As the weather turns colder and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of split pea soup. This classic dish is not only simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly comforting and satisfying. However, while split pea soup can certainly stand on its own, many people wonder what to serve with it to make it a more complete and well-rounded meal. In this article, we’ll explore some delicious and easy-to-make sides that pair perfectly with split pea soup, helping to elevate this humble dish and turn it into a truly memorable meal. So, grab a spoon and let’s get started!
1. A Match Made in Heaven: The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Split Pea Soup
To truly elevate your split pea soup game, finding the perfect side dishes can make all the difference. Not all side dishes are created equal, however, and it’s important to find those that perfectly complement your soup. These recommendations will have you serving up a match made in heaven.
First up, try a fresh, crisp green salad. The light and refreshing flavors of the greens will act as a palette cleanser between bites of the hearty soup. Add some cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a delicious contrast to the rich soup.
For a heartier option, roasted root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or carrots are a great choice. The sweetness of the vegetables will balance out the smoky flavor of the soup, and the soft texture will offer a nice contrast to the significant bite of the soup. Bonus points if you season your vegetables with garlic and rosemary!
Another option that can’t be missed is cornbread. The dense and buttery texture of the bread pairs perfectly with the soup’s thick consistency. Go for the classic buttermilk recipe or add a twist with some jalapeños and cheddar cheese.
If you’re looking for a fresh and zippy side dish, a cucumber and dill yogurt dip with pita chips is an excellent choice. The tanginess of the yogurt mixed with the freshness of the cucumber and the herbaceousness of the dill is a refreshing pairing for the warm soup. Plus, the crispy texture of the pita chips adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Lastly, think outside of the box and try some roasted garlic mashed potatoes. The savory flavors of the potatoes will work well with the earthy taste of the soup. Plus, mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser, making them an excellent choice for dinner parties or potlucks.
In conclusion, finding the perfect side dish for split pea soup is all about finding the right balance of flavors and textures. Whether you opt for a light salad or a hearty veggie side, there are endless possibilities to explore. So next time you whip up a batch of this classic comfort food, try stepping up your side dish game for an unforgettable meal.
2. From Bread to Veggies: The Perfect Complements to Your Hearty Soup
Once winter is upon us, a hot bowl of soup is always a hearty option to warm up the body. Whether it’s lentil, tomato, or chicken noodle soup, a perfect complement can take your soup to the next level. Adding a slice of bread is a common option, but there are many veggie options that can take your soup to an entirely new level.
One of the most natural options for a veggie complement is a mixed green salad. Not only do the greens provide an extra dose of vitamins, but the crispness of the salad complements the warmth of the soup. Add a simple vinaigrette or Caesar dressing for an extra flavor kick.
Another veggie option is roasted Brussels sprouts. These mini cabbages are great for providing an extra crunchy texture and a touch of bitterness that pairs well with the soup’s richness. To prepare, drizzle olive oil over the sprouts and bake in the oven until crispy.
If you are a fan of the spicier things in life, a jalapeño cornbread will make your taste buds dance. The heat from the jalapeños adds a great contrast to the mellow soup, and cornbread is similar to the texture of a slice of bread. It’s a double whammy of comfort foods that complement each other perfectly.
Adding a side dish of mashed potatoes to your soup will create a creamy heaven in your mouth. The smoothness of the potatoes is a great contrast to the chunky soup, and the starchy potatoes are an excellent complement to the broth. Add a sprinkle of chives on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Lastly, don’t overlook the simplicity of roasted carrots. Roasting carrots caramelizes their natural sugars, turning them into a delicious treat. The sweetness of the carrots balances out the acidity of tomato-based soups, and the texture provides a great break from the smoothness of the soup.
Make your soups sing with these veggie complement suggestions. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, crunchy, or sweet, there’s a perfect option for every soup. Ditch the bread and opt for something healthier and more exciting to complement your soup.
3. Wholesome and Filling: A Guide to Pairing Nutritious Sides with Split Pea Soup
Split Pea Soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for cold, wintery days. It’s easy to make and provides a great opportunity to pair it with some wholesome and nutritious sides to make it a hearty and satisfying meal.
