The perfect accompaniments to a Cuban sandwich have been carefully considered and curated. This iconic sandwich, typically composed of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, allows for creative freedom when it comes to seasoning. Yes, you read that right – two types of meat from the same animal, all in one satisfying bite! Traditionally, Cuban sandwiches are served on a crusty Cuban bread roll.
However, if this isn’t available, don’t worry – French loaf or ciabatta will do just fine, and as a last resort, even toasted white bread won’t disappoint. The sandwich’s origins date back to the 1900s, when migrant workers from Latin America brought their culinary traditions with them to America. They established food stalls and restaurants, gradually making this beloved dish more accessible to the masses.
In this article, we’ll delve into the ideal pairings for a Cuban sandwich, including some delightful surprises.
Baked Sweet Potato
When it comes to pairing side dishes with Cuban sandwiches, baked sweet potatoes are an excellent choice. The natural sweetness of these golden delights is perfectly complemented by the rich flavors of the sandwich. For a simple yet indulgent approach, try topping your sweet potato with just butter and salt – the subtle nuances of each ingredient will elevate the overall flavor profile.
As an added bonus, cooking sweet potatoes in the air fryer allows for efficient and quick results without heating up the house.
Baked Plantains
For your next Cuban-inspired gathering, consider serving baked plantains as a standout side dish. One of the most striking aspects of this dish is its visual appeal. To achieve this, I suggest baking whole, unsliced plantains, allowing them to emerge from the oven in a beautifully rustic state. Once they’re cooked through, simply slice them open like a baked potato and top with creamy guacamole for a flavor combination that’s as unique as it is delicious.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad often falls underappreciated, but it’s a crucial component of many meal combinations. A staple at most sub shops, fruit salad is typically offered as an accompaniment to sandwiches and other savory dishes. In fact, when paired with the right flavors, it can elevate even the most mundane meals into something extraordinary.
Take for instance this particular fruit salad recipe, which incorporates a honey-lime dressing that’s nothing short of sublime.
This sweet and tangy combination is specifically designed to complement the rich flavors found in a classic Cuban sandwich. The honey perfectly harmonizes with the salty ham, while the lime zest adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the pork. Give this recipe a try and discover why fruit salad deserves more recognition as a vital side dish.
Homemade Pickles
Making homemade pickles in just 24 hours may seem like a surprising feat, but it’s entirely possible without requiring any exotic ingredients. The key is to use what you already have on hand, such as fresh dill, although it’s not essential if you don’t have it readily available. Once you’ve got your pickles ready, they’re perfect for serving alongside your next Cuban sandwich – the tangy flavor will elevate the entire meal and leave you wanting more.
Steak Fries
Indulge your guests’ cravings with a mouth-watering batch of garlic parm steak fries, easily prepared in just 30 minutes. The key to their irresistible appeal lies in the simplicity of baking them fresh in the oven. For an added layer of flavor, I recommend serving them with a drizzle of olive oil infused with minced garlic and garnished with a sprinkle of parsley for both visual and culinary appeal.
Tomato Bisque
While the pairing of soup and sandwich may seem like a tried-and-true combination that’s easy to overlook, I firmly believe it deserves more attention. The beauty lies in its simplicity – you can indulge in each separately or bring them together for a harmonious union. For instance, dipping your sandwich into a rich and creamy tomato bisque adds a new dimension of flavor and texture.
What sets tomato bisque apart from traditional tomato soup is the addition of cream, which lends it a luxurious and distinctive character.
Black Beans
Cuban cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and hearty dishes, and classic Cuban black beans are a staple that pairs perfectly with iconic sandwiches like Cubanos. To elevate this comforting side dish, sautéing the aromatic trio of onion, garlic, and peppers is crucial, as it releases their natural oils and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For added convenience and speed, canned black beans form the foundation of this recipe, ensuring a quick yet satisfying result that still packs plenty of punch.
