8 Best Pasta Side Dishes for Fish You’ll Find Amazing

We know that it can be difficult to come up with pasta side dishes that taste great and complement the other ingredients used in a meal. That’s why I’ve decided to share some with you in this article.

Look:

This year, my brother and I decided to host a Fish feast at our house. We both decided that we would include pasta side dishes as a way to include both our preferences.

We started by looking through our family cookbook and finding recipes that we thought would be good pasta side dishes for fish. After we had our list, we went to the grocery store to buy the ingredients. We were so excited to have everything ready for our big feast.

The feast was a success! Our pasta side dishes were a big hit with our guests. We had so much fun cooking and eating together.

Each dish is simple to prepare and can be made in a variety of ways. Plus, they all taste fantastic! Here are some of the pasta side dishes we made:

Best Pasta Side Dishes for Fish

  1. Creamy Garlic Shells
  2. Garlic Parmesan Pasta
  3. Pasta Primavera
  4. Creamy Low-Sodium Mac and Cheese
  5. Cheesy Taco Pasta
  6. Pasta Carbonara
  7. 5-Cheese Marinara
  8. Tortellini Pasta

Creamy Garlic Shells

Firstly, I had the most delicious fish the other day, and it was served with these amazing creamy garlic shells. I was so blown away by how well the two went together that I just had to find out more about why this particular pasta dish is such a great complement to fish.

As it turns out, the creamy garlic sauce is full of flavors that bring out the best in most fish dishes. Likewise, the acidity of the tomato paste helps to balance out the richness of the cream, while the garlic and herbs add an extra depth of flavor.

In addition, the pasta itself is a great way to soak up all of the delicious juices from the fish. Overall, I would highly recommend giving this pairing a try, you will be happy you did!

Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This pasta dish is a classic for a reason, it is absolutely delicious! The combination of garlic and parmesan is unbeatable. Plus, the pasta itself is so versatile that it can be used as a side dish for almost any type of fish.

For example, this pasta would be the perfect addition if you are making a baked tilapia dish. Or, my favorite way to enjoy it is with a piece of grilled salmon. The pasta really soaks up all of the amazing flavors from the fish.

In addition, this dish is also great because it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to four days. So, if you are looking for a pasta dish that is both delicious and convenient, this is the one for you!

Pasta Primavera

Following a similar theme, pasta primavera is another great option for a pasta side dish for fish. This dish is full of fresh vegetables and can be made with any type of pasta.

Personally, I love making this dish when I am looking for a light but flavorful pasta side. The colorful vegetables and delicate pasta come together to create a dish that is both healthy and delicious.

But what makes pasta primavera the perfect side dish for fish?

First, the light flavors of the vegetables do not overwhelm the delicate taste of the fish. Second, the vegetables add a beautiful visual contrast to the plated dish. Finally, the pasta provides a satisfying counterpoint to the flaky texture of the fish.

Typically, this side dish is prepared by cooking the pasta al dente and then adding the vegetables, usually broccoli, carrots, and peas. The dish can also be made with whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

So whether you’re serving salmon, cod, or halibut, be sure to include a steaming bowl of pasta primavera on your table. Your guests will be glad you did!

Creamy Low-Sodium Mac and Cheese

Bycatch be gone! You won’t have any trouble luring your family to the dinner table when you’ve got this creamy low-sodium mac and cheese on the menu.

As a side dish for fish, it’s the perfect way to ensure everyone gets their daily recommended portion of seafood through a fun and easy-to-eat pasta dish. But this isn’t just any mac and cheese, it’s made with a special low-sodium cheese blend that helps keep things light while still packing in all the flavor.

Besides, with its cheesy flavor and delectable texture, it’s sure to be a hit with even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s a snap to prepare. Simply boil the pasta, mix in the cheese sauce, and bake until golden brown. So go ahead and give it a try. After all, there’s no such thing as too much of a good thing.

Cheesy Taco Pasta

Now, this next dish is the stuff of my dreams. I mean, what could be better than cheesy taco pasta? It’s the perfect combination of two of my favorite things, tacos and pasta. And, it makes an excellent side dish for fish. The cheese and the pasta help to balance out the fishiness of the fish, and the spices add a nice touch of flavor.

Plus, it’s super easy to prepare. Simply cook the pasta according to the package directions, then mix in some taco seasoning (I like to use a blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder), cheddar cheese, and chopped tomatoes. That’s it!

Moreover, you can serve it as is, or you can top it with some sour cream or salsa for an extra bit of flavor. Trust me, this dish is sure to please everyone at your next dinner party.

Pasta Carbonara

So, you might be thinking, “What in the world does carbonara have to do with fish?” Well, I’ll tell you! Carbonara is an Italian pasta dish made with egg, cheese, and bacon. While it’s usually served as a main dish, it also makes a delicious side dish for fish.