When it comes to picking sides, options are abundant, but there are a few things to keep in mind. It’s best to choose sides that complement and balance the flavors and textures of the soup. The goal is to enhance the experience and make it a well-rounded meal.
Let’s start with a classic side. Whole wheat bread is an excellent pairing for split pea soup. The nutty flavor and chewy texture of the bread perfectly complement the creamy and earthy soup. To make it more nutritious, try adding some seeds or nuts to the bread dough or opting for a multigrain version.
Roasted vegetables are another excellent side that will add depth and nourishment to your meal. You can opt for carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts, seasoned with herbs and a little olive oil, and roasted to perfection. These vegetables add a crunchy texture and vibrant colors to the meal, making it more balanced.
If you’re looking for something a bit more interesting, quinoa salad could do the trick. This protein-packed grain salad with fresh vegetables and herbs makes the meal more filling and adds a dose of nutrition. Quinoa is gluten-free and an excellent source of fiber and iron, making it an excellent addition to a vegan or vegetarian meal.
For another protein-packed side, consider adding some grilled chicken breast or tofu to your split pea soup. This will provide extra sustenance without overwhelming the soup’s delicate flavors. Switch it up with different seasonings, sauces, and cooking methods to keep it exciting.
Finally, for a sweet finish, try baked apples. Core and stuff apples with a mixture of oats, honey, cinnamon, and nuts, and bake them until soft and golden. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, and the warm flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to split pea soup.
In conclusion, when it comes to pairing sides with split pea soup, you have many options. It’s important to focus on wholesome and filling sides that complement and balance the soup’s flavors and textures. With the right sides, you can make split pea soup a wholesome and satisfying meal that you’ll enjoy.
4. Simple and Delicious: Easy Ideas for Elevating Your Soup Game
Soup is a comforting food that can be made in countless ways. However, it’s not uncommon to fall into a rut, making the same soup time and time again. If you’re looking to elevate your soup game but don’t have much time, don’t worry! Here are some easy, simple ideas:
- Add Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil can give your soup a burst of flavor and a vibrant color. Simply chop them up and add them to your soup before serving.
- Crush some Crackers: Do you have some crackers lying around? Crush them up and sprinkle them on top of your soup. This simple addition adds texture and can also thicken up your broth!
- Toast Some Bread: Toast up some bread and serve it with your soup. Not only does it make for a tasty meal, but dipping the bread into your soup adds another dimension to your dish.
- Use Different Stocks: Switch things up by using different types of stocks. For example, try using beef stock instead of chicken stock for your vegetable soup. This simple swap can give your soup a richer flavor.
- Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to your soup for a creamy texture and a tangy finish. This addition works well with cream-based soups like chowders or bisques.
By using these simple ideas, you can take any soup recipe to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different flavors! Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your soup game, these ideas are perfect for any home cook.
5. Classic Pairings and Unexpected Twists: A Selection of Tasty Possibilities
Classic pairings are a foodie’s delight that has been enjoyed for ages because they bring out the best flavours in individual ingredients. Why not add some unexpected twists to mix things up? Here are some classic pairings and some unexpected twists for some playful combinations.
– Bacon and Eggs: Everyone’s favourite breakfast staple takes a new twist when paired with avocado and a poached egg. If you want a low-carb meal, try pairing cauliflower hash browns with eggs and bacon.
– Fish and Chips: Fried fish and chips is a classic combination, but how about pairing them with a tangy pineapple salsa for a tropical twist? Alternatively, try some Asian-style fish and chips, served with wasabi, pickled ginger, and sweet soy sauce.
– Grilled Cheese: Upgrade your childhood grilled cheese sandwich by adding some smoky BBQ sauce to the mix. Alternatively, try swapping out your regular cheddar cheese for some brie and pair with fresh raspberries and honey.
– Steak and Potatoes: Baked potatoes go perfectly with steak, but have you tried roasted sweet potatoes with steak? Add some crispy fried onions for a pop of texture and flavour.
– Apple Pie: Is there anything better than warm apple pie on a chilly autumn day? Amp up the flavour by adding some sharp cheddar cheese on top or go a step further and try a savory chicken and apple pie with a savoury crust.
