Skip to Content

Elevate Your Garlic Bread Game: What to Eat with It

Garlic bread, ah yes, the toasty king of the appetizer world. It’s not just a side dish, it’s a way of life. We’ve all been there, chomping down on that garlicky goodness, thinking, “What else can I add to this to make dinner more interesting?”

Here’s the deal. We’ve found some epic pairings. And no, we’re not just talking about spaghetti. Ever tried it with a zesty salad? Game changer. Or what about dunking it into a creamy soup? Yes, please.

Our dinners changed forever. Now, we’re passing these secrets on to you.

What is Garlic Bread?

Garlic bread is a baked or grilled loaf of bread that has been topped with butter and garlic.

Commonly served as a side dish or appetizer, it originated in Mediterranean cuisine but has become popular worldwide.

The base bread used for garlic bread can vary from sourdough to ciabatta, and some variations also include cheese.

To fully appreciate the flavors of garlic bread, pairing it with a complementing dish is essential.

One classic pairing is with pasta dishes, as garlic bread can serve as an excellent accompaniment to help balance the sauce’s richness.

It can also be paired with soups and stews to give a satisfying crunch to every spoonful.

For those looking for lighter options, salads go well with garlic bread too.

The freshness of the greens contrasts well with the savory flavor of the bread.

Additionally, it pairs well with wine or beer during a casual night out.

In summary, Garlic Bread is made using buttery and garlicky seasoning on baked (or grilled) loaves of bread.

Some common pairings include pasta dishes, salads, soups and stews – all providing distinct flavors that satisfy different palates.

Classic Pairings with Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a savory, delicious and classic Italian appetizer.

It provides an excellent accompaniment to many dishes and adds a unique flavor to the meal.

If you’re wondering what pairs well with garlic bread, here are some classic ideas.

  • Pasta: Garlic bread goes perfectly well with pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, fettuccine Alfredo or even lasagna.
  • Soup: Serve garlic bread as a side dish alongside your favorite soup flavor such as tomato soup or French onion soup.
  • Salad: Incorporate garlic breadsticks into your salad data for extra flavor. It pairs well with dressings like Caesar, vinaigrette or even ranch.
  • Pizza: A slice of pizza and garlic bread is a perfect combination. The Italian-style cuisine works harmoniously together.
  • Meat dishes: Chicken parmesan, meatballs marinara or steak pizzaiola all make great dining partners for garlic bread.
  • Seafood: Fried calamari, shrimp scampi or clam linguini pairs beautifully with crispy garlic butter toast points as a side dish.

One unique way to incorporate garlic bread into meals is by making it into sandwiches—not only will it be pleasing to the eye but also provide excellent texture on top of any filling between the slices of bread without overpowering the sandwich’s taste profile.

Garlic Bread can always be toasted up on its own and eaten as an appetizer before mealtime remains another option for individuals that prefer something quick yet delectable before indulging in their main meal —enjoy them in any way most preferred.

1 – Pasta Dishes

Pasta dishes complement garlic bread quite well.

Here’s a list of options that you can try.

  • Spaghetti Carbonara – A classic Italian dish with eggs, bacon, and cheese. The creamy sauce is delicious when paired with garlic bread.
  • Baked Ziti – This oven-baked pasta dish is loaded with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and herbs. Garlic bread on the side adds an extra kick to the flavors.
  • Penne Arrabbiata – A spicy pasta dish that’s made with chopped tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The intense spice level works surprisingly well with garlic bread.
  • Fettuccine Alfredo – Another classic pasta dish that has velvety cream sauce mixed with Parmesan cheese. There’s no doubt this indulgent combo deserves some fresh hot garlic bread.
  • Linguine Aglio e Olio – Simple yet flavorful pasta dish made with spaghetti dressed in olive oil infused in toasted garlic cloves and chili flakes. Pair it up with some hot buttered garlic bread to complement the flavors.
  • Lasagna – Layers after layers of robust tomato sauce, meaty goodness, and three different cheeses baked together into crispy perfection. Soften up those cheesy bites by mopping your plate clean & savouring it all down up close n personal accompanied by your favorite go-to homemade Garlic Bread.

Remember to enjoy your meal slowly so that you may fully appreciate every bite.

2 – Soups and Stews

When it comes to pairing garlic bread with a hearty meal, nothing beats the comfort of Soups and Stews.