Empanadas De Plátano
Why not shake things up with a non-traditional Cuban sandwich side dish? Instead of the usual suspects, consider whipping up some plantain empanadas. You might think it’s a daunting task, but trust us, this recipe is surprisingly easy to execute.
Mashed Plantains
Mashed plantains are an unconventional side dish that tends to spark curiosity when served. The moment you place this golden delicacy on the table, people will be intrigued, and once they take their first bite, they’ll be hooked. The distinctive flavors will leave them craving more, making it a surefire hit for second helpings.
Interestingly, both sweet and savory options pair exceptionally well with Cuban sandwiches, but I highly recommend starting with the sweet version to fully appreciate its unique charm.
Yuca With Garlic Sauce
In the heart of Cuban cuisine, Yuca with Garlic Sauce, also known as Yuca Con Mojo, takes center stage. At its core is the humble yuca root, a starchy tropical treasure commonly found in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. While it may resemble a potato in appearance, with its white, waxy flesh, this versatile root has a unique flavor profile that’s simply begging to be paired with the pungency of garlic sauce.
And trust us, when you combine these two flavors, you’ll have yourself a match made in culinary heaven – the perfect accompaniment to your Cuban sandwich, no less.
Rainbow Power Salad With Roasted Chickpeas
The Rainbow Power Salad boasts a stunning visual display, as the medley of carrots, zucchini, herbs, and chickpeas harmonizes in a kaleidoscope of colors. This vibrant tapestry not only tantalizes the eyes but also satisfies the palate. According to the recipe creator, this salad is more than just a feast for the senses – it’s believed to possess a concentrated dose of nutritional power, designed to give you an extra energy boost to tackle your daily routine with renewed vigor.
Cuban Cream Of Malanga Soup
The Malanga root crop shares similarities with other starchy tubers like yucca, taro, and potatoes. Its texture is reminiscent of creamy potato soup, but with a more pronounced earthy flavor profile. For those seeking to add an exotic touch to their culinary repertoire without straying too far from home comforts, the Malanga is definitely worth exploring.
Cuban Raw Vegan Style Avocado Salad
When it comes to the beloved Avocado, many of us have come across the enticing combination of this creamy fruit with Cuban flavors. One of the most notable aspects of avocados is their ability to curb appetite and promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction, making them a popular choice for those on a weight loss journey. To truly reap these benefits, it’s essential to savor your avocado preparation slowly, allowing its magic to unfold as you enjoy it.
Cuban Style Pork Stew
The allure of Cuban Style Pork Stew lies in its bold fusion of flavors, a true departure from the typical North American palate. As the aromatic spices and sweet notes mingle on the tongue, curiosity is piqued and questions abound. This dish is sure to spark impromptu conversations and inspire a desire to learn more – making it a perfect opportunity to break out the recipe book for an impromptu cook-off or trivia session.
Ensalada de Remolacha
If you’re familiar with Portland’s vibrant food scene and have a taste for Cuban cuisine, you might already know about Pambiche, a local favorite. The restaurant’s claim to fame is its Ensalada de Remolacha, also known as the Cuban Beet Salad. This dish has gained widespread acclaim due to its harmonious blend of beets, watercress, olive oil, and sour orange vinaigrette.
What makes this salad truly special is its light, refreshing quality, which stems from the perfect balance of these ingredients.
Roasted Eggplant Salad Recipe
If you’re yet to experience the harmonious combination of roasted eggplant in a salad, I highly encourage you to give it a try. The rich, savory taste of the eggplant pairs exquisitely with the caramelized sweetness of sautéed peppers, carrots, and onions. When brought together by a seasoned oil dressing, this medley of flavors and textures creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience that will leave you eager for another bite.
The bottom line
While Cuban sandwiches can certainly stand alone as a satisfying meal, where’s the fun in that? When it comes to crafting the perfect pairing, I recommend choosing two or three standout options from this list and turning your lunch into a memorable feast. Here are some of the most popular and delicious sides to serve alongside your Cuban sandwich: