it, and it complements the flavors perfectly.
Main Course to eat with garlic bread
Garlic bread is best paired with a robust Italian pasta dish. Perhaps try a classic Spaghetti Bolognese, which features a rich tomato and ground beef sauce.
The savory, garlicky flavor of the garlic bread will perfectly complement the robust flavor of the meaty sauce.
For an added twist, top off your spaghetti with freshly grated parmesan cheese to bring out all of the flavors in this delightful combination.
Alternatively, you could opt for a creamy Carbonara made with pancetta, egg yolks, and parmesan cheese – the buttery garlic bread would provide an excellent contrast to this luscious pasta dish.
Another great option to pair with garlic bread would be lasagna – layers of delicious homemade Bolognese sauce and melted cheese make this classic Italian dish incredibly flavorful and comforting.
Appetizers to serve with garlic bread
1. Caprese Skewers
Caprese Skewers are delicious bites that are ideal for a gathering – they combine the classic flavors of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella in an easy-to-eat form.
Serve them with garlic bread for a combination that’s sure to delight your guests.
2. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a creamy dip that pairs wonderfully with garlicky toast points.
It’s made with a base of garbanzo beans blended with roasted red peppers, garlic, tahini, olive oil, and spices for a flavor-packed dish everyone will love.
3. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer made by topping crostini or baguette slices with diced tomatoes, garlic, herbs, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
Serve it alongside warm garlic bread for an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures.
4. Artichoke Dip
You can’t go wrong when you pair artichoke dip with freshly toasted garlic bread.
Its creamy blend of cream cheese, mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, and artichokes makes it extra addictive – your guests won’t be able to get enough!
5. Olives and Feta Cheese
Olives are always a great side option for any meal – add some crumbled feta cheese into the mix, and you have the perfect appetizer to enjoy while snacking on some garlicky bread slices.
6. Baked Brie
Baked Brie is a simple yet decadent cheesy appetizer that is always a crowd-pleaser.
All you need to do is top brie cheese rounds with jam or honey before baking them in the oven – serve them up with some garlic bread for an amazing accompaniment!
Learn More: What to serve with Baked brie- 23 Ideal Sides
7. Stuffed Mushrooms
These tasty mushroom caps are filled with a flavorful mixture of sausage and cream cheese and then baked until golden brown – they pair perfectly with crunchy garlic bread for the ultimate appetizer experience!
What else is served with garlic bread
Drinks to pair with garlic bread
1. White Wine and Garlic Bread
White Wine and Garlic Bread is a classic combination and a delicious way to enjoy garlic bread.
The crisp, dry flavor of white wine complements the flavors of roasted garlic and buttery bread perfectly.
Pair a Sauvignon Blanc with garlic bread for a light, balanced meal.
2. Tomato Juice and Garlic Bread
If you looking for an alcohol-free pairing, tomato juice makes a wonderful match for garlic bread.
Its acidity cuts through the richness of the buttery bread while still complementing its flavors. Add spices like black pepper or oregano for added depth and complexity to your dish.
3. Red Wine and Garlic Bread
If you’re looking for something slightly more robust than white wine, try pairing garlic bread with red wine.
A Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon will have enough tannins to stand up to the bold flavor of roasted garlic, while their fruity notes will blend nicely with the buttery bread.
4. Beer and Garlic Bread
Beer is another great option when it comes to pairing with garlic bread, especially if you’re looking for an alternative to wine that’s still full-bodied and flavorful.
India Pale Ales provide just the right amount of hops to stand up against the intensity of garlicky flavors while still providing a nice balance of bitterness and sweetness from their malt backbone.
5. Sparkling Cider and Garlic Bread
Sparkling cider provides just enough sweetness to make it an ideal accompaniment to garlicky dishes like garlic bread without being overly cloying or overpowering the flavors of the food itself.
Its light, bubbly texture adds an interesting contrast as well that helps elevate this classic dish even further.
6 Lemonade and Garlic Bread
Lemonade may not seem like an obvious choice at first, but it can actually make for a surprisingly delightful pairing with garlic bread!
Its tartness helps cut through some of the richness from the butter while also providing some balance in terms of sweetness – making it an ideal beverage choice if you want something refreshing yet still flavorful enough to give your meal an extra kick!
7 Hard Cider and Garlic Bread
With its slightly sweet yet dry taste profile, hard cider is perfect for those who are looking for something different than beer but just as flavorful when it comes to pairings with garlic bread.
Its carbonation helps refresh your palate after each bite while imparting subtle hints of apple flavor that will help bring out all other components on your plate even further!
