Originally posted on December 18, 2023 @ 10:29 pm
When it comes to enjoying a delicious bowl of noodles, choosing the right side dishes can make all the difference. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired noodle dishes, classic Italian pasta, or any other noodle variety, finding the perfect accompaniments can take your meal to the next level.
But with so many options to consider, it can be overwhelming to decide what to serve with noodles. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you discover the best noodle accompaniments for your next meal. From fresh and crunchy salads to classic comfort sides, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of options to suit every taste and craving.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right side dishes can enhance the flavors and experience of your noodle meal.
- Consider the flavors and cuisines of the noodle dish to find complementary side dishes.
- Salads provide a refreshing contrast to rich and savory noodle dishes.
- Classic comfort sides like garlic bread and bruschetta can add a comforting element to your meal.
- Vegetable dishes bring a burst of color and nutrients to your noodle meal.
Fresh and Crunchy Salad Options
Fresh salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of noodle dishes. They bring a burst of vibrant flavors and textures to your meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or a vegetarian side dish, these salads are the perfect complement to your noodles.
Arugula Salad with Tangy Red Wine Vinaigrette
Indulge in the peppery bite of arugula paired with a tangy homemade red wine vinaigrette. This salad adds a fresh and vibrant element to your noodle meal. The arugula’s crispness and the vinaigrette’s acidity perfectly balance the richness of the noodles.
Tomato and Cucumber Salad with Zesty Homemade Vinaigrette
For a simple and refreshing salad, try a combination of juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers dressed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. The contrasting flavors and textures complement the noodles, creating a light and satisfying meal.
“Fresh salads can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of noodle dishes.”
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
If you’re craving a crunchy salad, opt for a shaved Brussels sprout salad. Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts tossed with a tangy dressing add a delightful crunch to your noodle meal. This salad offers a healthy twist to your side dish options.
Kale Caesar Salad
The classic Caesar salad gets a healthy update with the addition of nutrient-rich kale. The crispness of the kale and the creamy Caesar dressing create a perfect balance of flavors in your noodle meal.
These fresh and crunchy salads are not only delicious but also provide a healthy and vegetarian option to accompany your noodles. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors add an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
Classic and Comforting Sides
Sometimes, you just want a classic and comforting side dish to accompany your noodles. These tried and true options add a familiar and satisfying element to your noodle meal.
“Garlic bread is a popular choice, with its toasty, buttery, and herby flavors.”
What’s more comforting than a warm loaf of garlic bread? Slice a baguette, spread it with butter and minced garlic, and bake until golden and fragrant. The irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen, and when you bite into the crispy crust and soft, garlicky interior, you’ll know you’ve found the perfect side for your noodles.
“Bruschetta is another great option, especially when topped with fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.”
For a lighter side dish with a burst of fresh flavors, try bruschetta. Toast rustic bread slices, rub them with garlic, and top with diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. The juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy vinaigrette create a delightful contrast to the richness of the noodles.
“Another comforting side is a broccoli cauliflower casserole, loaded with veggies and cheesy goodness.”
If you’re looking to add some vegetables to your noodle meal while still indulging in comfort food, a broccoli cauliflower casserole is the perfect choice. Bake a mixture of steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets with a creamy cheese sauce. The result is a bubbling, cheesy casserole that brings together the best of both worlds.
These classic and comforting sides provide the perfect balance to your noodle dishes, adding familiar flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy.
| Classic and Comforting Sides | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic bread | A warm loaf of bread spread with butter and minced garlic, baked until crispy and fragrant. |
| Bruschetta | Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. |
| Broccoli cauliflower casserole | A baked dish with steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets in a creamy cheese sauce. |
Delightful Vegetable Dishes
Vegetables can be a perfect accompaniment to any noodle dish. Not only do they add vibrant colors to your plate, but they also provide essential nutrients. Here are some delightful vegetable dishes that will complement your noodle meal:
1. Roasted Fennel with Delicata Squash and Apples
Experience a sweet and savory combination with this flavorful dish. The roasted fennel brings out its natural sweetness, while the delicata squash and apples add a delightful texture. The caramelized flavors make this side dish a standout.
2. Ratatouille
This classic French dish is a medley of vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Ratatouille offers a refreshing mix of flavors that pair perfectly with any noodle dish. The combination of tender vegetables and fragrant herbs will leave you satisfied.
3. Green Beans Almondine
For a fresh and crunchy option, try green beans almondine. This dish features vibrant green beans sautéed to a crisp-tender texture and topped with toasted almonds. The nuttiness from the almonds adds a delightful contrast to the vegetables.