Here are some delicious and easy-to-make options that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

  • A warm bowl of tomato soup is an excellent accompaniment to garlic bread. The tanginess of the soup perfectly balances the buttery richness of garlic bread.
  • If you’re looking for something hearty and filling, try serving your garlic bread alongside a bowl of beef stew or vegetable soup.
  • If you prefer something lighter, opt for a minestrone or chicken noodle soup. Fresh herbs and vegetables in these soups add freshness to your meal.
  • Incorporating greens in your soups adds nutrition and flavor. Try kale, spinach, or collard green soup to accompany your garlic bread.
  • Creamy soups like corn chowder or clam chowder pair very well with garlic bread. The smooth texture compliments the crispy exterior of the bread.

To make your meal extra special try adding shredded cheese over garlic bread just before serving it with your favorite soup/stew.

Whether it’s dipping into hot broth sopping up drippy egg yolks, this combination has a mealtime staple for years.

3 – Salads

When it comes to pairing garlic bread with complementary dishes, salads are a great option that can balance out the richness and heaviness of the bread.

Here are some options:

  • Caprese Salad: A simple salad made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The sweet acidity of tomatoes goes well with the savory garlic bread.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese topped with Caesar dressing. The crunchiness of croutons mimics the texture of garlic bread while anchovy dressing perfectly contrasts its flavor.
  • Greek Salad: A refreshing salad made with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives and feta cheese dressed in lemon-oregano vinaigrette. The tangy flavors of feta cheese cuts through the richness of garlic bread.
  • Kale Salad: A healthy salad made with kale leaves massaged with olive oil and lemon juice mixed with roasted nuts and seeds. The nutty roasted flavors complement the garlic notes in bread while balanced by tangy vinaigrette.
  • Potato Salad: A traditional salad made with boiled potatoes mixed with mayonnaise, chopped celery, green onions, mustard seeds, and hard-boiled eggs seasoned to taste. The creaminess of potato salad can contrast well against crunchy garlic bread crusts.

Salads not only offer nutritional values but also provide a refreshing change from heavy comfort foods.

Give them a try next time you eat garlic bread.

4 – Italian Entrees

Italian cuisine offers an array of delicious options to pair with garlic bread.

Indulge in classic pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara, tomato sauce-based penne arrabbiata or creamy fettuccine alfredo.

For something heartier, try chicken parmesan or veal marsala served with a side of garlic bread.

Seafood lovers can opt for linguine with clams or shrimp scampi.

Don’t forget the traditional margherita pizza topped with mozzarella and fresh basil – a perfect match for garlic bread.

Italian entrees are diverse and versatile, providing endless possibilities to complement this delicious side dish.

Creative and Unique Combinations with Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a versatile and delicious side dish that pairs well with many dishes.

Here are some unique and creative combinations to try:

  • Pair it with pizza for extra flavor and texture.
  • Serve it alongside spaghetti or other pasta dishes to soak up the sauce.
  • Top garlic bread with melted cheese, tomatoes, and basil for a tasty bruschetta appetizer.
  • Try dipping garlic bread in hummus or baba ghanoush for a Middle Eastern twist.
  • Make a sandwich using garlic bread as the bun for an extra flavorful meal.
  • Serve it with soup or chili for added crunch and flavor.

In addition, garlic bread can also be used as a base for creative appetizers or snacks.

For example, top it with smoked salmon and dill cream cheese, or spread avocado and sliced tomatoes on top.

The possibilities are endless.

Try experimenting with different toppings and dips to find your favorite combination.

Remember to serve garlic bread warm, straight out of the oven, for best results.

Enjoy.

1 – Bruschetta Toppings

Bruschetta Toppings are delicious appetizers that complement garlic bread.

These toppings add flavor and texture to the dish, making it a fantastic choice.

Here are some incredible options to try.

  • Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella – This classic combination is perfect for bruschetta toppings. Dice ripe tomatoes, mix with fresh basil, and top with mozzarella cheese.
  • Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese – The sweet caramelization of onions pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese. Top the garlic bread with this combo to give a tasty treat.
  • Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes – For a Mediterranean-inspired topping, consider spreading fresh pesto over the garlic bread before adding sun-dried tomatoes on top.
  • Mushroom and Truffle Oil – Sautéed mushrooms with a touch of truffle oil bring an earthy flavor to this dish.
  • Feta Cheese and Kalamata Olives – Crumbled feta cheese combined with piquant kalamata olives makes for another mouth-watering topping option.

To enhance these Bruschetta Toppings further, sprinkle them with salt and pepper or add additional herbs as per your taste preferences.

If you’re looking for a different taste profile altogether, you may also consider trying some charcuterie or tapenade toppings.

