What to Serve With Pasta Salad: 45+ Best Easy Ideas
Bursting with vibrant colors, textures, and flavors, pasta salad offers a versatile canvas for creativity in the kitchen.
This guide is here to help you navigate through 45+ easy and delicious ideas that can turn your simple pasta salad into a gastronomic masterpiece.
From grilled chicken breasts to mini crab cake bites, these pairings will not only satisfy your palate, but also bring you closer to those you’re sharing the meal with.
So, let’s dive in and explore the world of flavors that can complement your pasta salad.
What to Serve With Pasta Salad
When contemplating what to serve with pasta salad, the culinary possibilities become a canvas for creative and delicious pairings.
Whether you’re seeking easy ideas or exploring classic dish recipes, the versatility of pasta salad opens the door to an array of complementary flavors and textures.
This delightful and easy-to-make side dish is not just a standalone favorite; it is the perfect foundation for a variety of dishes to serve with pasta.
From easy sides to innovative creations, the art of choosing what goes with pasta salad transforms every meal into a delightful feast.
Packed with freshness and flavor, the delicious pasta salad becomes a versatile and inviting addition to any dining table.
Join us as we explore the myriad ways to eat with pasta salad, making each bite a savory celebration of this beloved culinary classic.
Grilled Chicken Breasts
If you’re looking to amp up your pasta salad, tossing in some grilled chicken breasts can do the trick.
This easy recipe transforms the side dish into a savory main dish, adding a flavorful twist that’ll leave your taste buds dancing.
Grilled chicken breasts, with their smoky, succulent taste, blend perfectly with the fresh and zingy elements of a pasta salad.
Not sure what to serve with pasta salad? This pairing is a surefire winner, providing a balanced, satisfying meal.
Plus, it’s one of the easiest dishes to serve when you’re in a time crunch.
So next time you’re pondering what to serve with pasta salad, remember this simple, yet delicious idea.
Trust me, grilled chicken breasts and pasta salad are a match made in culinary heaven.
Roasted Vegetables Medley
Switching gears from grilled chicken, your pasta salad could also benefit from the hearty addition of a roasted vegetables medley.
This side dish is a simple yet delicious way to add depth to your pasta salad recipe.
The roast vegetables medley can include a colorful array of seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, all roasted to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness.
This delicious side dish isn’t only a great side dish but also a make-ahead side dish that you can prepare in advance.
It’s the perfect side dish to serve alongside pasta salad during an easy dinner.
Classic Bruschetta
Next up, let’s dive into classic bruschetta, a delightful addition that you can whip up to complement your pasta salad.
As an Italian dish, classic bruschetta offers different flavors that blend to create a delicious flavor.
The main ingredients, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, are layered on crusty bread, delivering an appetizer that’s both crunchy and juicy.
With reader interactions, we’ve discovered that bruschetta is a favorite, especially when it’s served with your favorite salad.
This combination balances the light, refreshing nature of the salad with the more robust, hearty taste of the bruschetta.
Italian Sausage Skewers
For a hearty crowd-pleaser, you can’t go wrong with Italian sausage skewers as your pasta salad’s sidekick.
This delicious side adds a robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with your favorite pasta salad, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Imagine juicy, grilled sausage pieces, threaded onto skewers for easy serving – the perfect dish for any gathering.
These skewers aren’t just for meat lovers.
Add some bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a burst of freshness that complements both the sausage and your pasta dish.
The balance of meaty, savory sausage and fresh, crispy veggies adds a delightful contrast to any classic or easy pasta salad.
Fresh Greek Tzatziki
Continuing from the hearty flavors of Italian sausage skewers, you’ll find a refreshing contrast in Fresh Greek Tzatziki.
This creamy, tangy side dish is perfect to serve with your favorite Italian pasta salad.
Made primarily from Greek yogurt, this dish isn’t just delicious but also healthy.
Take note of these easy steps:
- Start with a simple salad recipe, and while you’re making pasta salad, prepare the Tzatziki.
- Blend Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice to create this classic Greek sauce.
- Chill before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
The cool, creamy Tzatziki is an excellent side dish to serve with your easy pasta salad recipe.
It’s a great dish to go with your creamy pasta salad, providing a refreshing, zesty counterpoint to enjoy with pasta salad.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Your love for pasta salad will reach new heights when you pair it with a side of Cheesy Garlic Bread.
This perfect side dish complements the cold pasta salad with its warm, crispy outside and soft, cheesy inside.
