So, you’ve decided to treat yourself to a mouthwatering steak dinner, but now comes the question: what should you serve alongside it? No worries, my friend, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of delectable options that will elevate your steak experience to a whole new level. From classic side dishes to unique culinary creations, get ready to find the perfect accompaniment that will not only complement the flavors of your steak but also leave you craving for more. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Selection of Side Dishes
When it comes to serving steak, the right selection of side dishes can make a world of difference. From enhancing the flavors of the steak to providing a well-rounded meal, the right sides can complement your perfectly cooked steak and elevate the dining experience. In this article, we will explore a variety of side dishes that are sure to impress your taste buds and take your steak dinner to the next level.
Seasoned Roasted Vegetables
For a healthy and flavorful option, seasoned roasted vegetables are always a great choice. Roasted carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions offer a burst of colors, textures, and flavors that perfectly complement the richness of a juicy steak. Tossed with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices, these vegetables become tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, providing a delightful contrast to the steak’s savory flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Nothing says comfort food like a creamy serving of mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that effortlessly pairs with steak. Whether you prefer them smooth and buttery or rustic with chunks of potato, they serve as the perfect canvas to soak up the delicious steak juices on your plate. Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of herbs or cheese to elevate the flavor and create a satisfyingly rich accompaniment to your steak.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus brings a touch of elegance and freshness to your steak dinner. The smoky char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus, creating a flavorful and tender side dish. Simply toss them in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, and grill until they develop a slight char. The vibrant green color and crisp texture of grilled asparagus create a beautiful presentation alongside your perfectly cooked steak.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Mushrooms have a way of adding depth and earthiness to any dish, and when combined with garlic and butter, they become an irresistible side dish for steak. Sauteed in a skillet until golden brown and tender, garlic butter mushrooms deliver a savory punch that complements the steak’s robust flavors. The garlic infuses the mushrooms with a rich aroma and the butter adds a silky mouthfeel, making every bite a decadent delight.
Crispy Onion Rings
If you’re in the mood for a crunch with your steak, look no further than crispy onion rings. These golden-brown rings of delight are made by coating onion slices in a seasoned batter and deep-frying them until crispy. The result is a satisfyingly crunchy, yet tender and sweet, accompaniment to your steak. Whether you eat them on their own or dunk them in your favorite sauce, crispy onion rings add a satisfying texture to your steak dinner.
Fresh Salads
Salads bring a burst of freshness and vibrant flavors to your steak dinner. They provide a lighter alternative while still complementing the rich flavors of the steak. Whether you prefer a simple green salad or a more complex combination of ingredients, salads offer a versatility that allows you to tailor them to your taste preferences.
Classic Caesar Salad
The classic Caesar salad is a timeless option that perfectly balances crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese. The combination of flavors and textures creates a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak, making each bite a delightful experience. Feel free to add grilled chicken or crispy bacon for added protein and flavor.
Caprese Salad
For a taste of Italy, a Caprese salad is a perfect choice. Slices of juicy tomato, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil are drizzled with balsamic glaze and olive oil, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that perfectly complements the steak. The combination of creamy mozzarella, tangy tomato, and aromatic basil provides a light and refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the steak.
Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A mixed green salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice that adds a burst of freshness and acidity to your steak dinner. Toss together a variety of greens like spinach, arugula, and lettuce, along with your favorite vegetables and herbs, to create a colorful and nutritious salad. Drizzle with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a delightful flavor boost that complements the steak without overpowering it.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Cool and crisp, a cucumber and tomato salad provides a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with steak. Slices of cucumber and tomato are combined with thinly sliced red onions and tossed in a tangy dressing of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. The combination of crunchy and juicy vegetables, along with the refreshing flavors of the dressing, creates a palate-cleansing accompaniment to your steak.
Arugula and Parmesan Salad
For a peppery kick and a hint of nuttiness, an arugula and Parmesan salad is an excellent choice alongside steak. The bold and slightly bitter flavors of arugula are balanced by the rich and salty Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious combination that awakens the taste buds. The simplicity of this salad allows the flavors of your perfectly cooked steak to shine through while enhancing them with its own unique characteristics.
Savory Sauces
Sauces can take your steak to new heights by adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture. From creamy and indulgent to tangy and herbaceous, the right sauce can elevate your steak to a whole new level. Whether you prefer to drizzle it on top of your steak or use it as a dipping sauce, there is a wide range of savory sauces to choose from.
