Pasta dishes are a beloved part of many cuisines around the world. While pasta often takes center stage as a main course, it can also shine as a tasty side dish. Side pasta dishes add variety and flavor to your meal without overshadowing the main attraction.
You can find pasta side dishes to match any type of cuisine or main course. From creamy orzo to zesty pasta salads, there are endless options to explore. These versatile sides work well with meat, fish, or vegetarian entrees. They can be served hot or cold, making them perfect for any season or occasion.

1. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a tasty side dish that pairs well with pasta. To make them, start by cleaning and cutting the sprouts in half.
Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread them on a baking sheet, cut side down.
Roast the sprouts in a 425°F oven for about 20 minutes. Flip them over and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Continue roasting for another 10 minutes until the sprouts are golden and crispy. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust.
This dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with savory garlic and salty Parmesan for a perfect pasta accompaniment.

2. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
This pasta dish combines the rich flavors of spinach and artichokes in a creamy sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to make.
Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package directions. While it’s cooking, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant.
Add spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Then mix in chopped artichokes and cream. A splash of lemon juice adds brightness to the sauce.
Combine the pasta with the creamy spinach and artichoke mixture. For extra flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
This side dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

3. Lemon Herb Couscous
Lemon herb couscous is a quick and tasty pasta side dish you can make in minutes. To prepare it, boil chicken broth in a pot. Add couscous, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes.
Once the liquid is absorbed, fluff the couscous with a fork. Mix in olive oil, fresh herbs like parsley and dill, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
This light and zesty side pairs well with many main dishes. You can customize it by adding extras like cucumber, tomatoes, or nuts for more flavor and texture. Lemon herb couscous is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a simple yet delicious accompaniment to your meal.

4. Balsamic Glazed Carrots
Balsamic glazed carrots are a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. You can roast them in the oven for a simple preparation.
To make them, preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut carrots in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet.
Toss the carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a drizzle of honey. Add salt and pepper to taste. Spread them out in a single layer.
Roast the carrots for about 20-30 minutes until they’re tender. The balsamic vinegar will caramelize, creating a sweet and tangy glaze.
These carrots make a great accompaniment to many main dishes. Their rich flavor pairs well with both pasta and meat entrees.

5. Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This tasty side dish combines rice, broccoli, and cheese for a comforting meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make.
Start by cooking rice and boiling broccoli until crisp-tender. In a skillet, sauté onions in butter until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Mix in condensed soup, milk, and cheese to create a creamy sauce. Stir in the cooked rice and broccoli. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top with extra cheese and bake until hot and bubbly. You can customize this dish by adding spices like paprika or cayenne for extra flavor.

6. Spicy Southwest Quinoa
Spice up your pasta night with a zesty quinoa side dish. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth for extra flavor. Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the pot.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, and a dash of cayenne for heat. Mix in chopped bell peppers and green onions for crunch. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a tangy kick.
This protein-packed side brings Southwest flair to your meal. It’s quick to make and packed with nutrients. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

7. Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that pairs well with pasta. You can make them in just 15 minutes.
Start by peeling and slicing carrots into diagonal rounds. Cook them in a skillet with butter until tender-crisp, about 4-6 minutes.
Add honey, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to create the glaze. Toss the carrots to coat them evenly. For extra flavor, you can add garlic or fresh thyme.
You can also roast honey glazed carrots in the oven. Toss sliced carrots with honey, oil, and spices, then bake at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes.

8. Roasted Lemon Asparagus
Roasted lemon asparagus is a tasty and simple side dish. You can make it in just a few steps. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.
Trim the tough ends off your asparagus spears. Place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt.
Slice a lemon and place the slices on top of the asparagus. Roast for about 10 minutes until the asparagus is tender. The lemon will add a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish.
For extra flavor, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus before serving. This side dish goes well with pasta or can be enjoyed on its own.

