What to Serve with Lemon Pasta: Unlock 45 Culinary Pairings

Ready to embark on a zestful journey pairing the perfect dishes with your tangy, refreshing lemon pasta?

Lemon pasta, with its delightful citrusy kick, can turn into a gastronomic extravaganza with just the right side or main to complement it.

So, strap in, we’ve curated a list of fantastic options for you to explore. Go ahead, take a look, and discover the ideal pairings to elevate your lemon pasta experience!

Now, who needs a map when you have categories? Navigate your way to deliciousness below!

Seafood

Seafood pairs exceptionally well with lemon pasta due to its light, fresh flavors. Lemon is a natural enhancer for seafood, helping to cut through any potential “fishiness” and highlight the natural sweetness.

Some examples include grilled or baked fish such as salmon or halibut, along with shellfish like shrimp, scallops, or steamed mussels and clams.

Grilled Shrimp

Grilled shrimp is easy to make and its sweet, delicate flavor is a wonderful match for the tangy and refreshing notes of lemon pasta.

To pair, simply grill the shrimp with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, then serve it on top of or alongside your lemon pasta.

Easy Oven Baked Salmon

This recipe for easy oven-baked salmon is a good pairing with lemon pasta because both dishes feature the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon. The acidity of the lemon in the pasta complements the richness of the salmon, creating a well-balanced and flavorful meal.

To serve, you can plate the salmon on a bed of lemon pasta, allowing the flavors to mingle together, or serve the pasta as a side dish alongside the salmon. Overall, this combination is a delicious and satisfying option for seafood lovers.

Loving this? Easy Oven Baked Salmon on A Couple Cooks is where you find the instruction.

Steamed Clams Recipe

This recipe for steamed clams is a good pairing with lemon pasta because both dishes feature fresh, light flavors that complement each other well. The acidity of the lemon in the pasta helps to cut through any potential richness from the butter in the clams, creating a balanced and refreshing combination.

To serve, you can plate the steamed clams on top of a bed of lemon pasta or serve the pasta on the side, allowing the flavors to mingle as desired.

Give your taste buds a treat with this Steamed Clams Recipe from The Slow Roasted Italian.

Pan-Seared Lemon Butter Scallops

This recipe for pan-seared lemon butter scallops is a good pairing with lemon pasta because both dishes feature the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon. The tanginess of the lemon juice in the scallop sauce complements the lemon pasta, creating a harmonious and cohesive flavor profile. Serving the scallops on top of the lemon pasta allows the flavors to meld together, providing a delightful combination of seafood and citrus.

The acidity of the lemon helps to cut through any richness in the scallops, balancing the flavors and preventing the dish from becoming too heavy. The lemon pasta provides a light and refreshing base for the scallops, allowing their natural sweetness to shine. Overall, this pairing offers a delicious and well-balanced meal that is perfect for seafood and pasta lovers alike.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Pan-Seared Lemon Butter Scallops on Lena’s Kitchen.

Halibut Recipe (With Lemon Butter Sauce)

This halibut recipe with lemon butter sauce is a fantastic pairing with lemon pasta. The light and fresh flavors of the seafood complement the tangy and citrusy notes of the lemon pasta. The lemon butter sauce adds richness and depth to both the halibut and the pasta, creating a harmonious and delicious combination.

To serve, simply plate the pan-seared halibut fillets on top of the lemon pasta and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over both. It’s a perfect dish for seafood lovers looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Feeling inspired? Try this Halibut Recipe (With Lemon Butter Sauce) from Wholesome Yum | Easy healthy recipes. 10 ingredients or less..

Buttery Lobster Pasta with Fresh Grape Tomatoes

This recipe is a good pairing because the buttery lobster complements the fresh grape tomatoes and lemon pasta. The richness of the lobster and butter balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and lemon, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

To serve, simply plate the lemon pasta and top it with the buttery lobster mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together. The dish can be garnished with fresh parsley for added freshness.

Here’s the Buttery Lobster Pasta with Fresh Grape Tomatoes recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of Slimming Eats.

Poultry

Poultry complements lemon pasta by providing a savory contrast to the tangy, citrusy pasta. The richness of the poultry, especially when roasted or grilled, harmonizes well with the acidity of the lemon.

