Pasta dishes are popular for their versatility and delicious flavors. Many people enjoy pasta as a main course, but it can also make an excellent side dish to complement various meals.

Pasta sides offer a great way to add carbs and texture to your plate.

You can find over 27 tasty pasta side dish recipes to try at home. These range from simple orzo with parmesan to colorful pasta primavera loaded with vegetables.

Pasta sides work well with meats, fish, or vegetarian mains. They can be served hot or cold depending on the recipe and your preferences.

1. Creamy Alfredo

Creamy Alfredo sauce is a classic pasta dish that’s rich and indulgent. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start by melting butter in a pan and adding heavy cream.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic.

Pour the sauce over cooked fettuccine noodles and toss to coat evenly.

For extra flavor, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms on top.

Serve your Alfredo pasta hot with a side of garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. A simple green salad makes a nice contrast to the rich pasta.

2. Garlic Parmesan Linguine

Garlic Parmesan Linguine is a tasty pasta side dish you can make in one pot. It uses simple ingredients like garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese.

The bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan blend well together. This creates a rich and creamy sauce that coats the linguine noodles perfectly.

You can serve this dish hot as a side to grilled meats or vegetables. For a different twist, try it cold to bring out the flavors even more.

This pasta comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights. The ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a go-to side dish option.

3. Lemon Herb Orzo

Lemon herb orzo is a tasty pasta side dish you can make in under 15 minutes. It pairs well with fish, chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.

To make it, cook orzo according to package directions.

Then mix in lemon zest, fresh herbs like basil, chives, and thyme, salt, and pepper.

For extra flavor, add a pat of butter. Some recipes include a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce.

You can serve this dish warm or chilled. It works great as a side or even as a light pasta salad for lunch.

4. Pesto Penne

Pesto penne is a tasty pasta dish that’s quick to make. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something yummy but don’t have much time.

To make pesto penne, cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente. Then mix in fresh basil pesto sauce.

The pesto coats the pasta with its rich, garlicky flavor.

You can add extras like cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or parmesan cheese. These give the dish more texture and taste.

Serve your pesto penne hot as a main course or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

5. Caprese Macaroni

Caprese macaroni combines classic Italian flavors with a comforting pasta dish. This tasty side combines bow-tie pasta with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

To make it, cook the farfalle until al dente. Toss the pasta with sliced cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and torn basil leaves.

Drizzle the dish with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This simple side pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

6. Spinach Ricotta Ravioli

Spinach ricotta ravioli is a tasty pasta dish that combines the healthy goodness of spinach with creamy ricotta cheese. These little pasta pockets are filled with a savory mixture and make for a satisfying meal.

You can serve spinach ricotta ravioli with a variety of sauces. A simple butter and sage sauce brings out the flavors nicely.

Another option is a light tomato sauce that adds a tangy touch.

For side dishes, try a crisp romaine salad or some pan-fried asparagus. These veggies provide a fresh contrast to the rich pasta.

Garlic bread is also a classic choice that goes well with ravioli.

7. Margherita Farfalle

Margherita Farfalle brings the flavors of a classic pizza to your pasta dish. This tasty side combines bow-tie pasta with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

To make it, cook the farfalle until al dente. Toss the pasta with sliced cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and torn basil leaves.

Drizzle the dish with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This light and refreshing pasta side pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It’s perfect for summer dinners or potlucks.

8. Basil Tomato Fusilli

Fusilli pasta with basil tomato sauce is a tasty and simple side dish. The spiral shape of fusilli helps the sauce cling to each bite.

To make it, cook the pasta until al dente. While it cooks, prepare a quick sauce with olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes.

Add fresh basil for a burst of flavor.

Toss the cooked fusilli with the warm sauce. The result is a colorful pasta dish with a perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and aromatic basil.

It pairs well with many main courses and can be served hot or cold.

9. Gorgonzola Gnocchi

Gorgonzola gnocchi is a rich and flavorful pasta dish. It combines pillowy potato dumplings with a creamy, tangy sauce made from gorgonzola cheese.

