Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of chicken noodle soup on a chilly afternoon or a hearty beef stew for dinner, there’s nothing quite like the warm and satisfying feeling that comes with a good bowl of soup. But, have you ever wondered what side dish goes best with soup?
Choosing the right side dish can take your soup game to the next level. Some sides can enhance the flavors in your soup, while others offer a nice contrast in texture. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best sides to serve with soup and help you take your soup game to the next level.
The Best Breads to Pair with Soup
When it comes to pairing soups with a good side, nothing beats a delicious slice of bread. The right bread can enhance the flavors of the soup and add texture to the meal. First on the list is crusty French bread, which is an all-time favorite. Its rustic exterior and chewy interior complement a wide range of soups and stews. Sourdough bread is another excellent choice for soups. The tangy flavor cuts through the richness of creamy soups, making it an excellent accompaniment. Ciabatta bread is also popular as its chewy texture absorbs the soup, making it a delectable treat.
For hearty soups such as chili or lentil soup, cornbread is a must-try. The sweetness of the bread pairs well with the robust flavors of the soup. For a gluten-free option, try serving soup with a slice of gluten-free bread, which is a great choice for those who are allergic to gluten. Whatever your soup preference, the right bread can take your meal to the next level. Try experimenting with different types of bread to discover your perfect pairing.
Perfect Pasta Dishes to Accompany Your Soup
Pasta is a great option to serve alongside soup as it can be filling and hearty. Adding a pasta dish to your soup meal can also make it more satisfying, and provide a good balance of carbohydrates and protein. There are a variety of pasta dishes that can complement soup, such as spaghetti, penne, and ravioli. For example, creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo can pair well with rich and creamy soups, while tomato-based pasta sauces can pair well with lighter soups, such as minestrone.
When selecting a pasta dish to go with your soup, it’s important to consider the flavors and ingredients of both the soup and pasta. For example, if your soup is spicy, you may want to choose a plain pasta, such as linguine, to balance out the flavors. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta and soups to find the perfect match for your taste buds. Ultimately, finding the perfect pasta dish to accompany your soup can enhance the overall meal and leave you feeling satisfied.
Hearty Salads That Can Complement Any Soup
When it comes to soups, a hearty salad can make a great side dish that complements and balances the meal. With a variety of fresh greens and vegetables, salads can add nutrition and flavor to any soup course.
One popular salad option is the classic Caesar salad, with crispy romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons. For a heartier option, try adding grilled chicken or shrimp. Another delicious salad to serve with soup is the Greek salad, with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. The refreshing flavors of this salad work well with lighter soups such as tomato or vegetable soup. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating salads to serve with soup, so get creative and experiment with different ingredients to find the perfect combination for your meal.
Vegetables and Herbs That Will Enhance Your Soup Experience
Adding vegetables and herbs to your soup is an excellent way to liven up your experience. The right combination of these ingredients can pack in more flavor and nutrition into your meal. A good combination of vegetables to use for your soup includes carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, and tomatoes.
Herbs such as thyme, parsley, rosemary, and bay leaves add a depth of flavor to your soup while providing health benefits such as boosting your immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. Additionally, you can throw in some garlic, ginger, and turmeric for added health benefits. Adding vegetables and herbs to your soup can also make it more filling, so you can enjoy a satisfying meal without any need for another side dish. So, consider taking advantage of these low-calorie nutrient-dense ingredients and make your soup experience even better.
Savory Grains That Complement Soup
When it comes to finding the perfect side to serve alongside soup, grains are an excellent option. Not only are they filling and satisfying, but they can also bring a variety of flavors and textures to your meal. Some savory grains that complement soup include quinoa, barley, farro, and rice.
Quinoa is a great choice because of its nutty flavor and fluffy texture that pairs well with brothy soups. Barley is a hearty grain that adds a chewy texture to creamy soups and stews. Farro has a mild, nutty flavor that works well with vegetable soups, while rice is a classic and versatile option that can be paired with almost any type of soup. Experimenting with different grains can add a new dimension to your soup meals and turn a simple meal into a delicious and satisfying feast.
Creative and Unusual Sides to Serve with Soup
Soup is one of the most versatile dishes that you can have, whether it’s as a comforting meal on a chilly evening, as a light lunch, or as an appetizer to whet the appetite. However, to make it a complete meal, you need something to serve on the side that complements it perfectly, and there are plenty of options to choose from. One such category is creative and unusual sides that can take your soup game to the next level.
Swap out the traditional bread or crackers with polenta cakes, roasted chickpeas, or crostini topped with whipped feta, balsamic glaze, or roasted vegetables. Roasted root vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, or carrots can add a sweet spot to the savory soup, while a scoop of risotto or buttery mashed potatoes can create a warm and comforting bowl. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try serving your soup with a dollop of wasabi, a drizzle of truffle oil, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the flavors to entice your taste buds. With these creative and unusual sides, you can take your soups from simple to sensational in a snap.
Perfect Beverage Pairings for Your Soup and Side Dish Combination
Selecting the perfect beverage to accompany your soup and side dish combination can take your meal to the next level. When it comes to pairing beverages with soup, it’s all about finding balance and harmony between flavors. A common choice is beer, which pairs well with heartier soups like stew or chili. A crisp, refreshing beer can also complement a lighter soup like tomato or vegetable.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, try a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling beverage. The acidity in white wine can cut through the richness of creamy soups, while a fizzy drink can refresh your palate between bites. Tea is another excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for a warm beverage to enjoy with your soup on a cozy day. Ultimately, the key is to experiment with different flavors until you find the perfect balance of taste and texture that satisfies your cravings.
The Conclusion
After considering various options for pairing soup with sides, it is clear that the ultimate decision comes down to personal preference. Different soups require different accompaniments, but ultimately, it is up to the individual. Crusty bread is always a safe and delicious option, but branching out to other sides like salad, grilled cheese, or roasted vegetables can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the meal. Experimenting with different sides can lead to unexpected and delightful combinations.
In the end, what really matters is enjoying a warm, comforting bowl of soup paired with a side that complements its flavor and satisfies the palate. Whether it’s a hearty vegetable soup with a side of crispy garlic bread or a creamy tomato bisque with a grilled cheese sandwich, there are endless possibilities for creating the perfect soup and side pairing. So, next time you’re enjoying a bowl of soup, don’t be afraid to try something new and find your own favorite combination.