Steak is a protein-packed, hearty meal that satisfies many people’s cravings. While steak is the star of the show, it’s essential to find the perfect side dish to complement its flavor and texture. Choosing the right side dish can balance the richness of the steak and enhance its overall flavor.
There are many side dishes to choose from, but not all of them pair well with steak. In this article, we’ll explore the most delicious and popular side dishes that go well with steak. From creamy mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables, we’ve got you covered with the perfect complements to your next steak dinner.
Classic Pairings: The Best Sides for Steak
When thinking of side dishes for steak, classic pairings always come to mind. One of the best sides to complement a juicy steak is potatoes, whether they are roasted, mashed, or fried. Roasted potatoes with garlic and rosemary or crispy french fries are both great options.
Another classic side dish for steak is a green vegetable. Options such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a refreshing element to any steak dish. These vegetables can be prepared in a variety of ways, including steamed, sautéed, or roasted. Grilled or roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant also pair well with steak. The key when choosing a classic pairing for steak is to ensure that the seasonings and preparation of the side dish are balanced and not overpowering.
Elevating Your Steak Night: Unique and Delicious Side Dishes
When it comes to steak, most of us instinctively reach for sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. While all of these are great options, why not try something new and exciting? Elevating your steak night with unique and delicious side dishes can turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable feast.
One great way to spice up your steak dinner is by adding some unexpected flavors to your side dishes. Consider serving up some grilled pineapple rings with a chili lime seasoning or a refreshing mango salsa with tangy lime juice and cilantro. These tropical flavors will add a burst of sweetness and zest to your meal, making it feel like a special occasion. Alternatively, you can try experimenting with globally inspired sides like Korean sesame cucumbers or Mexican street corn. By exploring new flavor combinations, you can take your steak night to the next level and create a dining experience that’s truly memorable.
Sauce It Up: Sauces and Condiments That Complement Steak
Sauces play a vital role in enhancing the taste of steak. They can take a bland steak to a whole new level. There are a plethora of sauces to choose from which complement a juicy piece of steak. A classic choice is the peppercorn sauce which is creamy with a hint of heat from the black pepper. Other creamy options include garlic aioli, béarnaise, and hollandaise sauces. For those who prefer a tangy taste, chimichurri, a blend of parsley, garlic, and vinegar sauce, works great with steak.
If you are a fan of spicy flavors, then a jalapeño or horseradish sauce would be an excellent choice. Teriyaki and soy-based sauces go well with grilled or barbequed steak. Steak lovers who prefer a sweet flavor can opt for fruit-based sauces like cranberry or orange sauce. Mustard is another versatile condiment that can be used to enhance the flavor of steak. Whether you like a mild or strong taste, there is a sauce or condiment that can take your steak to the next level.
It’s All in the Greens: Salad Ideas That Go Perfectly with Steak
When we think of a well-rounded meal, one of the first things that come to mind is greens. Fresh and tasty salads make a perfect accompaniment to grilled steak, cutting through the richness of the meat with their light and refreshing flavors. While there are endless salad options out there, it’s good to keep in mind which ones will truly complement your steak.
One classic choice is the Caesar salad, made with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and a tangy dressing. This salad’s bold flavors pair perfectly with a juicy steak and it also offers a good dose of protein and fiber. Another great option to try is a rich and nutty spinach salad, which is made with baby spinach, red onions, bacon bits, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pine nuts and is drizzled with a warm bacon vinaigrette. Regardless of your preference, be sure to add some greens the next time you serve up a nice juicy steak.
Carbs and Comfort: Potato and Bread-Based Sides to Serve with Steak
When it comes to carb-based side dishes for steak, potatoes are a classic choice. Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, and baked potatoes are all great options to pair with a juicy steak. If you want something that’s a little bit more decadent, try scalloped potatoes or loaded baked potatoes with cheese and bacon.
Bread-based sides are another great option for those looking for comfort food. Garlic bread is always a hit, as are rolls or biscuits. If you’re feeling adventurous, try focaccia or ciabatta bread with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Just be sure to bake or toast your bread to perfection for a truly delicious and satisfying carb-based side dish. Overall, potatoes and bread-based sides are the perfect accompaniment to any steak dinner, adding a layer of comfort and satisfaction to your meal.
Make it Veggie: Vegetarian and Vegan Options to Pair with Steak
For those who prefer to keep their diets plant-based, there are still plenty of delicious options to pair with steak. Roasted vegetables are always a winner, such as asparagus, brussels sprouts, or broccoli. For a heartier option, roasted root vegetables like sweet potato or parsnips are a great choice.
For a more substantial vegetarian option, a portobello mushroom cap can be grilled and served alongside the steak to add some umami flavor and texture. Another option is to grill some skewers of mixed vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, for a colorful and flavorful addition to the plate. Vegans can also try pairing a lentil or quinoa salad with their steak for a complete and satisfying meal. No matter your dietary preferences, there are plenty of delicious and healthy options to complement your steak.
Wine and Dine: Wine Pairings to Complement Your Steak and Sides
Wine is often the perfect accompaniment to a steak dinner, and choosing the right wine can enhance the flavor of your meal. If you’re serving a red meat like beef, a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot is the ideal pairing. The rich, fruity flavors of these wines can complement the savory taste of beef, enhancing its flavor and texture.
If you’re serving a steak with a side of vegetables or a lighter sauce, a lighter red wine such as Pinot Noir or a white wine like Chardonnay may be a better match. If you’re unsure which to choose, go with a safe bet like a Bordeaux blend which will pair nicely with most meat dishes. Whatever you choose, always serve your red wine at room temperature to bring out its full flavor and aroma. With the right wine pairing, your steak dinner can become a true gastronomic experience.
Conclusion
When it comes to pairing sides with steak, there are endless options to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic pairing like mashed potatoes or are looking to try something new like grilled asparagus, the key is to find flavors and textures that complement the richness and boldness of the steak. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and cooking methods to take your side dishes to the next level.
Ultimately, the perfect side dish for your steak will depend on your personal preferences and the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a weeknight meal, taking the time to think about the flavors and textures that will elevate your steak dish can make all the difference. By considering the tips and ideas in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable steak and side pairings that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.