You can pair this indulgent pasta with lighter sides to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing adds freshness and cuts through the richness.

Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

For extra crunch, serve some garlic bread or toasted walnuts on the side.

If you want to keep it simple, a plate of fresh sliced pears complements the strong cheese flavor nicely.

10. Sundried Tomato Fettuccine

This pasta dish brings a burst of flavor to your table. Fettuccine noodles are coated in a creamy sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, giving it a rich, tangy taste.

You can prepare this dish in about 30 minutes. Start by cooking the fettuccine until it’s al dente.

While the pasta cooks, make the sauce using Greek yogurt, sour cream, and sun-dried tomatoes.

For added flavor, mix in some garlic and Parmesan cheese. You can also include spinach or basil for a fresh touch.

This versatile side pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

11. Lemon Zucchini Cavatelli

Lemon zucchini cavatelli offers a light and refreshing pasta dish perfect for warmer months. This recipe combines tender cavatelli pasta with zesty lemon and fresh zucchini.

To make it, cook the cavatelli according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, sauté sliced zucchini in olive oil until lightly browned.

Toss the cooked pasta with the zucchini, lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Add a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce that coats the cavatelli.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor. This simple yet tasty dish makes a great side or light main course.

12. Mushroom Truffle Pappardelle

Mushroom Truffle Pappardelle is a luxurious pasta dish that combines earthy mushrooms with the rich flavor of truffles. This elegant side dish pairs well with many main courses.

To make it, you’ll cook pappardelle pasta until it’s al dente.

While the pasta cooks, sauté mushrooms and shallots in a pan. Add garlic and truffle butter for extra depth.

Toss the cooked pasta with the mushroom mixture.

Add some pasta water to create a silky sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

This dish is creamy and indulgent without using cream. The wide, flat pappardelle noodles are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. You can use different types of mushrooms for variety.

13. Cajun Spiced Ziti

Cajun spiced ziti brings a kick to your pasta side dish. This flavorful twist on classic ziti combines pasta with a spicy Cajun seasoning blend.

To make it, cook ziti pasta until al dente. In a skillet, sauté bell peppers, onions, and garlic.

Add Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne, and oregano.

Mix the cooked pasta with the spiced vegetables and a creamy sauce. You can use Alfredo or a tomato-based sauce, depending on your preference.0

Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Serve hot alongside your main course for a zesty, satisfying side.

14. Prosciutto Arugula Tortellini

This tasty dish combines cheese-filled tortellini with peppery arugula and savory prosciutto. It’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Cook the tortellini according to the package directions. While it’s cooking, sauté some sliced prosciutto until crispy.

Toss the cooked tortellini with fresh arugula, the crispy prosciutto, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Add some halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

15. Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni

Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni is a tasty pasta dish you can make in under 20 minutes. It features a smooth sauce made from roasted red peppers, onions, and garlic.

To make the sauce, broil chopped red peppers, onions, and garlic until blackened. Blend these with olive oil and salt until smooth.

Toss the sauce with cooked rigatoni pasta. Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

This dish is light yet comforting. You can serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For added protein, try mixing in some Italian sausage.

16. Balsamic Olive Gemelli

Balsamic Olive Gemelli is a tasty pasta dish that combines twisted pasta with rich flavors. You’ll love the mix of tangy balsamic vinegar and savory olives.

To make this dish, cook gemelli pasta until it’s al dente. While it’s cooking, prepare a sauce with olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped olives.

Toss the cooked pasta with the olive mixture and add a splash of balsamic vinegar.

The vinegar gives the dish a pleasant tartness that balances the salty olives.

For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This quick and easy side dish pairs well with many main courses.

17. Artichoke Pepperoncini Tagliatelle

Artichoke Pepperoncini Tagliatelle is a tasty pasta dish that blends mild and spicy flavors. You’ll love the mix of tender artichokes and zesty pepperoncini peppers.

