The United States, with its rich and varied cultural history, boasts a plethora of delicious and iconic side dishes. From the deep South to the Pacific Northwest, regional specialties have made their way to dining tables all across the country, becoming beloved by generations. Let’s explore some of these culinary treasures that perfectly complement main dishes.
1. Mashed Potatoes
Arguably the king of comfort foods, mashed potatoes are the quintessential American side dish. Creamy, fluffy, and buttery, they pair perfectly with gravies, roasts, and just about any meat dish. While the basic recipe calls for potatoes, butter, milk, and salt, variations can include additions like roasted garlic, chives, or cream cheese.
Recipe Highlight: For an extra-creamy version, try using a mix of russet and Yukon gold potatoes. Boil until tender, mash with butter and warm cream, and season with salt and white pepper.
2. Green Bean Almondine
Fresh, snappy green beans sautéed with butter and topped with toasted almond slices. This dish is not only delicious but also adds a vibrant green color to any plate. The nutty crunch of the almonds contrasts perfectly with the tender beans.
Recipe Highlight: Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes and immediately transfer to ice water. Sauté in butter, toss in toasted almonds, and season with salt and a squeeze of lemon.
3. Cornbread
A southern staple, cornbread can be sweet or savory and is often served with chili, barbecued meats, or any dish with gravy. Its crispy crust and soft, crumbly inside make it a favorite.
Recipe Highlight: Combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in eggs, milk, and melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. For a twist, add in jalapeños or cheddar cheese.
4. Coleslaw
A crunchy, tangy salad made primarily of shredded cabbage and carrots, coleslaw is a must-have for picnics and goes perfectly with fried foods and sandwiches. Depending on the region, the dressing can be creamy (mayonnaise-based) or vinegar-based.
Recipe Highlight: Mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. For a lighter version, try apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey.
5. Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, macaroni and cheese is loved by both kids and adults. While boxed versions are popular, nothing beats homemade, with its gooey melted cheese and golden-brown baked crust.
Recipe Highlight: Cook elbow macaroni al dente. Make a cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère. Combine with the macaroni and bake until bubbly and browned.
6. Collard Greens
A southern classic, collard greens are slow-cooked with ham hocks or bacon until tender. The result is a savory, flavorful dish that’s rich in nutrients.
Recipe Highlight: Sauté chopped onions in bacon fat, add in cleaned and chopped collard greens, ham hock, chicken broth, and seasonings. Simmer until the greens are tender and flavorful.
7. Biscuits and Gravy
Flaky biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy make for a hearty side dish, especially popular for breakfast or brunch.
Recipe Highlight: Prepare biscuits from scratch or buy pre-made. For the gravy, brown sausage in a pan, sprinkle with flour, and slowly whisk in milk until thickened. Season with black pepper.
The culinary landscape of the United States is as diverse as its people. These side dishes, while just a small sampling, represent some of the most cherished recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, adding these classics to your repertoire will surely elevate your meals and impress your guests.