What To Know
- Steamed or sautéed green beans with a touch of garlic and lemon juice offer a bright and crisp counterpoint to the savory meatloaf.
- Roasted broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese create a savory and satisfying side dish.
- Whether you prefer the classic comfort of mashed potatoes or crave the adventurous flavors of roasted root vegetables or a fresh salad, there’s a perfect side dish waiting to be discovered.
Meatloaf, that comforting classic, always seems to be paired with mashed potatoes. While the combination is undeniably delicious, it’s time to break free from the predictable and explore a world of flavor possibilities. What goes with meatloaf besides potatoes? Let’s embark on a culinary adventure to discover exciting side dishes that will elevate your meatloaf game.
Embrace the Green: Vegetables That Shine
Let’s start with the vibrant world of vegetables. They add color, texture, and a burst of freshness to your meatloaf feast.
- Asparagus: Roasted asparagus with a sprinkle of salt and pepper complements the richness of the meatloaf perfectly. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with a balsamic glaze.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with a touch of garlic and lemon juice offer a bright and crisp counterpoint to the savory meatloaf.
- Broccoli: Roasted broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese create a savory and satisfying side dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic vinegar and bacon are a delicious and unexpected pairing for meatloaf.
- Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower florets with herbs and spices offer a flavor-packed and healthy alternative to mashed potatoes.
A Touch of Sweetness: Fruit Combos to Consider
Don’t be afraid to venture into the realm of sweet and savory with fruit. The right fruit can add a delightful touch of acidity and sweetness that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
- Cranberry Sauce: A classic pairing, cranberry sauce provides a tart and tangy counterpoint to the meatloaf’s savory flavor.
- Apple Sauce: Unsweetened applesauce offers a gentle sweetness that complements the meatloaf beautifully.
- Roasted Figs: Roasted figs with balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of goat cheese create a luxurious and unexpected side dish.
- Grilled Pineapple: Grilled pineapple slices with a touch of cinnamon and chili powder offer a sweet and smoky flavor that adds a unique twist.
Hearty Grains for a Complete Meal
Grains provide a hearty and satisfying base for your meatloaf meal. Choose from a variety of options to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: A flavorful and nutritious option, wild rice pilaf adds a nutty and earthy dimension to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette is a healthy and refreshing choice.
- Brown Rice: Simple and versatile, brown rice can be cooked with herbs and spices for added flavor.
- Couscous: Fluffy and flavorful, couscous can be prepared with lemon zest, herbs, and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a delicious side dish.
Beyond the Basics: Unique and Flavorful Options
For those who crave something truly unique, explore these exciting side dish ideas that will take your meatloaf to a whole new level.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes adds sweetness and depth to your meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a fun and satisfying alternative to traditional potato sides.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food, macaroni and cheese provides a creamy and cheesy complement to the meatloaf.
- Baked Beans: Baked beans with molasses and brown sugar offer a sweet and savory flavor that pairs well with the meatloaf.
Salads for a Light and Refreshing Touch
If you’re looking for a lighter option, salads can provide a refreshing and vibrant counterpoint to the richness of the meatloaf.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a touch of lightness and freshness to your meal.
- Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a burst of flavor and color.
- Waldorf Salad: A Waldorf salad with apples, celery, walnuts, and a creamy dressing adds a sweet and crunchy element to your plate.
A Final Word: Embrace the Journey of Flavor
As you’ve seen, the possibilities for meatloaf side dishes are endless. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find combinations that delight your taste buds. Whether you prefer the classic comfort of mashed potatoes or crave the adventurous flavors of roasted root vegetables or a fresh salad, there’s a perfect side dish waiting to be discovered.
Your Meatloaf Side Dish Journey Begins Now!
FAQs:
1. What are some vegetarian-friendly side dishes for meatloaf?
Vegetarian options include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, couscous, and baked beans.
2. What are some quick and easy side dishes for meatloaf?
Quick and easy choices include green salad, steamed green beans, and brown rice.
3. What are some healthy side dishes for meatloaf?
Healthy options include roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, and green salad with vinaigrette.
4. What are some festive side dishes for meatloaf?
Festive choices include cranberry sauce, roasted figs, and Waldorf salad.
5. What are some kid-friendly side dishes for meatloaf?
Kid-friendly options include mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato fries.
