What To Serve With Pesto Pasta ( 20 Yummy Side Dishes)

AndrewByAndrew Updated on

Do you love pesto pasta? Well, today I’m going to show you what side dishes will go perfectly with this delicious recipe.

There are many different options out there, but we’ll explain some of our favorites.

Whether you’re looking for something simple or something a little more complex, we have you covered.

So what are you waiting for? Start reading and get cooking!

What To Serve With Pesto Pasta

  1. Croutons
  2. Garlic Bread
  3. Grilled Asparagus Salad
  4. Corn On The Cob
  5. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
  6. White Fish
  7. Herby Grilled Chicken
  8. Bruschetta
  9. Goat Cheese
  10. Italian Salad

Croutons

Croutons are a versatile side dish that can be used with a variety of recipes. For example, they can be used as a topping for salads or soup or as a standalone snack.

Croutons are also a good source of fiber and protein and can help promote satiety.

Additionally, croutons add texture and flavor to recipes and can be customized to suit your individual preferences. For example, you can add herbs or spices to the croutons before baking them.

Alternatively, you can use different types of bread to create different flavor profiles.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of different recipes. Pesto pasta is a particular favorite, as the herby flavor of pesto pairs perfectly with garlicky bread.

There are many benefits to choosing garlic bread as a side dish. For one, it is a quick and easy way to add some extra flavor to your meal.

Additionally, garlic bread can help to round out a dish that might be otherwise light on calories or nutrition.

Finally, garlic bread is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with both hot and cold recipes.

When selecting a recipe to pair with your garlic bread, be sure to choose something that will complement the flavors of the dish.

For example, a tomato-based pasta sauce might be too heavy for the light and airy pesto pasta. On the other hand, a simple olive oil and garlic sauce would be an ideal match.

Corn On The Cob

There are a few key reasons why corn on the cob is such an excellent side dish for pesto pasta. First, the sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of pesto sauce.

Second, the corn helps to balance out the dish by adding a crunchy texture. Third, corn adds important nutrients, including fiber, Vitamin C, and potassium. Fourth, corn on the cob is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Lastly, corn on the cob is an affordable side dish that is easy to prepare. Simply boil the corn for a few minutes until it is tender, then cut it into small pieces and add it to your pasta dish.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are a type of tomato that has been dried in the sun or an oven. They are typically darker in color and have a concentrated flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes can be used as a side dish for pesto pasta.

Some benefits of using sun-dried tomatoes as a side dish include the fact that they are high in lycopene, an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage.

Additionally, sun-dried tomatoes contain vitamins A and C, which are both essential vitamins for human health. Finally, sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated flavor to pesto pasta that can be very pleasing to the palate.

When choosing a recipe for pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes as a side dish, selecting a recipe with other strong flavors like garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese is important. This will help to balance out the concentrated flavor of the sun-dried tomatoes.

Additionally, it is important to chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces so that they do not overwhelm the other flavors in the dish.

Finally, when pairing sun-dried tomatoes with other foods, it is important to keep in mind that they are quite salty. Therefore, it is important to pair them with other foods that are not too salty to avoid an overly salty dish.

White Fish

Whitefish is a versatile and delicious option for a pesto pasta side dish. Many different recipes call for white fish and can be easily adapted to suit your taste.

One of the great things about white fish is that it is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their weight. It is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health.

Whitefish is also very easy to cook, so it is a good option for busy weeknight dinners. When choosing whitefish for your pesto pasta, try to select a fillet that is about 1-inch thick. This will ensure that the fish remains moist and flavorful during cooking.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to boost your dish’s flavor. Try adding some lemon zest or fresh herbs such as basil or oregano to the pesto sauce. For a heartier meal, you can add some chopped vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini to the pasta dish.

Herby Grilled Chicken

 

There are many reasons why you should consider using herby grilled chicken as a side dish for pesto pasta. First, it is a healthy and versatile option that can be used in various recipes.

Additionally, it is packed with nutrients and provides a good source of protein. Moreover, it is an excellent way to add flavor to your pasta dish without overpowering the other ingredients.

Finally, it is a quick and easy dish to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a side dish that can be used in a variety of recipes. It is made from grilled or baked bread and then topped with various ingredients such as tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil.

This side dish is a great way to add more flavor to your meal. It is also a healthy option because it is low in calories and fat.

When choosing a recipe to pair with your bruschetta, you can choose something simple like pasta or soup, or you can go for something more complicated like chicken or fish.

You may also want to try pairing it with a different type of sauce, such as Alfredo or Marinara.

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is a versatile and flavorful addition to any pasta dish. Its creamy texture pairs well with the bold flavors of pesto, and its tangy flavor helps balance out the sauce’s richness.

Goat cheese is also a good source of protein and calcium, making it a healthy option for those looking to add more nutrient-rich foods to their diet.

While it can be used as a standalone side dish, goat cheese is also an excellent addition to other recipes such as roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.

When choosing a goat cheese for your pasta dish, be sure to select one that is firm and has a mildly tangy flavor. For an extra creamy texture, opt for a goat cheese that has been blended with milk or cream.

If you are looking for a lower-fat option, look for goat cheese that has been made with skim milk.

Moreover, goat cheese is easy-to-find since it is available in most grocery stores, typically located in the dairy section.

Italian Salad

One way to make pesto pasta even more delicious is to add a fresh, crisp side salad. I like to use an Italian salad because it has a variety of fresh, juicy vegetables that pair well with the pesto pasta. The salad also adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an Italian salad as a side dish for pesto pasta:

  • Make sure that the salad is not too dry or overly wet with the dressing.
  • Avoid salads with wilted or limp greens.
  • If you are using a pre-made salad, be sure to read the label carefully to avoid adding too much salt or fat to the dish.

Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing What To Serve With Pesto Pasta

What are some other options when choosing what to serve with pesto pasta?

  1. Tomato And Mozzarella Salad
  2. Potatoes
  3. Sauteed Greens
  4. Tinned Tuna
  5. Roasted Red Peppers
  6. Antipasto Salad
  7. Roasted Aubergine Salad With Chickpeas
  8. Caesar Salad
  9. Caprese Salad
  10. Legume-Based Salads
  11. Greek Salad

What are some tips when choosing what to serve with pesto pasta?

There are some general tips you can follow when choosing what to serve with pesto pasta.

First, consider what type of flavors will pair well with the pesto sauce. For example, if the pesto is made with garlic and basil, you may want to choose a side dish that contains these same flavors.

Additionally, think about what ingredients are in the pesto sauce and what side dishes will complement them. For example, if the pesto contains Parmesan cheese, you may want to choose a side dish that is also rich in flavor.

Finally, consider what type of texture will pair well with the pasta. For example, if the pasta is cooked al dente, you may want to choose a softer side dish.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to serve with pesto pasta, the options are endless. You can choose from a variety of side dishes that will pair well with the bold flavors of the sauce.

Whether you are looking for something healthy and nutritious or something rich and decadent, there is sure to be a recipe that fits your needs.

So why not get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect dish to complement your next meal?

Andrew

Chef