Soup. It’s a comforting classic, a culinary chameleon that can be light and refreshing or hearty and filling. But sometimes, soup feels…incomplete. Like it’s missing its other half. The perfect accompaniment can elevate a simple bowl of broth into a truly satisfying meal. So, what exactly goes well with soup? The answer is surprisingly diverse, ranging from crusty bread to grilled cheese sandwiches to vibrant salads. Let’s dive in and explore the delicious world of soup pairings.
Bread: The Timeless Companion
Bread and soup are practically inseparable. This pairing is a testament to simplicity and comfort. But not just any bread will do. The right choice can transform your soup experience.
Crusty Bread for Dipping
Think sourdough, baguette, or even a hearty rustic loaf. The goal here is to have a bread with a substantial crust that can withstand dipping into the soup without falling apart. The slightly tangy flavor of sourdough complements many soups, while a baguette offers a classic French touch.
Consider the soup itself. A creamy tomato soup sings when paired with toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter. A rich French onion soup practically begs for crusty bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. The key is textural contrast: the smooth soup against the chewy, crisp bread.
Sandwiches: A Heartier Option
Sometimes, you need something more substantial than just dipping bread. A sandwich alongside a bowl of soup can make for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Grilled Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Combination
Is there a more iconic soup and sandwich pairing than tomato soup and grilled cheese? It’s a classic for a reason. The warm, gooey cheese combined with the tangy tomato soup is a match made in culinary heaven. Experiment with different cheeses and breads to find your perfect combination. A sharp cheddar on sourdough, or a brie and apple grilled cheese alongside butternut squash soup – the possibilities are endless!
Other Sandwich Ideas
Don’t limit yourself to grilled cheese. A turkey and Swiss on rye, a ham and Gruyere panini, or even a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich can be a delicious accompaniment to soup. Consider the flavor profile of your soup when choosing a sandwich. A hearty vegetable soup pairs well with a lighter sandwich, while a creamy soup might benefit from a more robust filling.
Salads: A Refreshing Contrast
A salad offers a refreshing and contrasting element to a warm bowl of soup. The cool, crisp greens and vibrant vegetables can balance the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
Simple Green Salads
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can be a perfect accompaniment to a heavier soup, such as a cream-based soup or a stew. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, cleansing the palate and preparing you for the next spoonful.
Hearty Salads
For a lighter soup, such as a broth-based vegetable soup, a heartier salad can add substance and nutrition. Consider a salad with grilled chicken or fish, beans, or nuts. A Cobb salad, a Caesar salad, or a Mediterranean salad are all excellent choices.
Matching Flavors
Think about flavor profiles when pairing soup and salad. A spicy tortilla soup pairs well with a cool avocado salad. A creamy potato soup might benefit from a salad with bacon and blue cheese. A mushroom soup would be nicely complemented by a salad with earthy flavors such as beets and walnuts.
Side Dishes: Beyond the Basics
While bread, sandwiches, and salads are classic soup accompaniments, there are plenty of other delicious side dishes that can elevate your soup experience.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and flavorful option. The sweetness of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complements many soups. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a delicious contrast to the savory soup.
Grains and Starches
Consider adding a side of quinoa, rice, or mashed potatoes. These grains and starches add substance and can help to soak up the soup’s broth. Quinoa is a healthy and protein-rich option, while rice offers a more traditional pairing. Creamy mashed potatoes are especially comforting alongside a hearty stew.
Crackers and Toppings
Sometimes, all you need is a little crunch. Crackers, croutons, or even tortilla chips can add texture and flavor to your soup. Consider topping your soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. These simple additions can transform a basic bowl of soup into something special.
Considerations for Serving Size
When planning your soup and side dish pairings, consider serving sizes. You don’t want to overwhelm your guests with too much food. A small bowl of soup and a small side salad or sandwich is often sufficient for lunch. For dinner, you might want to offer a larger bowl of soup and a more substantial side dish.
Soup-Specific Pairings: A Deeper Dive
While the general guidelines above are helpful, certain soups lend themselves particularly well to specific accompaniments.
Tomato Soup
We’ve already mentioned the classic grilled cheese and tomato soup combination, but there are other options as well. A basil pesto grilled cheese, a simple Caprese salad, or even a side of crispy bacon can all be delicious accompaniments.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting classic that pairs well with light and simple sides. A side of crackers, a small green salad, or even a few slices of toasted bread are all excellent choices.
French Onion Soup
French onion soup is rich and flavorful, so it’s best paired with lighter sides. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette, a few slices of baguette, or even a small bowl of mixed greens can help to balance the richness of the soup.
Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is naturally sweet and creamy, so it pairs well with savory and slightly acidic sides. A grilled cheese with brie and apple, a salad with toasted pecans and cranberries, or even a side of roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon can all be delicious accompaniments.
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone is a hearty and flavorful vegetable soup that pairs well with a variety of sides. A crusty loaf of bread, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a drizzle of olive oil can all enhance the flavors of the soup.
Dietary Considerations
When planning your soup pairings, it’s important to consider any dietary restrictions or preferences. If you’re serving vegetarian guests, make sure to choose vegetarian-friendly sides. If you’re serving gluten-free guests, offer gluten-free bread or crackers. And always be sure to ask your guests about any allergies before you start cooking.
Beverages: Completing the Meal
No meal is complete without a beverage. The right drink can enhance the flavors of your soup and side dish, creating a truly satisfying dining experience.