4. Green Bean Salad
If you prefer your green beans chilled, a green bean salad is a perfect choice. Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and garnished with cherry tomatoes and red onions, this salad offers a burst of freshness and crunch.
5. Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Give your noodle meal a burst of flavor with these roasted carrots. The garlic and Parmesan cheese create a deliciously savory coating, while the roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots. This side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
These vegetable dishes not only enhance the overall presentation of your noodle meal but also add a nutritious and satisfying element. Enjoy the combination of flavors, textures, and colors for a well-rounded dining experience.
International Flavors
If you’re looking to complement Asian noodle dishes, there are specific side dishes that work well. Asian-inspired noodle dishes are known for their bold spices and aromatic flavors. To create a harmonious balance of tastes, it’s essential to choose side dishes that enhance these flavors and add depth to the meal.
One fantastic option is Halloumi salad. This salad features the squeaky, salty cheese that pairs perfectly with Asian noodle dishes. With its tangy flavor and firm texture, it offers a delightful contrast to the soft and chewy noodles.
Melting potatoes are another great choice. These roasted potatoes have a buttery, creamy interior and a crispy exterior. Their rich and savory flavors complement the spices and aromatics commonly found in Asian noodle dishes.
If you’re looking for a sweeter option, you can’t go wrong with honey balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts. The caramelized sweetness of the glaze and the nuttiness of the Brussels sprouts add a unique twist to your noodle meal.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider cannellini beans with herb sauce. This dish offers a creamy and flavorful protein option that pairs well with Asian noodle dishes. The herb sauce adds a burst of freshness and elevates the overall taste.
These international flavors bring a new dimension of complexity to your noodle meal, enhancing the experience and satisfying your taste buds.
Why Halloumi Salad?
Halloumi cheese originates from Cyprus and is known for its unique characteristics that make it an excellent choice for Asian noodle side dishes. It has a high melting point, which allows it to be grilled or pan-fried without losing its shape. This cheese has a squeaky texture and a tangy flavor, making it a delicious addition to salads.
“Halloumi salad with its squeaky texture and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired noodle dishes.”
Melting Potatoes: A Versatile Side Dish
Melting potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses. With their creamy interior and crispy exterior, they add a touch of indulgence to any meal. When paired with Asian noodle dishes, melting potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying element.
Honey Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
With their natural sweetness and tender texture, Brussels sprouts are a popular side dish choice. When glazed with honey and balsamic vinegar, they develop a caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with Asian noodles. The combination of sweet and tangy complements the spices and aromatics found in Asian cuisine.
Cannellini Beans with Herb Sauce
Cannellini beans are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and are well-suited for Asian noodle side dishes. Their creamy texture and mild flavor provide a satisfying source of protein. Tossed in a herb sauce, these beans add freshness and a burst of aromatic flavors to your noodle meal.
Classic Italian Sides
Italian cuisine offers a variety of classic sides that pair well with any noodle dish. From the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked focaccia bread to the creamy indulgence of burrata salad, these Italian noodle side dishes will transport your taste buds to the streets of Florence or the charming trattorias of Rome.
Focaccia Bread
Focaccia bread is a beloved Italian classic known for its crackly exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Its simple yet satisfying flavors make it the perfect accompaniment to noodle dishes. Whether you opt for a traditional rosemary-infused version or experiment with toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or olives, this homemade delight will elevate your noodle meal to new heights.
Burrata Salad
Indulge in the creamy goodness of burrata salad. This Italian delicacy features a ball of fresh mozzarella filled with a luscious blend of stracciatella and cream. Pair it with juicy vine-ripened tomatoes, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and a sprinkle of basil for a luxurious touch that complements any noodle dish with finesse.
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Add a cheesy and flavorful twist to your noodle meal with parmesan roasted green beans. These tender and vibrant beans are tossed in olive oil, garlic, and grated parmesan cheese, then roasted to golden perfection. Their savory and crispy bite will have you reaching for seconds.
Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Salad
For a unique and cheesy twist on traditional greens, try parmesan Brussels sprouts salad. Shredded Brussels sprouts are tossed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and topped with shaved parmesan for a bold and tangy flavor combination. This vibrant salad brings a burst of freshness and crunch to your noodle meal.