9. Savory Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto offers a creamy, flavorful side dish to complement your pasta. You’ll love the rich taste of Arborio rice cooked with mushrooms, broth, and Parmesan cheese.
This dish pairs well with many main courses. Try it with roasted chicken, seared scallops, or pan-fried halloumi for a delicious meal.
To make it, sauté mushrooms and onions, then add rice and broth gradually. Stir often as it cooks. Finish with butter and cheese for extra creaminess.
For added nutrition, serve sautéed spinach or a light salad on the side. These greens balance the richness of the risotto.

10. Herbed Mashed Cauliflower
Herbed mashed cauliflower is a tasty, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. You can make it easily at home with a few simple steps.
Start by boiling cauliflower florets until they’re tender. Drain them well and put them in a food processor.
Add some butter, garlic, and your choice of herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme. Blend until smooth and creamy.
For extra flavor, mix in some Greek yogurt or Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This dish pairs well with many main courses. Try serving it alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

11. Maple Bacon Green Beans
Maple bacon green beans offer a tasty twist on a classic veggie side dish. You can make this flavorful recipe in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Start by cooking crispy bacon pieces. Then sauté onions in the bacon fat for extra flavor. Add fresh green beans to the pan.
Mix maple syrup with soy sauce or mustard to create a sweet and savory glaze. Pour this over the beans and bacon. Let everything simmer together until the beans are tender.
The result is a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. The crispy bacon bits contrast nicely with the tender green beans. This side dish pairs well with many main courses.

12. Tomato Basil Caprese Salad
This fresh and tasty pasta salad combines classic Italian flavors. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
Cook pasta until al dente, then let it cool. Cut the tomatoes in half and add them to a bowl with the mozzarella and cooled pasta.
Make a simple dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic. Pour it over the pasta mix and toss gently.
Add torn basil leaves just before serving. This colorful dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal.

13. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms make a tasty pasta side dish. You can whip them up in just 15 minutes. Start by trimming and cutting mushrooms into even sizes.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes without stirring. Once browned, stir and cook until all sides are golden.
Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir constantly for about a minute. Then reduce heat to low and add butter. Toss the mushrooms to coat them in the garlic butter sauce.
Serve these flavorful mushrooms alongside your favorite pasta for a delicious meal.

14. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish that pairs well with many meals. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by peeling and chopping potatoes. Boil them until tender, then drain. Add butter, milk, and minced garlic to the pot.
Mash the potatoes with the added ingredients until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For extra garlic flavor, you can roast whole garlic heads in the oven first. Squeeze the soft roasted cloves into your mashed potatoes for a rich, mellow garlic taste.

15. Greek Orzo Salad
Greek orzo salad is a tasty pasta side dish. It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal.
To make it, cook orzo pasta until al dente. Let it cool, then mix with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
Add crumbled feta cheese and sliced Kalamata olives for a salty kick. Toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
The dressing is simple. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. Pour it over the salad and mix well.
This dish is best served cold. You can make it ahead of time and let the flavors blend in the fridge.

16. Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Parmesan zucchini chips make a tasty side dish for pasta. You can easily bake these crispy treats at home. Slice zucchini thinly and coat with olive oil, spices, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Spread the coated zucchini slices on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven until they turn golden and crispy. The result is a crunchy, cheesy snack that pairs well with many pasta dishes.
These chips are a healthier alternative to traditional fried sides. They’re also versatile – serve them as an appetizer or snack. The combination of zucchini and Parmesan creates a flavorful bite that complements your main course.

17. Crispy Parmesan Potatoes
Crispy Parmesan potatoes are a tasty side dish that pairs well with many meals. You can make them easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by cutting red potatoes into small pieces. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasonings. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the potatoes.
Roast the potatoes in a hot oven until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. The inside will stay soft and fluffy.
These potatoes are savory, salty, and cheesy. They make a great appetizer or side dish for parties. You can serve them with dips or eat them on their own.