Enjoy your Garlic Bread with these scrumptious Bruschetta Toppings at a party or dinner gathering.

2 – Cheese and Dip Pairings

Garlic bread is a delicious side dish that complements various meals.

When it comes to cheese and dip pairings, one can add a distinct flavor to their garlic bread.

One combination is tomato basil bruschetta with mozzarella cheese or creamy buffalo chicken dip with blue cheese crumbles.

The garlic bread can also be paired with spinach and artichoke dip, sliced cheddar cheese, or sundried tomato hummus.

To elevate the taste, fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top.

Remember to select dips and cheeses that complement each other’s flavors when pairing with your garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

3 – Sandwiches and Burgers

When it comes to pairing garlic bread with sandwiches and burgers, the possibilities are endless.

Here are some delicious options to consider:

  • Garlic Bread BLT – combine crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise between two slices of garlic bread for a tasty twist on the classic sandwich.
  • Cheeseburger with Garlic Bread Buns – incorporate garlic bread into your burger by swapping out traditional buns for two slices of toasted garlic bread piled high with your favorite toppings.
  • Italian Sandwich – layer Genoa salami, sliced ham, provolone cheese, roasted red peppers and Italian dressing between two slices of garlic bread for a filling and flavorful sandwich.
  • Philly Cheesesteak with Garlic Bread Roll – upgrade this classic sandwich by using a garlic bread roll instead of traditional rolls for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Fajita Sub on Garlic Bread – stuff thinly-sliced steak or chicken fajitas into a toasted garlic bread roll for a Mexican-inspired twist on the classic sub.
  • Tuna Melt on Garlic Bread – top canned tuna and melted cheese onto toasted garlic bread for an easy yet satisfying meal.

Don’t limit yourself to just sandwiches and burgers though.

Next up, we’ll cover even more tasty options that will pair well with garlic bread.

4 – Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are an excellent accompaniment to garlic bread.

The smoky flavor of grilled vegetables pairs perfectly with the rich taste of garlic bread and can enhance its flavor, making it a delightful culinary experience.

  • Grilled mushrooms are loaded with umami flavor, which complements the garlicky goodness of garlic bread.
  • Grilled bell peppers add sweetness and crunch to garlic bread, providing a pop of color and refreshing taste.
  • Grilled zucchini and squash make for a colorful and healthy side dish that balances the flavorful richness of garlic bread.
  • Grilled asparagus adds earthy goodness and nutritional value to any meal, while complementing the bold taste of garlic bread.
  • Grilled onions offer a hint of sweetness that counters the pungency of garlic, creating a more balanced and nuanced flavor profile in your mouth.
  • Grilled tomatoes have a bright acidity that harmonizes well against the buttery richness of garlic bread, while packing in essential vitamins and minerals.

In addition to these appetizing options, you may also try grilling other veggies like eggplant or carrots to create a range of variations to your plate.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing grilled vegetables with garlic bread.

Garlic Bread as a Side Dish

Garlic bread is a popular side dish that is best enjoyed with other foods.

Here are some suggestions for pairing garlic bread with other dishes:

  • Spaghetti Bolognese – Garlic bread pairs well with this classic Italian dish, providing a bit of crunchiness and spice to the meal.
  • Caesar Salad – For a lighter option, garlic bread goes well with a Caesar salad, balancing out the freshness of the greens with the savory taste of garlic.
  • Tomato soup – Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of tomato soup, making it an ideal accompaniment to this hearty dish.
  • Grilled meats – Garlic bread complements bold flavors of grilled meats such as chicken or steak and adds depth to any meaty meal.
  • Seafood dishes – Garlic bread has intense flavor and can enhance seafood meals like shrimp scampi or lobster tails by adding another layer of taste.

Whether you’re making it at home or ordering from a restaurant, garlic bread offers versatile pairing options that elevate your dining experience.

Remember to indulge in its crispy texture and enjoy its enticing aroma.

Conclusion

Garlic bread is a delicious side dish that goes well with several meals.

To make the most of the experience, pair it with options that complement its taste and flavor.

Examples include spaghetti, soups, salads, pasta, and steak meals.

These dishes offer a delightful burst of flavors when combined with garlic bread.

It’s important to consider your personal preferences and dietary needs when selecting what to eat with garlic bread.

Opt for healthier meal options if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Vegans and vegetarians can pair their garlic bread with plant-based proteins or veggies.

Overall, choosing what to eat with garlic bread is about exploring different possibilities and finding a combination that suits your taste buds well.

Experimenting with different foods can lead to surprising and delicious culinary adventures.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *