What to Serve with Pad Thai: 24 Delicious Pairings
If you’re like me, you love pad Thai. This iconic stir-fried noodle dish is a favorite at Thai restaurants and for good reason. Its unique combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it incredibly satisfying.
But have you ever wondered what to serve with pad Thai to make your meal more enjoyable? In this blog post, I’ll share some of the best side dishes drinks, and desserts that pair well with pad Thai.
Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these suggestions will help you create a memorable and balanced meal.
Understanding Pad Thai Flavors
Before I dive into what to serve with Pad Thai, it’s essential to understand the unique flavors that make it such a beloved dish. Authentic Pad Thai is made with sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors.
The magic happens when these flavors come together harmoniously. Here are some key ingredients that contribute to the flavors of Pad Thai:
- Tamarind Paste: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Fish Sauce: Provides a salty, umami taste.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth and savoriness.
- Lime Juice: Brings a fresh, zesty element.
- Crushed Peanuts: Offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Bean Sprouts: Add freshness and a mild crunch.
Understanding these flavors will help us choose side dishes that complement and enhance the Pad Thai meal. Now, let’s explore some traditional Thai accompaniments that go well with Pad Thai.
Traditional Thai Accompaniments for Pad Thai
To start, let’s look at some traditional Thai accompaniments that you’ll often find served with pad Thai at Thai restaurants:
- Bean sprouts: Fresh and crunchy, they add a nice texture contrast to the soft noodles.
- Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbal note that brightens up the dish.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds a tangy zing that enhances the overall flavor.
- Crushed peanuts: Adds a nutty, crunchy element that complements the savory noodles.
- Chili flakes or sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, adding chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the dish.
These accompaniments are simple yet effective in enhancing the flavors of pad Thai. They’re also easy to prepare, making them great options whether you’re making homemade pad Thai or enjoying takeout.
Appetizers to Serve with Pad Thai
When planning a meal with Pad Thai, choosing the right appetizers can set the tone for the entire dining experience. From crispy spring rolls to tangy soups, these appetizers not only complement the main dish but also offer a delightful introduction to the flavors of Thai cuisine.
Thai Spring Rolls
Thai Spring Rolls are a popular choice at any Thai restaurant and for good reason. These crispy rolls are filled with a mix of vegetables, sometimes shrimp or chicken, and are usually served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
The crunchiness of the spring rolls contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of Pad Thai noodles. Plus, they’re simple to make at home. Just fill rice paper wrappers with your choice of fillings, roll them up, and fry until golden brown. Looking for more spring roll serving ideas? Check out our complete guide on what to serve with spring rolls!
Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum Soup is a quintessential Thai soup known for its spicy and sour flavor profile. Made with ingredients like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili, this soup is both aromatic and invigorating.
The broth is typically clear, and you can add shrimp, chicken, or tofu based on your preference. This soup is a fantastic starter as it awakens your taste buds and prepares you for the flavorful Pad Thai to come.
Satay Skewers
Satay Skewers are another excellent appetizer to serve with Pad Thai. These skewers can be made from chicken, beef, or tofu, and are marinated in a mixture of spices and coconut milk before being grilled to perfection.
They are typically served with a rich peanut sauce, which pairs wonderfully with the nutty notes of Pad Thai. The contrast of the grilled meat and the stir-fried noodles creates a well-rounded meal.
Mango Salad
If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, Mango Salad is a perfect choice. This salad combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the tanginess of lime juice and the heat of chili peppers.
Toss in some fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, and you have a refreshing side dish that complements the rich flavors of Pad Thai. It’s a great way to balance the meal and add a touch of tropical flair.
Side Dishes that Complement Pad Thai
Choosing the right side dishes can make your Pad Thai meal even more enjoyable. These side dishes not only add variety but also enhance the overall dining experience by introducing new textures and flavors. Here are some of the best side dishes that pair well with Pad Thai.
Thai Papaya Salad (Som Tum)
Thai Papaya Salad, or Som Tum, is a staple in Thai cuisine and a perfect side dish that goes well with Pad Thai. Made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts, this salad is tossed in a dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and chili.
The result is a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet salad that offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful Pad Thai. The crunch of the green papaya and the tangy dressing make it an ideal side dish.
Stir-Fried Morning Glory (Pad Pak Boong)
Stir-Fried Morning Glory, also known as Pad Pak Boong, is a popular Thai vegetable dish. This side dish is made by stir-frying morning glory (a type of water spinach) with garlic, chili, and oyster sauce.
The result is a savory and slightly spicy vegetable dish that complements the flavors of Pad Thai. The tender leaves and crunchy stems of the morning glory provide a nice textural contrast to the soft rice noodles.
Thai Coconut Rice
Thai Coconut Rice is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with Pad Thai. Cooked in coconut milk, this rice has a subtle sweetness and a rich, creamy texture.
The coconut flavor adds a tropical touch that enhances the overall meal. It’s a great way to balance the tangy and savory flavors of Pad Thai with a bit of sweetness.
