Sausages are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and they can be served in various ways, from grilled to pan-fried, and even baked. However, a sausage dish is not complete without a delicious side to complement its rich flavor. In this article, we will explore some popular side dish options that go well with sausage, including classic combinations, international inspirations, and healthy alternatives.
Classic Sausage Side Dishes
When it comes to traditional sausage sides, there are a few options that stand out from the rest. These classic combinations have been enjoyed for generations and are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Peppers and Onions
One of the most iconic sausage side dishes is peppers and onions. This simple yet flavorful combination is a staple in many Italian and German cuisines. To make it, simply slice some bell peppers and onions, heat some oil in a pan, and sauté them until they’re tender and lightly browned. You can add some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are another popular side dish that pairs well with sausage. This classic American combination is a staple at many barbecues and picnics. To make baked beans, you’ll need some canned beans, tomato sauce, brown sugar, and spices. Simply mix all the ingredients together, pour them into a baking dish, and bake until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a great side dish option for sausage, especially during the summer months when fresh produce is abundant. Some popular grilled vegetables that go well with sausage include zucchini, eggplant, and red onion. Simply brush the vegetables with some oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until they’re tender and lightly charred.
International Sausage Side Dishes
Sausages are enjoyed in many different cultures around the world, and each culture has its unique side dish options. Here are a few international inspirations to try with your sausage.
German Braised Sauerkraut
In Germany, sausages are often served with a side of braised sauerkraut. This tangy and flavorful side dish is made by cooking sauerkraut with some caraway seeds, apples, and onions. To make it, simply sauté the onions and apples in some oil until they’re tender, then add the sauerkraut and caraway seeds. Braise the mixture in some liquid (such as beer or stock) until the sauerkraut is tender and the liquid has thickened.
Italian Polenta
In Italy, sausages are often served with a side of polenta. This creamy and comforting side dish is made by cooking cornmeal in some water or broth. To make it, simply bring the water or broth to a boil, then gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Cook the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, then serve it alongside your sausage.
Spanish Patatas Bravas
In Spain, sausages are often served with a side of patatas bravas. This spicy and flavorful side dish is made by frying diced potatoes in some oil until they’re crispy, then serving them in a spicy tomato sauce. To make it, simply dice the potatoes and fry them in some oil until they’re crispy. Then, make a spicy tomato sauce by cooking some onions, garlic, and tomatoes in some oil. Add some smoked paprika and chili flakes to taste.
Healthy Sausage Side Dishes
While sausages can be high in fat and calories, there are many healthy side dish options that can balance out the meal. Here are a few ideas.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great side dish option for sausage, and they’re much healthier than fried options. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts) with some oil and seasonings, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and lightly browned.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is another healthy side dish option that pairs well with sausage. This protein-packed side dish is made by cooking quinoa and letting it cool, then mixing it with some chopped vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers) and a tangy dressing. To make it, simply cook the quinoa according to the package instructions, then let it cool. Mix the cooled quinoa with some chopped vegetables and a tangy dressing (such as lemon juice and olive oil).
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs well with sausage. This healthy and flavorful side dish is made by brushing asparagus spears with some oil and grilling them until they’re tender and lightly charred. To make it, simply brush the asparagus spears with some oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until they’re tender and lightly charred.
Other Sausage Side Dish Ideas
Here are a few more sausage side dish ideas to try.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a creamy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with sausage. This classic American side dish is made by shredding cabbage and mixing it with some mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings. To make it, simply shred the cabbage and mix it with some mayonnaise, vinegar, and seasonings.
Braised Greens
Braised greens are a hearty and comforting side dish that pairs well with sausage. This flavorful side dish is made by cooking leafy greens (such as kale or collard greens) in some liquid (such as stock or wine) until they’re tender. To make it, simply sauté the greens in some oil until they’re tender, then add some liquid and braise until the greens are tender and the liquid has thickened.
Hash Browns
Hash browns are a crispy and golden side dish that pairs well with sausage. This classic American side dish is made by shredding potatoes and frying them in some oil until they’re crispy. To make it, simply shred the potatoes and fry them in some oil until they’re crispy.
Conclusion
Sausages are a versatile ingredient that can be served with a variety of side dishes. From classic combinations like peppers and onions to international inspirations like German braised sauerkraut, there are many delicious options to try. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative or a comforting classic, there’s a sausage side dish out there for everyone. So next time you’re cooking sausages, be sure to try one of these delicious side dish options.
Recommended Sausage and Side Dish Pairings
Here are some recommended sausage and side dish pairings to try.
| Sausage Type | Recommended Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Italian Sausage | Peppers and Onions |
| Chorizo | Patatas Bravas |
| Bratwurst | Braised Sauerkraut |
| Knockwurst | Grilled Vegetables |
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different sausage and side dish combinations to find your favorite.
What are some classic side dish options that pair well with sausage?
When it comes to classic side dish options that pair well with sausage, there are several choices that are both timeless and delicious. One popular option is sauerkraut, which is a staple in many Eastern European cuisines. The tangy flavor of sauerkraut complements the savory flavor of sausage perfectly, making it a match made in heaven. Another classic option is baked beans, which are a staple in many American cuisines. The sweet and smoky flavor of baked beans pairs well with the smoky flavor of sausage, making it a popular choice for barbecues and picnics.
Other classic side dish options that pair well with sausage include grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, and corn on the cob. These options are not only delicious but also healthy and easy to prepare. Additionally, sides like mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, and potato salad are also popular choices that pair well with sausage. These options are comforting and filling, making them perfect for a hearty meal.
What are some unique side dish options that can add a twist to a sausage-based meal?
If you’re looking to add a twist to a sausage-based meal, there are several unique side dish options that you can consider. One option is to serve sausage with a side of kimchi, which is a spicy Korean fermented cabbage dish. The spicy and sour flavor of kimchi pairs well with the savory flavor of sausage, making it a unique and delicious combination. Another option is to serve sausage with a side of roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, which is a popular choice in many modern restaurants.
Other unique side dish options that can add a twist to a sausage-based meal include serving sausage with a side of quinoa salad, which is a healthy and flavorful option. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of pickled vegetables, such as pickled carrots and pickled beets, which add a tangy and crunchy texture to the meal. Additionally, sides like polenta and grits are also popular choices that can add a twist to a sausage-based meal.
What are some side dish options that are perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic?
When it comes to side dish options that are perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic, there are several choices that are both refreshing and delicious. One popular option is a pasta salad, which is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with sausage. You can make a pasta salad with a variety of ingredients, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers, and dress it with a light and tangy vinaigrette.
Other side dish options that are perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic include serving sausage with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and eggplant, and a side of corn on the cob. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of coleslaw, which is a creamy and crunchy side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavor of sausage. Additionally, sides like baked beans and potato salad are also popular choices that are perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic.
What are some side dish options that are perfect for a hearty and comforting meal?
When it comes to side dish options that are perfect for a hearty and comforting meal, there are several choices that are both filling and delicious. One popular option is mashed potatoes, which is a classic comfort food that pairs well with sausage. You can make mashed potatoes with a variety of ingredients, such as butter and milk, and add some grated cheese for extra flavor.
Other side dish options that are perfect for a hearty and comforting meal include serving sausage with a side of roasted potatoes, which are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of braised greens, such as kale and collard greens, which are cooked in a flavorful broth and are perfect for a cold winter’s night. Additionally, sides like mac and cheese and creamed spinach are also popular choices that are perfect for a hearty and comforting meal.
What are some side dish options that are perfect for a quick and easy meal?
When it comes to side dish options that are perfect for a quick and easy meal, there are several choices that are both fast and delicious. One popular option is a simple green salad, which can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. You can dress the salad with a light and tangy vinaigrette and serve it with a side of sausage.
Other side dish options that are perfect for a quick and easy meal include serving sausage with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli and carrots, which can be cooked in the oven in just a few minutes. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of rice or quinoa, which can be cooked quickly and are perfect for a weeknight meal. Additionally, sides like canned beans and canned corn are also popular choices that are perfect for a quick and easy meal.
What are some side dish options that are perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal?
When it comes to side dish options that are perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal, there are several choices that are both elegant and delicious. One popular option is a sweet potato casserole, which is a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with sausage. You can make a sweet potato casserole with a variety of ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and marshmallows.
Other side dish options that are perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal include serving sausage with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, which are a popular choice in many upscale restaurants. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of creamed spinach, which is a rich and decadent side dish that pairs well with the savory flavor of sausage. Additionally, sides like roasted root vegetables and braised red cabbage are also popular choices that are perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
What are some side dish options that are perfect for a breakfast or brunch meal?
When it comes to side dish options that are perfect for a breakfast or brunch meal, there are several choices that are both delicious and easy to make. One popular option is hash browns, which are a classic breakfast side dish that pairs well with sausage. You can make hash browns with a variety of ingredients, such as shredded potatoes, onions, and bell peppers.
Other side dish options that are perfect for a breakfast or brunch meal include serving sausage with a side of scrambled eggs, which are a staple in many breakfast meals. You can also consider serving sausage with a side of toast or biscuits, which are perfect for sopping up the savory juices of the sausage. Additionally, sides like grilled asparagus and roasted tomatoes are also popular choices that are perfect for a breakfast or brunch meal.