Desserts to go with garlic bread
1. Caramel Apple Pie
A classic dessert favorite, caramel apple pie is a perfect accompaniment to garlic bread.
The tartness of the apples, combined with the sweetness of the caramel sauce and crunchy crust, make for a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with garlic bread.
Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an extra special touch!
2. Vanilla Panna Cotta
This Italian custard-like dish is rich and creamy, and its subtle sweetness makes it a great option to pair with garlic bread.
Top it off with fresh berries or even a drizzle of honey to give it something extra special that will have your guests wanting more.
3. Chocolate Mousse
For those who prefer a chocolatey indulgence after dinner, chocolate mousse is the perfect choice to go with garlic bread.
The contrast between its smooth, light texture and decadent cocoa flavor is sure to be a hit!
4. Lemon Tart
A zingy lemon tart gives a bright contrast to the savory flavor of garlic bread and complements it nicely.
It’s a classic combination that will take your meal up several notches in sophistication!
5. Crème Brûlée
Rich and creamy crème brûlée topped with crunchy caramelized sugar is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth – especially when paired with garlic bread! (Recipe)
Make sure you get the proportions right so you can enjoy both flavors together in perfect harmony.
What are the best flavors to go with garlic bread?
Garlic bread is a delicious treat that goes great with many flavors.
For those looking to keep it classic, butter and cheese are two of the most popular and traditional flavor pairings.
For something a bit more unique, try incorporating some herbs like oregano or basil for an additional kick.
Alternatively, you can elevate your garlic bread with ingredients like caramelized onions, capers, olives, anchovies, or roasted red peppers.
Another great way to put a spin on your garlic bread is by adding different cheeses or combining different herbs and spices.
You could also consider experimenting with different spreads or sauces, such as tapenade, pesto, or olive oil.
How do you jazz up garlic bread?
To jazz up garlic bread, you can start by adding some herbs to the butter mixture. Popular options include oregano, basil, rosemary, and parsley.
You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne, for a spicier version.
To make it even more delicious, add shredded cheese such as parmesan or mozzarella.
Finally, for an extra crunchy topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking. Enjoy!
How do you display garlic bread on a platter?
To display garlic bread on a platter, start by arranging the slices of garlic bread on a round or rectangular platter.
Start with larger pieces in the center, and fill in with smaller pieces around the edges.
For an extra touch of presentation, sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs or cheese over the tops of the garlic bread slices.
To keep the garlic bread warm, place it in a warm oven for a few minutes before transferring it to the platter.
Once on the platter, garnish with a sprig of herbs or some fresh parmesan shavings to add color and flavor. Serve immediately for best results.
Tips on How to Choose the Most Suitable side dishes for garlic bread
Garlic bread is a delicious and savory dish that is often enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. To get the most out of your garlic bread, it’s important to choose the right side dishes.
Here are some tips on how to pick the perfect accompaniments for this tasty treat.
The first thing you should consider when choosing side dishes for garlic bread is what type of flavor profile you want.
If you’re going for something more classic, try pairing it with simple vegetables such as roasted broccoli, green beans, or grilled mushrooms.
This will provide a balanced contrast to the strong flavor of garlic bread while still tasting delicious.
For a more flavorful option, try incorporating some creamy mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. These sides are sure to bring out the best in garlic bread and make for a hearty meal.
If you’re looking for something more unique, there are plenty of options besides vegetables and starches.
Fresh salads such as Greek salad or Caprese salad can be great complements to a garlicky slice of toast.
For a cool and refreshing taste, try pairing garlic bread with cucumber tomato salad or light coleslaw.
You can also add some zing to your plate by serving it with salsa or guacamole dip on the side – these dips are sure to bring out the flavors of your garlic bread and please even the pickiest eaters!
When it comes to finding great sides for garlic bread, don’t be afraid to mix things up!
All sorts of flavors go well with this classic Italian dish, so don’t hesitate to experiment until you find something that fits your tastes perfectly.
With just a tiny bit of creativity, you can create delicious pairings that truly bring out the best in your favorite Italian treat!
What soup goes well with garlic bread
1. Tomato Soup
Tomato Soup is a classic comfort food is a great pairing for garlic bread.
The savory tomatoes, combined with the richness of cream, make it a flavorful match to the crunchy texture of garlic bread.
2. French Onion Soup
This soup is made with caramelized onions and beef broth and topped with cheese and garlic bread croutons.
The combination of sweet onions, gooey cheese, and crunchy garlic bread croutons truly brings out the best in each other.
