Last updated on September 9th, 2024
Shrimp alfredo is – and I cannot say this enough – a luscious and decadent pasta dish. Noodles (usually fetuccine) and shrimp are covered in a creamy sauce that’ll leave your taste buds craving more! And if you’re planning to serve this delicious dish to friends and family, you may be wondering what goes good with shrimp alfredo. If this is you, don’t worry! Find the perfect drink and side dish pairings for your shrimp alfredo.
Shrimp Alfredo Side Ideas
| Category | Pairing Ideas |
|---|---|
| Pasta Types | Fettuccine, Linguini, Angel Hair, Penne |
| Wine | Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc |
| Non-Alcoholic Drinks | Sparkling Water with Lemon, Italian Soda (Pear or Lemon), Iced Tea (Green, White, or Darjeeling), Virgin Mojito, Cucumber Water, Grape Juice with Sparkling Water, Herbal Infusions (Chamomile, Mint) |
| Salad | Caesar Salad, Mixed Greens (Arugula, Romaine, Baby Spinach), Light Vinaigrette Dressing, Fresh Sliced Tomatoes and Cucumbers, Lightly Steamed Broccoli, Asparagus with Lemon |
| Vegetables | Broccoli, Asparagus, String Beans, Roasted Vegetables (Zucchini, Kale, Spinach, Herbed Mushrooms) |
| Bread | Garlic Bread, Cheesy Garlic Bread, Bruschetta, Baguette, Dinner Rolls, Toasted Sourdough |
| Dessert | Tiramisu, Lemon Sorbet |
What Pasta Goes With Alfredo Sauce?
First things first. You’ll want to select good noodles to serve with your shrimp alfredo before figuring out which side dishes to pair it with.
Let us start by saying that shrimp alfredo, or any alfredo for that matter, can be paired with a pasta of any type, including elbow macaroni or even chickpea noodles for those who are gluten sensitive.
- When your pasta is nutrient-dense, good for the planet, packed with 20G of protein, AND super delicious? Then pasta night can be every night!Add custom text here
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However, for this post, we are going to focus on some of the more traditional noodle types typically served in shrimp alfredo.
The most commonly used noodles in alfredo pasta include:
- Fettuccine (or Tagliatelle)
- Linguini
- Angel Hair
- Penne
- If You DonT Get Insatiably Hungry At The Sound Of Fettuccine, You Might Want To See Your Doctor. Our Organic Fettuccine Is Made In Italy In Real Pastificio, Where They Make Amazing Pasta Out Of Durum Wheat Semolina And Generations Of Know-How. This One Mingles With Butter And Lemon, But Alfredo Is Its First Love.
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What Is a Good Wine With Shrimp Alfredo?
What kind of wine goes good with shrimp Alfredo?
If you’re in the mood for a little wine with your creamy shrimp alfredo pasta dish, it is usually best to stick with a dry white wine.
There are, however, plenty of “blush” wines that also pair well with this beloved pasta dish, and even one red wine that we will soon reveal in the segment below!
Best Wine With Shrimp Alfredo
Consider sampling one of the following wines the next time you eat shrimp alfredo:
- Pinot Grigio: Pinot Grigio is a popular light Italian wine. The fruitiness of this “blush” wine really complements the flavors of rich and creamy alfredo.
- Chardonnay: A chardonnay is a dry white wine that enhances the cheesy and buttery flavors of shrimp alfredo.
- Merlot: Though red wines are typically reserved for beef or tomato-based dishes, the berry flavors in this wine actually go very well with alfredo sauce due to its richness.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Zesty and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc is best paired with alfredo sauces and other creamy dishes because its brightness cuts through the rich flavors for a refreshing and unique experience.
Non-Alcoholic Alfredo Pairings
For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, several options pair well with shrimp alfredo.
- Sparkling water with lemon is a simple yet effective choice. The carbonation helps to cut through the richness of the sauce, while the lemon adds a touch of acidity that can brighten the flavors of the dish. This combination can help refresh the palate between bites. For variety, try other citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit.
- Italian sodas can also be a good option. A Sweet contrast to the savory pasta. When selecting an Italian soda, it’s advisable to choose lighter flavors such as pear or lemon, which are less likely to overpower the taste of the shrimp and alfredo sauce.
- Iced tea is another excellent choice, particularly unsweetened versions. The tannins in tea can help cleanse the palate, making it a refreshing accompaniment to the rich alfredo sauce. Green tea or white tea can offer a delicate flavor that won’t compete with the dish, while a light black tea like Darjeeling can provide a bit more robustness without being overwhelming.
- For a bit of sweetness, a virgin mojito can be an interesting pairing. The combination of mint and lime can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, while the sweetness can complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Cucumber water is a subtle yet refreshing option. The light, crisp flavor of cucumber can provide a cool contrast to the warm, rich pasta dish. It’s particularly enjoyable during warmer months.
- For a non-alcoholic alternative to wine, consider grape juice mixed with sparkling water. This combination can mimic some of the flavors of wine. White grape juice is particularly suitable as it’s less likely to visually clash with the pasta.
- Herbal infusions or tisanes can also pair well with shrimp alfredo. A light chamomile tea or a mint infusion can provide a soothing, palate-cleansing effect between bites of the rich pasta.
- Includes twenty-four 11.15 fluid ounce cans of Sanpellegrino Aranciata Rossa Italian Sparkling Drink SNAP and EBT Eligible item
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What’s a Good Side Dish For Shrimp Alfredo?
Because shrimp alfredo is heavy and creamy, you’ll want to cut the richness of the dish by serving it with something light.
Good pairings include vegetables, salads, bright-tasting fruits, garlic bread, and any drink that brings refreshment or light fruitiness (wine, seltzer, lemon water, etc).
Flavors and ingredients you can play around with when serving sides for shrimp alfredo include lemon, lime, balsamic, apple cider vinegar, garlic, parmesan, and fresh cracked pepper.
Avoid serving alfredo dishes with anything overly heavy or riddled with salt or cheese as this will overwhelm the dish. Dressings like ranch or Thousand Island should be avoided when serving salad alongside shrimp alfredo.
Note: When serving up your own dinner or eating at a restaurant, you should feel free to indulge in whatever dressing or side dishes you wish with your shrimp alfredo. Remember, these are only our recommendations; there are no rules when it comes to piecing together a good meal.
What Kind of Salad Goes Good With Shrimp Alfredo
Because shrimp alfredo is so rich, delicious, and creamy, it helps to have something light and refreshing to accompany it.
What better pairing with shrimp alfredo than a zesty salad?
Try mixing up your leafy greens by offering a combination of arugula with romaine or maybe even a handful of baby spinach tossed with green leaf lettuce. No matter your salad craving, just be sure that you keep it light in order to avoid overwhelming the dish.
Something else to consider when pairing a salad with shrimp alfredo is the type of toppings and dressings you will use.
When selecting toppings you should stick with veggie toppings over egg or meat toppings. Good choices include sweet red bell peppers, olives, shaved parmesan, fresh tomatoes, pepperoncini, pickled onions, thinly shaved carrots, and whatever else your heart desires. Feel free to get creative!
Here are a few simple veggie side dishes to pair with your shrimp alfredo the next time you make it:
- Lightly steamed broccoli with sea salt and fresh cracked pepper
- Asparagus with squeezed lemon
- Salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
- Fresh sliced tomatoes and cucumber drizzled with balsamic dressing
Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy Caesar salad is an excellent accompaniment to rich and creamy shrimp alfredo. It provides a refreshing contrast that complements the pasta dish well.
The crisp romaine lettuce leaves coated in zesty Caesar dressing offer a refreshing bite. The dressing’s lemony flavor helps cut through the richness of the alfredo sauce, cleansing your palate between bites of pasta.
Croutons are an essential component of any Caesar salad. These crunchy bread cubes add texture and absorb the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
To elevate your Caesar salad, consider adding some extras. A sprinkle of freshly shaved Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory note. For those who enjoy a bolder flavor, anchovies can be a tasty addition, providing a strong, briny taste.
The purpose of pairing Caesar salad with shrimp alfredo isn’t to overpower the main dish. Instead, it creates a balanced meal that offers variety in flavors and textures. The combination of shrimp alfredo with garlic bread and Caesar salad results in a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.
What Vegetable Goes With Shrimp Alfredo?
