Roast beef is a classic dish that’s perfect for special occasions and holidays. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s often served with a variety of vegetables to provide balance and nutrition.
But with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide which vegetables go best with roast beef. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the perfect side dishes for your next roast beef dinner.
From classic green beans to crispy asparagus fries, we’ve got you covered with a variety of tasty and easy-to-make vegetable side dishes that will complement your roast beef perfectly.
So let’s dive in and discover the best vegetables to serve with roast beef!
What Vegetables Go Best With Roast Beef?
1. Green Beans: Green beans are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with roast beef. They’re easy to prepare and provide a fresh and crisp flavor that complements the richness of the beef. You can serve them steamed, sautéed, or roasted with a sprinkle of garlic and lemon juice for added flavor.
2. Asparagus: Asparagus is another vegetable that goes well with roast beef. It’s tender and flavorful, and when roasted or grilled, it develops a crispy texture that adds a nice contrast to the softness of the beef. Try making crispy baked Parmesan asparagus fries for a delicious and healthy side dish.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts may not be everyone’s favorite vegetable, but when prepared correctly, they can be a delicious and nutritious side dish for roast beef. Roasting them with olive oil and garlic until they’re crispy and caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and makes them irresistible.
4. Carrots: Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be served in many different ways alongside roast beef. You can roast them with honey and thyme for a sweet and savory flavor or sauté them with butter and herbs for a more classic taste.
5. Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a great alternative to regular potatoes as a side dish for roast beef. They have a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory flavor of the beef, and they’re packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber. Try making a sweet potato casserole seasoned with basil, thyme, and garlic for a delicious twist on this classic side dish.
Classic Vegetable Pairings For Roast Beef
When it comes to classic vegetable pairings for roast beef, there are a few tried and true options that never disappoint. Green beans are a popular choice, providing a fresh and crisp flavor that complements the richness of the beef. Asparagus is another vegetable that goes well with roast beef, with its tender texture and crispy roasted or grilled exterior. Brussels sprouts may not be for everyone, but when prepared correctly, they can be a delicious and nutritious side dish for roast beef. Roasting them with garlic and olive oil until they’re crispy and caramelized brings out their natural sweetness. Carrots are another versatile vegetable that can be roasted with honey and thyme for a sweet and savory flavor or sautéed with butter and herbs for a classic taste. Finally, sweet potatoes make for a great alternative to regular potatoes as a side dish for roast beef, with their natural sweetness pairing well with the savory flavor of the beef. A sweet potato casserole seasoned with basil, thyme, and garlic is a delicious twist on this classic side dish. Overall, these classic vegetable pairings provide a balanced and flavorful meal alongside your roast beef.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A Perfect Side For Roast Beef
Roasted root vegetables are a fantastic side dish that pairs perfectly with roast beef. They’re easy to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavor. A medley of carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets can be roasted with olive oil and rosemary for a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of colors, crispy texture, and the delicious aroma of rosemary make this recipe a winner.
To make roasted root vegetables, simply dice the vegetables to the same size and toss them in olive oil and chopped rosemary. Season with salt and pepper and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized. The result is a beautiful, colorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Roasted root vegetables are also versatile and can be paired with a variety of main dishes. They’re an excellent choice for a family dinner or holiday meal. You can also mix and match the root vegetables to create your own unique flavor profile. Rainbow carrots, parsnips, turnips, potatoes, and beets all work well together in this recipe.
Leafy Greens To Balance Your Meal
If you’re looking for a way to balance the richness of roast beef, adding some leafy greens to your meal is a great option. Not only do they provide a fresh and healthy element to your plate, but they also complement the flavors of the beef. Here are some leafy greens that go well with roast beef:
1. Spinach: Spinach is a versatile leafy green that can be served in many different ways alongside roast beef. A simple spinach salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great way to add some freshness to your meal. You can also sauté spinach with garlic and lemon juice for a more flavorful side dish.
2. Kale: Kale is another leafy green that pairs well with roast beef. It has a slightly bitter taste that balances the richness of the beef, and it’s packed with nutrients like vitamin C and iron. Roasting kale with olive oil and sea salt until crispy is a delicious way to prepare this vegetable.
3. Mustard Greens: Mustard greens have a peppery flavor that adds a nice kick to roast beef. They’re also packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that make them a healthy addition to your meal. Try sautéing mustard greens with garlic and red pepper flakes for a flavorful side dish.
4. Arugula: Arugula has a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with the richness of roast beef. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and calcium. A simple arugula salad with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese is a great way to add some freshness to your meal.
5. Watercress: Watercress has a delicate flavor that adds a nice contrast to the richness of roast beef. It’s also packed with nutrients like vitamin C and iron. Try adding some watercress to your roast beef sandwich for a fresh and healthy twist on this classic dish.
Creative Vegetable Side Dishes To Impress Your Guests
When it comes to impressing your guests, sometimes you need to step up your vegetable game. Here are some creative vegetable side dishes that will elevate your roast beef dinner:
1. Honey Glazed Carrots with Ginger: Take your roasted carrots to the next level by adding a sweet and spicy glaze. Simply mix honey, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt together and toss with roasted carrots. The result is a deliciously sticky and flavorful side dish that will impress your guests.
2. Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: If you want to convert even the biggest Brussels sprouts skeptics, try roasting them with balsamic vinegar and bacon. The tangy sweetness of the vinegar and the salty crunch of the bacon pair perfectly with the caramelized sprouts.
3. Garlic and Herb Roasted Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a great side dish for roast beef, but why not take them up a notch? Toss sliced mushrooms with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs (like rosemary and thyme), and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Roast until crispy and golden brown for a deliciously savory side dish.
4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Grilling asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with roast beef. Drizzle with melted butter and lemon juice for a bright and tangy finish.
5. Crispy Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce: Cauliflower may seem like a boring vegetable, but when roasted until crispy and golden brown, it becomes a deliciously addictive side dish. Serve it with a creamy tahini sauce (made by whisking together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water) for added flavor and texture.
These vegetable side dishes are sure to impress your guests and take your roast beef dinner to the next level.
Tips For Pairing Vegetables With Roast Beef
1. Consider the flavor and texture of the vegetable: When choosing vegetables to pair with roast beef, consider the flavor and texture of the vegetable. Vegetables that are crisp and fresh can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the beef, while vegetables with a natural sweetness can complement the savory flavor of the meat.
2. Roasting is a great option: Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth of flavor. Try roasting vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and carrots with olive oil and garlic for a delicious and easy side dish.
3. Don’t be afraid to experiment: While there are classic vegetable pairings for roast beef, don’t be afraid to try something new. Consider using seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different spices and seasonings to create unique and flavorful side dishes.
4. Keep an eye on cooking times: When cooking vegetables alongside roast beef, it’s important to keep an eye on cooking times. Firm, slow-cooking vegetables like potatoes should be placed underneath the roast, while softer, quicker cooking vegetables like green beans can be placed along the sides.
5. Balance flavors and textures: When serving vegetables with roast beef, it’s important to balance flavors and textures. Consider pairing crisp, fresh vegetables with creamy or cheesy sides for a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
