What to Pair with Grilled Cheese?
The perfect grilled cheese pairing depends on your palate, but the consensus leans towards options that offer a delightful contrast: think bright, acidic flavors to cut through the richness of the cheese, and textures that complement the gooey warmth. Tomato soup is the classic choice, but there’s a whole world of possibilities to explore.
The Ubiquitous Allure of Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese sandwiches: a culinary cornerstone, a comfort food champion, and a blank canvas for delicious experimentation. From the simplest American cheese on white bread to gourmet creations featuring artisanal cheeses and exotic fillings, this sandwich transcends generations and culinary boundaries. But no matter how decadent or simple the grilled cheese itself, the question remains: what do you pair it with?
The Importance of Complementary Flavors
The success of a grilled cheese pairing hinges on creating a balance of flavors. The sandwich is inherently rich, buttery, and often quite salty. Therefore, complementary pairings typically offer acidity, spice, or a lighter texture to prevent palate fatigue. Thinking about contrasting textures and temperatures is also crucial to creating a satisfying and memorable meal.
The Time-Honored Classic: Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is the undisputed king of grilled cheese pairings. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance. Its warm, comforting nature also perfectly complements the warm, comforting nature of the sandwich itself.
- Simple Tomato Soup: A basic blend of tomatoes, broth, and seasonings.
- Roasted Tomato Soup: Offers a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Provides an extra layer of richness, which may require a more acidic tomato.
Beyond Tomato: Exploring Other Soup Options
While tomato soup reigns supreme, many other soups offer equally delicious pairings.
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A familiar, cheesy choice that can work if the grilled cheese is more subtle.
- Creamy Vegetable Soup: Provides a lighter, healthier counterpoint.
- Spicy Black Bean Soup: Introduces a welcome kick to balance the richness.
- French Onion Soup: Adds a sophisticated and savory element.
Salads: A Refreshing Contrast
A crisp, refreshing salad can offer a welcome textural and flavor contrast to the warm, gooey grilled cheese.
- Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette: The acidity of the vinaigrette is key.
- Caesar Salad: The sharp Parmesan and creamy dressing offer a complementary richness.
- Arugula Salad with Lemon: The peppery arugula and bright lemon cut through the fat.
- Fruit Salad (e.g., Apple & Walnut): Adds sweetness and crunch.
Side Dishes that Shine
Beyond soups and salads, a variety of side dishes can elevate the grilled cheese experience.
- Pickles: The tangy, vinegary bite of pickles is a classic pairing.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor provide a counterpoint.
- Applesauce: The sweetness and smooth texture offer a comforting balance.
- Chips: The salty crunch satisfies the craving for contrasting textures.
Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst
The right beverage can enhance the enjoyment of your grilled cheese.
- Iced Tea: Its refreshing acidity cuts through the richness.
- Lemonade: Similar to iced tea, offers a bright, citrusy counterpoint.
- Milk: A classic, comforting pairing, especially for simpler grilled cheese.
- Beer (e.g., Lager or Pale Ale): The crispness and bitterness can balance the richness.
- Wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir): Offers a sophisticated pairing with more gourmet grilled cheese.
Tips for Perfect Pairing Success
- Consider the Cheese: Stronger cheeses (e.g., Gruyere, sharp cheddar) pair well with bolder flavors.
- Think about Fillings: If your grilled cheese has fillings (e.g., bacon, tomato), choose pairings that complement those flavors.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: The best pairing is ultimately the one you enjoy the most!
| Pairing Category | Example Pairing | Flavor Profile | Texture Contrast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soup | Tomato Soup | Acidic, Savory, Warm | Creamy, Smooth |
| Salad | Arugula & Lemon | Peppery, Citrusy, Bright | Crisp, Light |
| Side | Pickles | Tangy, Vinegary, Salty | Crunchy |
| Drink | Iced Tea | Acidic, Refreshing, Slightly Sweet | Liquid |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is tomato soup such a classic pairing for grilled cheese?
Tomato soup’s acidity acts as a counterpoint to the richness and fattiness of the cheese, preventing palate fatigue. The warm, comforting temperatures of both the soup and the sandwich also complement each other, creating a satisfying and classic combination. It’s a simple yet effective pairing.
What’s the best way to choose a salad to pair with grilled cheese?
Opt for salads with bright, acidic dressings, such as vinaigrettes or lemon juice-based dressings. Consider adding elements like peppery greens (arugula) or tart fruits (green apple) to further cut through the cheese’s richness. Avoid overly creamy or heavy dressings.
Can I pair grilled cheese with a fruit?
Absolutely! Apples, pears, and grapes work well, particularly if the grilled cheese contains a complementary cheese like brie or sharp cheddar. A side of applesauce is another classic and comforting option. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit can provide a refreshing contrast.
What kind of pickles go best with grilled cheese?
Dill pickles are a popular choice due to their tangy, vinegary flavor. Bread and butter pickles, with their sweet and sour profile, also work well. The key is the acidity to balance the richness of the sandwich. Experiment to find your personal preference!
What’s a good drink pairing for a more gourmet grilled cheese (e.g., one with brie and fig jam)?
For more sophisticated grilled cheese variations, consider a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The wine’s acidity and subtle fruit notes can complement the complex flavors of the sandwich. You could even consider a hard cider.
Are there any specific grilled cheese fillings that dictate what I should pair it with?
Yes! Grilled cheese with bacon pairs well with maple syrup, crisp apple slices, or a side of Dijon mustard. Grilled cheese with tomato benefits from basil pesto or a balsamic glaze. Match complementary flavors for the best result.
Can I pair grilled cheese with a dessert?
While not a traditional choice, certain desserts can work. Fruit-based desserts like apple crisp or berry cobbler offer a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich. Alternatively, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a creamy, cool counterpoint.
Is there a “wrong” pairing for grilled cheese?
Generally, avoid pairings that are too heavy, rich, or sweet. For example, a large slice of chocolate cake or a creamy pasta dish might overwhelm the palate and detract from the enjoyment of the grilled cheese.
What if I’m making grilled cheese for kids? What are some kid-friendly pairings?
Applesauce, carrot sticks, and small bowls of grapes are healthy and appealing options for kids. A simple tomato soup or a glass of milk are also classic and comforting choices. Keep it simple and focus on familiar flavors.
Can I pair grilled cheese with spicy foods?
Absolutely! A grilled cheese can be a fantastic counterpoint to spicy flavors. Pair it with a spicy black bean soup, jalapeño poppers, or even a side of hot sauce for a fiery and flavorful meal. The cheese will help cool down the heat.
Does the type of bread I use in my grilled cheese affect what I should pair it with?
Yes, to some extent. Hearty breads like sourdough or multigrain can stand up to bolder flavors, while softer breads like white bread are better suited to simpler pairings. Consider the bread’s texture and flavor when making your pairing decisions.
What are some vegetarian or vegan pairing options for grilled cheese?
For vegetarians, creamy tomato soup, grilled vegetables (such as zucchini and bell peppers), and fruit salads are excellent choices. For vegan pairings, try a vegetable broth-based soup, a side of roasted sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.