Peppercorn Sauce
If you enjoy a hint of heat and a robust flavor profile, peppercorn sauce is a fantastic choice. The combination of creamy texture and the bold flavors of black peppercorns creates a sauce that adds a punch to your steak. Made with a base of cream, brandy, and pan drippings, this sauce is rich and indulgent, providing the perfect complement to a juicy steak.
Red Wine Reduction Sauce
For a touch of sophistication and depth, a red wine reduction sauce is a classic choice. Made by simmering red wine with aromatics, herbs, and butter, this sauce develops a rich and velvety texture with a complex flavor profile. The natural sweetness and acidity of the red wine add complexity to the steak’s flavors, creating a luxurious and refined dining experience.
Chimichurri Sauce
For those seeking a burst of fresh and herbaceous flavors, chimichurri sauce is a must-try. Originating from Argentina, this vibrant green sauce combines parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil. The tangy and slightly spicy flavors of chimichurri pair beautifully with the richness of steak, creating a dynamic and refreshing combination that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Mushroom Gravy
Mushroom gravy offers a savory and earthy addition to your steak. Made with sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic, and a rich beef or vegetable broth, this sauce is full of umami and depth. The velvety smooth texture and the intense mushroom flavors perfectly complement the juicy steak, adding a touch of elegance to your plate.
Blue Cheese Sauce
For a bold and indulgent choice, blue cheese sauce is a flavor-packed companion to your steak. Made with creamy blue cheese, this sauce adds a tangy and salty punch that perfectly balances the richness of the steak. Whether you melt the blue cheese into a creamy sauce or crumble it on top of your steak, this sauce is a delicious indulgence that pairs wonderfully with a perfectly cooked piece of meat.
Rich and Creamy Additions
For those who appreciate a touch of luxury and indulgence, rich and creamy additions can take your steak to new heights. These additions bring decadence and depth to your meal, providing a tantalizing experience that will make every bite a memorable one.
Bearnaise Sauce
Bearnaise sauce is a classic French sauce made with egg yolks, butter, lemon juice, and tarragon. This rich and velvety sauce is similar to hollandaise sauce, but with the addition of the aromatic tarragon. The creamy texture and the elegant flavors of bear naivety perfectly enhance the flavors of a juicy steak, adding a luxurious touch to your meal.
Truffle Butter
Truffle butter is a gastronomic delight that adds an unmistakable earthy flavor and an indulgent creaminess to your steak. Made by blending black or white truffle shavings into softened butter, this aromatic and rich addition elevates the flavors of your steak to a whole new level. Whether you spread it on top of your steak or melt it over the sizzling meat, truffle butter will leave you craving for more with its unique and luxurious taste.
Caramelized Onions
The sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions can effortlessly transform your steak dinner. Slowly cooked until golden brown and tender, caramelized onions release their natural sugars, creating a rich and complex taste. The sweet notes of the onions perfectly balance the robust flavors of the steak, creating a harmonious and delightful pairing.
Roquefort Butter
If you’re a fan of bold and tangy flavors, Roquefort butter is a must-try addition to your steak. Made by blending Roquefort cheese with softened butter, this creamy and pungent concoction delivers an explosion of flavors that tantalize your taste buds. Whether you melt it on top of your steak or spread it on a warm crusty roll, Roquefort butter adds a luxurious touch to every bite.
Horseradish Cream
Horseradish cream adds a zesty and piquant kick that beautifully complements the flavors of a juicy steak. Made by combining grated horseradish, sour cream, and a squeeze of lemon juice, this creamy and tangy sauce cuts through the richness of the steak, providing a refreshing and invigorating element to every bite. Whether you slather it on your steak or use it as a dip, horseradish cream adds an exciting twist to your dining experience.
Hearty Starches
When it comes to comfort and satisfaction, hearty starches are the way to go. These side dishes add substance to your meal and create a sense of warmth and fulfillment. From potatoes to risotto, hearty starches are a classic addition to a steak dinner.
