Short ribs on their own may be a treat, but they truly shine when paired with a delicious side dish. The combination is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece, with the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of the beef complemented by the rich flavors of the accompanying sauce.
Who can resist the allure of melt-in-your-mouth meat in a buttery, indulgent gravy? The thought alone is enough to tantalize the taste buds! While the meat-to-bone ratio may not be ideal – we crave more!
– it’s an opportunity to fill up on some equally impressive sides. In fact, we’ve curated a list of 16 mouth-watering options that perfectly complement short ribs.
Whether you prefer something crunchy, creamy, or light, there’s something for every palate.
If you’re unsure what to pair with your short ribs, don’t worry! These tried-and-true combinations will elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Macaroni Salad
This mouthwatering macaroni salad is more than just a side dish – it’s a meal in itself. Its irresistible flavor has the potential to make you devour an entire bowl without hesitation. The versatility of this recipe allows it to be enjoyed at any time of day, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Moreover, when paired with tender short ribs, the combination of flavors is nothing short of phenomenal, making it a match made in culinary heaven.
Potato Salad
Transforming your short rib dinner into a culinary masterpiece requires more than just a flavorful main course – it demands the perfect accompaniment. That’s where this indulgent potato salad comes in, elevating the entire dining experience with its velvety smooth sauce and tender, expertly cooked potatoes. With every bite, you’ll be treated to a delightful harmony of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
Don’t miss out on this game-changing side dish – it’s sure to become your new go-to companion for hearty meals.
Corn On The Cob
When it comes to pairing flavors, few combinations are as satisfying as the union of tender short ribs and sweet corn. What’s more, this match made in heaven is surprisingly easy to create – allowing you to focus on your main course while still delivering a delicious side dish that complements its savory notes perfectly.
Caprese Quinoa Salad
Balancing rich flavors often requires a subtle contrast. When indulging in hearty and savory dishes, a burst of freshness can be just what’s needed to harmonize the taste experience. This Caprese quinoa salad expertly achieves this equilibrium, making it an ideal accompaniment to robust culinary creations.
Sauteed Mushrooms
Elevate your beef dishes by pairing them with the unmistakable flavor combination of hearty beef and earthy mushrooms. The perfect marriage of flavors is just as easy to achieve as it is delicious. Simply sauté the mushrooms in butter, and you’ll be rewarded with a side dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Broccolini
While many are familiar with broccoli, its cousin broccolini often remains underappreciated. But if you’re looking to elevate your veggie game, now is the perfect time to give it a try. With nutritional profiles eerily similar to its green counterpart, broccolini boasts the added benefit of cooking up in a fraction of the time. And when paired with a drizzle of olive oil and some pungent garlic, this tasty treat is ready in no time.
Butternut Squash Risotto
While short ribs may not be the most nutritious option for daily consumption, there’s no need to feel guilty when pairing it with a dish as wholesome and delectable as butternut squash risotto. This recipe is not only good for you, but its rich flavors will also keep you coming back for more – spoon by spoon!
Raspberries With Whipped Cream
If you’re seeking a revitalizing dessert to pair with your rich short ribs, look no further than these raspberry and whipped cream recipes. As a heavy main course can be overwhelming, a light and refreshing dessert is just what you need to strike the perfect balance. This sweet treat fits the bill perfectly, offering a delightful combination of fresh raspberries and spiked whipped cream infused with Grand Marnier.
What’s even more appealing is that this indulgent dessert can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy evenings.
Lemon Bars
When it comes to pairing desserts with short ribs, a classic lemon bar recipe stands out as an unbeatable choice. The harmonious balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes it the perfect palate cleanser after a satisfying meal. Moreover, the buttery and crumbly texture of the shortbread crust adds an undeniable allure that will leave you craving more.
Brussels Sprouts
Indulge in the delightful surprise that awaits when you combine just four ingredients to create a dish that will have even the most ardent Brussels sprouts skeptics swooning. These golden-hued delights, with their tender centers and crispy exteriors, are transformed from humble side dishes into stars of the show when roasted to perfection. And the best part? This mouthwatering recipe is ready in just 30 minutes!
The earthy, nutty, and creamy flavors that emerge as you savor each bite will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about these oft-maligned veggies. Short ribs be gone – Brussels sprouts are now the true MVP of your meal.
Roasted Carrots
When it comes to pairing a side dish with your main course, you want something that will complement the flavors without overpowering them. That’s where roasted carrots come in – a simple yet elegant option that adds a pop of color and depth to your plate. By roasting the carrots at an extremely high temperature, you’ll achieve a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Plus, this side dish is ridiculously easy to prepare!
Simply toss your carrot slices with olive oil and let the oven do its magic – the result will be a golden brown delight that’s sure to please.
Egg Noodles
The unparalleled flavor and tender texture of these noodles make them an ideal pairing for any recipe. Their ability to balance rich flavors, like those found in short ribs, is particularly impressive. Whether you choose linguine, egg noodles, spaghetti, or even Asian-inspired options like ramen or soba noodles, the result will be a satisfying and flavorful experience.
French Bread
When it comes to enjoying a hearty short rib dish, having a suitable accompaniment to soak up all that rich gravy is essential. French bread is the perfect partner in crime, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The combination of its chewy interior and crispy crust provides a satisfying mouthfeel experience, as the subtle notes of sweetness, nuttiness, and savory undertones mingle with the buttery goodness.
With every bite, you’ll be treated to a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.
Mashed Potatoes
There’s something truly magical about the union of tender short ribs and richly creamy mashed potatoes. When bathed in the same savory gravy, this duo creates a comfort food symphony that’s impossible to resist. The marriage of juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs and velvety mashed potatoes infused with butter and sour cream is nothing short of divine. Just imagining these flavors together is enough to leave us wanting more, and we can only imagine the sublime experience awaiting on the palate.
Creamy Polenta
Don’t believe the hype – making creamy polenta doesn’t require a marathon whisking session! With gentle heat and occasional whisking, you’ll achieve a fluffy, light, and utterly creamy side dish. Pair it with tender beef for a match made in heaven. Want to take it to the next level? Simply add more cream cheese and butter, and get ready to thank us!
Final Thought
The humble plate of short ribs is elevated to new heights when paired with a delectable side dish. While the star of the show may be the tender and flavorful ribs, it’s the supporting actor that truly makes the meal unforgettable. From classic comfort food to rich indulgences, this assortment of side dishes offers something for every taste bud.
Whether you’re in the mood for simplicity or decadence, rest assured that one of these options will transport your short rib meal from ordinary to extraordinary.