This side dish goes well with many Italian main courses. The tagliatelle pasta soaks up the flavors nicely. It’s easy to make and adds a pop of color to your plate.

You can use canned artichoke hearts to save time. Add some garlic and olive oil for extra flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top makes it even better.

18. Cranberry Pecan Rotini

This pasta side dish combines sweet and savory flavors. Rotini pasta twists hold the ingredients well.

Mix cooked rotini with dried cranberries and chopped pecans. Add crumbled feta cheese for a tangy taste.

Toss with a light vinaigrette dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

This dish works great for fall meals or holiday gatherings. You can serve it warm or chilled. The cranberries add a pop of color and tart flavor. Pecans give a nice crunch and nutty taste to complement the pasta.

19. Caramelized Onion Bucatini

Caramelized onion bucatini is a tasty pasta side dish. You’ll love the mix of long, hollow noodles and sweet, golden onions.

To make it, cook bucatini pasta until it’s tender but still firm. While the pasta cooks, slowly caramelize sliced onions in olive oil until they turn deep brown.

Toss the cooked bucatini with the caramelized onions. Add some pasta water to create a light sauce.

For extra flavor, you can mix in cooked pancetta or mushrooms.

This dish goes well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It’s simple but impressive enough for a dinner party.

20. Broccoli Cheddar Cavatappi

Broccoli Cheddar Cavatappi is a tasty pasta side dish that’s easy to make. You’ll love the mix of spiral pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and crisp broccoli.

Cook the cavatappi pasta as directed on the package. Steam some broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green.

Mix the pasta and broccoli in a bowl. Add a rich cheddar cheese sauce and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Top it off with some extra shredded cheddar and breadcrumbs for a nice crunch. Bake until the cheese melts and the top turns golden brown.

This dish is great for busy weeknights or as a side for a weekend dinner. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

21. Sunflower Seed Trottole

Trottole pasta brings a fun spiral shape to your plate. Its twists catch sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful.

Add sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch. They boost the dish with healthy fats and protein.

Toss the pasta with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in chopped herbs like basil or parsley for freshness.

This side dish goes great with grilled chicken or fish. It’s quick to make and adds variety to your meal.

Try serving it warm or chilled as a pasta salad. Either way, you’ll enjoy the mix of textures and tastes.

22. Ginger Scallion Capellini

Ginger Scallion Capellini is a tasty pasta side dish that blends Asian flavors with Italian noodles. You’ll love the mix of thin capellini pasta with zesty ginger and fresh scallions.

To make this dish, cook the capellini according to package directions. While it’s cooking, sauté minced ginger and chopped scallions in a pan with some oil.

Once the pasta is done, toss it with the ginger-scallion mixture. Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor.

You can also throw in some vegetables like snow peas or bell peppers for crunch and color.

This light and flavorful pasta side is perfect with grilled fish or chicken. It’s quick to make and adds an interesting twist to your meal.

23. Rosemary Garlic Orecchiette

This tasty pasta dish combines the earthy flavor of rosemary with the punch of garlic. Orecchiette, meaning “little ears” in Italian, is the perfect shape to hold the savory sauce.

To make it, cook the orecchiette according to package directions. While it boils, sauté minced garlic and fresh rosemary in olive oil.

Toss the cooked pasta with the aromatic oil, adding grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like broccoli rabe or spinach. For protein, try mixing in some cooked Italian sausage or chickpeas. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes gives it a nice kick.

24. Citrus Asparagus Penne

This light and refreshing pasta dish combines penne with crisp asparagus and bright citrus flavors. Start by cooking the penne until al dente. While it’s boiling, cut asparagus into 1-inch pieces.

Quickly blanch the asparagus in the pasta water for 2 minutes, then remove and set aside. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.

Add the asparagus, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of olive oil.

Toss everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

This zesty side dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

25. Pumpkin Sage Trofie

Pumpkin sage trofie offers a tasty twist on classic pasta. This dish combines short, twisted trofie pasta with creamy pumpkin sauce and aromatic sage.