Twice-Baked Potatoes
Twice-baked potatoes are a perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes and a crispy crust. Baked potatoes are hollowed out and mixed with butter, sour cream, cheese, and other ingredients of your choice. The mixture is then placed back into the potato shells and baked again until golden brown. The result is a delectable combination of creamy filling and crunchy skin that pairs wonderfully with a juicy steak.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a creamy and indulgent side dish that adds a touch of elegance to your steak dinner. Fresh spinach is cooked with garlic, cream, butter, and a hint of nutmeg, creating a silky and flavorful dish. The creamy and rich consistency of creamed spinach provides a delightful contrast to the textures and flavors of the steak, making each bite a velvety and satisfying experience.
Loaded Baked Potatoes
Loaded baked potatoes take the classic baked potato to a whole new level. Baked until tender, the potatoes are then topped with an array of toppings like cheese, bacon, sour cream, chives, and other ingredients of your choice. The combination of savory and creamy flavors creates a hearty and satisfying side dish that perfectly complements a juicy steak.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a twist on traditional fries, sweet potato fries bring a touch of sweetness and excitement to your steak dinner. Cut into thin strips, tossed with olive oil, and seasoned with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, sweet potato fries offer a crispy and flavorful alternative to regular potatoes. Their natural sweetness provides a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors of the steak, creating a unique taste experience.
Garlic Parmesan Risotto
Creamy and comforting, garlic parmesan risotto adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to your steak dinner. Arborio rice is slowly cooked with butter, garlic, onions, broth, and Parmesan cheese until it reaches a rich and velvety consistency. The creamy texture and savory flavors of risotto make it a delightful accompaniment to a juicy steak, providing a satisfying and indulgent experience.
Bread and Rolls
Bread and rolls not only provide a tasty addition to your steak dinner but also offer a vehicle for sopping up delicious steak juices or creating mouthwatering steak sandwiches. From the rich flavors of garlic bread to the buttery goodness of cheesy breadsticks, the right choice of bread can enhance your dining experience.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic choice that brings a burst of flavor to your steak dinner. Fresh bread is sliced, slathered with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs, and then baked until golden brown. The result is a crispy and aromatic bread that perfectly complements the steak. Whether you enjoy it on its own or use it to mop up the remaining sauce on your plate, garlic bread is a delightful addition to your meal.
Herb Rolls
Herb rolls add a touch of sophistication and fragrance to your steak dinner. Whether they’re homemade or store-bought, herb rolls are a versatile option that pairs well with steak. The combination of soft and fluffy bread with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano provides a delightful burst of flavors that elegantly complements the richness of the steak.
Cheesy Breadsticks
Cheesy breadsticks are a cheesy and crispy delight that elevates your steak dinner to a whole new level. Fresh bread dough is rolled into sticks, sprinkled with grated cheese, and baked until golden brown. The combination of warm and gooey cheese with the crisp and buttery bread creates a mouthwatering side that can be enjoyed on its own or used to scoop up steak juices.
Focaccia
Focaccia is a delicious Italian bread that adds a rustic and flavorful element to your steak dinner. This flatbread is flavored with olive oil, garlic, herbs like rosemary or thyme, and topped with sea salt. The result is a soft and chewy bread with a crispy crust and an abundance of flavors. Focaccia can be sliced and enjoyed on its own or used as a base for creating mouthwatering steak sandwiches.
Cornbread
For a taste of Southern comfort, cornbread is a classic choice that perfectly complements a juicy steak. Cornbread is a moist and slightly sweet bread made with cornmeal, flour, milk, butter, and often, a touch of honey or sugar. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful accompaniment to the steak, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth to your meal.
Grilled or Steamed Vegetables
Grilled or steamed vegetables provide a healthy and flavorful option to balance the richness of a steak. While grilled vegetables offer a smoky and slightly charred taste, steamed vegetables retain their natural freshness and vibrant colors. Both methods result in vegetables that bring a burst of nutrients and flavors to your plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness to your steak dinner. The corn is brushed with butter or olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, and placed on the grill until it develops a slight char. The natural sweetness of the corn shines through, and the smoky flavors from the grill perfectly complement the steak.
Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a nutritious and vibrant side dish that pairs well with steak. Broccoli florets or spears are steamed until tender-crisp, bringing out their natural flavors and vibrant green color. Steamed broccoli adds a refreshing and slightly crunchy element to your steak dinner, providing a dose of vitamins and minerals to round out your meal.
