Pasta salad is a versatile and delicious dish, perfect for any occasion. But what to eat with pasta salad to make a complete meal? You can pair it with grilled chicken, garlic bread, bruschetta, roasted veggies, sandwiches, shrimp, stuffed peppers, hummus, prosciutto pizza, or Tamago sando to enhance the flavors and add variety to your meal.
I’ve personally tried different flavor-packed pairings with pasta salad, and trust me, the right side or main dish makes a big difference! In this article, I’ll guide you about not only what to eat with pasta salad but, the best dishes, sides, and accompaniments to serve alongside pasta salad.
what to eat with pasta salad? Best Main Dishes
Pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to seafood and vegetarian options. Here are some filling meal ideas that make a great match.
1. BBQ Baked Chicken Thighs
One of my go-to pairings for pasta salad is oven-baked BBQ chicken thighs. The smoky, tangy barbecue sauce complements the creamy or vinaigrette-based dressing of the salad. Plus, this oven recipe is super easy and requires minimal effort. Just season, bake, and enjoy a juicy, flavorful dish with your salad.
2. Flank Steak (Bavette Steak)
A good beef cut pairs wonderfully with pasta salad. If you’re looking for a juicy and tender option, steak is the way to go. I love grilling or pan-searing a traditional steak meal in a cast iron skillet. It’s quick, delicious, and makes for a well-rounded meal.
3. BBQ Pulled Chicken Burgers
If you want a traditional steak meal with pasta salad, try Italian-seasoned beef cut that broils perfectly in the oven. The juicy, umami dish makes an incredible match with the pasta salad’s cool, creamy textures.
A filling meal doesn’t get better than juicy, slow-cooked BBQ-pulled chicken topped with coleslaw on a soft bun. This combination of flavors and textures pairs so well with pasta salad, especially if your salad has a creamy dressing.
4. Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Pomodoro
This show-stopping dish combines juicy chicken stuffed with mozzarella and topped with a rich tomato sauce. It’s a perfect pairing for pasta salad, especially if your salad includes fresh tomatoes and basil.
- Best Pairing: This dish is best served on a plate with pasta salad on the side, offering a nice combination of flavors.
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Perfect Spicy Mozzarella Pasta Bake
5. Turkey Sliders
If you’re looking for a smaller yet equally satisfying option, turkey sliders are perfect. These little burgers pack a lot of flavor, and their savory taste complements both creamy and tangy pasta salads. I often make turkey sliders on white bread with a hint of spicy sauce. They are quick to prepare and make for a balanced, delicious combination with pasta salad.
- Quick Tip: Serve the sliders with a light and refreshing salad to balance out the flavors.
6. Hot Wings
For a spicy, crispy option, hot wings are a fantastic pair with pasta salad. The coolness of the salad balances the heat of the wings, making for a satisfying meal.
7. Grilled Chicken Breast
If you’re looking for a healthy spin, grilled chicken breast is a great option. It’s tender, flavorful, and pairs well with any type of pasta salad.
8. Hot Dogs
A backyard favorite, hot dogs with toppings like mustard, ketchup, or relish go well with a simple pasta salad. This makes for a quick and shareable meal.
Delicious Side Dishes to Pair with Pasta Salad
Sometimes, all you need is a great side to complement your pasta salad. Here are some of my favorite dishes:
1. Garlic Bread
Nothing beats the crispy, buttery, golden crust of fresh garlic bread. It’s the perfect way to scoop up any remaining dressing on your plate!
2. Elotes-Style Corn with Furikake
Grilled corn with a tangy, cheesy topping is a zesty addition to pasta salad. I love roasted corn on the cob topped with cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder. This zesty addition brings out the best in a refreshing salad like pasta salad. Adding extra flavour with a sprinkle of furikake makes it even better!
3. Caprese Sandwich with Truffle Salt
A light and delicious sandwich filled with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, sprinkled with Italian-seasoned truffle salt, pairs beautifully with pasta salad. It’s a great choice for a refreshing salad combo.
4. Healthy Corn and Zucchini Fritters
If you want something crispy and slightly sweet, these fritters are amazing. I usually serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
5. Burrata Caprese with Balsamic Glaze
Nothing beats fresh burrata with juicy tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta salad.
Vegetable-Based Sides for a Healthy Spin
If you want something on the lighter side, these veggie-based dishes will complement your pasta salad perfectly:
1. Flank Steak Salad
Adding seasoned flank steak to a bed of greens creates a nutritious, flavor-packed meal with a balance of textures.
2. Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a healthy spin, I often make turkey and quinoa stuffed bell peppers. They’re loaded with protein and taste fantastic with pasta salad.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The crispy, extra flavour of Brussels sprouts makes them an ideal pairing for pasta salad, balancing richness with crunch.
Breads That Compliment Pasta Salad
Bread is a fantastic addition to pasta salad, adding texture and heartiness to the meal. Whether you prefer something cheesy, crispy, or soft, the right bread can enhance the overall experience. Here are my top picks for the best bread pairings with pasta salad.
1. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread with Miso
If you love cheesy, slightly spicy, and moist bread, this cornbread is an excellent choice. The cheddar cheese adds richness, while the jalapeños bring just the right amount of heat. The miso paste gives it a subtle umami boost, making it a flavorful companion to pasta salad.
2. Prosciutto Ricotta Pizza
A crispy, golden crust topped with creamy ricotta cheese and salty prosciutto makes this pizza a delicious pairing for pasta salad. Cooking it in a cast iron skillet gives the crust a perfect crunch while keeping the toppings soft and flavorful.