The robust garlic flavor and rich cheese go great with pasta salad, especially when it’s dressed with tangy Italian dressing.
Cheesy Garlic Bread isn’t just a side dish, but one of the delicious main dishes that you can make with pasta.
It’s a culinary match made in heaven, enhancing the fresh, vibrant flavors of your salad.
Whether you’re enjoying a simple cold pasta dish or a pasta salad as one of your main courses, adding Cheesy Garlic Bread to the mix will truly elevate your meal.
Shrimp Scampi
Craving something extra savory to pair with your pasta salad? Try adding Shrimp Scampi to the mix.
This dish is a great option to serve as a main course during weeknight dinners or cookouts.
Just like pasta, Shrimp Scampi is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Team it up with grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
- Complement it with fried chicken for a delightful twist.
- Combine with barbecue for a smoky flavor.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Looking for a sophisticated addition to your pasta salad? A balsamic glazed salmon might be just what you’re after.
This delicacy offers a savory alternative to the usual BBQ chicken or hamburger.
Its unique flavor profile brings a touch of elegance to the table, setting you apart from the usual grilled chicken tenders or fried chicken thighs.
The salmon’s juicy texture pairs excellently with the lightness of a pasta salad, bridging the gap between land and sea.
If you’re tired of the same old grilled steak or grilled shrimp, this balsamic glazed salmon provides a refreshing change.
Even chicken salad enthusiasts will find something to love.
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Feeling adventurous in the kitchen? Try whipping up a homemade Margherita pizza to serve alongside your pasta salad.
The blend of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves is a classic combo you can’t go wrong with.
This pizza is a delightful nod to the cool pasta salad you’ve made, uniting two of your favorite dishes in one meal.
To make the meal even more exciting:
- Consider adding a twist to your pizza with some sliced hot dogs or chicken burgers.
- Drizzle some olive oil on the fresh tomatoes before baking for an extra flavor punch.
- Pair it with a caprese salad for a true Italian experience.
Mini Caprese Skewers
If you adored the Italian flavors in the Margherita pizza, you’ll love the simplicity and taste of mini Caprese skewers.
Wondering what to serve with a pasta salad? This side salad for pasta salad is one to consider.
Picture this: juicy cherry tomatoes, squares of creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves, all skewered together.
It’s a salad packed with vibrant colors and flavors, almost like a fruit salad but more savory.
Imagine the burst of tomato, the subtle creaminess of mozzarella, the crisp, aromatic basil.
Toss in a few bits of crispy, red onion for an extra kick. This can also be alternated with other side dishes like egg salad or baked beans.
The possibilities are endless. Your pasta salad has found its perfect match.
Spicy Buffalo Wings
Craving another bold flavor to pair with your pasta salad? Dive right into spicy Buffalo wings.
The zesty, fiery sauce on the wings provides a contrast to the cool, refreshing taste of the pasta salad.
It’s a combination that will thrill your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Pair your Buffalo wings and pasta salad with these classic side dishes for a meal that’s truly satisfying:
- Corn on the cob: This classic side dish is both sweet and savory, providing a nice balance to the spicy wings and pasta salad.
- Finger sandwiches: These mini sandwiches are light, flavorful, and go great with both pasta salad and Buffalo wings.
- Rich and creamy coleslaw: The tangy, creamy flavor of coleslaw complements the spiciness of the wings and the freshness of the salad.
Enjoy this meal with your loved ones for a cozy, intimate dining experience.
Creamy Avocado Dip
While you’re savoring those spicy Buffalo wings and pasta salad, don’t forget to add a creamy avocado dip to your spread.
This luscious, green delight is perfect for balancing the heat from the wings and complementing the flavors of your pasta salad.
It’s easy to whip up – all you need are ripe avocados, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a dash of salt, and a dollop of sour cream.
Blend these together until smooth and voila, you’ve got a deliciously creamy dip that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s a tasty way to include healthy fats in your meal, and it’s sure to impress your guests.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
You’ll love serving up BBQ pulled pork sliders alongside your pasta salad.
These sliders, packed with tangy, tender pork and smoky BBQ sauce, offer a delightful contrast to the cool, refreshing flavors in your salad.
And the best part? They’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them a perfect companion for your quick and easy pasta salad.
To make your BBQ pulled pork sliders stand out, consider these tips:
- Opt for a high-quality BBQ sauce. It brings out the flavor of the pork.
- Toast the slider buns. It adds a nice crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
- Top with coleslaw. It provides a refreshing crunch and a burst of color.
Lemon Pepper Tilapia
For your next pasta salad side, why not try whipping up some zesty lemon pepper tilapia?
This light, flaky fish is perfect for complementing the robust flavors of your salad.
Start by seasoning fresh tilapia fillets with a generous sprinkle of lemon pepper.
Next, heat a touch of olive oil in a skillet and gently lay your seasoned fish into the sizzling pan.
The key is to let it cook undisturbed, allowing the fillets to develop a golden crust.
Once flipped, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish for that extra tangy kick.
This dish not only adds a protein punch to your meal but also a refreshing citrus note.
Lemon pepper tilapia is a simple, yet flavorful addition that’s bound to impress.
Grilled Steak Fajitas
If your pasta salad’s missing a Mexican twist, grilled steak fajitas are just what you need.
This succulent dish adds a sizzling, spicy punch to your meal, with tender steak strips marinated in a blend of zesty lime, garlic, and traditional Mexican spices.
Here’s what you’ll love about adding grilled steak fajitas to your pasta salad:
- The robust flavors of the steak complement the freshness of your pasta salad, creating a balance of tastes.
- It’s an ideal way to inject some protein into your meal, keeping you satisfied for longer.
- The vibrant colors of the peppers and onions in the fajita mix add visual appeal, making your dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Baked Zucchini Fritters
Moving on from the spicy flavors of steak fajitas, let’s delve into the light, crispy delight of baked zucchini fritters.
This versatile side dish is a perfect companion for your pasta salad, especially when you’re craving something a bit more substantial.
With a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, these fritters are a delightful mix of textures that’ll enchant your palate.
You’ll love how the subtle sweetness of zucchini harmonizes with the sharpness of parmesan cheese in the batter.
Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier alternative.
Don’t forget a dollop of tangy yogurt or sour cream on top, it really completes the experience.
Enjoy these fritters hot from the oven and watch as they elevate your pasta salad to new culinary heights.
Crispy Fried Calamari
Continuing your culinary adventure, you’ll find that crispy fried calamari makes an exceptional mate for your pasta salad.
The tender squid pieces, encased in crunchy batter, offer a delightful contrast to the fresh, cool flavors of the salad.
You’ll love the play of textures as well as the subtle taste of the sea that calamari brings to the meal.
To enhance this combination, consider the following:
- Squeeze a fresh lemon over the calamari before serving, adding a zesty twist.
- Pair it with a tangy aioli or marinara dip on the side to provide a rich counterpoint.
- Opt for a chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, that complements both the pasta salad and the calamari.
With these suggestions, you’re all set to serve a meal that’s sure to impress!
Italian Meatball Subs
Switching gears from the seafood delight, let’s delve into the heartiness of Italian meatball subs as a perfect partner for your pasta salad.
Imagine biting into a warm, crusty sub, filled with tender, juicy meatballs, smothered in a rich, tangy marinara sauce, and topped with melted, stringy mozzarella.
The robust flavors of the meatball sub, with its blend of savory herbs, compliment the light and refreshing taste of your pasta salad.
The creamy pasta salad helps balance out the heat of the meatballs and also adds a nice textural contrast.
Pairing these two together, you’ve got a meal that’s not only visually appealing but also a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
Next time you whip up a pasta salad, consider making Italian meatball subs to serve alongside.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus
Often, you’ll find that garlic roasted asparagus makes an excellent side dish to brighten up your pasta salad.
The earthy flavor of asparagus combined with the sharpness of garlic can add a delightful contrast to the starchy pasta and creamy dressing.
The process is simple: roast the asparagus with minced garlic and olive oil until they’re tender-crisp, and then season with salt and pepper.
To truly enjoy this combination:
- Take a bite of the pasta salad first, followed by the asparagus. This will allow the flavors to blend in your mouth.
- Pair it with a crisp white wine. The acidity cuts through the richness of the salad and complements the asparagus.
- Don’t rush. Savor every bite, and you’ll find the experience enhanced.
Easy Homemade Focaccia
Your pasta salad’s best friend could easily be a freshly baked homemade focaccia.
This Italian bread is simple to make, yet its flavors are complex and earthy.
Picture it: a warm, fluffy interior hidden beneath a crunchy crust, sprinkled with rosemary and coarse sea salt.
You can easily make it at home with just a few ingredients: yeast, flour, water, olive oil, salt, and any herbs you like.
The magic begins when you mix and knead the dough, then let it rise, transforming into a light and airy masterpiece.
