Pesto pasta goes well with simple, fresh sides and proteins that don’t overpower the basil flavor. Good options include grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted cherry tomatoes, a caprese salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and asparagus.

Best pairings

  • Protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or white fish.
  • Vegetables: roasted cherry tomatoes, asparagus, zucchini, green beans, or a light tomato salad.
  • Bread: garlic bread, focaccia, crostini, or simple crusty bread.
  • Salads: caprese salad or a crisp salad with a light dressing.

Easy meal ideas

  1. Pesto pasta + grilled chicken + roasted asparagus.
  2. Pesto pasta + shrimp + caprese salad.
  3. Pesto pasta + garlic bread + roasted cherry tomatoes.
  4. Pesto pasta + salmon + green beans.

A small tip

Because pesto is already rich and herb-heavy, sides that are bright, lightly acidic, or simply seasoned usually work best.

Quick Scoop: The safest answer is that pesto pasta pairs best with light proteins, fresh vegetables, and bread on the side.
[1][4][6]