Sandwiches. They’re a lunchtime staple, a picnic perfect delight, and a quick and easy dinner solution. But a sandwich, no matter how delicious, can often feel incomplete on its own. The right accompaniment can elevate your sandwich experience from satisfying to sensational. This guide explores the wonderful world of sandwich pairings, offering ideas for sides, soups, drinks, and even desserts that complement and enhance your favorite fillings.
Sides That Sing: Complementing Your Sandwich Flavors
A great side dish does more than just fill you up. It should offer a contrasting or complementary texture and flavor profile to your sandwich. Consider the key ingredients and dominant tastes in your sandwich when making your selection.
Crisps and Chips: The Classic Crunch
Let’s face it, a bag of chips is often the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of sandwich sides. The salty, crunchy texture is a welcome contrast to the soft bread and fillings. Potato chips are a universal favorite, but consider branching out. Tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole can pair beautifully with Southwestern-inspired sandwiches. Kettle-cooked chips offer a heartier crunch and more intense flavor, while sweet potato chips provide a touch of sweetness.
For a healthier alternative, try baked vegetable chips like kale or zucchini chips. Their lightness and subtle flavors won’t overpower your sandwich.
Salads: Freshness and Flavor
A salad is a fantastic way to add freshness and nutrients to your sandwich meal. The possibilities are endless, ranging from simple green salads to more elaborate creations.
A classic garden salad with a light vinaigrette is a versatile option that pairs well with almost any sandwich. Its crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing cucumbers provide a pleasant counterpoint to richer fillings.
For a bolder flavor, consider a pasta salad with pesto or a creamy coleslaw. A fruit salad can add a touch of sweetness and acidity, especially when paired with savory sandwiches like ham and Swiss. Quinoa salads are also a great option. They provide a good dose of protein and fiber.
Vegetables: Healthy and Hearty
Don’t underestimate the power of simple roasted or grilled vegetables as a sandwich side. They offer a satisfying bite and a boost of vitamins and minerals.
Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts are a surprisingly delicious pairing, especially with turkey or roast beef sandwiches. Grilled asparagus or zucchini add a touch of elegance and freshness. Pickled vegetables, like pickles or pickled onions, provide a tangy crunch that cuts through richness.
Even a simple side of sliced bell peppers or carrots with hummus can be a healthy and satisfying option.
Soup Sensations: Warm and Wonderful Pairings
Soup and sandwiches are a match made in heaven, especially on a chilly day. The warm broth and comforting flavors of soup can enhance the enjoyment of your sandwich.
Tomato Soup: The Classic Companion
Tomato soup is perhaps the most iconic sandwich soup pairing. Its tangy sweetness complements a wide variety of sandwiches, particularly grilled cheese. The creamy texture of tomato soup also provides a nice contrast to the crispness of toasted bread. Consider adding a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Broth-Based Wonders: Lighter and Brighter
For lighter sandwiches or those with delicate flavors, a broth-based soup is an excellent choice. Chicken noodle soup is a classic comfort food that pairs well with turkey or ham sandwiches. Vegetable soup provides a healthy and flavorful option.
French onion soup, with its rich broth and cheesy crouton topping, is a more decadent choice that pairs well with heartier sandwiches like roast beef or French dip.
Creamy Creations: Rich and Indulgent
Creamy soups offer a luxurious and satisfying pairing for sandwiches. Cream of mushroom soup is a classic choice that complements grilled cheese or roast beef. Potato soup, with its hearty texture and comforting flavor, pairs well with BLTs or ham and cheese sandwiches.
However, be mindful of the richness of both the soup and the sandwich to avoid overwhelming your palate.
Drinks That Delight: Quenching Your Thirst
The right beverage can enhance the flavors of your sandwich and cleanse your palate between bites.
Iced Tea: Refreshing and Versatile
Iced tea is a classic sandwich pairing that is both refreshing and versatile. Its subtle flavor doesn’t overpower the sandwich, and its coolness provides a welcome contrast to warm fillings. Sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea is a great choice for almost any sandwich. Consider adding a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of flavor.
Lemonade: Tart and Tangy
Lemonade’s tartness cuts through rich flavors and cleanses the palate. It’s a particularly good choice for sandwiches with creamy sauces or fatty meats.
Homemade lemonade is always a treat, but store-bought versions are also readily available. Consider adding other fruits, like strawberries or raspberries, for a more complex flavor.
Soda: A Fizzy Favorite
Soda is a popular choice for pairing with sandwiches, offering a sweet and fizzy complement. Cola is a classic option, particularly with burgers or deli sandwiches. Lemon-lime soda provides a lighter and more refreshing alternative.
However, be mindful of the sugar content of soda. Consider diet or zero-sugar options for a healthier choice.
Craft Beverages: Unique and Flavorful
Explore craft beverages like sparkling water with fruit infusions, kombucha, or even craft sodas with unique flavor profiles. These can add a touch of sophistication to your sandwich meal. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your perfect match.
Sweet Endings: Desserts to Delight
While not always necessary, a small dessert can be the perfect way to round out your sandwich meal.
Cookies: Classic Comfort
Cookies are a classic dessert that pairs well with almost any sandwich. Chocolate chip cookies are a universal favorite, but consider other options like oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, or sugar cookies.
A warm cookie is especially delicious, providing a comforting sweetness to contrast with savory fillings.
Fruit: Light and Refreshing
A simple bowl of fresh fruit is a healthy and refreshing dessert option. Berries, melon, or grapes are all excellent choices.
Fruit salads can also be a delicious and visually appealing dessert. Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Brownies and Bars: Rich and Decadent
For a more decadent dessert, consider brownies or dessert bars. Chocolate brownies are a classic choice that pairs well with coffee or milk. Lemon bars provide a tangy and refreshing alternative.
