Salads are an essential part of a nutritious diet, as they provide a palette of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Despite the fact that a hearty salad can undoubtedly serve as a meal on its own, you may occasionally find yourself craving something else to complement your dinner. So, what goes good with salad for dinner?
This article explores a variety of dinner options that pair well with salad, from proteins and grains to other vegetable dishes, to provide you with ideas for your next supper.
What Goes Good With Salad For Dinner?
Salads can be a light and refreshing part of dinner, but sometimes you may want something more substantial to accompany them. Here are some ideas for what pairs well with salad for a complete and satisfying dinner:
Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: A classic choice that complements almost any type of salad. You can marinate the chicken in herbs, spices, or even a bit of lemon juice for added flavor.
- Steak: A juicy steak can be a luxurious accompaniment to a hearty salad, especially one with ingredients like blue cheese, walnuts, or a robust vinaigrette.
- Fish: Grilled or baked fish like salmon, tilapia, or cod can pair wonderfully with a light, citrusy salad.
- Shrimp: Grilled or sautéed shrimp add a touch of elegance and go particularly well with salads featuring avocado or tropical fruits.
- Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian option, grilled or sautéed tofu or tempeh can be a satisfying protein to pair with salad.
Carbohydrates
- Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread can add a comforting, savory note to a fresh salad.
- Quinoa or Rice: A side of quinoa or rice can add substance and pair well with salads that feature robust or spicy flavors.
- Pasta: A light pasta dish, perhaps with a garlic and oil sauce or a light cream sauce, can complement a salad nicely.
- Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes can provide a hearty counterpoint to a light, leafy salad.
- Polenta: Grilled or creamy polenta can be a unique and delicious side to serve with salad.
Soups
- Tomato Soup: A classic choice that pairs well with many salads, especially those featuring cheese.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: A light broth-based soup can be a warming and comforting addition.
- Chilled Soup: In warmer weather, a chilled soup like gazpacho can be a refreshing complement to a salad.
Others
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, perhaps with some fruit and crackers, can round out a salad-centric meal.
- Fruit: A side of fresh fruit can add sweetness and lightness, balancing out a savory or hearty salad.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds can add crunch and protein, making the salad more filling.
- Wine: Don’t forget the beverages—a crisp white wine or rosé can be a delightful accompaniment to a fresh salad.
- Dessert: If the salad is light, you might opt for a richer dessert like chocolate cake or cheesecake to make the meal feel more complete.
Seasonal Suggestions
- Summer: In hot weather, a fresh salad with seasonal fruits can be paired with grilled chicken or seafood. A chilled soup like gazpacho and a cold glass of rosé can make for a refreshing meal.
- Autumn: A hearty salad with ingredients like roasted squash and cranberries can pair well with a spiced pork loin. A warm apple cider could be a comforting beverage choice.
- Winter: A kale or spinach salad with hearty ingredients like roasted nuts and blue cheese can go well with a rich, warm dish like beef stew or roasted chicken. A robust red wine or hot mulled wine could be a good match.
- Spring: A light salad with fresh spring vegetables like asparagus and peas could accompany a dish like lemon-roasted chicken. A light white wine or a floral cocktail could be a refreshing beverage choice.
Feel free to mix and match these options depending on the type of salad you’re having and your personal preferences. With the right pairings, a salad can become part of a satisfying and well-rounded dinner.
Bottom Line
This was all about what goes good with salad for dinner. With the proper salad pairings, a simple dinner can be elevated to the sublime. Whether you opt for grilled meats, seafood, or plant-based proteins or decide to complement your vegetables with hearty grains or a bowl of soup, the key is to balance flavors and textures.
Consider the salad’s ingredients and vinaigrette when selecting pairings, aiming for complementary flavors to create a harmonious meal.
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