The holiday season is a time of warmth, togetherness, and, of course, indulgence. While traditional holiday meals often feature turkey, ham, or other festive centrepieces, there’s something truly special about savouring a perfectly cooked steak as the star of your holiday feast. But a steak dinner isn’t complete without the perfect side dishes to complement and enhance its flavours. In this culinary journey, explore a selection of the most popular and mouthwatering holiday side dishes to pair with steak, ensuring your holiday meal is a gastronomic delight.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
There’s something inherently comforting about creamy garlic mashed potatoes. This classic side dish provides the perfect canvas for steak to shine, elevating a common side dish to a new level. The buttery, garlicky goodness of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the rich flavours of a juicy ribeye or tender filet mignon.
Recipe Tip: Add a touch of cream cheese or sour cream to your mashed potatoes for extra creaminess.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a revelation when paired with a succulent New York Strip or a hearty T-Bone steak. The earthy flavours of the sprouts, combined with the smoky, savoury goodness of bacon, create a harmonious contrast that will have your taste buds dancing.
Recipe Tip: Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze for a delightful tang.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a luxurious side dish that complements the robust flavours of a Porterhouse or the marbled perfection of Prime Rib. The creamy, velvety spinach offers a delightful contrast to the meat’s richness.
Recipe Tip: Add a hint of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavour.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a savoury delight that pairs exceptionally well with cuts like Sirloin or Ribeye. The garlic-infused butter elevates the umami notes of the mushrooms, creating a tantalizing side dish.
Recipe Tip: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of colour and freshness.
Sweet Potato Casserole
A sweet potato casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savoury that complements the mild, tender flavours of Filet Mignon or the elegance of Chateaubriand. The contrast between the caramelized sweetness of the potatoes and the steak’s simplicity is a true taste sensation.
Recipe Tip: For a holiday twist, top the casserole with a pecan or marshmallow crust.
Classic Caesar Salad
A crisp, classic Caesar salad is a refreshing accompaniment to the bold flavours of flank or skirt steak. The crisp romaine lettuce, garlicky croutons, and Parmesan cheese contrast the steak’s savoury notes.
Recipe Tip: Make your own Caesar dressing for an authentic touch.
Cranberry Orange Relish
A zesty cranberry orange relish adds fruity brightness to the plate, making it a superb pairing for a Flat Iron or Hanger Steak. The tangy-sweet relish cuts through the meat’s richness, creating a harmonious balance.
Recipe Tip: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a holiday-inspired twist.
Caramelized Onion Gravy
A luscious caramelized onion gravy takes your steak to new heights. It’s the ideal partner for a juicy Ribeye or a robust Porterhouse. The sweetness of the onions melds beautifully with the steak’s savoury flavours.
Recipe Tip: Use red wine to deglaze the pan for added depth.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and turnips, provide a hearty, earthy companion to a Tomahawk or Bone-In Ribeye. Their natural sweetness and caramelized edges enhance the steak’s character.
Recipe Tip: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup elevates the root vegetables’ flavours.
Herb-Infused Compound Butter
A homemade herb-infused compound butter is a versatile addition to any steak. Whether you’re enjoying a filet, ribeye, or sirloin, a pat of herb butter adds flavour and a touch of luxury.
Recipe Tip: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or tarragon.
Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan
Elevate your steak dinner with a side of grilled asparagus topped with shaved Parmesan. This dish adds a crisp, fresh element to your plate, balancing the richness of a succulent steak. The charred edges of the asparagus and the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese make it an irresistible combination.
Recipe Tip: Grill the asparagus with a hint of lemon zest to add a refreshing citrus note.
Balsamic Glazed Baby Carrots
Balsamic glazed baby carrots offer a sweet and tangy complement to the savory depth of a well-seasoned steak. The glaze’s slight acidity and the carrots’ natural sweetness create a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.
Recipe Tip: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme to the carrots for an aromatic touch.
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds
For a crunchy and flavorful side, try sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds. This side dish brings a delightful texture and nutty flavor, making it a perfect match for a robust steak like a Sirloin or a Ribeye.
Recipe Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish.
Herb Roasted Potatoes
Herb roasted potatoes are a hearty and aromatic addition to your holiday feast. The herbs complement the steak’s savory flavors, while the crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the potatoes offer a satisfying contrast.
Recipe Tip: Use a mix of rosemary, thyme, and garlic for a fragrant and flavorful seasoning.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Introduce a burst of color and flavor to your holiday table with a roasted beet and goat cheese salad. This vibrant dish pairs exceptionally well with the boldness of a steak, offering a refreshing balance. The earthy sweetness of the beets combined with the creamy tang of goat cheese creates a symphony of flavors.
Recipe Tip: Add a sprinkle of walnuts and a drizzle of honey-balsamic vinaigrette for a crunchy, sweet, and tangy finish.
When creating a memorable feast this holiday season, consider the savoury elegance of a perfectly cooked steak as your centrepiece. And remember, the right side dishes can transform a great meal into an unforgettable one. Whether you choose the velvety comfort of garlic mashed potatoes, the smoky allure of roasted Brussels sprouts, or any other delectable options mentioned here, your holiday table will surely shine with culinary delight. Elevate your holiday feast and savour every moment with the perfect steak and impeccable sidekick dishes.
