What goes with Pasta Salad – Simple Side Dishes to add

Pasta salad is one of those dishes that can be a bit of a mystery. Is it a side dish? A main course? What should you serve with it to make a full meal? Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a light lunch, or backyard BBQs, pasta salad is a versatile, easy-to-make choice. But if you’re wondering what goes with pasta salad, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s break it down together, so you can turn your pasta salad into a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Is Pasta Salad Considered a Main Dish?

Pasta salad can definitely be a main dish, but whether it should be depends on a few factors. Traditional pasta salads, like those with a creamy dressing and added veggies, often serve as a side dish. But if you load them up with protein (think grilled chicken, tuna, or even chickpeas), then pasta salad can absolutely stand as a main course. It’s all about balancing the ingredients to make it hearty and satisfying enough for a full meal.

If you’re looking to make pasta salad the star of your plate, think of it as a customizable base. Add your favorite proteins, healthy fats, and veggies to turn it into something that feels substantial. Keep in mind that cold pasta salads (with mayo or vinaigrette) often feel lighter, while warm pasta salads (like a Mediterranean-style one) can be more filling.

What to Put in Pasta Salad

The beauty of pasta salad is that it’s so versatile! You can make it creamy or tangy, light or rich, with whatever ingredients you love. But if you’re wondering, what goes with pasta salad, here are some great additions to elevate your dish:

1. Vegetables

Pasta salad is the perfect way to sneak in fresh veggies. Go for crunchy and colorful options, like:

• Juicy cherry tomatoes –  Fresh tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and color. Sun-dried tomatoes are another great option. 
• Cucumbers – These bring a refreshing crunch.
• Red onion or green onion – Thinly sliced, they add a little tang and bite.
• Bell pepper – A mix of red, yellow, orange, and green peppers add vibrancy and crunch.
• Olives – Kalamata olives or green olives add a salty, briny punch.

You can also toss in some roasted veggies (like zucchini or asparagus) or leafy greens, like spinach or arugula, if you’re looking to get a little fancy.

2. Protein

To make pasta salad a complete meal, consider adding a protein source. This will help keep you full and satisfied. Some great choices include:

• Grilled chicken – You can season it simply with salt, pepper, and lemon for a fresh flavor.
• Canned tuna or salmon – Easy and quick, plus it adds a savory depth.
• Crispy bacon – If you’re in the mood for intense flavours, bacon works wonderfully with pasta salad.
• Hard-boiled eggs – These are inexpensive, high in protein, and give your salad a creamy texture.
• Chickpeas or beans – For vegetarian options, beans are a great way to bulk up your pasta salad.

3. Cheese

Cheese can take your pasta salad to the next level! Depending on your flavor preference, you could add:

• Feta cheese – Crumbled feta gives a tangy, creamy element.
• Mozzarella cheese – Fresh mozzarella balls or shredded mozzarella melt in your mouth and complement the pasta.
• Parmesan cheese – Grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami kick.
• Goat cheese – This soft cheese offers a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.

4. Dressing

The dressing you choose will tie everything together. For a creamy pasta salad, go with a classic mayonnaise-based dressing, or you can make a simple Italian dressing or vinaigrette using olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and a little honey for sweetness. Try my maple vinaigrette for a deliciously sweet twist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors like balsamic, lemon, or even a creamy ranch dressing.

What Are Things to Avoid in Pasta Salad?

While cold pasta salad is super customizable, there are a few things you might want to avoid so your dish doesn’t turn out too soggy, bland, or weird. Here are some common pasta salad pitfalls:

• Overcooking the pasta – You want your pasta to hold its shape and texture. Overcooked hot pasta can become mushy and watery. Al dente is the way to go!
• Too much dressing – If you douse your salad in dressing, it can become oily or soggy. Start with a little, and add more to taste.
• Forget to season – Pasta salad can taste flat if you don’t season it properly. Be sure to salt the pasta water, and taste-test your dressing. A sprinkle of salt and pepper can do wonders. If you frequently make pasta salad, pre-mixing a seasoning blend is an easy way to speed up the process.
• Too many ingredients – While it’s tempting to throw in everything you have in the fridge, too many ingredients can overwhelm the dish. Stick to a balance of flavors and textures for a well-rounded salad.

Why Is My Pasta Salad So Bland?

If your pasta salad feels like it’s lacking something, don’t worry—it happens to the best of us! Here are a few reasons why your pasta salad might be bland and how to fix it:

• Under-seasoning – Pasta absorbs flavor, and if you don’t add enough salt or seasoning, it can taste dull. Make sure to season your pasta water generously and give your dressing a good mix of salt, pepper, and any fresh herbs or spices you enjoy.
• Lack of acidity – Acidity (like lemon juice or vinegar) adds brightness and balances out rich, creamy dressings. If your pasta salad feels heavy, try adding a splash of vinegar or fresh lemon juice.
• Not enough flavor contrast – Balance is key. You want a mix of salty, sweet, tangy, and savory elements. If you’ve only got one flavor profile, your salad might lack excitement.

What’s Good to Eat With Pasta Salad?

Now, let’s talk about the big question—what goes with pasta salad to make your meal complete? Pasta salad can pair beautifully with a variety of dishes depending on your mood or the occasion. Here are some meal ideas to help you round out your plate:

1. Vegetable Dishes

If you’re looking for something light and healthy, pair pasta salad with some fresh vegetable sides.

• Grilled Veggies – Think zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, tossed with a little olive oil and seasoning.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes make a great accompaniment.
• Potato Salad – Potato salad is a great meal in itself, and another BBQ favourite. Try my German recipe for a delicious vinegar based option. 
• Steamed Broccoli – Simple, but it adds a nice, fresh crunch.

2. Soups

A warm bowl of soup next to a cool pasta salad is the ultimate comfort meal. Some ideas to consider:

• Tomato Soup – A classic! The acidity of the tomato soup pairs wonderfully with the creamy elements in your pasta salad.
• Minestrone – A hearty vegetable soup that complements the veggie-filled pasta salad.
• Chicken Noodle Soup – A lighter, comforting option that’s perfect for a casual meal.

3. Meats

Pairing your pasta salad with grilled or roasted meat is a foolproof way to make your meal feel hearty.

• Grilled Chicken Breast – Lightly seasoned, grilled chicken is a great option to serve with a tangy pasta salad. You could also use fried chicken or chicken tenders.
• Burgers – A classic BBQ pairing that works with almost any type of pasta salad. Juicy burgers are a perfect addition to a great pasta salad.
• Steak – If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, a tender grilled steak can pair perfectly with a creamy pasta salad.

4. Breads

Add a little extra carb love with some fresh, warm bread on the side.

• Garlic Bread – The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is a match made in heaven with pasta salad.
• Sourdough or Baguette – Perfect for dipping into any leftover dressing or sauce.
• Focaccia – If you want something a bit more special, focaccia with rosemary and sea salt makes a delicious side.

Pasta salad is so much more than just a side dish. It can easily be turned into a satisfying main course, and with a little creativity, you can elevate it with proteins, veggies, and your favorite dressing. When you’re thinking about what goes with pasta salad, consider pairing it with fresh vegetables, hearty meats, or even a cozy bowl of soup. Don’t forget to experiment with your pasta salad ingredients and make it your own!

At the end of the day, pasta salad is about simplicity—so keep it fun, fresh, and flavorful. Happy cooking!