These classic pairings and unexpected twists are just the starting point. Be creative with your food combinations – put your favourite flavours together and see what you come up with. Pair a spicy Mexican dish with some refreshing mint infused water or pair a simple grilled chicken steak with a mixed vegetable salad with sweet and sour lime dressing. The combinations are endless, so spice things up and enjoy!
6. Warm Up Your Meal: Our Favorite Warming Sides to Serve with Split Pea Soup
Looking for the perfect accompaniment to your split pea soup? Look no further than these warm, comforting sides that are sure to enhance the flavor and comfort of your meal. From classic cornbread to hearty roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone here.
First up, cornbread. This classic Southern side is the perfect complement to split pea soup. Whether you prefer a classic recipe made with buttermilk or a more modern twist with jalapeños and cheddar cheese, cornbread is the perfect balance of savory and sweet to pair with the rich, creamy flavors of split pea soup.
Moving on to roasted vegetables. There’s nothing more satisfying than roasted vegetables on a cool fall evening. Try roasting a mix of root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips with a drizzle of olive oil and your favorite seasonings. The sweetness of the vegetables will perfectly complement the smoky, earthy flavors of the soup.
Continuing with the vegetable theme, consider serving steamed broccoli or green beans as a side to your split pea soup. These green vegetables provide a healthy balance to the hearty soup and their bright colors will liven up your plate. Don’t forget to drizzle a little bit of olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper on top for added flavor.
If you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, consider serving mac and cheese alongside your soup. This classic comfort food is the perfect match for split pea soup, with its creamy cheese sauce and buttery breadcrumbs adding a level of richness that will take your meal to the next level.
Last but not least, garlic bread is another fantastic option. Toast up some slices of your favorite bread and rub them with garlic and butter for a fragrant, savory addition to your soup. This side is easy to prepare and adds a touch of decadence to the meal without requiring much effort.
In conclusion, these warm, comforting sides are the perfect complement to your split pea soup. Whichever you choose, these match-made-in-heaven sides are sure to warm your belly and your soul.
7. Get Creative with Your Soup: Exciting Side Dish Options for Your Next Meal
One of the best things about soup is its versatility. It can be a complete meal in itself or paired with a variety of side dishes to make a more satisfying meal. If you’re looking for some creative ideas for your next bowl of soup, here are some exciting side dish options to consider.
1. Crusty Bread: Nothing complements a warm bowl of soup like a crusty slice of bread. Ciabatta, sourdough, or baguette are great choices. Toasted or grilled with garlic, butter, or olive oil, a slice of bread provides a delicious textural contrast to the creaminess of your soup.
2. Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten up the flavors in your soup. The gentle bitterness of greens like arugula or spinach can also provide a nice contrast to the richness of certain soup types like cream-based soups.
3. Grilled Cheese: The ultimate comfort food, grilled cheese is the perfect sidekick for a bowl of tomato soup. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella, or add sliced ham or bacon for added flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Pair your soup with some hearty roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower. Roasting intensifies the flavor of these veggies, and their crispy texture makes for a delightful textural contrast with the soup.
5. Dumplings: Adding dumplings to your soup can transform it from a simple dish to a more elaborate one that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you go for traditional meat or vegetarian options, dumplings can add to the richness and depth of flavor in your soup.
6. Rice Noodles: Especially if you’re having an Asian-inspired soup like pho or ramen, rice noodles make a perfect side dish. Cooked separately, these noodles can be added to your soup for some variety in texture, and they absorb the flavors of the broth.
7. Focaccia: A fluffy, crispy focaccia bread can be sliced and grilled, and it makes an excellent dipping vessel for your soup. The bread’s subtle herb flavor and light crunch are perfect for sopping up every last bit of soup.
These are just a few creative ideas to jazz up your soup repertoire. Keep experimenting with different side dishes to find your perfect match for your favorite soups. Enjoy! In conclusion, finding the right side dish to accompany your delicious split pea soup is all about balance and flavor. Whether you decide to go with a classic option like crusty bread or a more unconventional choice like roasted carrots, the key is to choose something that complements the soup’s hearty texture and earthy taste. With the right pairing, your split pea soup will be transformed into a full and satisfying meal that will keep you warm and nourished throughout the cold winter months. So, don’t forget to experiment with different combinations and have fun exploring the endless possibilities of this comforting and nutritious dish. Bon appétit!