The Ultimate Guide to the Most Popular Spaghetti Side Dish in Your Region

Spaghetti, a staple in Italian cuisine, has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of people worldwide. While the pasta itself is a delight, the side dishes that accompany it often vary from region to region, adding a unique twist to the meal. This article will guide you through the most popular spaghetti side dishes in various regions, exploring why they are served with spaghetti and not other types of pasta.

North America

In North America, particularly in the United States, garlic bread is a popular side dish served with spaghetti. This combination is a favorite because the bread serves as a perfect tool for sopping up any leftover sauce on the plate. The garlic flavor also complements the often tomato-based spaghetti sauces.

Europe

In Europe, particularly in Italy, where spaghetti originated, a simple green salad is often served as a side dish. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the spaghetti, making for a well-rounded meal. The salad is typically dressed with a light vinaigrette, not to overpower the main dish.

Asia

In Asia, spaghetti is often served with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi, particularly in Korea. The tangy and spicy flavors of these sides provide a contrast to the often rich and savory spaghetti dishes, adding an extra layer of complexity to the meal.

Australia

In Australia, a common side dish for spaghetti is a crusty baguette. Similar to the North American preference for garlic bread, Australians enjoy using the bread to mop up any remaining sauce, ensuring no deliciousness is wasted.

Why Spaghetti?

Spaghetti is often chosen over other types of pasta because of its versatility and ability to hold onto sauce well. Its long, thin shape allows for easy twirling on a fork, making it a fun and practical choice for many dishes. Additionally, spaghetti is widely available and recognized, making it a popular choice worldwide.

Whether you’re enjoying a hearty spaghetti bolognese with a side of garlic bread in the United States, or a spicy spaghetti dish with a side of kimchi in Korea, the side dishes served with spaghetti are as diverse as the regions they come from. So next time you’re cooking spaghetti, why not try out one of these popular side dishes from around the world?