Italian beef is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, pastas, and more. It’s rich, savory, and downright delicious. But, what goes well with Italian beef? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a great meal at home, the right sides and drinks can make your Italian beef experience even better. Let’s dive into some amazing pairings that complement Italian beef perfectly!
What Goes Well with Italian Beef?
Classic Sides: Perfect Complements
Sides are essential to any meal, and Italian beef is no exception. The right side can enhance the flavors of your Italian beef and make your meal even more satisfying.
How to Pair
Classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw work wonderfully. They add texture and balance to the rich flavors of Italian beef.
Classic Side Pairing Ideas
| Side Dish | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Roasted Vegetables | Mix of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy garlic mashed potatoes |
| Coleslaw | Tangy coleslaw with a hint of apple cider vinegar |
| Garlic Bread | Toasted garlic bread with herbs |
| Pasta Salad | Italian pasta salad with vinaigrette |
Salads: Fresh and Flavorful
A fresh salad can add a burst of flavor and crunch to your meal. The crisp textures and vibrant flavors are a perfect match.
How to Pair
Opt for salads with a mix of greens, fresh vegetables, and light dressings. Caesar salad, mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette, and arugula with parmesan are excellent choices.
Salad Pairing Ideas
| Salad Type | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Caesar Salad | Classic Caesar with romaine and parmesan |
| Mixed Greens | Greens with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette |
| Arugula Salad | Arugula with shaved parmesan and lemon dressing |
| Caprese Salad | Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle |
| Greek Salad | Cucumbers, olives, feta, and red onion |
Breads: Soft and Crusty Delights
Bread is a fantastic addition to any Italian beef dish. It can be used to soak up the delicious juices or as a base for sandwiches.
How to Pair
Ciabatta, French baguettes, and focaccia are all great options. They provide the perfect texture to complement the tender beef.
Bread Pairing Ideas
| Bread Type | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Ciabatta | Soft ciabatta rolls for sandwiches |
| French Baguette | Crusty baguette slices with olive oil |
| Focaccia | Herb focaccia with sea salt and olive oil |
| Italian Rolls | Soft Italian rolls for dipping |
| Sourdough Bread | Tangy sourdough slices |
Drinks: Refreshing and Complementary
The right drink can enhance the flavors of your beef and make your meal even more enjoyable.
How to Pair
Red wines, beers, and even non-alcoholic options like iced tea pair well with it. Choose drinks that complement the rich, savory flavors.
Drink Pairing Ideas
| Drink Type | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Red Wine | Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Beer | Italian pilsner or amber ale |
| Iced Tea | Lemon iced tea |
| Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemonade |
| Sparkling Water | Sparkling water with a twist of lime |
Sauces: Adding Extra Flavor
Sauces can take your beef to the next level. They add depth and complexity to the dish.
How to Pair
Marinara, au jus, and horseradish sauce are popular choices. These sauces enhance the beef’s flavors and add a delicious twist.
Sauce Pairing Ideas
| Sauce Type | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|
| Marinara Sauce | Rich tomato marinara |
| Au Jus | Savory au jus for dipping |
| Horseradish Sauce | Creamy horseradish sauce |
| Pesto | Fresh basil pesto |
| BBQ Sauce | Smoky BBQ sauce |
Why Do These Pairings Work So Well?
Balancing Flavors
Italian beef is rich and savory, so pairing it with fresh salads, crusty bread, and light sides helps balance the meal. The contrast in textures and flavors creates a more satisfying and enjoyable eating experience.
Enhancing Aromas
The right drinks and sauces can elevate the aroma of your beef. A good red wine or a flavorful sauce can bring out the beef’s natural richness and make every bite more delightful.
Adding Variety
Pairing Italian beef with different sides, salads, and drinks adds variety to your meal. It keeps things interesting and allows you to enjoy a range of flavors and textures.
Tips for Serving Italian Beef
Keeping It Warm
Italian beef is best served warm. Keep it in a slow cooker or covered dish to maintain its temperature throughout the meal.
Choosing the Right Bread
For sandwiches, choose bread that can hold up to the juicy beef without becoming soggy. Ciabatta and French baguettes are excellent choices.
Preparing in Advance
Many sides and sauces can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on the beef when it’s time to serve. This makes the meal preparation more manageable and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Italian beef is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, salads, breads, drinks, and sauces. Whether you’re enjoying a sandwich or a plated meal, the right pairings can elevate your dining experience. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Italian beef with the perfect accompaniments.
FAQs
Can I make Italian beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, It can be made in a slow cooker. It’s a great way to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.
What kind of cheese goes well with Italian beef sandwiches?
Provolone, mozzarella, and cheddar are all excellent choices. They melt well and add a creamy texture to the sandwiches.
Can I freeze leftover Italian beef?
Yes, leftover Italian beef can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat Italian beef?
Reheat Italian beef in a covered dish in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a bit of broth can help keep it moist.
Are there vegetarian sides that pair well with Italian beef?
Absolutely! Roasted vegetables, salads, and bread are great vegetarian sides that complement Italian beef.
With these pairing ideas and tips, you’ll never be at a loss for what to serve with Italian beef. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and textures, and have fun creating delicious meals!