A small portion is all you need to satisfy your sweet tooth and complete your sandwich meal.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Pairings to Explore
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sandwich pairings. Experiment with different flavors and textures to discover your own unique combinations.
Consider seasonal ingredients and local specialties to create pairings that are both delicious and memorable.
For example, a grilled cheese sandwich with apple slices pairs perfectly with a side of butternut squash soup in the fall. Or, a lobster roll pairs well with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc in the summer.
By thinking outside the box, you can elevate your sandwich experience to a whole new level. Think about pairing your sandwich with a small cheese and charcuterie board, or some deviled eggs. The possibilities are nearly endless!
What are some unconventional drink pairings that go well with a classic turkey and swiss sandwich?
Beyond the typical soda or iced tea, consider exploring lighter, fruit-forward options. A crisp, dry rosé wine offers a refreshing counterpoint to the savory turkey and nutty Swiss, while its subtle berry notes complement the sandwich’s mild flavors. Alternatively, a sparkling apple cider provides a non-alcoholic option that’s both sophisticated and palate-cleansing, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.
For a spicier twist, try a ginger beer or ginger ale. The slight heat and bubbly texture cut through the richness of the cheese and add an unexpected layer of complexity. A homemade lemonade with a hint of herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the experience, offering a balanced blend of sweetness and herbaceousness that complements the turkey beautifully.
How can I pair sides with a hearty roast beef sandwich on rye bread?
Given the robust flavors of roast beef and rye, choose sides that offer contrasting textures and tastes. A classic potato salad, prepared with a tangy vinaigrette rather than a heavy mayonnaise base, will cut through the richness of the sandwich and provide a refreshing counterpoint. Alternatively, a crisp coleslaw with a light, creamy dressing can offer a similar effect, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch.
For a warmer option, consider a bowl of hearty vegetable soup. The warm broth and diverse flavors will complement the roast beef without overpowering it. Another great choice is a side of roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, seasoned with herbs and spices that enhance the savory notes of the sandwich. These options add substance and complexity to the meal.
What are some creative dessert pairings for a sweet and savory ham and brie sandwich with fig jam?
The combination of salty ham, creamy brie, and sweet fig jam calls for desserts that either mirror or contrast these flavors. A small slice of cheesecake with a drizzle of honey offers a complementary sweetness and creaminess that enhances the sandwich’s existing profiles. A simple fruit tart with a flaky crust and fresh berries also works well, providing a lighter, refreshing finish.
For a more contrasting option, consider a dark chocolate truffle or a small brownie with sea salt. The bitterness of the dark chocolate cuts through the sweetness of the fig jam and the richness of the brie, while the sea salt intensifies the savory flavors of the ham. A scoop of pistachio ice cream can also offer a delightful combination of nutty, sweet, and salty elements.
If I’m making a vegetarian hummus and veggie sandwich, what types of chips would pair best?
Hummus and veggie sandwiches tend to be light and refreshing, so choosing chips that complement this flavor profile is key. Pita chips, either plain or lightly seasoned with herbs, offer a natural pairing with the hummus and add a satisfying crunch. For a spicier kick, consider a brand of jalapeno or chili-lime flavored chips to bring out the more subtle flavors in the sandwich.
For a lighter option, try veggie chips or baked sweet potato chips. These provide a healthier alternative while still adding a textural element. Kettle-cooked chips with sea salt and vinegar can also cut through the richness of the hummus and provide a tangy counterpoint to the fresh vegetables. The goal is to find chips that enhance, rather than overwhelm, the sandwich’s flavors.
What kind of wine would complement a spicy Italian sub with salami, provolone, and hot peppers?
A spicy Italian sub demands a wine that can stand up to its bold flavors. A medium-bodied red wine with good acidity, such as a Chianti Classico or a Barbera, can cut through the richness of the salami and cheese while complementing the heat from the peppers. The wine’s fruit-forward notes will also help balance the spice. Look for a wine with earthy undertones to match the savory flavors of the sub.
Alternatively, a dry rosé wine with a bit of spice can also be a great choice. Its refreshing nature and subtle fruit flavors can help cool down the palate after each bite of the spicy sub. A crisp, dry Lambrusco, served chilled, offers another excellent option, with its light effervescence and bright acidity cleansing the palate and enhancing the overall experience.
What are some simple salad pairings for a classic grilled cheese sandwich?
A grilled cheese sandwich is rich and comforting, so a salad with contrasting textures and flavors is ideal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the cheesy goodness. Adding some crisp vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers enhances the salad’s texture and nutritional value. The acidity in the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Another excellent choice is a fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and grapes. The sweetness of the fruit complements the savory cheese, creating a delightful balance of flavors. For a more substantial salad, consider adding some grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein, turning the pairing into a more complete meal. Keep the dressing light to avoid overwhelming the grilled cheese.
How would you pair a flavorful banh mi sandwich with a unique side dish?
A banh mi sandwich, with its complex flavors of pickled vegetables, cilantro, and often spicy meats, requires a side dish that complements its boldness. A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette dressing, perhaps with a hint of mint, can provide a cooling contrast to the sandwich’s heat and richness. The crisp cucumber and tangy dressing cleanse the palate, preparing it for the next bite of the banh mi.
Another great option is a Vietnamese-style summer roll, filled with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, and fresh herbs, served with a peanut dipping sauce. This offers a similar flavor profile to the banh mi but in a lighter, more refreshing form. Alternatively, a small bowl of pho broth can provide a warming and flavorful accompaniment, enhancing the overall Vietnamese-inspired experience.