French onion soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This delicious soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and plenty of herbs and spices for a flavorful and comforting bowl of soup. But what should you serve with this rich and hearty soup?
In this article, we will explore some of the best dishes that go well with French onion soup. Whether you are looking for something light and refreshing or something indulgent and filling, we have got you covered. From salads to sandwiches and everything in between, you are sure to find the perfect pairing for your next bowl of French onion soup. So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious possibilities.
Classic Pairings: The Best Dishes to Serve With French Onion Soup
French Onion Soup is a classic dish that has been a part of French cuisine for centuries. It’s rich, hearty and bursting with flavor. But the soup alone is not enough to satisfy your taste buds. You need a complementary dish to make it a complete meal. Here are some classic pairings that are perfect with French Onion Soup.
First of all, a classic pairing for French Onion Soup is a crispy baguette or a slice of French bread. The bread not only complements the soup’s savory flavor but also helps to soak up the soup in each bite. You can toast the bread or serve it as it is, depending on your preference. Another classic pairing is a green salad. The crispness and freshness of salad’s greens, paired with the soup’s rich flavors, make for a wholesome meal. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is all you need to balance out the rich and indulgent taste of the soup. Other classic pairings include grains like barley, quinoa or brown rice, all of which add a healthy dimension to the meal.
Beyond Bread and Cheese: Unique Complements to Your French Onion Soup
While French onion soup is undoubtedly a classic, pairing it with the same old bread and cheese can get monotonous. Adding a unique complement to your soup can take your meal to the next level and help you appreciate the distinct flavors of the soup even more.
One great option is to add a side of pork or chicken liver pate. The rich, savory taste of a pate pairs perfectly with the deep umami flavors of the soup while adding a new texture to the meal. Another unique complement is a side of ratatouille. This classic French dish made from eggplant, zucchini, and tomato is a great way to add some vegetables to your meal while also adding some brightness and acidity to your palate. Whether you choose to experiment with pates, veggies, or something else entirely, branching out from the traditional bread and cheese pairing can help you make the most of your French onion soup experience.
Exploring the Flavors: How to Choose the Perfect Side Dish for Your French Onion Soup
When it comes to pairing a dish with French onion soup, the flavors need to complement each other. The richness of the soup should be balanced with something light and refreshing. Opting for a side that’s too heavy or overpowering can wash out the flavors of the soup and make the meal feel heavy.
One of the best ways to explore flavors is by incorporating contrasting textures. A light salad or a serving of fresh fruits can complement the heavy, rich flavors of French onion soup. The freshness and crunch can also help to balance out the dish’s flavors. Other options include pairing the soup with a fresh baguette for dipping or serving it with a side of roasted vegetables to add some depth and color to the plate.
Vegetarian Options: Delicious Meat-Free Dishes to Accompany Your French Onion Soup
If you’re a vegetarian looking for a delicious meat-free dish to accompany your French onion soup, worry not! There are plenty of options that won’t compromise on taste and nutrition. One of the simplest yet yummy options is a side salad. A bunch of leafy greens with sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, topped with a drizzle of balsamic or raspberry vinaigrette, can complement the soup’s flavors perfectly.
For a more filling option, roasted vegetables are a great choice. Roasted carrots, zucchinis, and peppers, seasoned with herbs and spices, are a healthy and delicious choice that will fill you up without making you feel heavy. If you’re looking for something more exciting, try roasted eggplant and tomatoes with a sprinkle of feta cheese and a side of crusty bread. So, whether it’s a light salad or a hearty side, there are plenty of vegetarian options to make your French onion soup meal complete.
Perfect Soups and Salads: Pairing French Onion Soup With Seasonal Greens
Pairing French Onion Soup with a seasonal salad is the perfect match to complete your meal. When choosing greens, opt for hearty greens that can stand up to the richness of the soup, such as kale, spinach, or arugula. Adding seasonal vegetables, like roasted carrots or beets, can also provide a flavorful and nutritious addition to your salad.
In terms of dressings, a vinaigrette or mustard-based dressing can complement the soup’s acidity. Topping the salad with croutons or toasted nuts can also add some crunch to your meal. Overall, this pairing creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal that is perfect for cooler evenings.
Wine and Dine: The Best Wines to Serve With Your French Onion Soup and Side Dish
When it comes to pairing wine with French onion soup, a dry, full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc is a great option. These wines complement the soup’s rich flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the savory taste of the dish. If you prefer a red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Merlot will work well, as they won’t overpower the subtle flavors of the soup.
When it comes to choosing a wine to go with your side dish, it’s important to consider the flavors of both the dish and the wine. For a side of crusty bread, a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah is a good choice, as it complements the bread’s nutty flavors. For a lighter side of salad or vegetables, a crisp, refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chablis is a great option. Ultimately, the best wine to serve with your French onion soup and side dish will depend on your personal preferences, but these options are a great starting point.
Beyond Beef Broth: Alternative Broths and Consommés to Serve With Your French Onion Soup.
French Onion Soup is a classic and hearty dish that is perfect for cold winter nights. While beef broth is the traditional base for the soup, there are many alternative broths and consommés that can be used to add depth and flavor to the dish.
One alternative to beef broth is chicken broth, which adds a lighter and more delicate flavor to the soup. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian version of the dish. For a more exotic flavor, try using mushroom broth or a fish consommé. These alternative broths can add unique flavors to the soup and can make for an interesting variation on the classic recipe.
Conclusion
To conclude, French onion soup is a classic comfort food that can be paired with a range of dishes to create a complete meal. Whether you pair it with a crisp salad, a crusty baguette, or a hearty sandwich, this soup can easily become the star of any dinner table.
The next time you are wondering what dish to pair with French onion soup, consider the options mentioned here or get creative and come up with your own favorite pairings. With its warm, savory flavors and rich broth, French onion soup is a versatile dish that can complement a variety of flavors and textures.