There are a few vegetables that go well with shrimp alfredo. Among these are broccoli, asparagus, and string beans. All three of these are wonderful served with a little lemon juice squeezed over the top. The zest from the lemon is an excellent match for the rich, buttery, and luscious taste of alfredo pasta.
Other types of vegetables, such as sweet potato or corn may prove to be too starchy to pair with pasta.
Looking for even more vegetable options to serve with your shrimp alfredo? Try sauteing a bit of kale, spinach, or herbed mushrooms as unique side dish pairings for this popular pasta dish.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables provide a balance to the rich, creamy pasta dish while adding essential nutrients and fiber to your meal.
Asparagus, when roasted, develops a tender-crisp texture and slightly nutty flavor that complements the alfredo sauce. Broccoli offers a deep, savory taste when roasted, with crispy edges providing textural contrast. Zucchini, sliced and roasted, takes on a sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
Tips for roasting vegetables:
- Roast at 425°F (220°C) for optimal caramelization and texture
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting
- Cook until tender and lightly browned for the best flavor
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over vegetables after roasting for added flavor
- Consider roasting a mix of vegetables for variety in taste, texture, and nutrients
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking
Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of vegetables and creates varied textures, and the fiber content in these vegetables helps balance the richness of the alfredo sauce.
What Bread Goes Well With Shrimp Alfredo?
Garlic bread is the most popular choice to serve with shrimp alfredo. Crispy, crunchy, and flavorful, why wouldn’t this be commonly served with many Italian pasta dishes? Garlic bread will provide a contrast to the creamy pasta, adding texture and aroma to your meal.
And yes, this is my usual go-to!
When eating shrimp alfredo, try a piece of warm, golden-brown garlic bread. The crispy exterior and soft interior offer different textures, while the garlic aroma is a wonderful bonus.
Try these other versions of garlic bread to give it an extra oomph:
- Cheesy garlic bread topped with mozzarella or parmesan for additional flavor
- Bruschetta-style with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a different taste
Tip: Use the garlic bread to absorb any remaining alfredo sauce on your plate. This is both enjoyable and efficient.
And if you wanna try other breads:
- A baguette can provide textural contrast
- Dinner rolls offer a milder option
- Toasted sourdough that can contribute a tartness similar to citrusy flavors
What Dessert Complements Shrimp Alfredo?
After enjoying a rich and creamy pasta dish, an appropriate dessert can enhance your overall dining experience. The right sweet course can complement your meal without overwhelming your palate.
I suggest you try these two!
Tiramisu
Tiramisu’s layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with creamy mascarpone cheese and a dusting of cocoa powder works well after shrimp alfredo for several reasons.
The coffee and cocoa in tiramisu provide a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the alfredo sauce.
The light, airy texture of the mascarpone cream offers a pleasant contrast to the heavier pasta dish.
If you’re worrying that this dessert is too rich, fret not! When served in appropriate portions, tiramisu can satisfy your sweet tooth without being excessively filling.
Lemon Sorbet
For those preferring a lighter option, lemon sorbet my next recommendation.
The tart, citrusy flavor helps cleanse the palate, removing any lingering creaminess from the alfredo sauce.
Being dairy-free and low in calories, lemon sorbet is less likely to leave you feeling overly full.
For an adult variation, consider adding a small amount of limoncello to your lemon sorbet. This Italian lemon liqueur can enhance the flavor and provide a more authentic Italian dining experience.
A Note on Complementary Flavors
Lemon Zest or Juice
Acidic flavor helps balance the rich creaminess of the alfredo sauce. The citrus notes can enhance the overall taste profile of the dish and make it more refreshing.
There are several ways to incorporate lemon:
- Zesting: Grate the outer peel of a lemon directly over the pasta just before serving. This adds a concentrated burst of lemon flavor without additional moisture.
- Fresh juice: Squeeze a small amount of lemon juice over the dish. Start with a little and adjust to taste, as too much can overpower the other flavors.
- Lemon wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side, allowing diners to add as much or as little lemon juice as they prefer.
The addition of lemon can also help to brighten the flavors of the shrimp, making the seafood taste fresher and more vibrant.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is a traditional component of alfredo sauce, but adding extra to your shrimp alfredo can significantly enhance its flavor!
You’ll get more:
- Saltiness: Parmesan adds a salty element that can round out the flavors of the sauce and shrimp.