Choices such as roasted or grilled chicken and turkey dishes are popular pairings.

Grilled Chicken Breast

A simple grilled chicken breast is a healthy and easy option that pairs nicely with lemon pasta. The charred flavor from the grill complements the citrusy pasta.

Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a bit of lemon juice, then grill and serve alongside the pasta.

Garlic Butter Roast Chicken

This recipe for garlic butter roast chicken is a good pairing with lemon pasta because the savory flavors of the chicken complement the tangy and citrusy flavors of the pasta. The richness of the roasted chicken enhances the acidity of the lemon, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

To serve it with lemon pasta, simply plate a portion of the chicken alongside a serving of the pasta, allowing the flavors to mingle on the plate. Enjoy the combination of the tender chicken and the zesty pasta for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Garlic Butter Roast Chicken on Spend With Pennies.

Chicken Piccata + Video

The recipe for chicken piccata is a good pairing with lemon pasta because both dishes feature the bright and tangy flavors of lemon. The savory and tender chicken piccata complements the acidity of the lemon pasta, creating a well-balanced and flavorful meal.

To serve, simply place the chicken piccata on top of a bed of lemon pasta and spoon the delicious sauce over both dishes. The combination of the two creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please.

Feeling inspired? Try this Chicken Piccata + Video from Kevin Is Cooking.

Chicken Marsala Recipe

This chicken Marsala recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a savory contrast to the tangy and citrusy flavors of the pasta. The richness of the chicken, especially when seared to a golden crust, complements the acidity of the lemon in the pasta.

To serve, you can plate the chicken Marsala alongside a generous portion of lemon pasta, allowing the flavors to complement each other on the same plate. The creamy polenta mentioned in the recipe can also serve as a side dish to enhance the overall meal.

Why not try Chicken Marsala Recipe from Feasting At Home today?

Grilled Turkey Tenderloin

This recipe for grilled turkey tenderloin is a good pairing with lemon pasta because the savory and smoky flavors from the grilled turkey complement the tangy and citrusy flavors of the lemon pasta. The richness of the turkey tenderloin enhances the acidity of the pasta, creating a balanced and flavorful combination.

To serve, simply plate a portion of the grilled turkey tenderloin alongside a serving of lemon pasta, allowing the flavors to mingle and complement each other on the plate.

Craving this? Check out the Grilled Turkey Tenderloin recipe from Julie’s Eats & Treats ®.

Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast

This recipe for garlic herb butter roasted turkey breast is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a savory and rich contrast to the tangy and citrusy flavors of the pasta. The roasted turkey breast, with its crispy skin and flavorful herb butter, complements the acidity of the lemon in the pasta.

To serve, simply slice the roasted turkey breast and serve it alongside a plate of lemon pasta for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Sounds interesting? Check out this Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Turkey Breast from RecipeTin Eats.

Garlic Butter Stuffed Chicken Breast

This recipe for garlic butter stuffed chicken breast is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it balances the flavors and textures. The savory and rich chicken breast complements the tangy and citrusy pasta, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

To serve it with lemon pasta, simply plate the chicken breast alongside a serving of the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Drizzle some fresh lemon juice over both the chicken and pasta for an extra burst of flavor.

Tempted to cook this? Garlic Butter Stuffed Chicken Breast from NatashasKitchen.com is where you find the whole recipe.

Salads

A crisp, fresh salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the zest of lemon pasta. The raw crunch of the vegetables and the tang of a vinaigrette dressing complement the pasta’s citrusy notes.

Options could include mixed greens, spinach, or arugula salads.

Mixed Green Salad

A basic mixed green salad is simple and light, providing a refreshing contrast to the pasta. With a mix of lettuce, spinach, arugula, and a light vinaigrette, this salad enhances the lemon flavor in the pasta. Serve alongside the pasta for a light, balanced meal.

(Such a simple salad also works great as a side to manicotti.)

Strawberry Spinach Salad

This recipe for strawberry spinach salad is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a refreshing contrast to the zestiness of the pasta. The crispness of the baby spinach, the sweetness of the strawberries, and the tanginess of the balsamic dressing complement the citrusy notes of the lemon pasta.

