What To Know
- A refreshing and light option, a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the empanadas.
- A colorful and flavorful side, roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli add a vibrant touch to the meal.
- A mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
Chicken empanadas, with their crispy exterior and savory filling, are a culinary delight. While they can be enjoyed on their own, the right side dish can elevate the experience to new heights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best side dishes for chicken empanadas, ensuring a perfect and satisfying meal.
Salads
- Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing and light option, a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the empanadas.
- Coleslaw: A classic side, coleslaw adds a crunchy and tangy element to the meal. Prepare it with shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, and a touch of vinegar.
Starches
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a perfect match for the savory filling of the empanadas. Add a dollop of gravy for extra indulgence.
- Rice: Fluffy and versatile, rice is a great choice to soak up the flavorful juices from the empanadas. Serve it plain or with a flavorful sauce.
- Quinoa: A healthier alternative to rice, quinoa provides a nutty flavor and a boost of protein. Cook it according to the package instructions and fluff it with a fork.
Vegetables
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful and flavorful side, roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli add a vibrant touch to the meal. Season them with herbs, salt, and pepper before roasting.
- Sautéed Spinach: Wilted spinach is a light and nutritious option that pairs well with the savory empanadas. Sauté it with garlic and olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.
Dipping Sauces
- Salsa: A classic accompaniment to empanadas, salsa adds a tangy and spicy kick. Choose from a variety of salsas, such as tomato salsa, salsa verde, or mango salsa.
- Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole is another great dipping sauce for empanadas. Mash avocados with lime juice, cilantro, onions, and salt to create a delicious spread.
- Sour Cream: A cooling and refreshing option, sour cream balances the richness of the empanadas. Serve it plain or mixed with herbs or spices.
Other Delights
- Empanada Dough: Cut the leftover empanada dough into strips and bake them until golden brown. These crispy dough sticks are a perfect snack or side dish.
- Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side, fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory empanadas. Combine fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, and bananas.
Wrap-Up: The Perfect Complement
Choosing the right side dish for chicken empanadas is essential for creating a harmonious and satisfying meal. From salads to vegetables, starches to dipping sauces, and even other empanada-related delights, there are endless options to complement the savory flavors of chicken empanadas. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings and elevate your empanada experience to new heights.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the best salad to serve with chicken empanadas?
A: A mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
Q: What is a healthy side dish for chicken empanadas?
A: Sautéed spinach, quinoa, or roasted vegetables are all nutritious and delicious options.
Q: What is a classic dipping sauce for chicken empanadas?
A: Salsa is a classic and versatile dipping sauce that pairs well with the savory filling of empanadas.