- Umami: The cheese provides a savory, umami taste that deepens the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Texture: Freshly grated Parmesan can add a pleasant textural contrast to the smooth sauce.
For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated varieties. Freshly grated Parmesan has a more intense flavor and melts more smoothly into the dish. Grate the cheese directly over the hot pasta just before serving to maximize its impact.
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Now that you have an idea of what to serve with your shrimp alfredo, it’d be wrong to let you leave without offering up a great shrimp alfredo recipe!
Try the recipe below and pair it with any of our previously mentioned delicious bread, side dish, or wine suggestions.
Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
- 1 pound pre-cooked shrimp
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 ounces cream cheese softened & cut into smaller pieces
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil your fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
- While the noodles are boiling, remove the tails from the shrimp if they are still on. (I have a guide on perfectly cooking shrimp, in case you wanna cook instead of buying pre-cooked)
- Add your butter to a pan with high sides and melt over a gentle heat before adding your minced garlic.
- Cook garlic in the butter until fragrant. Be careful not to burn.
- Once your butter is melted and your garlic becomes fragrant, add your cream cheese and heavy cream to the pot. Simmer this mixture on medium heat until it becomes bubbly.
- Add your shrimp to the bubbling mixture, allowing it to continue to simmer for 5-6 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through. If your sauce is bubbling very rapidly, consider lowering the heat a pinch to prevent burning.
- Once your shrimp is heated through, add your parmesan cheese and stir until well incorporated.
- Enjoy and Serve!
FAQs On What To Serve With Shrimp Alfredo
Is shrimp alfredo healthy?
Shrimp alfredo isn’t typically healthy. Though there are substitutions you can make to make the dish lighter.
Because alfredo of any kind are notoriously (and deliciously) luscious, they aren’t the kinds of meals you’ll want to consume on a regular basis when counting calories. The offenders within the dish include heavy cream, butter, and even the noodles themselves for those that are carb conscious.
Still, shrimp alfredo recipes can be altered to replace regular butter with cholesterol-free plant-based butter and the heavy cream with yogurt, low-fat cream cheese, or plain milk. Know that these variations may cause your alfredo to turn out much differently from the original, but who knows, you may like the resulting lighter alfredo even better!
What other types of alfredo are there?
Shrimp alfredo is a bit of a deviation from the traditional chicken alfredo most people know and love. In addition to shrimp and chicken alfredo, there is also alfredo that is served without any meat at all, known as fettuccine already. Occasionally, you may even find a recipe for alfredo that calls for beef! Who knew?
Is shrimp alfredo an Italian dish?
Alfredo has Italian roots. However, it is much more popular in the United States than it is in Italy. In fact, some sources state that you will be very hard-pressed to find a single place in Italy that actually serves alfredo (of any sort) in Italy.
What Goes Good With Shrimp Alfredo? A lot!
There are many foods that pair well with shrimp alfredo. Just be sure that whatever you choose is light, zesty, and citrusy, as these tend to be the best pairings for entrees that tend to be very rich.
Good options to serve with shrimp alfredo include dry white wines, zingy vinaigrette salads, broccoli or asparagus squeezed with lemon juice. Give them a try and see what you think!
Bon appetit!
More pairings you might love:
- What Goes Well With Pumpernickel Bread
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- How To Make Pasta Taste Better
Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Try this recipe and pair it with any of your favourite delicious breads, side dishes, or wines.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
- 1 pound pre-cooked shrimp
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 ounces cream cheese softened & cut into smaller pieces
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil your fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
- While the noodles are boiling, remove the tails from the shrimp if they are still on.
- Add your butter to a pan with high sides and melt over a gentle heat before adding your minced garlic.
- Cook garlic in the butter until fragrant. Be careful not to burn.
- Once your butter is melted and your garlic becomes fragrant, add your cream cheese and heavy cream to the pot. Simmer this mixture on medium heat until it becomes bubbly.
- Add your shrimp to the bubbling mixture, allowing it to continue to simmer for 5-6 minutes or until the shrimp is heated through. If your sauce is bubbling very rapidly, consider lowering the heat a pinch to prevent burning.
- Once your shrimp is heated through, add your parmesan cheese and stir until well incorporated.