To serve, lightly dress the salad and serve it alongside the lemon pasta, allowing people to add more dressing if desired. The combination of flavors and textures will create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Check out this delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad recipe from Simple Joy.

Caprese Salad

The caprese salad is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a refreshing and light contrast to the citrusy flavors of the pasta. The juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil provide a burst of freshness that complements the tangy notes of the lemon pasta.

To serve, you can enjoy the Caprese salad alongside the lemon pasta as a side dish or even incorporate the salad into the pasta by tossing it together for a more vibrant and well-rounded meal.

Why not try Caprese Salad from Amanda’s Cookin’ today?

5 Minute Lemon Arugula Salad

This recipe for a 5-minute lemon arugula salad is a great pairing with lemon pasta because it complements the citrusy flavors of the pasta. The fresh arugula adds a crisp and peppery element to the dish, while the tangy vinaigrette dressing enhances the zestiness of the lemon pasta.

Serving the salad alongside the pasta provides a refreshing contrast and adds a healthy, vibrant element to the meal.

Give your taste buds a treat with this 5 Minute Lemon Arugula Salad from Life As A Strawberry.

Greek Salad Recipe

This Greek salad recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a refreshing and tangy contrast to the citrusy notes of the pasta. The crispness of the vegetables, the briny olives, and the creamy feta cheese complement the zestiness of the lemon pasta, creating a well-balanced and flavorful meal.

To serve it together, simply plate the lemon pasta alongside a generous portion of the Greek salad, allowing the flavors to mingle and enhance each other.

Here’s the Greek Salad Recipe recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of Taming Twins.

Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad with Herbed White Beans

This recipe for grilled romaine Caesar salad with herbed white beans is a great pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a refreshing and light contrast to the citrusy flavors of the pasta. The grilled romaine adds a smoky and charred element to the salad, while the herbed white beans add a creamy and savory component. The tangy Caesar dressing and vegan parmesan cheese also complement the zestiness of the lemon pasta.

Serve the salad alongside the lemon pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.

Check out this delicious Grilled Romaine Caesar Salad with Herbed White Beans recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Nicoise Salad (French salad with tuna)

This recipe for Nicoise salad is a great pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a balance of flavors and textures. The crisp vegetables and tangy vinaigrette in the salad complement the citrusy notes of the pasta, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal.

To serve, simply plate the lemon pasta alongside the Nicoise salad, allowing guests to enjoy both dishes together. The combination of these two dishes will provide a well-rounded and delicious dining experience.

Sounds interesting? Check out this Nicoise Salad (French salad with tuna) from RecipeTin Eats.

Cooked Vegetables

Cooked vegetables add a different texture and flavor profile that can complement the pasta. Depending on how they’re prepared, these vegetables can add a smokey, hearty, or buttery element that balances the tartness of the pasta.

Choices such as asparagus, brussels sprouts, zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants prepared via roasting, grilling, steaming, or sautéing are often favored.

Sautéed Zucchini

Sautéing zucchini in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper gives it a soft texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs nicely with the tartness of lemon pasta. Serve this easy-to-make dish alongside the pasta.

Perfect Roasted Asparagus

The recipe for roasted asparagus is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it adds a fresh and vibrant element to the dish. The roasted asparagus brings a smoky flavor and a slight crunch, which complements the tartness of the lemon pasta.

Serve the roasted asparagus on the side or mix it into the pasta for a delicious and well-rounded meal.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Perfect Roasted Asparagus on Cookie and Kate.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it adds a contrasting texture and flavor to the dish. The roasted Brussels sprouts provide a smoky and slightly sweet taste, which complements the tartness of the lemon pasta.

Serving the balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts on the side or mixing them into the pasta can enhance the overall taste and provide a satisfying combination of flavors.

Treat yourself to this amazing Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts from Detoxinista.

Grilled Bell Peppers

Grilling bell peppers gives them a smoky, charred flavor that provides a hearty contrast to the lightness of the pasta. You can grill a variety of colorful bell peppers for a vibrant, flavorful side dish.

(Grilled bell peppers also work well as an Italian meatballs side.)

Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan

This recipe for roasted asparagus with parmesan is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a contrasting texture and flavor to the dish. The roasted asparagus adds a smoky and slightly nutty taste, while the parmesan cheese adds a rich and salty element. The lemon pasta, on the other hand, brings a tangy and refreshing taste.

To serve, simply plate the lemon pasta and top it with the roasted asparagus and parmesan, creating a delicious and well-balanced meal.

Give your taste buds a treat with this Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan from Olga in the Kitchen.

Barbecue Tofu Veggie Skewers

This recipe for barbecue tofu veggie skewers is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it adds a contrasting texture and flavor to the dish. The grilled tofu and vegetables provide a smoky and hearty element that complements the tartness of the lemon pasta.

Serving the skewers alongside the pasta adds a satisfying and balanced meal with a combination of grilled and fresh flavors.

Feeling inspired? Try this Barbecue Tofu Veggie Skewers from Last Ingredient.

Instant Pot Ratatouille

The recipe for Instant Pot ratatouille is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a flavorful and hearty vegetable side dish that complements the tartness of the pasta. The ratatouille’s combination of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes adds a variety of textures and flavors that enhance the overall meal.

To serve, simply plate the lemon pasta and top it with a generous portion of ratatouille, allowing the flavors to mingle together for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Tempted to cook this? Instant Pot Ratatouille from Paint The Kitchen Red is where you find the whole recipe.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

The stuffed bell peppers recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it adds a contrasting texture and flavor to the meal. The hearty and savory stuffed peppers complement the tartness of the lemon pasta, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dish.

Serve the stuffed bell peppers alongside the lemon pasta for a complete and delicious meal.

Why not try Stuffed Bell Peppers from A Pinch of Healthy today?

Appetizers

Antipasti or other appetizers offer a delightful way to start your meal, adding variety and contrast to the main dish. Their flavors can range from salty to creamy, offering a balance to the citrusy pasta.

Options may include a variety of cheeses, cold cuts, and olives.

Cheese Board

A simple cheese board offers a range of flavors and textures to complement lemon pasta. Choose a mix of hard and soft cheeses, such as cheddar, brie, and blue cheese. The richness of the cheese can balance the tartness of the pasta.

Olives and Pickles

A plate of mixed olives and pickles can provide a salty, briny counterpoint to the pasta. They require no preparation – simply serve a variety of your favorite types.

Charcuterie Board

The charcuterie board recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a variety of flavors, textures, and colors that complement the citrusy and refreshing taste of the pasta. The spicy and savory salamis add a bold contrast to the pasta, while the creamy cheeses provide a rich and smooth element. The roasted vegetables and fruits add a touch of sweetness and freshness, balancing out the overall flavor profile.

To serve, enjoy a bite of the charcuterie board followed by a forkful of lemon pasta to create a harmonious and satisfying combination of flavors.

Why not try How to Build a Dinner-Worthy Charcuterie Board from Snixy Kitchen today?

Peach Caprese Skewers

The recipe for peach caprese skewers is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it complements the citrusy flavors of the pasta. The sweetness of the peaches and the tanginess of the balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast to the pasta dish.

To serve, you can enjoy the skewers as appetizers before the lemon pasta or serve them alongside the pasta as a light and flavorful accompaniment.

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Peach Caprese Skewers recipe, courtesy of The Creative Bite.

Stuffing Stuffed Mushrooms

The recipe for stuffing stuffed mushrooms is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a contrast in flavors and textures. The earthy and savory taste of the mushrooms complements the tangy and citrusy flavor of the pasta.

Serving the stuffed mushrooms as an appetizer before the lemon pasta allows for a balanced and diverse meal experience.

Whip up this Stuffing Stuffed Mushrooms from The Kitchen is My Playground.

Antipasto Skewers with Marinated Mozzarella Balls

The recipe for antipasto skewers with marinated mozzarella balls is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it complements the citrusy flavors of the pasta. The tangy marinated mozzarella, salty pepperoni, and briny artichoke hearts and olives add a depth of flavors that enhance the brightness of the lemon pasta.

Serving the skewers alongside the pasta creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

Treat yourself to this amazing Antipasto Skewers with Marinated Mozzarella Balls from A Saucy Kitchen.

