what sides go with kabobs for dinner

2 min read 27-12-2024

Kabobs are a delicious and versatile dish, perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. But what sides pair best with these flavorful skewers? The ideal accompaniment depends on the type of kabobs you're serving – chicken, beef, veggie, or a combination. This guide explores a range of side dishes to complement your kabobs and create a complete and satisfying meal.

Complementary Side Dishes for Kabobs

The best side dishes for kabobs balance the flavors and textures of the main course. Too much of one thing (like heavy, rich flavors) can overwhelm the palate. Consider these options:

Light and Fresh Sides:

Greek Salad: The classic pairing! The fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese cut through the richness of the meat (or veggies) and provide a refreshing contrast. A simple vinaigrette dressing keeps it light.
Cucumber and Yogurt Salad: Cool and creamy, this side dish provides a refreshing counterpoint to the often-grilled flavors of kabobs. A touch of dill or mint adds extra zing.
Caprese Salad: Simple yet elegant, this Italian salad features fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a light and flavorful option that complements many kabob varieties.
Simple Green Salad: A bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette is always a safe bet. You can add some grilled vegetables to complement the kabobs further.

Hearty and Filling Sides:

Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes, seasoned simply with herbs and spices, provide a satisfying and earthy counterpoint to the kabobs. Consider rosemary, thyme, or garlic for added flavor.
Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice dish infused with herbs, vegetables, or nuts adds richness and substance to your meal. Lemon-herb rice or a Mediterranean-style pilaf pairs particularly well.
Couscous: This versatile grain cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Try a Moroccan-spiced couscous or a version with dried fruits and nuts for a sweet and savory twist.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of summery sweetness to your meal. It's a simple yet satisfying side dish that complements both meat and vegetable kabobs.

Sides to Avoid (Usually):

While many sides work well with kabobs, certain dishes might clash or create an unbalanced meal. Avoid overwhelmingly heavy or similarly flavored sides. For instance, a creamy pasta dish might be too rich alongside already flavorful kabobs. Consider the overall flavor profile before making your selection.

Choosing Sides Based on Kabob Type

The type of kabob heavily influences the best side dish choices:

Chicken Kabobs: Pair well with lighter sides like Greek salad, cucumber and yogurt salad, or rice pilaf. The chicken is fairly mild, so you can afford a slightly bolder side.

Beef Kabobs: The richness of beef benefits from a contrast. Consider roasted potatoes, couscous, or a hearty green salad.

Vegetable Kabobs: These are naturally lighter, so you can complement them with more substantial sides like rice pilaf, couscous, or roasted potatoes. Don’t overpower the vegetable flavors.

Shrimp Kabobs: Light and delicate, shrimp kabobs pair perfectly with fresh salads, rice, or grilled vegetables. The citrusy notes of a lemon-herb rice or couscous would work beautifully.

Making it a Complete Meal

Remember, the best side dishes enhance, not overpower, your kabobs. Aim for a balance of flavors and textures. A combination of a light and fresh salad, along with a heartier side, often provides the most well-rounded meal. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your favorite combinations! Enjoy!