Complementing Your Burger: Creative Side Dishes and Pairings

When it comes to enhancing the dining experience, the choice of complementary dishes can make all the difference. From traditional potato salads to creative alternatives, the right side dishes can elevate a simple burger into a memorable meal. In this article, we'll explore some innovative and healthy side dishes that can pair wonderfully with your burger, along with a couple of wine pairings to finish off the perfect meal.

Green Bean Potato Salad

If you're grilling burgers and it's a summer evening, there's nothing quite like experimenting with new side dishes. Consider substituting just-cooked green beans for half the potatoes in a Dijon mustard dressing. This swap results in a wonderfully fresh and vibrant salad that complements the grilled burger perfectly. The fresh, crisp green beans contrast beautifully with the rich, smoky flavors of the burger.

Finger-Less Fries: Potato Wedges and Waffle Fries

Fries are always a classic choice, but they can be a bit of a hassle to prepare at home. For a more visually appealing and flavorful option, consider serving potato wedges or waffle fries. These versatile sides can be dressed up with ranch dressing or any other dipping sauce of your choosing. The wedges and waffle fries offer a crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft, juicy burger.

Minimalist Salad Fixings

When you want to keep things simple yet still offer a variety, consider a minimalist salad side. A small bed of leaf lettuce can be topped with a slice or two of beef steak tomato, a generous slice of either red onion or sweet Vidalia onion, and perhaps a hint of fresh herbs like dill. This allows guests to customize their serving, deciding whether to use the salad as a side or to add it to their burger. A small cup of dressing on the side can help tie it all together, while a sliced dill pickle spear adds a nice tanginess.

Colorful Presentation

The key to a beautiful presentation is to make your side dishes vibrant and colorful. A simple potato salad, coleslaw, or pasta salad filled with fresh vegetables can be both visually appealing and healthy. Alternatively, a fresh salad with ingredients like tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and olive oil can provide a range of tastes and textures that complement the burger.

Healthy Choices

Most commercial establishments tend to overload your plate with high-calorie sides like French fries or onion rings. However, for a more balanced and healthier meal, opt for a green salad. This choice ensures you get a larger portion of good nutrients with fewer calories. Pair it with a small serving of your preferred burger fixings, and don't overorder on the toppings.

Wine Pairings

While many people go for a beer or soda with their burger, a glass of red wine can be the perfect accompaniment. Enjoying a nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Malbec, or Shiraz enhances the flavors of the meat, cheese, and greens, making the burger more satisfying and enjoyable. The nuances of red wine can help you appreciate each component of the meal, adding an extra layer of flavor and depth.

So the next time you’re in the mood for a burger, don’t just stick to the usual suspects. Experiment with these innovative side dishes and wine pairings to create a truly memorable experience.