18. Roasted Beet Salad
Roasted beet salad offers a colorful and tasty side dish to pair with pasta. You can make it by roasting beets until tender and combining them with fresh greens like arugula.
Add some crumbled goat cheese and toasted almonds for extra flavor and crunch. Drizzle the salad with a balsamic vinaigrette to bring out the sweetness of the beets.
This salad works well served warm or chilled. You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The vibrant red color of the beets will make your pasta meal look even more appetizing.

19. Tuscan White Bean Salad
This simple yet tasty side dish brings a taste of Italy to your table. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make.
Start with canned white beans as the base. Rinse and drain them well. Add chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion for freshness and crunch.
Mix in some herbs like parsley and basil. Dress the salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or black olives. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch.
This salad tastes great chilled or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled meats or fish.

20. Grilled Vegetable Medley
Grilled vegetable medley is a tasty and colorful side dish that goes well with pasta. You can use a mix of summer veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
Toss the cut veggies in a balsamic marinade before grilling. This adds flavor and helps them cook evenly. Grill the vegetables until they’re tender and have nice char marks.
After grilling, chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces. You can serve them warm or at room temperature alongside your pasta. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs nicely with many pasta dishes.
This versatile side dish adds nutrients and a pop of color to your plate. It’s an easy way to include more vegetables in your meal.

21. Butternut Squash Casserole
Butternut squash casserole is a tasty and comforting pasta side dish. You can make it by roasting cubed butternut squash with olive oil and herbs like sage and thyme.
Mix the roasted squash with cooked pasta in a casserole dish. Add a creamy sauce made from butter, milk, and cheese for extra richness.
Top the casserole with breadcrumbs or more cheese before baking. This creates a golden, crispy crust on top.
The result is a warm, satisfying dish that combines the sweet flavor of butternut squash with savory herbs and cheese. It’s perfect for fall dinners or holiday meals.

22. Baked Parmesan Tomatoes
Baked Parmesan tomatoes make a tasty side dish that pairs well with pasta. To make them, cut tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
Sprinkle the tomatoes with grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and add a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bake the tomatoes at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The cheese will melt and form a crispy crust on top.
These tomatoes are easy to prepare and add a burst of flavor to your meal. You can customize the herbs and seasonings to your liking.

23. Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad
Creamy pesto pasta salad is a tasty twist on traditional pasta salad. You can make it with your favorite pasta shape, like macaroni or rotini.
To create the creamy dressing, mix pesto with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. This combo adds richness and tang to the dish.
Add cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and spinach for color and texture. You can also toss in artichokes or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Chill the salad before serving to let the flavors meld. This cool and creamy side dish is perfect for summer picnics or potlucks.

24. Warm Couscous Pilaf
Warm couscous pilaf is a tasty and quick side dish you can easily make. To prepare it, start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter or oil.
Add broth, salt, and pepper to the pan and bring it to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 10 minutes.
For extra flavor, try adding spices like cumin, coriander, or cardamom. You can also mix in veggies like peas, carrots, or sautéed mushrooms.
Fluff the couscous with a fork before serving. This warm and fragrant pilaf pairs well with many main dishes.

25. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty side dish that pairs well with pasta. You can make it easily in the oven.
Start by wrapping fresh asparagus spears with bacon slices. Place them on a baking sheet and brush with maple syrup for added flavor.
Roast the wrapped asparagus until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender. This dish offers a mix of savory and slightly sweet tastes.
It goes nicely with many pasta dishes, adding a crunchy texture contrast. The bacon adds richness while the asparagus provides a fresh element to balance heavier pasta.

