What Sides Go With Grilled Cheese? The Ultimate Guide
The best sides for grilled cheese sandwiches are those that offer contrasting flavors and textures, enhancing the overall experience. Think complementary flavors like the tang of tomato soup or the crunch of coleslaw to balance the richness and simplicity of a classic grilled cheese.
Why Grilled Cheese Deserves a Sidekick
Grilled cheese. The epitome of comfort food, the savior of quick lunches, and the darling of picky eaters. But let’s be honest, as delicious as it is on its own, a grilled cheese sandwich truly shines when paired with the right accompaniment. A thoughtfully chosen side dish elevates the humble grilled cheese from a simple snack to a satisfying and well-rounded meal. It’s about creating a harmony of flavors and textures that engage your palate and leave you feeling content.
The Flavor Profile of Grilled Cheese: Understanding the Basics
Before diving into specific side dishes, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental flavor profile of a grilled cheese. It’s generally rich, buttery, cheesy, and slightly salty. This understanding allows us to select sides that either complement or contrast these qualities, creating a balanced culinary experience. Consider the type of cheese used – sharp cheddar demands a different side than mild mozzarella. Even the bread plays a role; a crusty sourdough will stand up to bolder flavors than soft white bread.
The Perfect Side Dish: Balancing Texture and Taste
The ideal side dish doesn’t just taste good; it also adds textural contrast to the grilled cheese. Imagine biting into the gooey, melty cheese followed by the crisp and refreshing crunch of a pickle or the smooth, creamy texture of tomato soup. This interplay of textures keeps the meal interesting and prevents palate fatigue. The goal is to avoid monotony and create a more engaging eating experience.
Classic Choices: Tried and True Pairings
Some side dishes have become synonymous with grilled cheese, and for good reason. They are time-tested pairings that consistently deliver delicious results. Here are a few of the most popular:
- Tomato Soup: A quintessential pairing. The acidity of the tomato cuts through the richness of the cheese, and the warm, comforting broth complements the toasted bread.
- Pickles: The tang and crunch of pickles offer a refreshing counterpoint to the buttery, cheesy goodness. Dill pickles are a classic choice, but sweet gherkins or even spicy kimchi pickles can add a unique twist.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor of coleslaw provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the warm, melty grilled cheese.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Side Dish Options
While classic pairings are always a safe bet, there’s a whole world of creative side dishes to explore. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find new combinations that tantalize your taste buds.
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, all roasted to perfection, offer a healthy and flavorful counterpoint to the rich grilled cheese.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a light and refreshing element to balance the richness of the sandwich. Consider adding fruit or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Mac and Cheese: For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair your grilled cheese with a side of creamy mac and cheese.
Grilling Season: Sides to Enjoy Outdoors
When grilling season arrives, take your grilled cheese and side dish game outdoors. The smoky flavors of the grill can enhance both the sandwich and the accompanying dishes.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer classic that pairs perfectly with grilled cheese. The sweetness of the corn and the smoky char from the grill complement the buttery flavors of the sandwich.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant are all delicious when grilled and served as a side dish to grilled cheese.
- Watermelon Salad: A refreshing and hydrating side dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. The sweetness of the watermelon and the salty feta cheese create a delightful flavor combination.
Quick and Easy Sides: Perfect for Busy Weeknights
On busy weeknights, simplicity is key. These quick and easy side dishes require minimal effort and time, making them perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese sandwich.
- Baby Carrots and Hummus: A healthy and satisfying snack that requires no cooking.
- Applesauce: A simple and comforting side dish that adds a touch of sweetness to the meal.
- Canned Soup: A quick and easy option for a warm and comforting meal.
Pairing with Different Cheeses: A Cheese-Centric Approach
The type of cheese used in your grilled cheese significantly impacts the ideal side dish. Consider the following pairings:
| Cheese Type | Recommended Side Dishes |
|---|---|
| Cheddar | Apple slices, spicy pickles, coleslaw |
| Mozzarella | Tomato soup, pesto, roasted vegetables |
| Gruyere | Caramelized onions, balsamic glaze, fig jam |
| Brie | Pear slices, honey, walnuts |
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Side Dish Faux Pas
While there are countless delicious side dishes to pair with grilled cheese, there are also some pairings to avoid.
- Overly Rich or Heavy Sides: Pairing grilled cheese with another rich or heavy dish can lead to palate fatigue and a feeling of being overly full.
- Sides That Clash with the Cheese: Avoid pairing grilled cheese with sides that have strong or overpowering flavors that clash with the cheese.
- Sides That Don’t Offer Contrast: The best side dishes offer textural or flavor contrast to the grilled cheese. Avoid sides that are too similar in texture or flavor.
Plating and Presentation: Elevating the Experience
Even the simplest meal can be elevated with thoughtful plating and presentation. Consider the following tips:
- Cut the grilled cheese diagonally: This makes it easier to eat and also looks more appealing.
- Arrange the side dish attractively on the plate: Don’t just dump it on the plate. Take a moment to arrange it artfully.
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs: A sprig of parsley or a few chives can add a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities of Grilled Cheese Pairings
Ultimately, the best side dish for grilled cheese is the one that you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover new combinations that tantalize your taste buds. With a little creativity and a willingness to try new things, you can elevate the humble grilled cheese into a culinary masterpiece.
FAQs About Grilled Cheese Sides
Is tomato soup always the best choice?
Tomato soup is a classic pairing for a reason, but it’s not the only good option. It is especially good if your grilled cheese is on the richer side. The best side depends on your personal preferences and the type of cheese used in your grilled cheese.
Can I pair grilled cheese with something sweet?
Absolutely! Sweet and savory pairings can be incredibly satisfying. Try pairing grilled cheese with apple slices, honey, or a fruit chutney.
What is the healthiest side option for grilled cheese?
Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad are both healthy and delicious side options for grilled cheese. They provide essential vitamins and minerals and help to balance the richness of the sandwich.
Can I make a complete meal out of grilled cheese and a side?
Yes, absolutely! Pairing grilled cheese with a hearty side dish, such as roasted vegetables or a bean soup, can create a complete and satisfying meal.
What is the best side for a grown-up grilled cheese (with fancy cheese)?
For a more sophisticated grilled cheese, consider pairing it with caramelized onions, balsamic glaze, fig jam, or a glass of wine. Strong cheeses such as brie pair well with something sweeter.
Are there any international side dish options?
Definitely! Try pairing grilled cheese with kimchi, miso soup, or baba ghanoush for an international twist.
What’s a good side for kids who like simple flavors?
Applesauce, baby carrots, or a simple fruit salad are all kid-friendly side options for grilled cheese.
How can I make my side dish more interesting?
Add fresh herbs, spices, or a unique dressing to your side dish to enhance its flavor and texture. Even a simple vinaigrette can make a big difference.
Can I prepare the side dish ahead of time?
Yes, many side dishes, such as coleslaw, roasted vegetables, and salads, can be prepared ahead of time. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
What about dips? Do any work as sides for a grilled cheese?
Absolutely. Ranch, hummus, or even a warm spinach and artichoke dip can be great dipping options that serve as a side for grilled cheese.
What if I’m lactose intolerant? Are there any side dishes I should avoid?
If you are lactose intolerant, avoid side dishes that contain large amounts of dairy, such as creamy soups or mac and cheese. Opt for dairy-free alternatives or choose side dishes that are naturally low in lactose.
What’s the most unexpected side dish that actually goes well with grilled cheese?
While potentially surprising, some people enjoy pairing grilled cheese with a side of french fries or onion rings. These add crunch and saltiness that some people enjoy! The best way to find out is to try different things.