Wine Pairings
Wine can be a delicious accompaniment to soup, but it’s important to choose the right wine. Lighter soups pair well with white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Heartier soups pair well with red wines, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot.
Beer Pairings
Beer is another great option. Light beers, such as lagers and pilsners, pair well with lighter soups. Amber ales and stouts pair well with heartier soups.
Non-Alcoholic Options
If you’re not a fan of wine or beer, there are plenty of other non-alcoholic options to choose from. Iced tea, lemonade, sparkling water, or even a simple glass of water can all be refreshing and hydrating. A warm cup of herbal tea can also be a comforting complement to a bowl of soup.
Presentation Matters: Making it Appealing
Finally, remember that presentation matters. A beautifully presented soup and side dish can make the meal even more enjoyable. Serve your soup in attractive bowls, garnish with fresh herbs, and arrange your side dish artfully on the plate. A little extra effort can go a long way in creating a memorable dining experience. Consider warming the bowls before serving to keep the soup at an optimal temperature.
In conclusion, the possibilities for soup pairings are endless. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairings and create your own signature soup meals. By considering the flavor profiles, textures, and dietary needs of your guests, you can create a truly memorable and satisfying dining experience. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun! The most important thing is to enjoy the process and share your delicious creations with friends and family.
What bread types pair best with creamy soups?
Soft and crusty breads are ideal for pairing with creamy soups. The soft interior of breads like sourdough or baguette soaks up the rich broth, while the crusty exterior provides a satisfying textural contrast. Consider garlic bread or focaccia for an added layer of flavor that complements the creaminess.
Avoid breads that are too sweet or have strong competing flavors, as they can clash with the subtle nuances of the soup. Simple, rustic breads that allow the soup to be the star are generally the best choice. Think about using the bread for dipping or as an accompaniment to create a complete and comforting meal.
Can salad actually complement a hot bowl of soup?
Absolutely! A well-chosen salad provides a refreshing and contrasting element to the warmth and richness of soup. The cool, crisp vegetables offer a textural counterpoint and cleanse the palate between spoonfuls, enhancing the overall dining experience. Choose a salad with light vinaigrette for a brighter, more enjoyable pairing.
Consider the flavors of your soup when selecting a salad. For example, a hearty tomato soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, while a creamy mushroom soup might be enhanced by a salad with earthy root vegetables or a light citrus vinaigrette. Balance is key to a harmonious soup and salad combination.
What cheeses go well with different kinds of soups?
The ideal cheese pairing depends heavily on the type of soup you’re serving. Sharp cheddar complements tomato soup beautifully, while creamy goat cheese elevates butternut squash soup. Parmesan cheese, grated over minestrone, adds a salty, umami richness that enhances the vegetable flavors.
For heartier soups like French onion, Gruyere cheese melted over a toasted baguette is a classic choice. Consider serving a cheese board alongside a lighter soup, offering a variety of textures and flavors to create a more sophisticated and interactive dining experience. Remember to consider the soup’s ingredients when selecting a cheese to ensure a harmonious pairing.
Are there specific crackers that enhance the soup experience?
Yes, different crackers can enhance your soup experience in various ways. For light and delicate soups, opt for thin, unsalted crackers that won’t overpower the flavor. These crackers provide a subtle crunch and don’t interfere with the soup’s nuances.
Hearty soups benefit from crackers with more robust flavors and textures. Consider whole-wheat crackers, rye crackers, or even cheese crackers to complement the soup’s richness. For creamy soups, oyster crackers offer a traditional and satisfying crunch.
What kind of protein makes a good side dish for soup?
Lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish are excellent choices as side dishes for soup. They provide a boost of protein without adding excessive richness or heaviness to the meal. A small portion of simply prepared protein complements most soups without overpowering the flavors.
Consider the soup’s ingredients when selecting a protein. For example, a grilled chicken breast pairs well with a vegetable soup, while a piece of baked salmon complements tomato or seafood-based soups. Avoid heavily seasoned or sauced proteins, as they might clash with the soup’s flavors.
Can desserts really be paired with soup, and if so, how?
Surprisingly, desserts can be successfully paired with certain types of soup. The key is to create a contrast in flavors and textures. A light and refreshing fruit salad or sorbet can cleanse the palate after a rich and creamy soup, providing a pleasant end to the meal.
Avoid overly sweet or heavy desserts, as they can feel overwhelming after a warm bowl of soup. Consider the soup’s flavors when selecting a dessert. For example, a citrusy dessert pairs well with a spicy soup, while a chocolate dessert complements a creamy tomato soup. Small portions are essential to prevent the meal from becoming too heavy.
What beverages complement a warm bowl of soup?
The best beverage to pair with soup depends on the soup’s flavor profile. A light and crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements creamy soups, while a dry rosé pairs well with tomato-based soups. For heartier soups, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can be a good choice.
Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime, which provides a refreshing palate cleanser. Iced tea or a light herbal infusion can also be excellent choices, particularly for lighter soups. Avoid sugary drinks that can overwhelm the soup’s flavors.
Alden Pierce is a passionate home cook and the creator of Cooking Again. He loves sharing easy recipes, practical cooking tips, and honest kitchen gear reviews to help others enjoy cooking with confidence and creativity. When he’s not in the kitchen, Alden enjoys exploring new cuisines and finding inspiration in everyday meals.