26. Herbed Quinoa Salad
Herbed quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy side dish. It’s easy to make and packs a lot of flavor. You’ll love the mix of fresh herbs and zesty lemon in this recipe.
To make it, cook quinoa in chicken stock or water. Let it cool, then add chopped herbs like parsley, mint, or basil. Mix in some lemon juice and zest for a bright taste.
You can add extras to make it even better. Try pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. This salad goes well with many main dishes. It’s perfect for picnics or light lunches too.
Pairing Pasta Side Dishes with Main Courses
Choosing the right pasta side dish can make your meal more enjoyable. The key is to pick flavors and textures that go well with your main course.
Choosing Complementary Flavors
Pick pasta sides that match your main dish. For grilled chicken, try a light lemon pasta salad. It’s fresh and won’t overpower the meat. With fish, go for a garlic and herb pasta. The herbs will bring out the seafood’s taste.
For red meat, choose a hearty pasta like pesto or sun-dried tomato. These rich flavors stand up to beef or lamb. Vegetarian mains pair well with veggie-packed pasta sides. Try a primavera or roasted vegetable pasta.
Spicy main dishes need milder pasta sides. A simple butter and Parmesan pasta works well. It cools down your mouth between bites of spicy food.
Balancing Textures
Mix up textures to make your meal more interesting. If your main dish is soft, pick a pasta side with some crunch. Add toasted nuts or crispy breadcrumbs on top.
For crispy mains like fried chicken, choose a creamy pasta side. A smooth Alfredo or mac and cheese balances out the crunch.
Cold pasta salads go well with hot main dishes. The temperature contrast adds variety to your plate. Try a chilled orzo salad with grilled steak.
Thick sauces pair nicely with shaped pasta. The ridges and curves hold onto the sauce. For thin sauces or dressings, use long noodles like spaghetti or linguine.
Nutritional Information of Pasta Side Dishes
Pasta side dishes can vary widely in their nutritional content. The ingredients, cooking methods, and portion sizes all play a role in determining the overall nutritional value.
Caloric Content
The calorie count of pasta side dishes depends on several factors. A typical 1-cup serving of cooked pasta contains about 200 calories. Adding sauces, cheese, or oils can increase this number significantly.
Here’s a quick calorie breakdown for common pasta side dishes:
- Plain pasta (1 cup): 200 calories
- Pasta with marinara sauce: 250-300 calories
- Pasta with cream sauce: 350-400 calories
- Pasta salad with oil dressing: 300-350 calories
To keep calorie counts lower, you can opt for vegetable-based sauces or use less oil in your recipes. Choosing whole grain pasta can also provide more fiber, which helps you feel full with fewer calories.
Nutrient Profiles
Pasta side dishes can offer a mix of important nutrients. The exact profile depends on the ingredients used.
Carbohydrates: Pasta is high in carbs, providing energy for your body. A 1-cup serving typically has 40-45 grams of carbs.
Protein: Regular pasta has about 7-8 grams of protein per cup. Adding cheese or meat can boost this amount.
Vitamins and minerals: Whole grain pasta contains more B vitamins and minerals like iron and magnesium compared to refined pasta.
Fat content varies greatly. Plain pasta is very low in fat, but creamy sauces or added oils can increase fat levels significantly.
To improve the nutrient profile of your pasta side dishes, try these tips:
- Add vegetables for extra vitamins and fiber
- Use lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish
- Choose whole grain pasta for more nutrients and fiber
Tips for Preparing Pasta Side Dishes
Making tasty pasta side dishes is easy with the right techniques. Pay attention to cooking times and use fresh ingredients for the best results.
Cooking Techniques
Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water. Use 4 quarts of water and 1 tablespoon of salt for every pound of pasta. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding pasta. Stir the pasta right after adding it to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente – tender but still firm when bitten.
Drain pasta in a colander, but don’t rinse it unless making a cold pasta salad. Save some pasta water to add to sauces. This starchy water helps sauces stick to the pasta better.
For creamy sauces, cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than package directions. Finish cooking it in the sauce to help it absorb flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t add oil to pasta water. It prevents sauces from sticking to the pasta. Only add oil after draining if you’re not serving the pasta right away.
Avoid overcooking pasta. Test it 2-3 minutes before the package time. It should have a slight bite in the center when done.
Don’t dump all the pasta water. Save some to thin out thick sauces or help sauces stick to pasta better.
Avoid rinsing hot pasta (except for salads). Rinsing removes starch that helps sauces stick.
Don’t add pasta to a cold sauce. Heat the sauce first, then add the hot pasta to it.