Burgers, a classic icon of American cuisine, serve as a hearty main dish and an opportunity to get creative with side dishes. This guide explores a variety of accompaniments to elevate your burger experience, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Traditional Sides with a Twist
Fries: A Classic Companion
No burger meal seems complete without the mention of fries. But let’s take it up a notch. Try sweet potato fries for a hint of sweetness or garlic Parmesan fries for a cheesy, flavorful twist. These variations add flavor and offer a different nutritional profile, like the added beta-carotenoids in sweet potatoes.
Elevated Potato Salads
Potato salad, a staple at many gatherings, pairs excellently with burgers. Add crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, or a tangy mustard dressing to give traditional potato salad a gourmet update. Each ingredient adds layers of flavor, making a simple side dish something guests will remember.
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Light and Fresh Sides
Garden Fresh Salads
For a lighter side, a crisp garden salad topped with various vegetables, nuts, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory burger. Incorporating seasonal vegetables will enhance the taste and contribute valuable nutrients, making the meal more balanced.
Coleslaw with a Crunch
Coleslaw is another excellent side that adds a crunchy texture and a creamy tang to balance the heaviness of a burger. Add different cabbages, like red or Napa, and include carrots, apples, or raisins for added sweetness and texture.
Unexpected Pairings
Grilled Veggie Skewers
For a smoky addition, grilled vegetable skewers marinated in herbs and olive oil can complement the grilled flavors of the burger. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms add color and variety to the plate and are packed with vitamins and minerals.
Sweet Savory Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob, especially when grilled and brushed with butter or a lime-chili rub, offers a sweet and savory taste that enhances the burger’s flavors. This side dish is delicious and provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Global Inspirations
Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables
Incorporating a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables can introduce a delightful tangy and spicy element to the meal, adding a layer of complexity to the flavors. These fermented foods also offer health benefits, including improved digestion.
Pita Bread and Hummus
For a Mediterranean twist, serve your burger with pita bread and hummus. This combination adds a creamy texture and rich, savory flavors, providing a unique alternative to traditional sides. Plus, the chickpeas in hummus are a good source of protein and fiber.
Conclusion: The Art of Pairing
When determining what to serve with a burger, consider the balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional content. The goal is to complement the rich and savory taste of the burger without overshadowing it and add visual appeal and nutritional value to the meal.
Whether opting for classic sides with innovative twists, light and fresh accompaniments, or unexpected global pairings, there’s a vast array of options to turn a simple burger into a memorable meal. Remember, the best pairings are the ones that cater to personal taste preferences while also introducing new and exciting flavors to explore.
At Bloomer’s, we take game day to a whole new level with our unbeatable combination of mouthwatering food, refreshing drinks, and top-notch customer service. Whether you’re craving classic bar fare or something a bit more unique, our menu has something for everyone. And let’s not forget about our wide selection of beverages to keep you cheering throughout the game.
Can’t wait to see you here!
Cheers, Cory