Delicious Pairings For Your Reuben Sandwich: What To Eat With It
When contemplating what to eat with a Reuben sandwich, you have a wide range of delicious options. From crunchy sides to flavorful salads and refreshing beverages, enhancing your Reuben experience is simple. Here, we’ll guide you through the best pairings that will complement the rich flavors of this beloved sandwich.
Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or a festive gathering, selecting the right accompaniments can transform any meal into something truly special. Let’s explore the exciting world of side dishes, salads, beverages, and even desserts that pair beautifully with a Reuben sandwich.
Classic Sides That Complement The Reuben
Pairing a Reuben with the right sides adds texture and flavor to your meal. Here are delightful classic options to consider:
1. Potato Chips
Crispy potato chips offer a satisfying crunch that complements the sandwich’s soft texture. The salty goodness contrasts wonderfully with the savory elements of the Reuben.
2. Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is another classic side that works well. The tangy flavor of the coleslaw cuts through the richness of the sandwich, providing a refreshing balance.
3. Pickles
Pickles are a quintessential accompaniment to any sandwich. Their tangy crunch serves as a perfect palate cleanser, enhancing the Reuben’s complex flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
For a twist, consider sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness and crispiness pair well with the savory notes of the Reuben while adding a unique flavor profile.
5. Macaroni Salad
A scoop of macaroni salad can be a satisfying side option. The creamy texture and mild flavor enhance the Reuben without overpowering it.
Hearty Soups That Go Well With A Reuben
If you’re in the mood for a warm and comforting meal, soup can make an excellent pairing with your Reuben sandwich.
1. Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is an age-old favorite that complements a Reuben perfectly. The acidity of the tomatoes brings brightness to the meal, balancing the richness of the sandwich.
2. French Onion Soup
Rich and flavorful, French onion soup adds a luxurious touch. Its cheesy, caramelized flavors pair exceptionally well with the ingredients in the Reuben.
3. Clam Chowder
Creamy clam chowder makes a unique pairing. The hearty soup’s flavors uniquely complement the Reuben’s profile, creating a delightful contrast.
4. Vegetable Soup
A light vegetable soup offers a more refreshing option for pairing. Its variety of vegetables can enhance your meal while keeping things balanced.
Fresh Salads To Balance The Richness
Salads are excellent for adding freshness to your meal. These options will brighten up your plate alongside a Reuben sandwich.
1. Garden Salad
A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes is a fresh complement to a Reuben. The vinaigrette dressing will keep the overall meal light and refreshing.
2. Caesar Salad
For a bold flavor, opt for a Caesar salad. Its creamy dressing and crisp romaine lettuce beautifully contrast with the Reuben’s robust flavors.
3. Spinach Salad
A spinach salad with feta, nuts, and a light vinaigrette adds a sophisticated touch. The earthy notes of spinach enhance the savory depth of the sandwich.
4. Potato Salad
For a hearty side, potato salad complements the Reuben well. Creamy and satisfying, it pairs nicely while adding substance to the meal.
Refreshing Beverages That Pair with Your Meal
Choosing the right drink can elevate your Reuben experience even further. Here’s a list of beverages that will complement the flavors of your sandwich beautifully.
1. Craft Beer
A hoppy craft beer can enhance the flavors of your Reuben. Its bitterness can balance the sandwich’s richness, making every bite more enjoyable.
2. Iced Tea
Iced tea is a refreshing non-alcoholic option. The light flavor cools you down while keeping the palate refreshed between bites.
3. Lemonade
The tangy sweetness of lemonade adds a vibrant element to your meal. This classic beverage complements the savory sandwich superbly.
4. Diet Soda
If you prefer something fizzy, opt for a diet soda. Its carbonation cleanses the palate, making it easy to enjoy the rich flavors of the Reuben.
Comforting Chips & Dips To Snack On
When it comes to informal gatherings, chips and dips can serve as a delightful appetizer alongside a hearty Reuben sandwich.
1. Salsa and Tortilla Chips
Salsa with crunchy tortilla chips adds a zesty flavor to your meal. The fresh ingredients in the salsa provide a nice contrast to the sandwich.
2. Hummus and Veggie Sticks
A healthier option, hummus paired with vegetable sticks offers a creamy, flavorful dip that complements the Reuben without overwhelming the palate.
3. Guacamole
Rich and creamy guacamole presents a delicious pairing. You can enjoy it with tortilla chips or directly—a great way to add an extra layer of flavor.
4. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This warm, cheesy dip is a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich and comforting, providing a wonderful complement to the sandwich itself.
Creative Garnishes To Enhance Your Plate
Garnishes go a long way in enhancing your meal visually and flavorfully. Here are some suggestions for garnishing your Reuben.
1. Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill on your plate. These herbs will brighten the overall appearance and add freshness to each bite.
2. Pickled Red Onions
Add a pop of color and tanginess with pickled red onions. They provide a delightful crunch that enhances the flavors of the whole meal.
3. Avocado Slices
Creamy avocado slices can balance the sandwich’s richness while providing a smooth texture. This garnish is not only delicious but visually appealing.
4. Microgreens
Utilize microgreens for an elegant touch. They not only look sophisticated but also add a nuanced flavor to your plate.
Desserts That Conclude The Meal Perfectly
A satisfying meal is not complete without a sweet ending. Here are some dessert options that will round out your Reuben meal beautifully.
1. Cheesecake
A slice of cheesecake can bring a creamy, indulgent finish to your meal. Choose a fruit topping for added freshness and flavor.
2. Brownies
Rich and fudgy brownies offer a comforting and sweet end to the meal. Their texture pairs nicely with the sandwich’s fullness.
3. Apple Pie
A slice of warm apple pie can add a homestyle touch. Its spiced apple filling provides a warm contrast to the savory Reuben.
4. Ice Cream
Classic ice cream in various flavors can please anyone. Its cool and creamy texture is refreshing after the hearty sandwich.
Table of Suggested Pairings
| Category | Suggestions | Complementary Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sides | Potato Chips, Coleslaw, Pickles | Crunchy textures enhance the sandwich. |
| Soups | Tomato Soup, French Onion Soup | Warm soups bring comfort and depth. |
| Desserts | Cheesecake, Brownies | Sweets provide a satisfying conclusion. |
Conclusion
Pairing your Reuben sandwich with the right sides, soups, salads, beverages, and desserts can create a delightful culinary experience. Each element should complement the rich and hearty flavors of the sandwich while bringing balance and lightness to your meal.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to find your ideal pairings. Whether you’re dining solo or sharing with friends, making informed choices about what to eat with a Reuben sandwich ensures a satisfying dining experience.
FAQ
What side is best with a Reuben sandwich?
Classic options like potato chips, coleslaw, and pickles pair exceptionally well. Each side enhances the flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.
Can I serve soup with a Reuben?
Absolutely! Soups like tomato and French onion complement the Reuben perfectly. They add warmth and rich flavors to your meal.
What type of beverages go well with a Reuben?
Craft beer, iced tea, and lemonade are excellent choices. They balance the sandwich’s richness while keeping your palate refreshed.
Is it okay to have dessert after a Reuben?
Yes! Desserts like cheesecake or brownies can be a delightful end to your meal, adding a sweet contrast to the savory sandwich.