Breads

The richness and texture of bread provide a satisfying counterpoint to the light and zesty lemon pasta. Especially when flavored with garlic or herbs, bread can add depth to your meal.

Examples could be garlic bread or various artisan breads.

Sliced Baguette

A simple sliced baguette provides a satisfying contrast to lemon pasta. The crunchy crust and soft interior of the baguette offer a change in texture. Serve it alongside the pasta with a dish of olive oil for dipping.

Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread, with its distinct tangy flavor and crusty texture, can hold up well against the strong flavors of lemon pasta. Serve the same way you’d serve a sliced baguette.

Garlic Bread

With its rich, savory flavor, garlic bread can balance the zesty tang of lemon pasta. To prepare, spread slices of bread with a mix of butter, minced garlic, and herbs, then bake until golden.

Garlic bread is also a great side for minestrone soup and pairs well with Zuppa Toscana.

Caprese Bruschetta

The caprese bruschetta recipe is a good pairing with lemon pasta because it provides a contrasting texture and flavor to the meal. The crunchy and toasted baguette slices complement the soft and tangy pasta, while the fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a burst of freshness and color. The balsamic glaze drizzle adds a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity of the lemon pasta.

To serve, you can have the caprese bruschetta as an appetizer or side dish alongside the lemon pasta, allowing the flavors to complement each other.

Treat yourself to this amazing Caprese Bruschetta from House of Yumm.

Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini

This recipe for classic roasted tomato crostini is a great pairing with lemon pasta because it offers a contrasting texture and flavor. The crunchy and savory crostini topped with creamy goat cheese and roasted tomatoes adds a delicious depth to the light and zesty lemon pasta.

Serve the crostini alongside the pasta as an appetizer or side dish, allowing guests to enjoy the different flavors and textures together.

Loving this? Classic Roasted Tomato Crostini on Not Entirely Average is where you find the instruction.

Garlic Rosemary Herb Focaccia

This garlic rosemary herb focaccia recipe is a great pairing with lemon pasta because the flavors complement each other well. The garlic and herbs in the bread add depth and savory notes that enhance the light and zesty flavors of the lemon pasta.

Serve the warm focaccia alongside the pasta as a delicious and satisfying accompaniment.

Feeling inspired? Try this Garlic Rosemary Herb Focaccia from Sally’s Baking Addiction.

(By the way, here are some great ideas on what to serve with focaccia.)

Pickled and Fermented Foods

The tartness and depth of flavor in pickled and fermented foods make them a unique pairing with lemon pasta. They can enhance the acidity of the pasta while adding their own complex flavor profiles.

Some examples include pickles, olives, sauerkraut, kimchi, or other pickled or fermented vegetables.

Dill Pickles

Dill pickles are a simple and readily available option. Their crunch and tartness can complement the brightness of lemon pasta. Serve them as a side or chop them up for a garnish.

(These work great with all sorts of dishes. For instance, you can pair them with Italian beef sandwiches.)

Marinated Olives

Offering a variety of marinated olives can add salty and briny notes to your meal. Both green and black olives can work well, each providing its unique flavor.

Sauerkraut

This fermented cabbage dish adds a tangy crunch that matches well with lemon pasta. It’s typically available in most supermarkets, but you can also make it at home if you prefer.

Pickled Red Onions

This recipe for pickled red onions is a good pairing with lemon pasta because the tartness and complexity of the pickled onions complement the acidity of the lemon pasta. The pickled onions add a burst of flavor and texture, balancing out the brightness of the pasta.

To serve, simply top the lemon pasta with a generous amount of the pickled red onions for a tangy and refreshing twist.

Tempted to cook this? Pickled Red Onions from Delish D’Lites is where you find the whole recipe.

Quick Refrigerator Pickled Jalapeños

This recipe for quick refrigerator pickled jalapeños is a good pairing with lemon pasta because the tartness and complexity of the pickled jalapeños can enhance the acidity of the pasta. The tangy and spicy flavors of the pickled jalapeños can provide a delicious contrast to the bright and zesty flavors of the lemon pasta.

To serve, simply sprinkle some of the pickled jalapeños on top of the lemon pasta or mix them into the dish for an added kick of flavor.

Dive into deliciousness with this Quick Refrigerator Pickled Jalapeños from Flavour and Savour.