To make it, cook trofie pasta until al dente. In a pan, mix canned pumpkin puree with heavy cream and minced garlic. Add chopped fresh sage leaves for flavor.

Toss the cooked pasta in the pumpkin sage sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper to taste. The result is a comforting pasta side dish with fall flavors.

Pumpkin adds vitamin A and fiber to this meal. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

26. Spinach Artichoke Fusilli

Spinach artichoke fusilli is a tasty pasta side dish that combines creamy and savory flavors. You’ll love the mix of tender fusilli pasta with fresh spinach and chopped artichoke hearts.

To make this dish, cook the fusilli pasta until al dente. In a pan, sauté garlic and onions, then add spinach and artichokes.

Create a creamy sauce using milk or cream and cream cheese.

Toss the cooked pasta with the spinach-artichoke mixture and creamy sauce. For extra flavor, you can add sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or toasted pine nuts.

This versatile dish works great as a side or even as a main course. It’s quick to prepare and will be ready in about 30 minutes.

27. New Orleans Jambalaya Spaghetti

This unique pasta dish combines classic jambalaya flavors with spaghetti noodles. You’ll taste the Cajun spices, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes that make jambalaya so delicious.

The protein typically includes chicken, sausage, and shrimp. The sauce coats the spaghetti, infusing it with bold New Orleans flavors.

It’s a fun twist on traditional jambalaya that still delivers that signature taste. You get the best of both worlds – comforting pasta and zesty Cajun cuisine.

Serve it with cornbread or a side salad to round out the meal. It’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or family gathering.

Pairing Pasta Side Dishes

Picking the right pasta side dish can make your meal shine. The key is to match flavors and create balance on your plate.

Understanding Flavor Profiles

Think about the main dish when choosing a pasta side. Light pasta salads go well with grilled chicken or fish. Rich, cheesy pasta sides pair nicely with lean meats.

For spicy mains, try a cool, creamy pasta dish to balance the heat.

Tomato-based pasta sides work great with beef or lamb. Garlic and herb pasta dishes complement most poultry and seafood. If your main is mild, pick a bolder pasta side to add flavor to the meal.

Remember to consider textures too. Crunchy veggies in pasta salad can add contrast to a soft, tender main course.

Creating Balanced Meals

A good rule is to match the weight of your pasta side to your main dish. Heavy meat dishes call for lighter pasta sides. Lighter mains can handle richer pasta dishes.

Try to include different food groups in your meal. If your main is protein-heavy, choose a veggie-packed pasta side. This adds nutrition and variety to your plate.

Watch portion sizes. A small serving of pasta side dish is often enough. This leaves room for your main course and other sides like veggies or salad.

Color is important too. Pick pasta sides with bright veggies to make your plate look appealing. This can make your whole meal more enjoyable.

Nutritional Insights

Pasta side dishes offer many chances to boost the health value of your meal. You can add nutrients and balance through smart ingredient choices.

Incorporating Vegetables

Adding veggies to pasta sides packs in vitamins and fiber. Toss in colorful bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts make great mix-ins too.

Try veggie-based sauces like pesto or tomato sauce. These add flavor without many calories. You can also use vegetable noodles like zucchini or carrot spirals as a low-carb option.

For a nutrition boost, add leafy greens like kale or arugula to hot pasta. They’ll wilt slightly but keep their crunch.

Optimizing Protein Content

Boost the protein in pasta sides to make them more filling. Add beans, lentils, or chickpeas for plant-based protein.

These also give you fiber and minerals.

Cheese is an easy way to add protein. Try ricotta, mozzarella, or Parmesan. Greek yogurt makes a creamy, high-protein sauce base.

For meat eaters, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or lean ground turkey. These bump up protein without too much fat.

Canned tuna or salmon work well in cold pasta salads.

Nuts and seeds sprinkled on top add protein and healthy fats. Try walnuts, pine nuts, or pumpkin seeds for crunch and nutrients.