Veggie burgers have come a long way since their humble beginnings, and they’re now a staple in many restaurants and home kitchens. While the patty itself is the star of the show, the right sides can make all the difference in creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll explore the best sides to serve with veggie burgers, from classic favorites to more adventurous options.
Classic Sides That Never Go Out of Style
When it comes to veggie burgers, some sides are timeless and always a hit. Here are a few classic options that pair perfectly with a veggie patty:
Fries: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Fries are a classic side that pairs perfectly with veggie burgers. Whether you prefer them thin and crispy or thick and chunky, fries add a satisfying crunch to your meal. You can serve them plain or topped with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, chili, or herbs.
Salads: A Refreshing Twist
A simple green salad or a more composed grain salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of a veggie burger. Try adding some seasonal ingredients, such as roasted vegetables or fresh berries, to create a salad that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Onion Rings: A Crispy Delight
Onion rings are another popular side that pairs well with veggie burgers. You can make them from scratch or use store-bought rings, and serve them plain or with a dipping sauce.
International Inspiration: Sides from Around the World
If you’re looking to mix things up, why not try some international sides to pair with your veggie burger? Here are a few ideas:
Kimchi: A Spicy Korean Twist
Kimchi is a spicy Korean fermented cabbage dish that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of a veggie burger. You can make it from scratch or use store-bought kimchi, and serve it as a side or even as a topping for your burger.
Roasted Sweet Potato Fries: A Latin American Favorite
Roasted sweet potato fries are a popular side in many Latin American countries, and they pair perfectly with veggie burgers. Simply slice up some sweet potatoes, toss with oil and your favorite spices, and roast in the oven until crispy.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: A Mediterranean Staple
Grilled or roasted vegetables are a staple in many Mediterranean countries, and they pair perfectly with veggie burgers. Try grilling or roasting some seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, and serving them as a side.
More Adventurous Options: Sides That Will Elevate Your Veggie Burger Game
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some more unusual sides to pair with your veggie burger? Here are a few ideas:
Saffron Corn: A Decadent and Aromatic Side
Saffron corn is a decadent and aromatic side that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of a veggie burger. Simply cook some corn with saffron threads and a squeeze of lime juice, and serve as a side.
Spicy Pineapple Slaw: A Sweet and Spicy Twist
Spicy pineapple slaw is a sweet and spicy side that pairs perfectly with the richness of a veggie burger. Simply mix together some shredded cabbage, diced pineapple, and a spicy pepper, and serve as a side.
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables: A Nutritious and Filling Side
Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables is a nutritious and filling side that pairs perfectly with veggie burgers. Simply cook some quinoa and let it cool, then mix with roasted vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Conclusion
Veggie burgers are a versatile and delicious option for any meal, and the right sides can make all the difference in creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer classic favorites or more adventurous options, there are countless sides to choose from. So next time you’re cooking up a veggie burger, why not try something new and elevate your meal to the next level?
Recommended Sides for Veggie Burgers
Here are some recommended sides for veggie burgers:
- Fries
- Salads
- Onion rings
- Kimchi
- Roasted sweet potato fries
- Grilled or roasted vegetables
- Saffron corn
- Spicy pineapple slaw
- Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables
Final Tips for Choosing the Perfect Side
When choosing a side to pair with your veggie burger, consider the following tips:
Balance Flavors and Textures
Make sure to balance the flavors and textures of your side with the veggie burger. For example, if your burger is rich and savory, try pairing it with a refreshing salad or a side of spicy kimchi.
Consider the Theme of Your Meal
Consider the theme of your meal when choosing a side. For example, if you’re serving a Mediterranean-style veggie burger, try pairing it with a side of grilled or roasted vegetables.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new sides. You never know what you might discover, and it’s a great way to keep your meals interesting and exciting.
What are some popular side dish options that complement veggie burgers well?
When it comes to pairing side dishes with veggie burgers, there are numerous options to choose from. Some popular choices include sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, and grilled or sautéed greens. These options not only add variety to your meal but also provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor to the veggie burger. For instance, the crispy sweetness of sweet potato fries pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of a veggie burger.
