Pad Thai is one of the most popular Thai dishes, and you can eat it as an appetizer or as a main course. But what should you serve with Pad Thai? Here are some suggestions for delicious side dishes that will complement this tasty dish perfectly!
You can always serve Pad Thai with a simple salad of greens and cucumbers if you're in a rush. But if you want to make something a little more special, try one of these 15 side dishes:
Why do you need to pair Pad Thai with side dishes?
The reason is that Pad Thai is a dry dish. If you were to eat it by itself, the dryness would be overwhelming, and you might not be able to finish the entire plate. Pairing it with sides helps balance the dish and makes it more enjoyable to eat.
I posted a super easy Pad Thai recipe a while back, and I’ve gotten a lot of requests for a how-to on reheating it. This dish is easy to reheat; just make sure you do it properly, so you don’t end up with soggy noodles. You can check the recipe out here.
What to serve with Pad Thai
If you're looking for some delicious side dishes to complement your Pad Thai, look no further! We've got 13 flavor-packed recipes that perfectly pair with your favorite Thai dish. From easy vegetable stir-fries to hearty grain salads, we've got something for everyone. So get cooking and add some extra flavor to your next meal.
So, what are some good side dishes to serve with Pad Thai?
1 Spring Rolls:
Spring rolls are a classic side dish to serve with Pad Thai. They are light and crispy and provide a refreshing contrast to the dryness of the noodles. I love spring rolls because I can make them ahead of time, and they are so easy to make.
2 Satay:
Satay is another popular choice for a side dish to serve with Pad Thai. The meat is rich in protein and fats, which help offset the noodles' dryness. The grilled meat pairs well with the noodles, and the dipping sauce provides a nice zesty flavor.
The chicken is marinated in a flavorful sauce and then grilled to perfection. It provides a protein-packed alternative to Pad Thai and is the perfect partner to the dish.
3 Green Papaya Salad:
Green papaya salad is a zesty, crunchy, and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of pad thai. The tartness of the green papaya pairs perfectly with the sauce's sweetness, while the peanuts add a nice crunch.
4 Mango with Sticky Rice:
Mango with sticky rice is a classic Thai dessert that is the perfect way to end your meal. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sticky rice. The mango with sticky rice is a classic Thai dessert that is the perfect way to end your meal. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy sticky rice. It's a refreshing and light dessert that will leave you satisfied.
5 Thai Iced Tea:
Thai iced tea is a refreshing drink perfect for sipping after a rich and flavorful meal like pad thai. The tea's sweetness helps balance out the dish's spiciness, and the ice helps refresh your palate.
6 Fresh fruits:
A simple fruit plate is a perfect way to cleanse your palate after eating pad Thai. The sweetness of the fruit helps to balance the saltiness of the noodles, and the freshness of the fruit is a nice contrast to the heaviness of the dish.
7 Fried Bananas:
Fried bananas are popular as a side dish to serve with Pad Thai. They are sweet and crispy and provide a nice contrast to the dryness of the noodles. Fried bananas are also a good source of potassium, which is essential for muscle function.
8 Green Salad:
A salad is a great way to add some freshness to your plate of Pad Thai. The vegetables provide a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor that pairs well with the noodles. The vegetables add a healthy element to the dish, and the salad can help offset the noodles' heaviness.
9 Tom Kha Gai soup:
Soup is a great way to add some moisture to your plate of Pad Thai. The soup can help offset the dryness of the noodles, and the broth can provide a nice flavor. Tom Kha Gai is a soup made with chicken, coconut milk, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and fish sauce. It's a bit spicy, but the coconut milk helps balance the heat. You can find Tom Kha Gai soup at most Thai restaurants.
10 Fried egg:
A fried egg is popular as a side dish to serve with Pad Thai. The egg provides a rich and flavorful contrast to the noodles and can also help bind the ingredients together.
11 Cucumber Salad:
Cucumber salad is a light and refreshing side dish that goes well with Pad Thai. The cucumbers provide a crunchy texture, and the salad dressing gives the dish a bit of sweetness. Besides, the salad is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.
12 Fried Tofu:
Fried tofu is a delicious side dish to serve with Pad Thai. The tofu gives the dish a protein boost, and the fried coating provides a crunchy texture.