Grilled Zucchini and Squash
Grilled zucchini and squash offer a flavorful option that showcases the natural sweetness and tenderness of these vegetables. Sliced and brushed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, zucchini and squash are grilled until tender and slightly charred. The resulting flavors are enhanced, and the texture becomes delightfully soft. The mellow flavors of grilled zucchini and squash create a harmonious balance with the steak, making every bite a delightful experience.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Grilled portobello mushrooms are a vegetarian-friendly alternative that provides a meaty and robust addition to your steak dinner. The large portobello caps are brushed with olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, and grilled until tender. The smoky flavors from the grill and the meaty texture of the mushrooms create a satisfying side dish that perfectly complements the steak.
Grilled Bell Peppers
Grilled bell peppers offer a burst of color and sweetness to your steak dinner. Sliced and brushed with olive oil, bell peppers are grilled until they develop char marks and become tender. The combination of vibrant red, green, or yellow bell peppers with the smoky flavors from the grill creates a visually appealing and flavorful side dish that beautifully pairs with the steak.
Warm and Savory Sides
For a comforting and satisfying addition to your steak dinner, warm and savory sides are the way to go. These dishes provide a sense of warmth and homecooked goodness that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the steak.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Whether it’s cooked in a skillet or baked in the oven, creamed spinach adds a touch of elegance and indulgence to your steak dinner. The combination of tender spinach leaves, onions, garlic, cream, and a hint of nutmeg creates a creamy and flavorful dish that perfectly complements the richness of the steak.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus combines the smoky and savory goodness of bacon with the freshness and tenderness of asparagus. Each asparagus spear is wrapped in a strip of bacon and baked until the bacon becomes crispy. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that adds a touch of indulgence to your steak dinner.
Sauteed Brussels Sprouts
Sauteed Brussels sprouts offer a savory and comforting side dish that pairs well with steak. The Brussels sprouts are sliced in half and sautéed in a skillet with butter or olive oil until they become tender and slightly caramelized. The natural sweetness and nutty flavors of the Brussels sprouts create a delicious contrast to the richness of the steak, making each bite a flavorful and satisfying experience.
Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are a classic and indulgent side dish that adds comfort and satisfaction to your steak dinner. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with cream, cheese, and seasonings, then baked until golden brown and bubbling. The result is a creamy and cheesy casserole with tender potatoes that perfectly complement the flavors of the steak.
Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing and tangy element to your steak dinner. This classic side dish combines shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions with a rich and creamy dressing. The combination of crunchy and tangy flavors creates a delightful contrast to the richness of the steak, providing a light and refreshing counterbalance.
Light and Refreshing Sides
If you’re looking to add a light and refreshing touch to your steak dinner, these sides will do the trick. From fruity salads to zesty quinoa, these dishes offer a burst of flavors and textures that awaken your taste buds.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
Watermelon and feta salad is a refreshing and summery side dish that pairs beautifully with steak. The juicy sweetness of the watermelon, combined with the salty and tangy flavors of feta cheese, creates a delightful combination that adds a burst of freshness to your meal. Tossed with mint leaves and dressed with a sprinkle of lime juice, this salad provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the steak.
Grilled Pineapple Slices
Grilled pineapple slices offer a tropical and tangy addition to your steak dinner. Grilling the pineapple caramelizes its natural sugars, creating a sweet and slightly smoky flavor. The juicy and vibrant pineapple slices bring a burst of acidity and freshness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the steak with their tangy and zesty taste.
Cucumber and Avocado Salad
Cucumber and avocado salad provides a crisp and creamy combination that pairs well with steak. Slices of cucumber, chunks of creamy avocado, and thinly sliced red onions are tossed together with a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. The refreshing crunch of the cucumber, the smooth and buttery texture of the avocado, and the tangy flavors of the dressing create a delightful salad that perfectly complements the steak.
Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
Tomato and mozzarella skewers are a simple yet elegant addition to your steak dinner. Grape or cherry tomatoes and bite-sized mozzarella balls are threaded onto skewers, creating a visually appealing appetizer or side dish. Drizzled with balsamic glaze, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, these skewers provide a burst of freshness and a delightful combination of flavors that enhance the steak’s richness.
Citrusy Quinoa Salad
Citrusy quinoa salad offers a light and refreshing side option that adds substance and zing to your steak dinner. Quinoa is cooked until fluffy and tossed with a variety of ingredients like citrus fruits, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette. The combination of textures and flavors creates a vibrant and nutritious salad that beautifully balances the richness of the steak.