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with these classic Italian sides that perfectly complement any noodle dish. From the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of burrata salad to the cheesy indulgence of parmesan roasted green beans, these Italian noodle side dishes will take your meal to the next level.
| Italian Noodle Side Dishes | Description |
|---|---|
| Focaccia Bread | Aromatic and fluffy bread with a crackly exterior. |
| Burrata Salad | Creamy mozzarella filled with stracciatella and cream, served with fresh tomatoes. |
| Parmesan Roasted Green Beans | Tender green beans roasted with olive oil, garlic, and grated parmesan. |
| Parmesan Brussels Sprouts Salad | Shredded Brussels sprouts tossed with lemon vinaigrette and topped with shaved parmesan. |
Seafood and Meat Options
When it comes to enhancing your noodle meal, seafood and meat options can provide both variety and substance. Whether you’re craving a delicious protein or a flavorful side, here are some mouthwatering options to consider:
Grilled Shrimp or Salmon
Grilled shrimp or salmon can elevate your noodle dish with their juicy and succulent flavors. These seafood options bring a touch of elegance and make for a satisfying protein addition to your meal.
Chicken Caesar Salad
A classic favorite, a Chicken Caesar Salad pairs perfectly with noodles. The combination of crispy romaine lettuce, tender grilled chicken, and tangy Caesar dressing adds freshness and depth to your meal.
Antipasto Chickpea Salad
For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, try an Antipasto Chickpea Salad. This vibrant and flavorful salad combines chickpeas, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, and sundried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavors alongside your noodles.
Stuffed Artichoke Hearts
Add a unique and tasty touch to your meal with stuffed artichoke hearts. These artichoke hearts are filled with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful savory addition to your dish.
To visualize the different seafood and meat options that can complement your noodle meal, below is a table summarizing the key features of each:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Shrimp or Salmon | Juicy and succulent seafood options that add elegance and protein to your meal. |
| Chicken Caesar Salad | A classic salad with crispy romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, and tangy Caesar dressing. |
| Antipasto Chickpea Salad | A Mediterranean-inspired salad with chickpeas, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, and sundried tomatoes. |
| Stuffed Artichoke Hearts | Delicious artichoke hearts stuffed with breadcrumbs, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. |
These seafood and meat options provide a range of flavors and textures that complement your noodles and elevate your dining experience. Whether you choose grilled shrimp, a hearty salad, or unique stuffed artichoke hearts, these additions are sure to satisfy your cravings and add a touch of indulgence to your noodle meal.
Fresh and Healthy Sides
If you’re looking for fresh and healthy sides for your noodle dish, consider options like sautéed spinach or a simple salad with arugula and red wine vinaigrette. These sides provide a burst of vitamins and nutrients while still being light and flavorful.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Sautéed Spinach | Leafy greens quickly cooked in a hot pan with a touch of garlic for added flavor. |
| Arugula Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette | Peppery arugula leaves tossed in a tangy vinaigrette made with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. |
These sides not only enhance the nutritional profile of your meal but also add a refreshing element to balance the richness of the noodles.
For a visual representation, here’s an image of a delicious sautéed spinach dish:
Try incorporating these fresh and healthy sides into your noodle meals for a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Perfectly Paired Beverages
To complete your noodle meal, consider the perfect beverage pairing. The right drink can elevate the flavors of your noodles and enhance the overall dining experience. Whether you prefer alcoholic or non-alcoholic options, we have some suggestions for you:
- Aromatic White Wines: Dry Riesling and Grüner Veltliner are excellent choices to complement the flavors of many noodle dishes. The fruity and floral notes of these wines beautifully balance the richness of the noodles.
- Crisp Dry White Wines: If you prefer a refreshing contrast to your noodles, try Albariño or Picpoul de Pinet. These wines have a bright acidity that pairs well with both hot and cold noodle dishes.
- Lager Beer: A popular choice among noodle lovers, lager beer offers a nice balance of flavors that complements various noodle dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a hot bowl of ramen or a chilled noodle salad, a cold lager can be the perfect accompaniment.
- Sake and Green Tea: For those enjoying Japanese noodles, traditional options like sake and green tea are always a great choice. Sake’s smooth and subtle flavors enhance the umami and savory elements of the noodles, while green tea provides a light and refreshing option.
These perfectly paired beverages add depth, complexity, and harmony to your noodle meal. Choose the one that suits your taste preferences and enjoy a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Creative and Unique Options
For those looking to think outside the box, there are unique and creative side dishes that can elevate your noodle meal. Add a delightful twist to your dining experience with these unconventional noodle side dishes. Try sunchokes roasted with olive oil, garlic, and thyme for a delicious and unexpected flavor combination. Air fryer ravioli provides a crispy and cheesy option that pairs perfectly with any noodle dish. For a tangy and charred addition, try air fryer Brussels sprouts with balsamic. These creative and unique options will take your noodle meal to a whole new level of culinary delight.
