Shrimp pasta alfredo is a delicious and popular pasta dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy alfredo sauce, and pasta. While the shrimp and alfredo sauce are often the stars of the show, what you serve alongside this pasta dish can take it to the next level. Quick answer: Some delicious options to serve with shrimp pasta alfredo include garlic bread, steamed broccoli, side salad, and white wine. The possibilities are endless, so get creative with your pairings!
Complement the Flavors
When deciding what to serve with shrimp alfredo pasta, you’ll want to choose foods that complement the dish’s flavors. Here are some options to consider:
Garlic Bread
Few things go better with a creamy pasta than garlic bread. The garlic and butter flavors pair perfectly with the richness of the alfredo sauce. Garlic bread is easy to make fresh or heat up a pre-made loaf. Just be sure to have plenty on hand!
Steamed Broccoli
Broccoli is a healthy pairing that balances out the heavy pasta dish. The bright green florets add freshness, while the slightly bitter flavor contrasts nicely with the sweet shrimp and creamy sauce. Lightly steamed broccoli florets are a great way to incorporate some veggies.
Side Salad
A light salad with vinaigrette dressing is another option that can offset the richness of the pasta. A green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion would be refreshing. You could also do a Caesar salad for a more substantial pairing.
White Wine
Sipping on a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the creaminess of the alfredo. The acidity and fruity flavors of white wines pair wonderfully with creamy and seafood-based pasta dishes.
Complement the Colors
In addition to flavors, you’ll also want to consider having color contrast in your meal. Here are some vibrant sides to serve with creamy white shrimp alfredo:
Roasted Red Peppers
The sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers makes a nice accompaniment. The red and green add beautiful color contrast to the plate. Add roasted peppers to a salad or serve them sautéed or grilled on the side.
Tomatoes
Cherry or grape tomatoes baked with garlic, olive oil, and herbs are a simple and tasty pairing. The red pops of color liven up the look of the meal. Tomatoes also add a fresh flavor and texture.
Green Beans
Quickly sautéed or steamed green beans add fiber, vitamins, and bright green color. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Or go fancy with slivered almonds or lemon zest.
Carrots
Roasted carrots are a delightful pairing, thanks to their vibrant orange color. Toss carrot sticks or coins in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until tender. Their natural sweetness complements the shrimp and alfredo sauce.
Recipe Inspiration for Side Dishes
Here are some full recipe ideas for tasty side dishes to serve with shrimp alfredo pasta:
Easy Garlic Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1⁄4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1⁄8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, garlic, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the loaf.
- Place the bread halves on a baking sheet cut side up and bake for 10-15 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Slice and serve warm.
Broccoli with Lemon and Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1⁄4 cup shaved Parmesan
Instructions:
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-5 minutes until just tender.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the steamed broccoli and toss to coat with oil and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat. Toss with lemon juice and top with Parmesan before serving.
Tomato and Basil Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1⁄4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1⁄4 cup julienned fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced onion, basil, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Let sit 10 minutes then serve.
Meal Combinations to Consider
Here are some full meal ideas with shrimp alfredo pasta and suggested side pairings:
Lighter Italian-Style Dinner
- Shrimp Pasta Alfredo
- Side salad with Italian dressing
- Garlic bread
- Glass of Pinot Grigio
Surf and Turf Dinner
- Shrimp Pasta Alfredo
- Grilled sirloin steak
- Roasted asparagus
- Glass of Cabernet Sauvignon
Easy Weeknight Dinner
- Shrimp Pasta Alfredo
- Steamed broccoli
- Frozen garlic bread
Impressive Dinner Party Menu
- Shrimp Pasta Alfredo
- Caesar salad with grilled chicken
- Roasted carrots
- Dinner rolls
- Tiramisu for dessert
- Bottle of Chardonnay
Tips for Serving
Here are some final tips for serving shrimp alfredo pasta and side dishes:
- Balance lighter and heavier sides like salad and garlic bread.
- Add some protein like grilled chicken or steak for a heartier meal.
- Make high-fiber sides like roasted veggies to balance the carbs.
- Include a light, crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio to cut the richness.
- Stick to a simple classic like garlic bread if short on time.
- Make it colorful with sides like red peppers and greens.
- Complement the pasta’s flavor with bright, acidic sides like a vinaigrette salad.
- Consider your guests’ preferences and dietary needs when choosing sides.
- Prep any sides ahead of time so everything is ready at once.
Conclusion
Shrimp pasta alfredo is so versatile that you can get creative with the sides and put your own spin on the meal. Garlic bread, salad, roasted veggies, and white wine are sure to be winners. The key is to balance flavors, textures, colors and dietary needs. With the right combination of sides, your shrimp alfredo pasta will be a big hit! Now you’re ready to serve up a delicious, well-rounded dinner.