There are so many delicious sides that you can choose to accompany your pork chops. As someone who loves to cook, I have experimented with many different sides to go with pork chops.
It took me several trials and errors to finally find sides that perfectly complimented the main dish. Pork chops can be a bit tricky to pair sides with, but I have found some sure-fire winners.
Sides To Go With Pork Chops
- Cuban-Style Black Beans
- Mushroom Risotto
- Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad With Pesto
- Balsamic Veggie Penne Pasta
- Hasselback Herbed Garlic Butter Sweet Potatoes
- Creamed Spinach
- Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Mushroom Gnocchi
- Puerto Rican Stewed Beans
- Dirty Rice
Cuban-Style Black Beans
Cuban-Style Black Beans are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be enjoyed with pork chops or any other protein of your choice. The beans are cooked in a mouth-watering mixture of garlic, onion, cumin, and chili powder, giving them a unique flavor that is both exotic and familiar.
Cuban-Style Black Beans are also a good source of fiber and protein, making them a filling and nutritious option for any meal. When served with pork chops, I suggest pairing them with white rice and a green salad. This simple yet flavorful combination is sure to please any palate.
However, while Cuban-Style Black Beans are relatively easy to prepare, there are a few things to keep in mind to achieve the best results:
- Be sure to soak the beans overnight before cooking them. This will help to soften the beans and prevent them from becoming overcooked and mushy.
- When adding the spices, be sure to taste the beans as you go along so that you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- If you find that the beans are too thick for your taste, simply add a little water or chicken broth until they reach the desired consistency.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom Risotto is a classic Italian dish that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect side dish for pork chops, as the mushrooms complement the pork nicely.
The key to making a good Mushroom Risotto is to use a variety of mushrooms so that you get a variety of flavors and textures. I like to use cremini, oyster, and shiitake mushrooms. You can also add some chopped green onions or garlic for extra flavor.
When cooking the risotto, be sure to cook it slowly and stir frequently, so that the rice absorbs all the flavors from the broth. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different kinds of cheese – I’ve found that Parmesan and Asiago work well in this dish.
Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad With Pesto
If you’re serving pork chops, why not try a delicious cucumber avocado tomato salad with pesto? This dish is healthy and flavorful, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
The salad is made with fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a homemade pesto sauce. For an extra touch of elegance, you may also garnish the salad with some shaved Parmesan cheese.
Of course, you still need to be mindful while making this. So keep the following points in mind while preparing this salad:
- Don’t skimp on the pesto sauce – it makes the dish!
- Use only fresh, ripe ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t wait until the last minute to make the salad – it’s best served immediately after being prepared.
Balsamic Veggie Penne Pasta
Balsamic Veggie Penne Pasta is a light and flavorful side dish that pairs well with pork chops. The pasta is tossed with roasted vegetables and a balsamic vinegar sauce, giving it a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
The pasta can also be served cold or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. It is also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option for those watching their intake. However, balsamic vinegar can be overpowering for some, so it is important to add it sparingly.
Hasselback Herbed Garlic Butter Sweet Potatoes
Hasselback Herbed Garlic Butter Sweet Potatoes are the perfect side dish for pork chops! They’re packed with flavor, thanks to the herbed garlic butter that’s infused into every single slice. And they’re nice and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside.
Plus, they pair perfectly with pork chops. The sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory flavors of the meat, making for a truly delicious meal. But beware: these potatoes can be pretty addictive. Once you start eating them, it’s hard to stop!
So if you’re looking for a side dish that’s sure to please, Hasselback Herbed Garlic Butter Sweet Potatoes are it. Just be warned: you might not be able to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!).
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a side dish that can be made with fresh or frozen spinach, milk, cream, and seasonings. The spinach is cooked until soft and then pureed to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Creamed spinach can be served as a side dish for pork chops, chicken, steak, or fish. It is also a popular ingredient in lasagna and other casserole dishes. Additionally, if your main dish is relatively bland, you can use creamed spinach to add some extra flavor and interest to the meal.
When preparing creamed spinach, it is important to use fresh or frozen spinach that has been thawed completely. Do not use canned spinach, as it will make the dish watery and less flavorful.
To ensure that the creamed spinach has a smooth texture, be sure to puree it thoroughly before serving. You can also add shredded cheese, chopped bacon, or nutmeg to the dish for added flavor.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Salad is the perfect side dish for your next pork chops dinner! The salad is packed with flavorful ingredients like corn, diced red onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It has a nice balance of sweetness from the corn and acidity from the lime juice while the onion and cilantro give it a bit of a kick.
I would recommend serving this salad with pork chops that have been grilled or roasted. The smoky flavors of the pork chops will pair nicely with the sweetness of the corn salad.
If you are looking for a light and refreshing side dish, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is a great option. It is also relatively easy to make. The only downside is that it does not keep well, so it is best to make it right before you plan on serving it.
Mushroom Gnocchi
Mushroom Gnocchi is the perfect side dish for pork chops! The mushrooms add a delicious earthy flavor to the gnocchi, and the pork pairs perfectly with the rich, cream sauce.
The gnocchi is also very versatile – you can easily add other vegetables or meats to the dish to make it your own. The only downside to Mushroom Gnocchi is that it can be quite delicate, so be careful not to overcook it. But with a little practice, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love!
Puerto Rican Stewed Beans
Puerto Rican Stewed Beans are a delicious, hearty side dish that pairs well with pork chops. The beans are simmered in a savory sauce made from onions, garlic, and green peppers, and they have a rich, creamy texture. The flavor of the beans is mild, but it is enhanced by the addition of cumin and oregano.
While Puerto Rican Stewed Beans are typically served with white rice, they can also be enjoyed on their own or with a side of cornbread. Additionally, if you are looking for a vegan or vegetarian option, this dish can easily be made without the meat.
Dirty Rice
If you’re looking for something hearty and filling, look no further than dirty rice. This Cajun staple is made with rice, beans, vegetables, and meat, all cooked together in a flavorful broth. The result is a rich and satisfying dish with bold flavors that is sure to please.
And because it can be prepared in advance, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Just make sure to cook the rice thoroughly before serving, as undercooked rice can cause food poisoning.
FAQ
What are other options when choosing sides to go with pork chops?
- Apple Walnut Sausage Stuffing
- Arroz Con Gandules
- Squash Casserole
- Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes
- Green bean Almondine
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
- Applesauce
- Sweet Potato Mash
- Succotash
- Mac N’ Cheese
- Smoked Almond And Herb Couscous
- Spinach Parmesan Orzo
- Mushroom Rice Pilaf
- Buttery Garlic Rice
- Portuguese-Style Mint Rice
What are some tips when choosing sides to go with pork chops?
When choosing sides to go with pork chops, it is important to consider the flavors of the other components of the meal. If the pork chops are seasoned with strong spices, then a milder side dish like Puerto Rican Stewed Beans may be a better choice.
On the other hand, if the pork chops are grilled or baked with simple seasonings, then a more flavorful side dish like sautéed kale or roasted potatoes may be a better option.
Another tip is to consider the cooking method of the pork chops when choosing sides. For example, if the pork chops are baked, then a side dish that can be cooked in the oven would be ideal.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a side dish is to experiment and see what you and your guests enjoy the most.
Conclusion
So, if you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish to go with your pork chops, be sure to try out one of the recipes I’ve suggested. With so many options to choose from, there’s something for everyone!
And don’t forget that these sides can also be enjoyed on their own or with other main courses.