Santa Maria steak is a classic California dish that is known for its smoky, savory flavor. Served with traditional Santa Maria-style fixings such as pinquito beans, salsa, and garlic bread, this meal is a crowd-pleaser for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
While Santa Maria steak is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take the meal to the next level. In this article, we will explore some of the best side dishes to serve with Santa Maria steak and how to create a well-balanced, satisfying meal. From classic potato salad to grilled vegetables, we’ve got you covered.
The History of Santa Maria Style Barbecue
The roots of Santa Maria Style Barbecue can be traced back to the early 19th century. It originated in the Santa Maria Valley in Central California, where local ranchers would gather to cook meat over a fire pit fueled by native oak wood. The meat was seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic, and the cooking technique emphasized slow, indirect heat that allowed the natural flavors of the beef to shine.
As the popularity of Santa Maria Style Barbecue grew, so did the addition of side dishes and accompaniments to the meal. Today, traditional Santa Maria Style Barbecue typically includes items like pinquito beans, salsa, grilled bread, and green salad. But at its heart, the cuisine remains a celebration of high-quality beef, cooked simply and perfectly to showcase the best of what the region has to offer.
Salads and Sides to Accompany Your Santa Maria Steak
Salads and sides can elevate your Santa Maria steak dinner to another level. A fresh green salad is an excellent way to balance the richness of the steak. Consider a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Add a light vinaigrette dressing to complement the flavors in the steak. Another great option is a Caesar salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy Caesar dressing.
When it comes to sides, you have endless options. One classic pairing is garlic bread, which is easy to make and adds a crunchy texture to the meal. Another popular side is baked potatoes, which can be loaded with toppings like sour cream, cheese, and chives. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, are also a delicious and nutritious addition to your meal. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect taste profile to complement your Santa Maria steak.
Wine and Cocktail Pairings for Santa Maria Steak
When it comes to pairing wine with Santa Maria Steak, it is essential to choose a wine that complements the rich and bold flavors of the steak. The traditional pairing for Santa Maria Steak is a bold red wine such as Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon. A full-bodied red wine with high tannins can cut through the steak’s richness and bring out its savory flavors. However, if you prefer a lighter red wine, Pinot Noir is another excellent choice. This wine’s lighter body and lower tannins will not overpower the steak’s flavors, making it an easy-drinking option.
If wine isn’t your thing, why not try a delicious cocktail? A classic cocktail that pairs well with steak is an Old Fashioned. Its bold and smokey flavors are an excellent accompaniment to the savory flavors of Santa Maria Steak. Another great option is a Manhattan. The combination of sweet vermouth and whiskey will complement the steak’s flavors without overpowering them. If you want to venture into more adventurous cocktails, try a Negroni or a Dark and Stormy. Both drinks have bold flavors that can stand up to the richness of the steak, making them a perfect pairing.
Grilling Tips to Cook the Perfect Santa Maria Steak
Grilling the perfect Santa Maria steak can be a daunting task, but with a few tips, you can achieve a mouthwatering meal that will impress your guests. First, make sure to prepare the grill by cleaning the grates and heating them up to a high temperature. This ensures that your steak won’t stick to the grates and will cook evenly.
When grilling Santa Maria steak, it’s important to season it well before cooking. The traditional seasoning for this steak includes garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Make sure to pat the seasoning into the steak to ensure it sticks. Once the steak is on the grill, let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side before flipping it. This will help create a delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Finally, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it against the grain for maximum tenderness.
The Best Sauces to Serve with Santa Maria Steak
Santa Maria steak is a traditional dish originating from Santa Maria, California. It’s a grilled, tri-tip steak seasoned with a simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This savory dish pairs well with a variety of sauces, enhancing its flavor and making it even more delicious.
One popular option is chimichurri, a tangy and herbaceous Argentine sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. The bold flavors of the chimichurri complement the rich flavors of the steak and add a fresh, zesty touch to every bite. Another great option is salsa verde, a classic Mexican sauce made with tomatillos, cilantro, and lime. This tangy and spicy sauce pairs well with the smoky flavor of the steak, adding a touch of brightness to the dish. Other options include barbecue sauce, garlic butter, and blue cheese dressing, all of which add their own unique twist to this tasty dish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options to Serve with Santa Maria Steak
For those who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, there are plenty of delicious and healthy options to serve with Santa Maria steak. A simple and classic option is a green salad, either with a vinaigrette dressing or a creamy dressing made with tofu or cashews. Another great side dish is roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes. These can be seasoned with herbs such as rosemary or thyme to add extra flavor.
For a heartier option, you can also serve quinoa or wild rice with roasted or sautéed vegetables. Another delicious option is grilled portobello mushrooms, either on their own or served with a simple balsamic glaze. Tofu skewers can also be a tasty addition to your Santa Maria steak meal, especially when marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs. With so many options available, it’s easy to create a satisfying and healthy meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Dessert Suggestions for a Complete Santa Maria Style Barbecue Experience.
A complete Santa Maria style barbecue experience is incomplete without some scrumptious desserts. After indulging in a hearty meal of perfectly cooked Santa Maria steak, it is time to satisfy your sweet tooth. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious dessert options that go well with this flavorful cuisine.
One classic dessert option is the traditional Santa Maria Valley strawberry shortcake. This dessert is made with fresh, juicy strawberries, light and fluffy shortcake, and a dollop of whipped cream. Not only is it easy to make, but it also perfectly balances the richness of the steak with the sweetness of strawberries. Other dessert ideas include peach and berry cobblers, banana pudding, and lemon bars. So, be sure to end your Santa Maria style barbecue with something sweet and delightful!
Final Verdict
Santa Maria steak is a delicious dish which is known for its unique marinade and smoky flavor. The dish originated from Santa Maria, a small city in California, and is now enjoyed by people all over the world. When it comes to pairing this dish with sides, there are plenty of options to choose from.
A few popular sides are grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, and garlic bread. These sides not only complement the flavors of the steak but also add some nutrition to the meal. The best part is that you can switch up the sides according to your personal preferences and create a custom meal that suits your taste buds. So, next time you plan on cooking Santa Maria steak, don’t forget to experiment with different sides and make the meal a truly delightful experience!