What goes with pasta for dinner?

It depends on the kind of pasta and the flavor profile you're going for! Here are some ideas:

Classic Italian Combinations:

* Tomato Sauce: Spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni with a simple tomato sauce, garlic, and basil.

* Creamy Sauce: Fettuccine Alfredo, penne with a creamy pesto sauce, or ravioli with a creamy mushroom sauce.

* Meat Sauce: Lasagna, spaghetti with meatballs, or penne with Bolognese sauce.

* Seafood Sauce: Linguine with clams, spaghetti alle vongole (with clams and white wine), or shrimp scampi.

Beyond the Basics:

* Asian-Inspired: Stir-fried pasta with Asian-style sauces, vegetables, and protein like chicken or tofu.

* Mexican-Inspired: Pasta with a spicy chili sauce, black beans, and cheese.

* Mediterranean: Pasta with roasted vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and herbs.

* Spicy: Pasta with a spicy arrabiata sauce, chorizo sausage, or jalapeños.

Sides:

* Salad: A simple salad with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to pasta.

* Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment for pasta dishes.

* Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil.

* Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini add flavor and texture.

Don't forget the protein!

* Chicken: Grilled, roasted, or breaded chicken is a popular addition to pasta dishes.

* Shrimp: Grilled or sauteed shrimp adds a touch of luxury.

* Sausage: Italian sausage, chorizo, or other types of sausage can add a savory flavor.

* Ground Beef: A staple in many pasta dishes, ground beef can be used in sauces or meatballs.

For dessert, consider:

* Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert with layers of ladyfingers, coffee, and mascarpone cheese.

* Gelato: A creamy and refreshing Italian ice cream.

* Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream.

Ultimately, the best way to choose what goes with your pasta is to consider your own personal preferences and what you have on hand!