3. Minestrone Soup
Using an abundance of vegetables like carrots, celery, beans, and tomatoes to create a flavorful broth base, minestrone soup is hearty yet light enough to enjoy alongside garlic bread.
4. Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash has a natural sweetness that goes so well with garlic bread’s buttery flavor profile.
Roasting or steaming the squash helps bring out its full flavor potential and creates a delicious soup perfect for dipping your garlic bread into!
5. Creamy Broccoli Soup
Broccoli pairs perfectly with creamy soups as it adds texture without making it too thick or heavy – making it perfect for dipping your garlicky slices of toast into!
Chicken dishes that go with garlic bread
1. Chicken Parmigiana
Chicken Parmigiana is an ideal classic Italian dish that is always a crowd favorite.
It consists of breaded chicken smothered in tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
The garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment for this delicious dish, providing a crunchy texture in contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
2. Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken
A flavorful yet simple recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic provides a delicious citrusy flavor for the chicken while baked in the oven until crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.
Serve alongside some buttery garlic bread to soak up all those juicy flavors!
3. Roasted Chicken with Garlic Herb Rub
Roasted Chicken with Garlic Herb Rub is a great way to make an ordinary chicken dinner stand out.
The rub made of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano blended with fragrant garlic creates an aromatic experience as it roasts in the oven.
Serving it with some freshly baked, garlicky, buttery bread will give every bite a bit of extra flavor!
Vegetarian meals with garlic bread
1. Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan
This delicious vegetarian meal features eggplant that is sliced, filled with a mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, herbs, and spices, then baked in a marinara sauce until golden brown.
Served with garlic bread on the side, it makes for a savory yet flavorful dinner.
2. Portobello Mushroom Burgers with Grilled Onions
Juicy portobello mushrooms are stuffed with melted cheese and grilled onions for a hearty alternative to traditional hamburgers.
Serve these burgers on whole wheat buns with garlic bread on the side for a delectable meal.
3. Vegetarian Lasagna
Layers of lasagna noodles, cheese, vegetables, and marinara sauce make up this classic Italian dish.
It can be served as is or topped with additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrition. (Recipe)
Serve the lasagna with garlic bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
4. Vegetable Risotto
Vegetable Risotto is a creamy rice dish packed with vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, and spinach, which add texture and flavor to the risotto base.
The addition of garlic bread provides an even more satisfying meal at dinnertime.
5. Black Bean Enchiladas
For a south-of-the-border twist on vegetarian cuisine, try making enchiladas filled with black beans cooked in tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Roll them up in corn tortillas, then bake them in your favorite enchilada sauce before serving alongside garlic bread for added flavor intensity.
Wrap Up on what to serve with garlic bread
In conclusion, garlic bread is a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of meals.
From classic Italian dishes like lasagna and Eggplant Parmesan to hearty soups and grilled meats, garlic bread can add a perfect extra layer of flavor and texture to any meal.
Whether you are having spaghetti and meatballs or fried calamari, the addition of garlic bread will only enhance the flavors and make for a delicious meal.
So next time you’re wondering what to serve with garlic bread, try one of these quick and amazing dishes for a satisfying and delicious meal.
FAQs
How much garlic bread per person?
To ensure everyone gets their fair share of garlic bread, it’s recommended that each person should receive at least one slice.
Depending on the size of the slices, this could be anywhere from two to four per person.
If you have a large group or plan on having a lot of food, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have more garlic bread available.
To make sure no one goes hungry, try providing an extra two to four pieces per person.
What food pairs well with garlic bread?
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs well with a variety of Italian and Mediterranean-inspired mains.
To keep things simple, you can serve it alongside a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, or creamy parmesan chicken.
For an even heartier meal, try pairing it with eggplant Parmesan, stuffed shells, minestrone soup, or roasted vegetables.
If you are looking for something lighter to go with your garlic bread, try making a salad with fresh greens like spinach and kale and topping it with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
The addition of garlic bread will turn this simple salad into a delicious and satisfying meal.
What to do with leftover garlic bread?
Leftover garlic bread is a delicious snack that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
The first way is to simply reheat the slices and enjoy them with butter or a dip of your choice.
If you want to take it up a notch, you can turn leftover garlic bread into garlic toast by slicing the pieces and lightly brushing each side with olive oil or melted butter before toasting them in the oven.
This will result in crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside slices of toast covered in garlic goodness.
For an even more indulgent treat, you can make garlic bread French toast by coating each slice with beaten eggs and frying them in butter until golden brown.
However, if it is prepared, leftover garlic bread is sure to be a hit as an appetizer, snack, breakfast item, or part of a larger meal.