- Best Combination: This pizza works especially well with light, vinaigrette-based pasta salads, as the richness of the cheese and meat is balanced by the fresh flavors of the salad.
3. Tamago Sando (Japanese Egg Salad Sandwich)
This soft and creamy Japanese-style egg sandwich is an unexpected but perfect match for pasta salad. The filling is made with mashed eggs, Japanese mayonnaise, and a touch of seasoning, all sandwiched between fluffy milk bread.
- Serving Tip: Cut the sandwiches into small squares or halves for an elegant presentation alongside your pasta salad.
Sandwiches That Pair Well with Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for something simple yet filling, sandwiches are a great option to serve with pasta salad.
1. Caprese Sandwich with Truffle Salt
A Caprese sandwich with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is light and delicious. Adding truffle salt enhances the taste and gives it a gourmet feel.
2. Chicken Salad Sandwich
A healthy spin on the classic sandwich, this version uses Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter touch.
- Best Bread Choice: White bread works best as it absorbs the flavors beautifully.
3. Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef with sharp cheddar cheese, a touch of horseradish sauce, and fresh greens create a rich and savory combination.
Different Types of Cheeses to Add
Adding cheese can enhance the flavor of pasta salad. If you don’t know much about different type of cheeses and how cheeses goes with different dishes. Don’t worry! Here is a detailed article where you learn more about cheese types. Click The Best Cheeses to learn about cheeses.
- Feta Cheese – Crumbly and slightly tangy, great for Greek-style salads.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
- Mozzarella – Perfect for a fresh Italian appetizer feel.
Alright, I’ve shared a lot from my experience, but to make things even easier for you, here’s a forum link where others discuss their pasta salad ideas. Plus, I’m also sharing a YouTube video so you can understand things even better!
3 Viral Pasta Salad Recipes You Need to Try | Easy & Delicious Recipes! | Allrecipes
Desserts to Finish Your Meal
Every great meal needs a sweet ending!
1. Oven Recipe for Lemon Bars
These light and delicious lemon bars are an easy, refreshing way to finish off your pasta salad feast.
2. Homemade Tiramisu
This moist and tender dessert adds an elegant, Italian-inspired touch to your meal.
3. Sliced Fresh Fruit
A plate of fresh, sliced seasonal fruit is a simple, yet elegant way to balance a rich meal.
Best Ingredients and Toppings for Pasta Salad
Now that we know the basics, let’s talk about some amazing ingredients that can take your pasta salad to the next level. You don’t have to follow a strict recipe—just mix and match based on what you like!
- Roasted bell peppers – These add a sweet, smoky flavor and a soft texture. If you roast them at home, they taste even better, but jarred ones work fine too. Just make sure to drain them well!
- Sliced olives – A Mediterranean touch that enhances the overall taste. I usually go for kalamata olives for a bold, savory bite, but green olives work too if you prefer something lighter.
- Pickled onions – A sharp, tangy kick that wakes up all the flavors. But be careful—too many can overpower the salad! Just a few slices are enough.
- Nutritious greens like spinach or arugula – These add a fresh, slightly peppery taste. If you’re making pasta salad ahead of time, keep the greens separate and mix them in just before serving so they stay crisp.
- Cheese for extra richness – Parmesan, feta, or even small mozzarella balls make a big difference. Feta is great for a tangy twist, while parmesan adds a nutty, salty touch.
- Crunchy nuts or seeds – If you want an extra texture, try adding toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or almonds. I learned this trick when I had some leftover nuts from another dish, and now I always include them in my pasta salads.
- A touch of spice – Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can give your pasta salad a bit of heat. Just don’t overdo it—start with a little and add more if needed.
Tips for Storing and Preparing in Advance
Now that we’ve covered the best toppings, let’s talk about how to keep your pasta salad fresh and tasty for days. If you love meal prepping, here are some simple yet effective tips:
- Store in an airtight container – This prevents the pasta from drying out and maintains its moist and tender consistency.
- Tossed with dressing before serving – Instead of mixing the dressing ahead of time, add it just before eating to avoid sogginess and keep the flavors fresh.
- Use a baking sheet to cool pasta before mixing – Spreading pasta on a baking sheet helps it cool quickly and evenly, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Final Thoughts
Now you know what to eat with pasta salad for the best meal experience! Whether you go for one-pan meals like grilled chicken, savory sides like cornbread, or refreshing options like Caprese salad, there are plenty of ways to enhance your pasta salad dish.
I personally love trying new favorite recipes and mixing up flavors to keep things exciting. Next time you make pasta salad, experiment with these delicious pairings for a truly satisfying meal! Keep following PastaSphere for more mouthwatering recipes!
FAQs About What to Eat with Pasta Salad
1. Can I meal prep pasta salad and its sides in advance?
Yes! Pasta salad and many of its sides can be prepared ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps everything fresh and flavorful.
2. What is the best protein to serve with pasta salad?
Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp pair perfectly with pasta salad. They add hearty protein without overpowering the dish. Seafood like salmon also works great.
3. How can I make my pasta salad meal more filling?
Pair it with grilled chicken, hearty sandwiches, or roasted veggies. These sides add texture and nutrients to your meal. A warm garlic bread can also make it more satisfying.
4. What is a good vegetarian option to eat with pasta salad?
Vegetarian proteins like bruschetta, grilled tofu, or stuffed bell peppers work well. They add flavor and texture without needing meat. A side of hummus and pita is another great choice.
5. How do I keep pasta salad from getting mushy?
Use al dente pasta so it stays firm even after sitting in the fridge. Store the dressing separately and mix before serving. This keeps the pasta fresh and flavorful.