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing Cucumber Salad is another excellent side dish to serve with Pad Thai. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a dressing of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, this salad is light and crisp.
The tangy dressing and the fresh cucumbers provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich and flavorful Pad Thai. It’s a simple dish that adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
Protein Options to Pair with Pad Thai
While Pad Thai itself can be made with a variety of proteins, incorporating additional protein options can elevate your meal and offer more variety. Here are some delicious protein options that pair well with Pad Thai.
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken
Grilled Lemongrass Chicken is a fantastic protein option that pairs beautifully with Pad Thai. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, and lime juice, then grilled to perfection.
The lemongrass adds a fragrant, citrusy note that complements the tangy and savory flavors of Pad Thai. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your Pad Thai meal.
Thai-Style Garlic Shrimp
Thai-style garlic Shrimp is another excellent protein option. Shrimp is marinated in a mixture of garlic, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar, then quickly stir-fried in a hot wok.
The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that pairs wonderfully with the rice noodles and Pad Thai sauce. The shrimp’s natural sweetness and the savory garlic sauce make this a crowd-pleaser.
Crispy Tofu
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, Crispy Tofu is a perfect choice. Tofu is marinated in soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sriracha, then pan-fried until crispy.
The crispy exterior and the soft interior of the tofu add a delightful texture contrast to the stir-fried noodle dish. Plus, tofu absorbs the flavors of the marinade beautifully, making it a tasty and protein-rich addition to your Pad Thai meal.
Thai Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla)
Thai Fish Cakes, or Tod Mun Pla, is a popular Thai street food and a great protein option to serve with Pad Thai. Made with fish paste, red curry paste, and finely chopped green beans, these fish cakes are fried until golden brown.
They are typically served with a sweet and tangy cucumber dipping sauce, which complements the flavors of Pad Thai. The fish cakes’ savory and slightly spicy taste pairs well with the tangy Pad Thai sauce.
Vegetable Dishes to Balance Pad Thai
Adding vegetable dishes to your Pad Thai meal can provide a nice balance of flavors and textures. Vegetables add a refreshing element and can help lighten up the meal, making it more nutritious and well-rounded. Here are some vegetable dishes that go well with Pad Thai.
- Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables: A versatile dish made with bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, and baby corn. Stir-fried in garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, it adds both crunch and freshness.
- Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce: Simple and flavorful, bok choy is stir-fried with garlic and a savory soy sauce. The tender leaves and crunchy stems offer a nice contrast to soft rice noodles.
- Thai-Style Grilled Eggplant: Marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, then grilled until tender and slightly charred. The smoky flavor enhances the meal.
- Steamed Broccoli with Oyster Sauce: Broccoli florets are steamed until tender and drizzled with savory oyster sauce. It’s a healthy and delicious side that balances rich Pad Thai flavors.
These vegetable dishes not only add variety and balance to your Pad Thai meal but also provide a range of textures and flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.
Beverages to Serve with Pad Thai
A well-chosen beverage improves the flavors of your meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory taste of the dish. Here are some beverages that pair well with pad Thai:
- Thai Iced Tea: Rich and creamy, made with strong black tea and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for balancing the tangy and savory notes of pad Thai.
- Lemongrass Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, with a subtle citrusy flavor that cleanses the palate.
- Coconut Water: Naturally sweet and hydrating, providing a cooling effect.
- Thai Beer Options: Light and crisp lagers like Singha and Chang, which cut through the richness of the dish.
Desserts to Serve with Pad Thai
A delicious dessert can provide a sweet ending to your pad Thai, balancing the savory main dish. Here are some desserts that pair well with pad Thai:
- Mango Sticky Rice: Classic Thai dessert with sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and sweet coconut milk sauce. A perfect contrast to the savory pad Thai.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Refreshing and tropical, with a creamy texture that complements the rich and tangy notes of pad Thai.
- Thai Banana Fritters: Crispy and sweet deep-fried banana slices, often drizzled with honey or served with coconut ice cream.
- Fresh Tropical Fruit Platter: Light and healthy, with fruits like pineapple, mango, papaya, and dragon fruit.
These beverages and desserts will not only complement your Pad Thai but also enhance the overall dining experience.
Tips for Creating a Balanced Meal with Pad Thai
Creating a balanced meal with Pad Thai involves harmonizing flavors, textures, and nutritional elements. Here are some key tips:
- Balance Flavors: Pair tangy dishes like green papaya salad to offset the sweetness of Pad Thai sauce.
- Vary Textures: Combine crunchy spring rolls, tender grilled lemongrass chicken, and soft rice noodles.
- Include Nutritional Variety: Add protein sources like Thai-style garlic shrimp or crispy tofu and a variety of vegetables.
- Consider Portion Sizes: Serve smaller portions of rich dishes and larger portions of lighter items like steamed broccoli with oyster sauce.
- Presentation Matters: Arrange dishes attractively with colorful garnishes like Thai basil and lime wedges.
