Non-Alcoholic Pairings That Still Feel Special

The Pasta Bistro
Sep 29
2 min read

You Don’t Need Wine to Have a Great Pasta Night

non-alcoholic drinks lineup at Italian restaurant

While pasta and wine go hand-in-hand for some, not everyone drinks — and not everyone wants to. At The Pasta Bistro, we make sure your drink choices are just as satisfying as your meal, even without the buzz.

So whether you’re dining in, ordering takeaway, or just want something light and flavourful, here are our favourite non-alcoholic drink and pasta pairings — based on what actually tastes good together.

1. Berry Mocktail + Pasta alla Vodka

A creamy tomato-based dish like Pasta alla Vodka calls for something bright and a little tart. Our berry mocktail or strawberry soda is a natural choice — it lifts the richness without clashing with the sauce.

Why it works:

Fruit-forward, refreshing
Cuts through cream and parmesan
A great alcohol-free alternative to red wine

Also great with:

Boscaiolo
Alfredo Sauce with Gnocchi
Lasagna Al Forno

2. Lemonade or Sprite + Seafood Pasta or Grilled Snapper

Seafood needs something clean and citrusy. Sprite or pink lemonade balances garlic, butter, and tomato-based sauces without overpowering delicate flavours.

Pair with:

Seafood Marinara
Grilled Snapper with lemon butter sauce
Salt and Pepper Calamari

Why it works:

Bubbles highlight seafood textures
Lemon cuts through richness and oil
Especially good for lunch or summer nights

3. Cranberry Juice + Lamb Ragù or Bolognese

For deeper, slow-cooked flavours like Lamb Ragù or Bolognese, you’ll want something robust but not too sweet. Cranberry juice brings just enough acidity and fruit to match these bold sauces.

Pair with:

Lamb Ragù
Classic Bolognese
Pasta Bistro Fave (schnitzel topped with Bolognese)

Why it works:

Tart notes enhance tomato and meat
Serves the same purpose as a medium red wine
Balances richness without sugar overload

4. San Pellegrino Sparkling Water + Make-Your-Own Pasta

If you’re building your own pasta, go with a neutral base that doesn’t interfere with your creation. San Pellegrino adds a bit of texture to the meal while letting your ingredients shine.

Perfect when you’ve added:

Lobster Bisque Sauce
Prawns, scallops, or marinara mix
Sautéed mushrooms or spinach

Why it works:

Doesn’t clash with custom flavours
Refreshes between bites
Versatile with any topping combo

5. Apple Juice + Creamy Pesto or Gnocchi

When your pasta is herbaceous or slightly salty — like creamy pesto or gnocchi with parmesan — apple juice offers a naturally sweet counterbalance without becoming dessert-like.

Pair with: