Shrimp alfredo is a classic pasta dish that combines tender shrimp, rich and creamy alfredo sauce and fettuccine noodles. While the shrimp and sauce are the stars of the show adding vegetables can provide texture, color, and valuable nutrients to round out the meal.
When choosing what vegetables to serve with shrimp alfredo, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want vegetables that will complement the flavor and texture of the dish. Crunchy crisp vegetables pair well with the soft and supple shrimp and pasta. Second, aim for vegetables that will add color and visual appeal to the creamy white alfredo sauce. Bright green, red orange or yellow vegetables make for an attractive presentation. Finally, select vegetables that are in season and at the peak of freshness. In-season produce simply tastes better.
With all that in mind, here are some of the best vegetable side dishes to serve with shrimp alfredo:
Focaccia
Warm oven-baked focaccia bread makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich and creamy alfredo sauce. Focaccia is a flatbread topped with olive oil herbs like rosemary and oregano, and sometimes olives or onions. It has a delightfully chewy texture and absorbs sauce beautifully. Serve focaccia on the side or cut into wedges for dipping into the sauce.
Garlic Bread
What better to serve with an Italian pasta dish than garlic bread? The combination of butter, garlic, and bread is hard to beat. Make it extra special by using fresh baguette or ciabatta and mixing parsley, oregano or Parmesan into the garlic butter spread. The flavors of garlic bread are a nice complement to shrimp alfredo.
Caramelized Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms lend an earthy, umami flavor to balance the richness of the shrimp and alfredo. Chopped mushrooms caramelize beautifully when cooked in olive oil or butter with garlic and herbs. They add great texture too. Try cremini, shiitake, oyster or portobello mushrooms. Mix in a little white wine or lemon juice for extra flair.
Steamed Asparagus
Asparagus is a classic vegetable side for pasta primavera, and it pairs equally well with shrimp alfredo. The vibrant green color brightens up the plate. Steaming asparagus quickly preserves its crisp-tender texture, bright green color and slightly grassy, earthy flavor that complements the shrimp.
Bruschetta
Bruschetta makes an easy Italian-inspired appetizer or side to serve with shrimp alfredo. Grill or toast bread slices, then top with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and seasonings. The fresh garden flavors and colors of bruschetta liven up this pasta dish.
Caesar Salad
A light and crunchy Caesar salad helps balance the richness of shrimp alfredo. The sharp, tangy dressing, toasted croutons and Parmesan cheese are a nice contrast to the creaminess of the pasta. Chopped romaine lettuce, shredded Parmesan, croutons and a drizzle of Caesar dressing turns this into an easy side salad.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven to become crisp, nutty and sweet – a perfect match for shrimp alfredo. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic, spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F until browned and tender. They make an elegant and tasty side dish.
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
A quick sauté of fresh spinach with olive oil and garlic adds color, texture and nutrients. Spinach has a mild flavor that pairs well with creamy pasta. Sauté baby spinach leaves just until wilted, then season with minced garlic, salt, pepper and a squeeze of lemon. The lemon brightens up the rich alfredo sauce.
Shrimp alfredo is so versatile – it can be served as an entree, for a special occasion, or even a quick weeknight meal. With a variety of vegetable sides like crunchy bruschetta, roasted Brussels sprouts, garlicky sautéed spinach or cheesy garlic bread, you can create a colorful, flavorful and well-balanced Italian feast. Experiment with different veggie combinations and discover your favorites to accompany shrimp alfredo.
More Recipes To Make
