what goes with empanadas for dinner

Natashya

2 min read

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25-12-2024

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Empanadas are a beloved Latin American treat—savory pastries filled with delicious meats, cheeses, and vegetables. But what makes a truly satisfying empanada dinner? The key is finding complementary sides that enhance the flavors of your empanadas without overshadowing them. This article explores various options to create a complete and flavorful meal.

Sides That Complement Empanadas' Savory Fillings

The best side dishes for empanadas depend heavily on their filling. A beef empanada will require different accompaniments than a chicken or spinach one. Let's explore some options:

For Hearty Meat Empanadas (Beef, Pork, Chicken):

• Simple Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad cuts through the richness of the meat filling. Think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette, a simple tomato and onion salad, or a vibrant green salad with avocado. The acidity balances the savory flavors.
• Rice and Beans: A classic Latin American pairing! The rice provides a neutral base, while the beans add heartiness and a contrasting texture. Consider a cilantro-lime rice or black beans with a touch of cumin.
• Plantain Sides: Sweet plantains (maduros) offer a delightful contrast to the savory empanadas. Their sweetness balances the saltiness of the filling. Fried, baked, or even in a salad, they add a unique dimension.
• Guacamole and Salsa: These classic dips add layers of flavor and texture. The creamy guacamole and spicy salsa provide contrasting tastes and textures to the crispy empanadas.

For Vegetarian Empanadas (Spinach, Cheese, Vegetables):

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add depth and color to your meal. Their slightly caramelized flavors harmonize beautifully with vegetarian empanadas.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice Salad: A healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional rice. A quinoa salad with herbs, lemon juice, and toasted nuts complements the vegetarian fillings.
• Simple Green Salad: Similar to the meat empanada pairing, a light green salad with a vinaigrette helps to balance the flavors and adds freshness. Consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt Dip: A cool, creamy dip provides a welcome contrast to the warmth of the empanadas. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy element.

Drinks to Pair with Your Empanada Feast

The right drink can elevate your empanada dinner to the next level. Consider these options:

• Red Wine (Malbec or Argentinian Blend): A full-bodied red wine pairs perfectly with hearty meat empanadas.
• White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio): A crisp white wine complements lighter fillings such as chicken or vegetable empanadas.
• Horchata: This refreshing rice milk beverage is a classic Latin American drink that pairs well with both sweet and savory empanadas.
• Jarritos or Mexican Sodas: These fun and flavorful sodas offer a fizzy and refreshing contrast to the richness of the empanadas.

Creating a Balanced Empanada Dinner: A Sample Menu

Here’s a suggested menu for a delicious and balanced empanada dinner featuring beef empanadas:

• Appetizer: Guacamole and salsa with tortilla chips
• Main Course: Beef Empanadas
• Side Dishes: Cilantro-Lime Rice, Black Beans, and a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Dessert: Flan or Churros (optional)
• Drinks: Malbec wine or Jarritos

Remember to adjust the sides based on the specific fillings of your empanadas. The most important thing is to create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your empanada dinner!