Thinking outside the box when it comes to noodle side dishes can truly enhance your dining experience. By trying new and unique flavors, you can add a fun twist to your favorite noodle dishes. These unconventional options will not only surprise your taste buds but also impress your guests. So, why not take a break from the ordinary and explore these creative noodle side dishes?
Classic Mediterranean Sides
Mediterranean flavors can bring a fresh and vibrant element to your noodle meal. Incorporating classic Mediterranean side dishes can enhance your culinary experience. These dishes are known for their delicious ingredients and bold flavors.
Tomato Cucumber Salad
One refreshing and classic choice is a Tomato Cucumber Salad. Made with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette, this salad adds a burst of flavor and a touch of acidity to balance out the richness of the noodles. It’s the perfect side dish for a warm summer day.
Greek-Style Feta and Olive Salad
For a salty and tangy note, a Greek-style Feta and Olive Salad is an excellent choice. This salad combines crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil. The flavors complement the noodles wonderfully and add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your meal.
Shaved Fennel Salad
If you’re looking for something light and zesty, a Shaved Fennel Salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a perfect option. The crisp and refreshing fennel pairs beautifully with the lemon dressing, creating a vibrant and flavorful addition to your noodle dish.
These classic Mediterranean sides not only provide a burst of flavor but also add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your noodle meal. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing, tangy, or zesty, these side dishes will take your noodles to the next level.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Tomato Cucumber Salad | A refreshing salad made with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. |
| Greek-Style Feta and Olive Salad | A salad with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil. |
| Shaved Fennel Salad | A light and zesty salad made with shaved fennel and tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. |
Note: The table above summarizes the classic Mediterranean sides discussed in this section.
Conclusion
When it comes to deciding what to serve with noodles, the options are endless. From fresh and crunchy salads to classic comfort sides, there are numerous choices to complement your noodle dish. Consider the flavors and cuisines of the noodle dish, as well as your personal preferences, to find the perfect pairings. Whether you opt for healthy sides, international flavors, or classic Italian dishes, the right side dishes can elevate your noodle meal to perfection.
FAQ
What are some fresh and crunchy salad options to serve with noodles?
Some refreshing salad options include arugula salad with a tangy red wine vinaigrette, tomato and cucumber salad dressed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette, shaved Brussels sprout salad, and kale Caesar salad.
What are some classic and comforting sides that go well with noodles?
Garlic bread, bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, and broccoli cauliflower casserole are popular choices for classic and comforting sides.
What vegetable dishes can I serve with noodles?
Consider roasted fennel with delicata squash and apples, ratatouille, green beans almondine, green bean salad, and garlic-parmesan roasted carrots as delicious vegetable accompaniments.
What are some international flavors that complement Asian noodle dishes?
Halloumi salad, melting potatoes, honey balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts, and cannellini beans with herb sauce are great options to enhance the flavors of Asian-inspired noodle dishes.
What are some classic Italian sides that pair well with noodles?
Focaccia bread, burrata salad, Parmesan roasted green beans, and Parmesan Brussels sprouts salad are classic Italian side dishes that add a touch of Italy to your noodle meal.
What seafood and meat options can I serve alongside noodles?
Consider grilled shrimp or salmon, chicken Caesar salad, antipasto chickpea salad, and stuffed artichoke hearts as tasty protein options for your noodle meal.
What are some fresh and healthy sides that go well with noodles?
Sautéed spinach and a simple salad with arugula and red wine vinaigrette are light and flavorful options for those seeking fresh and healthy sides.
What beverages pair well with noodles?
Aromatic white wines like dry Riesling and Grüner Veltliner, crisp dry white wines like Albariño and Picpoul de Pinet, lager beer, and traditional options like sake and green tea can all complement the flavors of noodle dishes.
What are some creative and unique options for noodle side dishes?
Sunchokes roasted with olive oil, garlic, and thyme, air fryer ravioli, and air fryer Brussels sprouts with balsamic are creative and unexpected choices that can elevate your noodle meal.
What are some classic Mediterranean sides that pair well with noodles?
Tomato cucumber salad with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, Greek-style feta and olive salad, and shaved fennel salad with a lemon vinaigrette are classic Mediterranean sides that add a burst of flavor and Mediterranean flair to your noodle dish.
Source Links
- https://www.delish.com/cooking/g41233798/side-dishes-for-pasta/
- https://www.matchingfoodandwine.com/news/pairings/what-wines-and-other-drinks-pair-best-with-noodles1/
- https://www.platingsandpairings.com/40-easy-sides-for-pasta-what-to-serve-with-pasta/
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