After baking, the focaccia emerges, boasting a golden-brown crust that’s both crisp and chewy.
Tear off a piece, savor the savory taste, and you’ll understand why focaccia for pasta salad is the perfect companion.
Prosciutto Wrapped Melon
If you’re looking for a refreshing and light side dish, few options can beat prosciutto wrapped melon.
This Italian classic combines the sweetness of ripe melon with the salty tang of prosciutto for a delightful contrast of flavors.
It’s easy to prepare and makes a great addition to your pasta salad meal.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this dish:
- Choose a ripe, juicy melon. Cantaloupe and honeydew are excellent choices.
- Use thinly sliced prosciutto. It wraps easier and the flavor isn’t overpowering.
- Chill before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes it a refreshing treat on a warm day.
Serve it as an appetizer or a palate cleanser, and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight.
Mini Crab Cake Bites
When it’s your turn to host, mini crab cake bites can be your go-to dish that pairs perfectly with pasta salad.
These bite-sized delicacies, packed with fresh, sweet crab meat and a blend of herbs and spices, can elevate the humble pasta salad into a gourmet feast.
You’ll love the contrast between the hearty pasta and the delicate flavor of the crab.
The crunchy exterior of the crab bites, combined with their soft, flavorful interior, provides a delightful textural surprise that complements the pasta salad’s creaminess.
You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip up these crab cake bites; they’re easy and quick to prepare.
So next time you’re entertaining, remember, these mini crab cake bites and pasta salad combo is a match made in culinary heaven.
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Next up, let’s dive into the world of sweet and sour meatballs – an all-time favorite dish that pairs brilliantly with your pasta salad.
These little orbs of flavor, drenched in a tangy and sweet sauce, provide a delightful contrast to the fresh, crisp ingredients of your pasta salad.
The balance of tastes creates a harmony that your palate will adore.
Here’s how to make your meatball experience even more delightful:
- Experiment with herbs: Add some fresh basil or rosemary to your meatballs for an extra punch of flavor.
- Play with sauces: Don’t limit yourself to the traditional sweet and sour sauce. Honey garlic or spicy BBQ could be your new favorite!
- Choose your meat wisely: Pork, beef, or even turkey can be used to cater to different dietary preferences.
Enjoy these sweet and sour meatballs with your pasta salad and savor the explosion of flavors!
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Moving on from meatballs, you’ll find that a creamy spinach and artichoke dip is another fantastic companion for your pasta salad.
The richness of this delectable dip pairs wonderfully with the tangy, refreshing flavors in your pasta salad.
The creaminess of the spinach, combined with the slightly tangy, earthy flavor of artichokes, creates a divine concoction that’s hard to resist.
Introduce a sprinkle of garlic, a dash of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice to further elevate the taste.
Serve it warm with a side of crusty bread or crispy pita chips, creating a contrast to the cool pasta salad.
Light yet indulgent, this spinach and artichoke dip is a versatile side that can take your pasta salad meal from simple to gourmet.
Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers
In the spirit of variety, consider adding baked stuffed bell peppers to your pasta salad spread.
These peppers, vibrant and bursting with flavor, are a delightful addition that’ll surely impress your guests.
They’re not just pleasing to the eye, but also a pleasure to the palate.
- Experiment with fillings: You can stuff the peppers with a mixture of meat, cheese, and spices, or keep them vegetarian with a medley of veggies and grains.
- Mix and match colors: The beauty of bell peppers is that they come in various colors. Red, yellow, green – each adding a unique touch to your spread.
- Serve them warm or cold: While they’re delicious hot from the oven, they’re just as tasty when cooled.
Baked stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and hearty companion to your classic pasta salad. Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite!
Final Thoughts: What to Serve With Pasta Salad
The versatility and timeless appeal of pasta salad make it a staple on tables around the world.
Whether you choose to serve pasta salad as a classic side, a standalone dish, or incorporate it into larger meals, its adaptability ensures it remains a go-to option for various occasions.
Pasta salad is packed with vibrant flavors and textures, is the perfect accompaniment to a wide array of meals.
From easy, everyday gatherings to special occasions, pasta salad is the ideal choice, proving that, much like pasta salad, the possibilities for delicious and satisfying meals are truly endless.
So, whether you’re looking for an easy, refreshing side or a hearty standalone dish, pasta salad is the answer, making every dining experience a flavorful celebration.
Don’t forget the classic Bruschetta, sweet and sour meatballs, or a gooey spinach and artichoke dip.
With these options, your pasta salad will never feel lonely on the plate.
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