Pasta salad: a crowd-pleasing classic for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer dinner.
But sometimes, it feels like it needs a little something extra. Fear not, pasta salad enthusiasts! This post is your guide to creating the ultimate pasta salad experience.
We’ve curated a list of 32 side dishes that will be the perfect companions for your pasta salad.
From refreshing salads to comforting grilled options, you’ll find something to tantalize every taste bud and dietary need.
Get ready to elevate your pasta salad into a full-fledged feast, with a symphony of delicious accompaniments. Let’s explore the ideal pairings that will turn your next pasta salad into a star-studded event!
32 Side Dishes for Pasta Salad
1. Garlic Breadsticks
Serve up warm and golden garlic breadsticks alongside your pasta salad. These buttery and garlicky delights are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce or enjoying on their own.
2. Caprese Skewers
Enjoy the classic flavors of Caprese salad in convenient skewer form.
Skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a delightful side dish.
3. Grilled Vegetables
Fire up the grill and cook a colorful assortment of grilled vegetables to accompany your pasta salad.
Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms are delicious when lightly charred and seasoned with herbs.
4. Classic Caesar Salad
Add a touch of elegance to your meal with a classic Caesar salad.
Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing make for a refreshing and satisfying side dish.
5. Antipasto Platter
Create a stunning antipasto platter filled with Italian cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables.
This flavorful assortment of bites is the perfect accompaniment to any pasta salad.
6. Herbed Focaccia Bread
Bake a batch of aromatic herbed focaccia bread to serve alongside your pasta salad.
With its soft interior and crispy crust, focaccia is a delightful way to mop up any leftover dressing or sauce.
7. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Freshen up your meal with a crisp and refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Tossed with a simple vinaigrette and sprinkled with fresh herbs, it’s a light and healthy side dish.
8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Whip up a vibrant Mediterranean chickpea salad loaded with fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing.
This protein-packed dish adds a burst of flavor and texture to any meal.
9. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Celebrate summer flavors with juicy grilled corn on the cob.
Brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt, grilled corn makes for a sweet and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta salad.
10. Spinach and Strawberry Salad
Combine the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the freshness of baby spinach in a vibrant salad.
Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and topped with crunchy nuts or seeds, it’s a delightful addition to any meal.
11. Potato Salad
Serve up a classic potato salad alongside your pasta dish.
Creamy potatoes, crisp celery, and tangy mustard dressing make for a comforting and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.
12. Herbed Rice Pilaf
Elevate your meal with a fragrant and flavorful herbed rice pilaf.
Light and fluffy rice cooked with aromatic herbs and spices is a versatile side dish that complements any pasta salad.
13. Bruschetta
Top crispy slices of toasted baguette with fresh tomato, basil, garlic, and olive oil for a classic bruschetta appetizer.
This light and flavorful dish adds a burst of Italian flavors to your meal.
14. Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Crisps
Serve up a refreshing fruit salsa made with diced mango, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwi, tossed with a hint of lime juice and honey.
Pair it with crispy cinnamon-sugar tortilla chips for a sweet and savory treat.
15. Marinated Grilled Tofu
Grill up slices of marinated tofu for a delicious and protein-packed side dish.
Tofu absorbs flavors beautifully, so marinate it in your favorite sauce or seasoning blend before grilling to perfection.
16. Quinoa Salad
Whip up a nutritious and flavorful quinoa salad loaded with colorful vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing.
Quinoa adds a satisfying texture and protein boost to any meal.
17. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
Enjoy the Mediterranean flavors of stuffed grape leaves, or dolmas.
Tender grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices make for a delightful and exotic side dish.
18. Watermelon Feta Salad
Combine juicy watermelon cubes with creamy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory salad that’s perfect for summer.
19. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Roast broccoli florets until tender and caramelized, then toss them with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest for a flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s sure to please.
20. Crunchy Asian Slaw
Toss together a vibrant Asian slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing.
This crunchy and colorful salad adds a refreshing contrast to any pasta dish.
21. Crispy Onion Rings
Serve up crispy and golden onion rings alongside your pasta salad for a satisfying crunch.
These addictive fried treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
22. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Whip up a batch of creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic for a comforting and indulgent side dish.
Serve them alongside your pasta salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.
23. Sautéed Garlic Green Beans
Cook tender green beans until crisp-tender, then toss them with garlic-infused olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice for a simple and flavorful side dish.
24. Buttered Parmesan Cornbread
Bake a batch of buttery and cheesy Parmesan cornbread to accompany your pasta salad. This moist and flavorful bread is the perfect complement to any meal.
25. Coleslaw
Prepare a classic coleslaw with shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a creamy dressing. This refreshing and crunchy side dish adds a burst of flavor and texture to your meal.
26. Deviled Eggs
Serve up a platter of classic deviled eggs for a delicious and protein-packed side dish.
Creamy egg yolks mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of paprika make for a delightful appetizer.
27. Olive and Cheese Skewers
Create flavorful skewers by alternating marinated olives with cubes of your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella or feta.
These easy and elegant appetizers are perfect for serving alongside pasta salad.
28. Hummus and Pita Bread
Offer a spread of creamy hummus with warm pita bread for dipping. This simple and satisfying appetizer adds a Middle Eastern flair to your meal.
29. Tabbouleh Salad
Whip up a refreshing tabbouleh salad made with bulgur wheat, chopped parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing.
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for serving alongside pasta salad.
30. Marinated Artichoke Hearts
Serve up tangy marinated artichoke hearts as a flavorful side dish. These tender and flavorful hearts add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your meal.
31. Stuffed Mushrooms
Prepare savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. These elegant appetizers are perfect for serving alongside pasta salad.
32. Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese for the ultimate comfort food side dish.
With tender pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, it’s a classic favorite that pairs perfectly with pasta salad.
Final Thoughts,
With 32 delicious side dish options at your fingertips, you’re now a maestro of the pasta salad party!
We’ve explored a range of flavors and textures, ensuring you can create a harmonious spread that complements your chosen pasta salad perfectly.
Remember, the beauty of sides is in their versatility. Don’t be afraid to mix and match these suggestions or add your own creative twists.
So, the next time you whip up a pasta salad, feel confident in knowing you can create a complete and satisfying meal that will leave your guests wanting more.
