Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless Italian classic that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, consisting only of fettuccine, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
While it’s perfectly enjoyable on its own, you may find yourself wanting something more to round out the meal. That’s why we’re exploring a variety of options to pair with this beloved dish.
Herb Buttered Rice Pilaf
A flavorful alternative to traditional Alfredo sides is the herb buttered rice pilaf. This delectable dish is characterized by its simplicity yet bold aromas and tastes. While it can accommodate various ingredients, what sets it apart is its inherent ability to tantalize taste buds with an array of intriguing flavors.
Garlic Bread
A staple in Italian cuisine, garlic bread is a beloved side dish that pairs perfectly with many classic meals. What’s not to love? Its irresistible aroma and flavorful combination of crunchy texture and pungent garlic notes make it an easy choice for home cooks. When paired with the rich, creamy goodness of alfredo sauce, it’s a match made in heaven.
Fresh Salad
For many Italian food enthusiasts, a crisp and revitalizing salad is the perfect way to start or finish a meal. Unlike hot dishes that can become unappetizing when served cold, salads remain appealing even at room temperature. In fact, some innovative combinations might include crunchy croutons that provide a satisfying texture contrast to rich and creamy elements like alfredo sauce.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a delightful twist to many Italian dishes, providing a refreshing contrast to rich sauces like alfredo. When selecting asparagus for grilling, it’s essential to opt for young, tender spears, as older varieties can develop an unpleasant bitterness. This simple yet flavorful side dish is sure to elevate your next Italian-inspired meal.
Garlic Broccoli
As you combine the rich flavors of broccoli and garlic, a harmonious balance is achieved that perfectly complements the creaminess of the alfredo sauce. The slight nutty undertone of the broccoli adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it an excellent choice as a side dish to elevate the overall culinary experience.
Roast Potatoes With Garlic
Satisfyingly aromatic and warm, garlicky roast potatoes provide a delightful contrast to rich dishes like alfredo sauce. By incorporating a medley of fresh herbs, the flavor profile is elevated even further, while the bite-sized portions ensure each mouthful is a delight.
Bacon
Bacon brings a unique dichotomy to the table, boasting a rich smoky flavor and satisfying crunch that provides a welcome respite from the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce. Not only can it serve as a delightful accompaniment to this classic dish, but it can also be incorporated into the Alfredo itself for added depth of flavor. Ultimately, bacon’s versatility makes it an excellent addition to any meal.
Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in these delectable buttermilk mashed potatoes that offer a world of creamy goodness without sacrificing flavor. The subtle tanginess from the buttermilk provides a refreshing twist on traditional mashed potatoes, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. And with its simplicity and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your household.
Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp, a simple yet beloved dish globally, deserves a spot on every seafood enthusiast’s plate. The convenience and flavor it offers make it an ideal accompaniment to any meal. If you’re a fan of the sea’s bounty, what’s holding you back from indulging in this tasty side dish?
Stuffed Mushrooms
For mushroom enthusiasts, stuffed mushrooms serve as a delectable accompaniment to Alfredo dishes. The versatility of this recipe lies in the ability to fill the mushrooms with an assortment of ingredients that complement your main course. Whether you opt for chicken, creamed spinach, or other flavor profiles, the possibilities are endless.
Seafood Duo
Combining lobster and shrimp creates a harmonious seafood pairing that shines in dishes like alfredo sauce. When steamed and buttered, lobster pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp, making it an excellent side dish option for seafood enthusiasts.
Steak
A steak can be a game-changer as a side dish, offering a burst of savory flavor that complements the alfredo sauce. Whether you choose to savor it on its own or blend it seamlessly with the pasta, the rich beef notes will provide a satisfying respite from the creamy sauce and add depth to the overall dining experience.
Creamed Spinach
While the creaminess may persist, the fundamental flavor profiles of an Alfredo sauce and creamed spinach are distinct. The earthy undertones of spinach offer a fascinating contrast to the rich, buttery notes of Alfredo, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the dish as a whole.
Pork Medallions
Infuse your fettuccine alfredo with an unexpected twist by incorporating this pork into the dish. The subtle yet pleasing flavor of the pork won’t overpower the classic alfredo, instead providing a delightful contrast that will keep your taste buds engaged and curious. This subtle addition adds an air of sophistication to the dish, making it perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party.
By introducing a new dimension of flavor, you’ll be able to savor the nuances of each bite, elevating the dining experience and leaving you wanting more.
Cornbread Stuffing With Bacon And Pecans
Savor the delightful harmony of flavors and textures by combining this cornbread stuffing with bacon and pecans with your favorite alfredo sauce. The rich medley of strong flavors and varied textures in this side dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds, creating a perfectly balanced pairing experience when served alongside your alfredo.
Classic Meatballs
When it comes to adding some excitement to your pasta dish, why not try shaking things up with a delicious meatball twist? While chicken or mushroom options are always classics, meatballs bring a unique and unexpected flavor profile to the table. Plus, they offer a more substantial and satisfying bite that will keep you coming back for more.
Green Beans
Green beans have long been a trusted side dish companion to alfredo, offering an intriguing combination of textures and flavors. The versatility of green beans lies in their ability to be prepared in various ways, resulting in distinct characteristics such as charred, garlicky, or other profiles. Adding a touch of black pepper and butter enhances the natural flavor of these green beans, allowing their inherent deliciousness to shine through.
Sautéed Zucchini
While sautéed zucchini provides a delightful contrast to the richness of alfredo, its unique flavors and varied textures can be just as satisfying on their own. If you’re looking for a change of pace or simply want to mix things up, consider adding this versatile vegetable to your meal. And, of course, there’s no rule saying you can’t combine it with your alfredo – the choice is yours!
Grilled Chicken
The classic combination of chicken and alfredo sauce is a staple for a reason – the rich, creamy flavors complement each other beautifully. While it may not be the most adventurous choice, this tried-and-true pairing is always a crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
While fettuccine alfredo may seem like a straightforward dish, the possibilities for side dishes are endless! The beauty lies in its versatility, allowing you to break free from traditional pairings and explore new flavor combinations.
Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and try unusual accompaniments. Consider adding unique spices or herbs to your meatballs to harmonize with the rich alfredo sauce, or substitute sweet potatoes for a delightful twist on the classic yellow potato.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.