Side dishes provide options for party guests.
When you are throwing a party, side dishes can add variety to your meal. To make sure that all of your guests can find something to eat that suits their preferences and dietary restrictions, prepare a range of side dishes that can be eaten alone or with the main entree. Does this Spark an idea?
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is hearty and healthy, and complements a range of meat, fish and vegetable dishes. To make the asparagus, roast or pan fry it with lemon, a pinch of salt and butter or olive oil. If you are grilling, you can also roast the asparagus in foil packets. Cook the vegetable so that it is soft enough to chew but retains a good amount of its natural crunch. Asparagus is versatile, and can be used to accompany anything from barbecued food to a gourmet, plated dinner.
Garlic and Herb Potatoes
For an old favorite that will be filling when eaten alone, make garlic and herb potatoes. Use new potatoes that can be cut in half or left whole to make for easy preparation. Boil the potatoes first to make roasting or grilling times shorter in preparation for the party; you can even store partially-cooked potatoes in the fridge if you make them one or two days in advance. Cook the potatoes on the grill or in the oven with olive oil, garlic, and basil or rosemary. This type of side dish is tasty whether it's hot or cold.
Tomato and Cheese Salad
To complement a summer feast or an Italian party meal, make a tomato and cheese salad. Use halved cherry tomatoes in red and yellow for contrast, and toss with olive oil, small balls of fresh mozzarella and balsamic vinegar. Before you serve the salad, mix in fresh basil for taste. This type of salad can be made in advance for the flavors to set in.
Avocado and Black Bean Salad
For a festive, colorful dish that can be a side dish and a dip for tortilla chips, make an avocado and black bean salad. Mix together black beans, avocado pieces, corn, cilantro, tomato, onion, red bell peppers and lime juice. For an extra kick, add jalapeno or chili peppers. Cut each ingredient into small pieces so that it can be scooped up with chips or eaten with a fork. Avocado and black bean salad goes well with Mexican food or grilled chicken and fish.
Tags: bean salad, black bean salad, eaten alone, meal make, side dish