Elevate Your Meat-Based Meals With The Right Sides

Whether you’re a meat-lover who wants to get something a little more varied in their diet for a change, or you simply want to elevate your meals and give them a wider variety of tastes, don’t underestimate the power of a good side. Here, we’re going to look at some of the options that can really be a game-changer for your meat-based meals and how to best use them.

Tomato Salad

A fresh tomato salad can be the perfect accompaniment to a meat-based meal, offering a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the meat. The key to a great tomato salad is using ripe, juicy tomatoes, preferably heirloom varieties, which come in a variety of colors and flavors. A simple dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of salt and pepper can elevate the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. Add some fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of feta or mozzarella cheese, and perhaps a few slices of red onion for a bit of bite. 

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs well with a variety of meats, especially barbecued or grilled dishes. Its crunchy texture and creamy dressing provide a pleasant contrast to the tenderness of cooked meat. The beauty of coleslaw lies in its versatility. You can go for the traditional version with shredded cabbage and carrots in a mayonnaise-based dressing, or you can mix things up by adding apple slices, raisins, or even a touch of mustard for extra zing. Furthermore, there are plenty of specialized recipes you can follow to match your side to your meat, like finding the best coleslaw for pulled pork. It’s an easy favorite that’s highly customizable.

Truffle Oil

Truffle oil can transform even the simplest side dishes into something truly special. While it’s often used sparingly due to its strong flavor, a drizzle of truffle oil over roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a simple pasta side dish can add a luxurious, earthy note that pairs beautifully with meat. For instance, imagine a plate of crispy roasted potatoes, golden and hot from the oven, finished with a light touch of truffle oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. The aroma alone is enough to whet your appetite, and the deep, umami flavor of the truffle oil enhances the savoriness of the meat. 

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

This side dish pairs perfectly with almost any type of meat. The mushrooms absorb the rich flavors of the garlic and butter, becoming tender and flavorful. The earthy taste of the mushrooms complements the meat, while the garlic adds a punch of flavor that can elevate the entire meal. To prepare, simply sauté the mushrooms in a generous amount of butter with minced garlic until they are golden and aromatic. A splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add an extra layer of flavor. They’re also incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and a short cooking time, making them a convenient yet delicious side dish.

The options above are just a few examples of sides to pair with your meat-based meals, and you should experiment widely and often to see which come out on top as your new favorites.