Other options like roasted vegetables or grilled greens offer a lighter and refreshing contrast to the richness of the burger. Quinoa salad, on the other hand, provides a nutritious and filling side dish that complements the veggie burger nicely. Ultimately, the choice of side dish depends on personal preference and the flavor profile of the veggie burger. Experimenting with different options can help you find the perfect combination to elevate your veggie burger game.
How can I make my veggie burger sides more flavorful and exciting?
To make your veggie burger sides more flavorful and exciting, consider adding herbs and spices to your dishes. For example, you can sprinkle some smoked paprika on your sweet potato fries or add a pinch of cumin to your quinoa salad. You can also try using different marinades or seasonings for your grilled or roasted vegetables. Another option is to incorporate various sauces or dips, such as tahini or hummus, to add an extra layer of flavor to your sides.
In addition to using herbs and spices, you can also experiment with different cooking methods to add texture and flavor to your sides. For instance, you can try roasting your vegetables in the oven instead of grilling them, or use a pan to sauté your greens with some garlic and lemon juice. By mixing and matching different herbs, spices, and cooking methods, you can create a wide range of flavorful and exciting side dishes to elevate your veggie burger game.
What are some healthy side dish options that pair well with veggie burgers?
If you’re looking for healthy side dish options to pair with your veggie burgers, consider choosing dishes that are high in nutrients and low in calories. Some excellent options include roasted vegetables, grilled or sautéed greens, and quinoa salad. These dishes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can also try making a side of brown rice or whole-grain bread to provide a nutritious and filling complement to your veggie burger.
Another healthy option is to make a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots, which are rich in fiber and vitamins. You can also try making a side of lentil or black bean salad, which are high in protein and fiber. By choosing healthy side dish options, you can create a well-rounded and nutritious meal that complements your veggie burger nicely.
Can I make my veggie burger sides ahead of time?
Yes, many veggie burger sides can be made ahead of time, which can save you time and effort during meal preparation. For example, you can roast your vegetables or cook your quinoa salad a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. You can also make a batch of sweet potato fries and freeze them for later use.
However, some sides are best made fresh, such as grilled or sautéed greens, which can lose their texture and flavor if made ahead of time. In general, it’s best to make sides that require cooking or heating just before serving, while sides that can be served cold, such as salads, can be made ahead of time. By planning ahead and making some sides in advance, you can streamline your meal preparation and enjoy a stress-free dining experience.
How can I make my veggie burger sides more visually appealing?
To make your veggie burger sides more visually appealing, consider adding some color and texture to your dishes. For example, you can add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to your quinoa salad or roasted vegetables. You can also try using different shapes and sizes of vegetables, such as slicing your sweet potatoes into thin rounds or cutting your carrots into sticks.
Another way to add visual appeal to your sides is to use a variety of garnishes, such as lemon wedges, cherry tomatoes, or edible flowers. You can also try arranging your sides in a creative way, such as making a pattern with your roasted vegetables or creating a tower with your sweet potato fries. By adding some visual appeal to your sides, you can create a more engaging and Instagram-worthy meal.
Can I customize my veggie burger sides to suit different dietary preferences?
Yes, many veggie burger sides can be customized to suit different dietary preferences, such as vegan, gluten-free, or low-carb. For example, you can substitute gluten-containing ingredients, such as bread or pasta, with gluten-free alternatives. You can also try using vegan-friendly ingredients, such as plant-based milk or vegan cheese, in your sides.
Additionally, you can modify your sides to suit low-carb or keto diets by using low-carb vegetables, such as leafy greens or broccoli, and reducing the amount of starchy ingredients, such as sweet potatoes or quinoa. By customizing your sides to suit different dietary preferences, you can create a meal that is inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
What are some creative ways to repurpose leftover veggie burger sides?
There are many creative ways to repurpose leftover veggie burger sides, such as turning last night’s roasted vegetables into a hearty soup or using leftover quinoa salad as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. You can also try using leftover sweet potato fries as a topping for a salad or as a crunchy snack on its own.
Another idea is to use leftover sides as a base for a new meal, such as turning leftover grilled vegetables into a wrap or using leftover brown rice as a base for a stir-fry. By repurposing leftover sides, you can reduce food waste, save time, and create new and exciting meals. Get creative and experiment with different ways to repurpose your leftover veggie burger sides!