Are you feeling bored of the same old pasta and bolognese combo? If so, you’re not alone - many people are looking for new ways to enjoy this classic Italian dish.
Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious alternatives that can add an exciting twist to your favorite comfort food. From cauliflower rice to roasted potatoes, read on to discover some creative ideas for what to serve with bolognese instead of pasta!
If you’re looking for a change in your dinner routine, then it’s time to get creative with what you choose to pair your bolognese with. There are lots of different options that will provide a unique and flavorful experience that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
From classic sides like garlic bread and roasted vegetables, to more innovative choices like zucchini noodles or quinoa, you're sure to find something that sparks your interest. Keep reading for all the inspiration you need!
Cauliflower rice is like a blank canvas. It can take on any flavor and texture you desire, making it perfect for a bolognese side dish.
To prepare this delicious accompaniment, simply grate or blend cauliflower florets until they are small granules resembling grains of rice. This can be done with a food processor, blender, or even by hand with a box grater.
The resulting cauliflower “rice” can then be cooked in the same fashion as regular white or brown rice – boiled in salted water until al dente and then drained.
For added flavor, try sautéing the cooked cauliflower in olive oil before serving it alongside your bolognese for an extra hint of savory goodness.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with cauliflower rice; you could even go for a lighter version of bolognese by substituting it for pasta!
Cauliflower rice may be a great accompaniment to bolognese, but if you're looking for something with more of a classic Italian flavor, roasted potatoes would be the perfect choice.
Roasting potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and savory qualities, making them an ideal side dish for the hearty sauce. Plus, they're relatively easy to prepare and can be cooked in the oven while the bolognese is simmering on the stove.
When roasting potatoes for bolognese, it's best to use waxy potatoes such as Yukon Golds or Red Bliss that will hold their shape when cooked. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper and your favorite herbs or spices. Then spread them onto a baking sheet in an even layer and roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
For an extra boost of flavor, try adding some garlic cloves while they are roasting. The garlic will caramelize in the oven and give the potatoes a deep richness that pairs perfectly with the rich bolognese sauce.
To serve, toss your roasted potatoes with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
To complete your Italian-inspired meal, consider adding a side of garlic bread. This simple yet delicious treat adds crunchy texture to every bite of bolognese without overpowering it.
Glorious garlic bread is the go-to side dish for a sumptuous bolognese. Baked to perfection in the oven, the crunchy exterior and fluffy interior of this classic carb combination creates an unforgettable flavor that pairs perfectly with hearty bolognese. Perfect for scooping up every last drop of sauce, garlic bread adds texture, taste, and tang to your meal.
From crispy slices to soft loaves, a slice of garlicky goodness is sure to make your bolognese even better.
Moving on from garlic bread, zucchini noodles provide an alternative way to enjoy your bolognese. This lighter option swaps out traditional wheat-based pasta for nutrient-packed zucchini spirals that are sure to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing flavor. With their fresh crunch and mild sweetness, zucchini noodles make a delicious pairing for any type of bolognese dish. Plus, they can be cooked quickly in just minutes for a speedy side dish that won't weigh you down.
From its garlicky goodness to its nutritious noodles, there's no shortage of sides that pair perfectly with bolognese. Whether you're looking for something light or something flavorful, these two options have got you covered - so why not give them both a try?
Moving on from the delicious garlic bread, another great way to enjoy bolognese is with zucchini noodles. This dish is light and healthy, yet still packed with flavor.
Here are some tips to make sure you get it right:
1. Cut the zucchini into thin strips that resemble noodles.
2. Boil a pot of water and add a teaspoon of salt.
3. Put the zucchini noodles in the boiling water for about 5 minutes or until desired tenderness.
4. Drain and combine with your bolognese sauce for a tasty meal!
Who knew eating healthy could be so yummy? Zucchini noodles make an excellent accompaniment to any type of bolognese and will leave you feeling satisfied without feeling overly full afterwards.
The next step in our exploration is to explore quinoa as a side dish for bolognese...
Quinoa is quickly becoming the go-to grain for those looking to switch up their standard pasta side dish. It's packed with protein, fiber, and minerals and is naturally gluten-free, making it an ideal accompaniment to bolognese. Quinoa also has a mild nutty flavor that pairs well with rich sauces, like the classic meat sauce used in bolognese.
Cooking quinoa is easy – just simmer it in a pot of water or broth until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender and fluffy. Once cooked, you can serve it as you would rice or pasta – as a side dish to your bolognese or mixed into the sauce itself so each bite contains a little bit of everything.
You can even use quinoa as the base for a hearty salad – just add some chopped vegetables and toss with an oil-based vinaigrette dressing for a delicious meal that's sure to please any crowd.
No matter how you choose to serve quinoa with your bolognese, you're sure to enjoy its nutritional benefits as well as its unique flavor profile. So why not ditch the traditional pasta this time around and give quinoa a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
No matter what you're serving, bolognese is always a winner. But if you're looking to switch things up a bit, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Cauliflower rice, roasted potatoes, garlic bread, zucchini noodles and quinoa are all great alternatives to pasta. With these options, you'll be able to give your family and friends something new and exciting.
Plus, mixing it up can relieve the boredom that often comes with eating the same meals over and over again. And let's face it: variety is the spice of life! So don't be afraid to think outside the box and try some of these different sides with your favorite bolognese recipes.
You won't regret it!
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