13 Curry Puffs:
Curry puffs are another great option for a side dish to serve with Pad Thai. They are similar to spring rolls, but they have a curry flavor that goes well with the spices in the noodles.
14 Chicken Wings:
Chicken wings are great if you want something a little heartier to pair with your Pad Thai. The spicy sauce on the wings compliments the flavors in the noodles, and the chicken provides a filling protein.
15 Vegetable Stir Fry:
A vegetable stir fry is a great way to get your veggies while enjoying Pad Thai's flavors. The vegetables add a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor to the dish.
No matter what side dishes you choose to serve with your Pad Thai, they will help balance out the dryness of the noodles and make the dish more enjoyable to eat. So, don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect combination of flavors for you.
Related questions about Pad Thai dish:
What should I drink with Pad Thai?
Try fruit juice or herbal tea if you're looking for a light, refreshing drink to pair with your Pad Thai. For something a little more filling, go for milk or a smoothie. And, of course, if you're in the mood for alcohol, beer or wine are always good options!
What side dishes go well with Pad Thai?
Some of our favorite side dishes to serve with Pad Thai include fried wontons, spring rolls, fresh fruit, and cucumber salad.
Can I make Pad Thai ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely make Pad Thai ahead of time! It's often even better when made ahead, as the flavors have a chance to meld and develop. Just be sure to reheat it gently so that the noodles don't get mushy.
What can I add to my Pad Thai to make it more flavorful?
You can do a few different things to add more flavor to your Pad Thai.
- Adding protein such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu will give your Pad Thai more flavor and substance.
- Add some chopped peanuts, sugar, or honey to your Pad Thai for a bit of sweetness.
- To add more vegetables to your dish, consider adding bean sprouts, shredded carrots, or zucchini.
- If you want a spicier Pad Thai, add chili flakes or hot sauce to your dish.
- Finally, don't forget the lime! Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice will brighten the flavors in your Pad Thai.
How can I make a healthier Pad Thai dish?
When it comes to making Pad Thai healthier, it depends on what ingredients you use. For example, you could use whole wheat noodles instead of white rice noodles and use less oil in the cooking process. You could add more vegetables to your dishes, like bean sprouts, carrots, and peppers. And finally, if you're looking for a lower-calorie option, you could use tofu instead of chicken or shrimp.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of Pad Thai?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan versions of Pad Thai. To make a vegetarian Pad Thai, omit the shrimp and use tofu instead. For a vegan version, also omit the eggs.
What kind of noodles are used in Pad Thai?
Traditional Pad Thai uses ¼-inch flat rice noodles, but you can also use wheat noodles. The flat rice noodles are made from rice flour and water and are sold in dried form. They need to be soaked in warm water for 15 minutes before cooking.
What is the best protein to use in Pad Thai?
Some of the best proteins to use in Pad Thai include shrimp, chicken, and tofu. You could also use beef or pork, but they take longer to cook.
What vegetables are used in Pad Thai?
The most common vegetables in Pad Thai are bean sprouts, garlic chives, and cabbage. Other vegetables you can use include broccoli, carrots, and snow peas.
What is the best way to cook noodles for Pad Thai?
The best way to cook noodles for Pad Thai is to soak them in warm water for 15 minutes and then cook them in a pan with oil over medium heat. Once they're cooked, add the sauce and other ingredients.
Can I use a different type of noodle for Pad Thai?
Yes, you can use a different type of noodle for Pad Thai. Some people prefer to use wheat noodles made from wheat flour and water. They're sold in both dried and fresh form. If you use dried noodles, soak them in warm water for 15 minutes before cooking.
Can I make Pad Thai without noodles?
Yes, you can make Pad Thai without noodles, but it won't be the same dish. It will be more like a stir-fry than Pad Thai without the noodles. You could use rice or quinoa instead of noodles.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover Pad Thai can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently so that the noodles don't get mushy. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it gently before serving. You could also freeze Pad Thai for up to 2 months.
What is the sauce made of?
Pad Thai sauce typically consists of tamarind paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar. I wrote a post that covers how to make the Pad Thai sauce from scratch.
What is the best way to serve Pad Thai?
Pad Thai usually comes with a side of lime wedges, chopped peanuts, and bean sprouts. You could add shredded carrots, sugar, or honey to your dish.
