Best Side Dishes to Serve with Philly Cheesesteak
When it comes to enjoying a delicious Philly cheesesteak, choosing the right side dishes can take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a satisfying meal, pairing your Philly cheesesteak with the perfect sides can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some fantastic side dish options that complement the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak:
1. Crispy French Fries:
There’s no denying the classic combination of Philly cheesesteak and crispy french fries. The crunchy texture of the fries contrasts perfectly with the tender meat and gooey melted cheese of the sandwich. Seasoned with salt and paired with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce, french fries are a must-have side for any cheesesteak lover.
2. Onion Rings:
Another popular side dish to serve with Philly cheesesteak is onion rings. The crispy, golden exterior of the onion rings pairs well with the savory flavors of the sandwich. Whether you prefer beer-battered or breaded onion rings, the hint of sweetness from the onions complements the richness of the cheesesteak.
3. Side Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing:
For a lighter option, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can add a refreshing contrast to the indulgent flavors of a Philly cheesesteak. Opt for a mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions to create a crisp and flavorful side salad that balances out the richness of the sandwich.
4. Coleslaw:
Coleslaw is another excellent side dish choice to serve alongside a Philly cheesesteak. The creamy and slightly tangy coleslaw provides a cool and crunchy element that complements the warm and savory qualities of the sandwich. The combination of textures and flavors makes coleslaw a great accompaniment to a hearty cheesesteak.
5. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes:
For a more elevated side dish option, consider serving garlic parmesan roasted potatoes with your Philly cheesesteak. The hint of garlic and the nuttiness of parmesan cheese elevate the potatoes to a gourmet level, offering a delicious contrast to the cheesesteak. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the roasted potatoes make them a delightful pairing for the sandwich.
6. Grilled Vegetables:
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms can also be a flavorful and healthy side dish to serve with Philly cheesesteak. The charred and caramelized notes from the grilled vegetables add a smoky sweetness that complements the savory profile of the sandwich. Plus, the vibrant colors and varied textures of the vegetables make for a visually appealing side dish.
Choosing the right side dishes to serve with Philly cheesesteak can enhance the overall dining experience and create a well-rounded meal. Whether you prefer classic options like french fries and onion rings or more creative choices like roasted potatoes and grilled vegetables, the key is to find sides that complement the flavors and textures of the iconic sandwich. Next time you indulge in a Philly cheesesteak, consider pairing it with one of these delicious side dishes for a truly satisfying meal.
Delicious Salad Options to Complement Philly Cheesesteak
When it comes to choosing the perfect side dish to accompany your mouth-watering Philly cheesesteak, salads can be a refreshing and healthy choice. The crisp and fresh flavors of salads can provide a delightful contrast to the rich and savory taste of the cheesesteak. Here are some delicious salad options that can perfectly complement your Philly cheesesteak meal:
Classic Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad is a timeless choice that pairs exceptionally well with a hearty Philly cheesesteak. The combination of crispy romaine lettuce, flavorful Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The tangy dressing and the crunch of the croutons provide a satisfying balance to the indulgent cheesesteak.
Garden Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
A light and fresh garden salad featuring a variety of crisp vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette can be a delightful accompaniment to a Philly cheesesteak. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the cheesesteak, while the vibrant colors and flavors of the vegetables add a refreshing touch to the meal.
Spinach and Strawberry Salad
For a more unique and sophisticated option, consider serving a spinach and strawberry salad alongside your Philly cheesesteak. The combination of tender baby spinach leaves, juicy strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds tossed in a light vinaigrette creates a refreshing and flavorful salad that perfectly complements the indulgent flavors of the cheesesteak.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
If you’re looking for a more substantial and protein-packed salad to serve with your Philly cheesesteak, a Mediterranean chickpea salad is an excellent choice. This hearty salad features chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. The Mediterranean flavors of this salad add a refreshing and satisfying element to your meal.
Caprese Salad
A classic Caprese salad made with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze is a simple yet elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with a Philly cheesesteak. The creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil create a light and refreshing salad that complements the richness of the cheesesteak perfectly.
Salads offer a versatile and flavorful option to serve alongside your Philly cheesesteak, adding a fresh and healthy component to your meal. Whether you prefer a classic Caesar salad, a light garden salad, a unique spinach and strawberry salad, a hearty Mediterranean chickpea salad, or a simple Caprese salad, there are plenty of delicious salad options to choose from that will enhance your dining experience.
Delicious Appetizers That Pair Well with Philly Cheesesteak
When it comes to enjoying a classic Philly cheesesteak, choosing the right appetizer can elevate your dining experience. Complementing the savory flavors of the cheesesteak with well-thought-out appetizers can create a perfect harmony on your palate. Here are some delicious appetizers that pair exceptionally well with Philly cheesesteak.
1. Crispy Onion Rings:
The crunchy texture of onion rings pairs wonderfully with the tender meat and melted cheese of a Philly cheesesteak. The slightly sweet and savory taste of onion rings provides a satisfying contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich.
2. Garlic Parmesan Fries:
Garlic parmesan fries are a flavorful and indulgent choice to serve alongside a Philly cheesesteak. The garlic infusion and the cheesy finish of the fries complement the cheesesteak’s profile, making every bite a delightful experience.
3. Jalapeño Poppers:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeño poppers are an excellent choice. The spicy kick from the jalapeños combined with the creamy cheese filling creates a tantalizing appetizer that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the cheesesteak.
4. Caprese Skewers:
If you prefer a lighter option, caprese skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer to serve with Philly cheesesteak. The combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the hearty sandwich.
5. Loaded Potato Skins:
Loaded potato skins loaded with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions are a popular choice to accompany a Philly cheesesteak. The crispy potato skins filled with savory toppings add a textural contrast and a burst of flavors to your meal.
6. Spinach Artichoke Dip:
Creamy spinach artichoke dip served with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that goes well with Philly cheesesteak. The richness of the dip complements the heartiness of the sandwich, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Pairing your Philly cheesesteak with these delicious appetizers will enhance your dining experience and leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you prefer something crunchy, spicy, or creamy, there is an appetizer option to suit every palate and elevate the flavors of your favorite sandwich.
Refreshing Beverage Choices to Enjoy with Philly Cheesesteak
Pairing a delicious Philly Cheesesteak with the right beverage can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Whether you prefer a non-alcoholic option or a more spirited drink, there are various beverages that can complement the flavors of this iconic sandwich.
For a classic and refreshing choice, consider serving a cold glass of beer alongside your Philly Cheesesteak. The carbonation and hoppy notes of a cold beer can help cut through the richness of the cheese and meat, balancing out the flavors and cleansing your palate between each bite. A light lager or a crisp IPA can be an excellent choice to enhance the overall dining experience.
If you’re more inclined towards non-alcoholic options, you can never go wrong with a classic soda. A fizzy cola or a root beer can bring a nostalgic touch to your meal while offering a sweet contrast to the savory and umami flavors of the cheesesteak. The effervescence of the soda can also help cleanse your palate, preparing it for each mouthwatering bite.
For those looking for a more sophisticated pairing, consider serving a glass of red wine with your Philly Cheesesteak. A medium to full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec, can complement the richness of the beef and cheese, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. The tannins in red wine can also help cut through the fattiness of the sandwich, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
If you prefer a lighter option, a glass of white wine can also be a great choice. A crisp Chardonnay or a citrusy Sauvignon Blanc can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the cheesesteak, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer white wines.
For a more casual and laid-back option, consider serving a glass of iced tea or lemonade with your Philly Cheesesteak. The slightly sweet and tangy flavors of these beverages can help cleanse your palate and provide a cooling sensation, especially during warmer weather.