- Pair with Refreshing Beverages: Choose drinks like Thai iced tea, lemongrass iced tea, or Singha beer to complement the meal.
- Don’t Forget the Condiments: Offer chili flakes, fish sauce, sriracha, and crushed peanuts for customization.
Hosting a Pad Thai Party: Menu Ideas
Hosting a pad Thai party is a fun and delicious way to enjoy this popular Thai dish with friends and family. Here are some menu ideas to help you plan your pad Thai party:
- Appetizers: Start with a selection of appetizers like fresh spring rolls, Thai chicken satay, and Tom Yum soup. These dishes set the tone for the meal and provide a variety of flavors and textures.
- Main Dish: Of course, the star of the party is Pad Thai. Prepare a large batch of authentic pad Thai with your choice of protein (shrimp, chicken, or tofu) and plenty of garnishes like bean sprouts, cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Side Dishes: Offer a variety of side dishes that complement pad Thai, such as Thai papaya salad, stir-fried morning glory, and Thai coconut rice. These dishes add balance and variety to the meal.
- Beverages: Serve refreshing beverages like Thai iced tea, lemongrass iced tea, and coconut water. These drinks help to cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dining experience.
- Desserts: Finish the meal with delicious Thai desserts like mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream, and a fresh tropical fruit platter. These sweet treats provide a satisfying end to the meal.
By planning a well-rounded menu and including a variety of appetizers, sides, beverages, and desserts, you can create a memorable and enjoyable pad Thai party for your guests.
Summary of What to Serve with Pad Thai
Here’s a quick overview of the best accompaniments for your pad Thai meal, from appetizers to desserts:
| Category | Options |
| Traditional Garnishes | Bean sprouts, cilantro, lime wedges, crushed peanuts, chili flakes or sauce |
| Appetizers | Thai Spring Rolls, Tom Yum Soup, Satay Skewers, Mango Salad |
| Side Dishes | Thai Papaya Salad, Stir-Fried Morning Glory, Thai Coconut Rice, Cucumber Salad |
| Protein Options | Grilled Lemongrass Chicken, Thai-style garlic shrimp, Crispy Tofu, Thai Fish Cakes |
| Vegetable Dishes | Stir-fried mixed Vegetables, Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce, Thai-style grilled Eggplant, Steamed Broccoli with Oyster Sauce |
| Beverages | Thai Iced Tea, Lemongrass Iced Tea, Coconut Water, Thai Beer (Singha, Chang) |
| Desserts | Mango Sticky Rice, Coconut Ice Cream, Thai Banana Fritters, Fresh Tropical Fruit Platter |
Conclusion
Creating a well-rounded meal with Pad Thai is all about the extras. Think of side dishes, beverages, and desserts that make those rich and savory flavors pop. Do you have a favorite Pad Thai recipe? Great! Let’s make it even better.
I suggest considering traditional Thai sides, tasty appetizers, and refreshing drinks. These can elevate your meal. Whether you’re hosting a party or just having a cozy dinner at home, these tips will help you create a meal to remember.
Try out different combinations and see what you and your guests love the most. This dish is super versatile, so don’t be shy. Get creative and have fun with your meal planning. Enjoy your Pad Thai and all the yummy sides that go with it!
FAQs: What to Serve with Pad Thai
What is Pad Thai?
Pad Thai is a popular Thai stir-fried noodle dish made with flat rice noodles, protein (like shrimp, chicken, or tofu), vegetables, and a tangy-sweet sauce, often garnished with peanuts and lime.
Is traditional Pad Thai healthy?
Traditional Pad Thai can be relatively healthy, as it contains a balance of proteins, vegetables, and carbs. However, it can be high in calories, fats, and sodium due to ingredients like oil, sugar, and fish sauce. Opting for less oil and sugar can make it healthier.
Is Pad Thai a snack?
No, Pad Thai is not typically considered a snack. It is a substantial and complete main dish often enjoyed as a meal for lunch or dinner.
What is traditionally served with Pad Thai?
Traditional accompaniments for Pad Thai include fresh bean sprouts, cilantro, lime wedges, crushed peanuts, and chili flakes or sauce. These add freshness, crunch, and a touch of heat to the dish.
Is Pad Thai served with meat?
Yes, Pad Thai is often served with meat such as shrimp, chicken, or pork. Vegetarian versions with tofu are also popular.
What vegetables to serve with Pad Thai?
Vegetables that pair well with Pad Thai include stir-fried mixed vegetables, bok choy with garlic sauce, Thai-style grilled eggplant, and steamed broccoli with oyster sauce.
Can I serve pad Thai with soup?
Yes, pad Thai pairs well with soups like Tom Yum Soup or Thai Coconut Soup. These soups add variety to the meal and complement the flavors of pad Thai.
What type of rice pairs well with pad Thai?
Thai coconut rice and sticky rice are excellent choices that pair well with pad Thai. Their subtle sweetness and creamy texture complement the tangy and savory flavors of the noodles.