Let me tell you, the salty bacon and creamy cheese help to balance out the delicate flavor of the fish, and the pasta provides a satisfying crunch. Not to mention, the creamy sauce is just begging to be paired with a flaky white fish.

In addition, it’s quick and easy to prepare which makes it a perfect option for a busy weeknight meal. Just cook up some spaghetti or other long pasta, saute some bacon and onions, and mix in some eggs and cheese. The whole thing is then tossed together until it’s beautiful and creamy. Mmmm…I can almost taste it now!

You can also add a bit of green onion or parsley for garnish. All things considered, next time you’re looking for a delicious way to dress up your fish dinner, give carbonara a try.

5-Cheese Marinara

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/321725967143861007/

You know what they say, everything’s better with cheese. And that’s certainly true when it comes to pasta. A good marinara sauce is delicious on its own, but add a little mozzarella, Parmesan, and a handful of other cheeses into the mix, and you’ve got a dish that’s simply irresistible.

What’s even better is that this 5-Cheese Marinara makes an excellent side dish for fish. The rich, creamy sauce complements the delicate flavor of the fish perfectly, and the cheesy goodness is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds.

Now, to prepare this dish, simply start by cooking your favorite pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta is cooking, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in some minced onion and cook until softened, then stir in a jar of your favorite marinara sauce.

Next, let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, then add in the shredded cheeses and continue cooking until melted. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the sauce. Toss to combine, then serve immediately.

Tortellini Pasta

Ok y’all, so I’m sure you’re wondering why in the world I’m recommendin’ tortellini pasta as a side dish for fish. And I get it, I really do. Fish is light, delicate, flaky… and tortellini pasta is, well, not any of those things. But that’s exactly why it’s such a great side dish! It’s hearty enough to stand up to a fish fillet, but still has a nice bit of flavor that won’t overpower the fish.

Now, I ain’t no Italy expert, but I do know a thing or two about good food. And when it comes to tortellini pasta, there are two things you need to make sure of. First, that the tortellini is properly cooked (al dente), and second, that it’s coated in a delicious sauce.

As for the sauce, I like to keep things simple with just some olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon juice. But feel free to get creative as there’s no wrong way to do it! Once your tortellini pasta is nice and coated in sauce, just top it with your fish fillet and you’re good to go.

Additionally, this side dish can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or snack. Simply saute some veggies like mushrooms, onions, and peppers in olive oil and add them to the cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Yum! Or, for a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken or sausage to the mix. Either way, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.

Some other pasta dishes to serve with Fish

  • Italian Pasta Salad
  • Lobster Mac and Cheese
  • Shrimp Pasta
  • Creamy White Sauce Pasta
  • Parmesan Orzo Pasta
  • Pesto Pasta
  • Angel Hair Pasta
  • Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
  • Fettuccine Alfredo
  • Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
  • Orzo with Mushrooms, Scallions, and Parmesan
  • Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta
  • Creamy Cavatappi Pasta

FAQ

What is a good side dish for fish?

There are a variety of pasta dishes that make great side dishes for fish. Some of our favorites include carbonara, tortellini pasta, and Italian pasta salad.

What is the best pasta to use for a pasta side dish?

The best type of pasta to use depends on your personal preferences. Some people prefer long pasta noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine, while others prefer shorter noodles like macaroni or penne. Ultimately, it’s up to you!

What is a good pasta sauce for fish?

A good pasta sauce for fish should be light and flavorful. Some of our favorite sauces include olive oil and garlic, pesto, and Alfredo.

What is a good vegetable to serve with pasta?

Some of our favorite vegetables to serve with pasta include mushrooms, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. However, you can really use any type of vegetable that you like! Just make sure to cook them properly so they’re nice and tender.

Conclusion

In summary, there are a variety of pasta dishes that make great side dishes for fish. Just be sure to choose a pasta that you like and pair it with a delicious sauce. Additionally, don’t forget to add in some veggies for an extra nutrient boost!

I hope you enjoyed this list of my favorites and that you’ll be able to find the perfect pasta dish to complement your next fish meal. Thanks for reading!

8 Best Pasta Side Dishes for Fish You’ll Find Amazing

Here are 8 tasty sides to complement your main dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4
Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Creamy Garlic Shells
  • Garlic Parmesan Pasta
  • Pasta Primavera
  • Creamy Low-Sodium Mac and Cheese
  • Cheesy Taco Pasta
  • Pasta Carbonara
  • 5- Cheese Marinara
  • Tortellini Pasta

Instructions
 

  • Choose your preferred recipe
  • Prepare the ingredients needed to complete the recipe
  • Prepare your side dish
Keyword fish, Pasta Side Dish, side dish for fish