There’s something so wonderfully refreshing about pasta salad. To me, it’s the essence of summer for a lovely light dinner or a great main or side dish for a backyard family gathering. No matter when or where you’re serving pasta salad, you’ve got to serve something with it, and I’ve got you covered with 41 delicious dishes that everyone will absolutely adore.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer for details.
Table of Contents
The List: 41 Dishes To Serve With Pasta Salad
If you’re wondering what to serve with pasta salad, look no further from soups, salads, veggie sides, desserts, and drinks. We’ve got you covered. Enjoy!
Soups
A nice hearty soup can be an excellent intro to a main dish of pasta salad. The balance of warm and soothing soup with light and cool pasta salad is an excellent combination. Choose one of these soups to complement the flavors of your favorite pasta salad!
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic pairing with pasta salad, providing a warm, comforting contrast to a cold pasta dish.
Even though pasta salad is a salad of sorts, you can (and should!) serve it with more salad and veggie sides. There are so many great ways to fill up your plate with a bounty of tasty salads and sides that will enhance this summer meal.
Melon Salad Recipe
Flavor-packed melon salad that is as refreshing as can be! Honeydew, canteloup, and watermelon make this salad a classic.
When you want pasta salad as your side dish, you need delicious main dishes for a full and robust meal. My hearty mains are completely meatless and brimming with a bounty of flavors that you’ll love.
Would you like to save this?
Healthy Black Bean Burgers
A flavorful black bean burger that's hearty and satisfying. The rich, savory taste and robust texture make it a favorite for plant-based eaters.
Warm and comforting, veggie pot pie is packed with delicious vegetables and a flaky crust. The savory filling and golden pastry create a homely and satisfying main course.
Adorable and delicious, mini pot pies are filled with savory vegetables. The individual portions and flaky pastry make them a charming and tasty option.
Spicy and tangy, these cauliflower buffalo wings are a crowd-pleaser. The crispy coating and flavorful buffalo sauce make them a fantastic alternative to traditional wings.
Savory and satisfying, vegan pulled pork sandwiches are a delicious main course. The tender, flavorful filling and soft buns create a mouthwatering combination.
Spicy and crispy, buffalo tofu wings are a great alternative to traditional wings. The bold flavors and satisfying crunch make them a favorite for spicy food lovers.
Liven up your meal with cool and refreshing drinks that everyone can enjoy. Instead of just serving water, juice, or sodas, these drinks add an element of class, and since they’re non-alcoholic, anyone in the family can fill up their cup.
Berry Infused Water
Berry-infused water is a refreshing and flavorful way to stay hydrated. The fresh berries add a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Sweet and tangy, homemade lemonade is a perfect refreshing beverage. The fresh lemon juice and simple syrup create a classic and thirst-quenching drink.
Lemon water is a classic choice. Its simple and refreshing flavor, complemented by fresh lemon's bright, zesty aroma, adds a refreshing twist to plain water.
This classic limeade is a refreshing and tart beverage. The simple mixture of lime juice, water, and sugar creates a timeless and thirst-quenching drink.
Don’t forget about a sweet finish to your pasta salad meal. These delightful treats are sure to make both children and adults happy!
Lime Popsicles
Refreshing and tangy, lime popsicles are a great way to cool down on hot days. Their bright, citrusy flavor is perfect to enjoy after a cold pasta salad.
Raspberry sorbet is a light and fruity dessert. Its vibrant raspberry flavor and smooth texture make it a delightful finish to all easy pasta salad recipes.
Refreshing and tropical, pineapple ice cream is a wonderful way to end a meal. The sweet pineapple flavor and creamy texture make it a delightful dessert.
Sweet and delicious, vegan blueberry pie is a classic dessert. The juicy blueberries and flaky crust make it a perfect sweet ending to cold pasta salad recipes.
When you make pasta salad, avoid the five cardinal mistakes: overcooking the pasta, not rinsing it with cold water, using the wrong pasta shape, adding too many raw ingredients, and forgetting to save some of the pasta water to help you emulsify your sauce.
What do you eat with pasta salad?
Pasta salad is great with other salads, from fruit to green salads, as well as veggie side dishes. You can also serve it as a side dish to any main dish, such as black bean burgers. Soups can be an excellent starter for your pasta salad if it’s going to be your main event and don’t forget about serving refreshing, cooling drinks or dessert, too.
What is pasta traditionally served with?
Pasta is traditionally served with some sort of sauce, and pasta salad is no exception. The sauce can soak in the longer it sits, so make sure you follow the recipe and serve properly to get the best flavors from your pasta salad.
Final Words
Pasta salad can be made in so many different ways and served with a variety of options. You’ll never serve the same meal twice when you know what to serve with pasta salad. If you’re planning on hosting a gathering or just want to enjoy a nice alfresco meal with your family in the sunshine, you’ll have everything you need right here to make pasta salad your perfect meal.
Hi, I'm Rae. The voice behind Raepublic. I have a Masters of Science in Nutrition and Functional Medicine. My aim is to assist people who have experienced trauma to live a more holistic, well-balanced life. Through nutrition, plant-based eating, sustainable living, mindfulness, and movement.
Great recipe choices!
Thanks!