Bright
Keep pasta lively without alcohol
Sparkling water with citrus provides lift and acid to cut through oil and cream. Herbal infusions or shrubs add complexity that complements tomato-driven sauces without overwhelming delicate herbs and cheeses. Texture matters too—bubbles reset the palate the way high-acid whites do.
Top picks
- Sparkling water + lemon twist
- Light tonic with cucumber
- Apple cider shrub spritz
Pairing by sauce
- Alfredo/Carbonara: lemon spritz or tonic with cucumber to cut richness
- Marinara/Arrabbiata: apple cider shrub or basil iced tea
- Pesto: sparkling water with mint + lime
Tips
- Match acid to sauce: more citrus for cream, gentler for tomato.
- Keep sweetness low so the dish still leads.
- Add a pinch of salt to NA spritzers—enhances flavor like seasoning.
Curious what pairs with your exact dish? Try the tool on the home page.