When it comes to choosing the perfect beverage to enjoy with your Philly Cheesesteak, the key is to find a drink that complements the flavors of the sandwich while also enhancing your overall dining experience. Whether you opt for a cold beer, a glass of wine, a classic soda, or a refreshing iced tea, the right beverage can truly elevate the flavors of this iconic dish. Cheers to a delectable dining experience!
Creative Desserts That Can Follow a Philly Cheesesteak Meal
When it comes to enjoying a fulfilling meal like a Philly cheesesteak, ending it with a delicious dessert can be the perfect finale. Here are some creative dessert options that can beautifully follow a Philly cheesesteak meal:
1. Cheesecake: A classic dessert like cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a Philly cheesesteak. The rich and creamy texture of the cheesecake complements the savory flavors of the cheesesteak, creating a delightful contrast on the palate.
2. Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge your sweet cravings with a decadent chocolate lava cake. The warm, gooey center of the cake oozing out as you dig in provides a luxurious experience after savoring the hearty flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.
3. Fruit Tart: For a lighter option, a fruit tart can be a refreshing and colorful dessert to enjoy after a Philly cheesesteak. The combination of fresh fruits on a buttery crust offers a fruity sweetness that balances out the savory notes of the cheesesteak.
4. Tiramisu: Dive into layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone with a delectable tiramisu. The coffee flavors in tiramisu offer a bold and satisfying end to a Philly cheesesteak meal.
5. Apple Pie: A classic dessert like apple pie can be a comforting choice to follow a Philly cheesesteak. The warm cinnamon-spiced apples encased in a flaky crust evoke a sense of nostalgia and homeliness to complete your dining experience.
6. Ice Cream Sundaes: Customize your dessert experience with an ice cream sundae topped with an array of toppings like hot fudge, whipped cream, nuts, and cherries. The cold and creamy ice cream provides a luscious contrast to the savory notes of a Philly cheesesteak.
7. Pecan Pie: Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of a pecan pie after enjoying a Philly cheesesteak. The caramelized pecans combined with a gooey filling offer a sweet and crunchy finish to your meal.
When planning a meal centered around a delectable Philly cheesesteak, consider these creative dessert options to elevate your dining experience. Whether you prefer a classic like cheesecake or a comforting treat like apple pie, there is a dessert choice to suit every palate and complete your culinary journey.
Conclusion
Pairing the perfect sides, salads, appetizers, beverages, and desserts with your Philly cheesesteak can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. Whether you prefer classic accompaniments or enjoy exploring new culinary combinations, there is a wide array of options to choose from.
When it comes to side dishes, classics like fries and onion rings always hit the spot alongside a flavorful Philly cheesesteak. However, branching out to options like loaded potato skins, garlic bread, or even a fresh caprese salad can add a unique twist to your meal.
For those looking to add a touch of green to their plate, refreshing salads make for an excellent pairing with a hearty cheesesteak. Whether it’s a simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a more elaborate Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and Parmesan shavings, the crispness of the greens acts as a perfect counterbalance to the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Before diving into the main course, tantalize your taste buds with delicious appetizers that complement the savory notes of the Philly cheesesteak. From golden-brown mozzarella sticks to zesty jalapeno poppers or tangy buffalo chicken dip, the right appetizer sets the stage for a satisfying dining experience.
To wash it all down, select a beverage that enhances the flavors of your meal. While a classic soda or beer might be the go-to choice, consider refreshing alternatives like a crisp apple cider, a fruity sangria, or even a zesty lemonade to cleanse your palate between each savory bite.
As you wrap up your Philly cheesesteak feast, don’t forget to treat yourself to a delectable dessert. Indulge in a rich chocolate lava cake, a creamy New York-style cheesecake, or a light and airy fruit sorbet to conclude your meal on a sweet note. The contrast of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds completely satisfied.
The key to a memorable dining experience lies in the thoughtful selection of side dishes, salads, appetizers, beverages, and desserts that complement your Philly cheesesteak. Experiment with different combinations to discover your personal favorites and create a harmonious meal that satisfies all your cravings. Happy dining!