Everyone loves a juicy, sizzling steak for dinner, but thinking of side dishes can be tricky. Chips are standard in most steakhouses, but they can be a disappointment when home-cooked. You may even be looking for something a little more wholesome for a midweek dinner. If so, then here are some side dish ideas that are just as tasty as the steak itself!
The best side dishes for steak
There are three categories of foods you might serve with steak. First of all, there are sauces: look for something that complements the meat and will add extra flavour. Next up, there are vegetable dishes, which can include:
- Salads. Green salad is a classic choice. Go for a light, simple dressing that will go harmoniously with the main event.
- Grilled, sautéed or other simply cooked veggies. Depending on the season, you might want to serve asparagus, broccoli, artichokes or peas. If your veggies are very fresh, a simple squeeze of lemon will be enough of a dressing.
- Roasted veggies. These are great, as you can just pop them in the oven and leave them to cook, so you can pay total attention to the steak.
Finally, there are carby dishes. Potatoes are traditional and may be mashed, roasted, boiled or cooked in a fancy gratin. Alternatively, bread, rice, couscous or other carbs could be served.
Top tip: One veggie dish and one carby side served alongside a steak is enough for a full dinner. Don't overcater!
Sauces to serve with steak
A sauce is more than just a side dish — it's a great way to elevate a steak. Some of the easiest sauces to prepare are pepper sauces or a red wine sauce, which you can make using the pan juices while the steak is resting. The classic thick and rich French béarnaise sauce is a bit trickier, but you could also go for a blue cheese sauce for an easier-to-prepare alternative. Finally, Argentinian chimichurri is a punchy mixture of herbs and vinegar, which is ideal for livening up a cheaper cut of steak.
Steak side dishes with an international twist
One of the best things about using meal kits is the chance to try different dishes from around the world. Even a simple steak dinner can be transformed into an international feast by tweaking the sides. Serve steak with a sesame and garlic sauce, alongside stir-fried veggies for an East Asian dinner, or go Mexican with sides of guacamole and refried beans.
Vegetable side dishes for steak
Vegetable side dishes are a chance to cut through the richness of the steak and add some important nutrients. If you're feeling creative, many dishes in this vegetarian recipe collection can be adapted into sides. Look for recipes with lots of veggies and little or no protein, as you don't want to overeat!
Light veggie sides work well if you've got a rich, creamy sauce like pepper sauce or béarnaise. Something like a garlicky baby broccoli recipe with chilli, parsley and lemon, or a colourful chermoula haloumi & rainbow veggie toss is ideal for a rich and juicy steak.
When you're in the mood for something fancy, push the boat out with creamy mushroom & truffle fettuccine. This Italian-inspired side dish will make you feel like a Michelin-starred chef! Roasted veggies are another good choice. Add some rosemary leaves and unpeeled cloves of garlic for that truly cheffy touch.
Carby side dishes for steak
Besides Aussie pork and veggies, steak and potatoes are a classic combo, but it doesn't mean chips or a boring old baked spud. In spring and early summer, tiny boiled new potatoes make a great side dish — and they're so easy to prepare. For something heartier, go for mash. Make it a bit more special by adding roasted garlic, mustard or pesto to the spuds while you mash them. A potato gratin, thick with cream and cheese, takes a lot more time to prepare, but is suitable for special occasions.
When you want carbs but don't fancy potatoes, you'll have to get creative. Garlic bread goes well with steak for a French-inspired dish. Alternatively, try rice, couscous or an Asian green veggie stir-fry. These may not be an obvious choice, but they still taste great!
Steak Side Dishes FAQs
What sides should I have with steak?
Generally, there are two kinds of sides you can serve with a steak. Firstly, you have vegetable sides, including salads, roasted veggies and more. Secondly, there are carby side dishes like various kinds of potatoes, bread or rice.
What's the 3-3-3 rule for steaks?
The 3-3-3 rule is a cooking method that's often recommended for new steak cooks. Start by searing the steak on high heat for three minutes on each side. Then, lower the heat all the way down and cook for another three minutes per side.
What is the correct accompaniment for a grilled steak?
There's no single correct accompaniment for a grilled steak — it depends on your tastes. If you're serving the steak with a creamy sauce, choose a light, fresh veggie side to cut through the richness.
What do Italians eat with steak?
Italians often serve steak with simple vegetable dishes. Things like grilled artichokes, sautéed mushrooms and roasted broccoli are all popular. Pasta is not served alongside steak — instead, a small portion of pasta is used as a starter.
What pairs with an expensive steak?
If you've got a really fine steak, then push the boat out and choose the freshest ingredients for your side dishes. The perfect accompaniment depends on the time of year. Seasonal vegetables will always taste better than veggies that are out of season.