Potato salad has become a staple in many households and is often a go-to side dish for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. It’s made up of boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and various seasonings such as onions, celery, and mustard, among others.
While potato salad is delicious on its own, pairing it with the perfect main dish can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best main dishes that pair well with potato salad, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a summer gathering.
Grilled Meats: The Perfect Pairing for Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic summer side dish that complements a range of main dishes. However, grilled meats are the perfect pairing for potato salad. The smoky flavors of grilled meats, be it chicken, lamb, beef, or pork, meld perfectly with the cool and creamy potato salad. The barbequed meats not only add flavor, but also texture to the meal, making it a complete and satisfying experience.
To experiment a little more, try different types of BBQ sauces to find the perfect pairing. For instance, tangy and sweet BBQ sauces complement creamy potato salad exceptionally well. On the other hand, spicy BBQ sauces can add a bit of heat to the meal, making it ideal for those who love a little spice. For vegetarian options, try grilled portobello mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant with your potato salad for a delightful and healthy meal. Grilled meats not only ensure a delicious meal, but also provide an opportunity to enjoy the great weather and cook outside with family and friends.
Vegetarian Options: Pairing Potato Salad with Veggies
When it comes to vegetarian options for pairing with potato salad, there are plenty of delicious choices to consider. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are a great option, as their smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy potato salad. Another idea is to toss together roasted beets and carrots with the potato salad for a colorful and flavorful combination.
For a heartier option, consider pairing potato salad with a vegetarian bean or lentil dish. A spicy black bean chili or a warm, comforting lentil stew both make for filling and satisfying meal options that complement the flavors of the potato salad. And for a summertime twist, try pairing potato salad with a fresh, herb-filled tomato and cucumber salad for a light and refreshing vegetarian meal.
Seafood and Potato Salad: A Match Made in Heaven
If you’re planning a seafood meal, you might be wondering what side dish can complement it perfectly. The answer is simple – potato salad! Seafood and potato salad are a match made in heaven. The light and refreshing taste of potato salad can wonderfully balance out the richness of seafood dishes.
Whether you’re serving grilled shrimp, baked salmon, or lobster tails, potato salad is a versatile and complimentary side dish. The creaminess of potato salad pairs fantastically with a variety of seafood flavors, from the tanginess of lemon to the brininess of oysters. So, next time you’re indulging in some seafood delicacies, don’t forget to whip up a batch of delicious potato salad to complete the meal!
Ethnic Main Dishes that Complement Potato Salad
Ethnic main dishes provide a unique and flavorful option when it comes to pairing with potato salad. The tangy and creamy flavors of the potato salad can complement the exciting and aromatic flavors of various ethnic dishes. A popular option is pairing potato salad with a Mexican dish, such as chicken enchiladas, beef tacos, or vegetarian black bean and corn salad. The spices and herbs used in Mexican cuisine add a delightful contrast to the potato salad’s texture and flavor.
Another great option is pairing sweet and spicy Korean dishes with potato salad. Korean-style chicken wings, grilled pork belly, and kimchi stew are excellent choices that can bring out the flavors of potato salad. The umami tastes of Korean cuisine and the potato salad’s vinegar dressing create a harmonious balance of flavors. Ethnic main dishes offer endless possibilities of food pairings with potato salad, and it is worth exploring various options to expand one’s taste palette.
Quick and Easy Main Dishes to Serve with Potato Salad
When you’ve got potato salad on the menu, you want a main dish that’s just as satisfying and delicious. Luckily, there are plenty of quick and easy options that pair perfectly with this classic side dish. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
One crowd-pleasing option is grilled chicken breasts or thighs. Marinate the chicken ahead of time in your favorite blend of herbs and spices, then quickly grill until the juices run clear. Serve with a drizzle of BBQ sauce on top and a generous scoop of potato salad on the side.
If you’re looking for something a little lighter, try grilled fish or shrimp. For a quick and easy preparation, brush the seafood with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before grilling on a hot grill pan or outdoor grill. The light, fresh flavors of the seafood pair perfectly with the creamy, tangy flavors of potato salad.
Gourmet Pairings: Elevating Your Potato Salad Game with Luxe Main Courses
Potato salad is a beloved side dish, but it can also be a star player paired with the right main course. Elevate your potato salad game with luxurious main course pairings that will impress your guests.
For a decadent pairing, consider serving lobster with your potato salad. The rich, buttery flavor of the lobster pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the potato salad. Grilled filet mignon is another elevated pairing option. The tender steak contrasts well with the crunchy textures of the potato salad. Or, try a roast chicken dish with your potato salad for a classic pairing that never goes out of style. Whatever main dish you choose, make sure it complements the flavors and textures of the potato salad so that the whole meal is a cohesive and delicious experience.
Classic American Main Dishes that Work Well with Potato Salad
If you’re planning a classic American meal, potato salad is a fantastic accompaniment to many main dishes. Some classic options include grilled burgers or hot dogs, fried chicken, or barbecued ribs. The creamy and tangy flavor of the potato salad complements the smoky and savory flavors of these meats perfectly.
Another classic option is a classic BLT sandwich. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and tangy mayo pairs beautifully with the cool and creamy potato salad. You can also try serving potato salad alongside a meatloaf or baked ham for a comforting and hearty meal. No matter which main dish you choose, potato salad is a versatile and delicious side that will enhance any classic American meal.
Final Words
Potato salad is a perfect addition to any main dish due to its versatility and complementary taste. Whether you choose to serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into the main course, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a popular choice for barbeques, potlucks, and picnics.
In conclusion, when determining what main dish goes well with potato salad, it’s all about experimenting with flavors and finding complementary tastes. From grilled meats to seafood and vegetarian options, there is no shortage of dishes that pair well with potato salad. Next time you host a gathering, consider incorporating potato salad into your menu and experimenting with different dishes to create the perfect flavor combination.