What to Serve with Cauliflower – 8 Yummy Ideas to Make
Finding the best thing to serve with cauliflower can be a challenge. You want something that will complement the other ingredients in your dish, but also something that tastes great on its own. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best cauliflower side dishes for your next dinner party.
Each of these side dishes is packed with flavor and can easily be made ahead of time. I had to go through and try a bunch of recipes before I found the perfect ones for my party. And to be honest, some of them were total flops.
But these?
These are the best of the best.
Best Sides for Cauliflower
- Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
- Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Beef Stew
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Tomato Salad
- Lemon-Garlic Sauteed Green Beans
- Fried Okra
- Cheese Grits
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
First up, we have the classic side dish that is sure to please everyone at the table, creamy scalloped potatoes. This dish goes so well with cauliflower because the potatoes help to offset the slight bitterness of the vegetable.
Plus, who doesn’t love a good potato dish?
They are so comforting and homey. To prepare this dish, simply peel and slice some potatoes thinly. I like to use Yukon golds because they have a nice buttery flavor.
Next, you will need to make a white sauce. I like to use half and half, but you could also use milk. Once the sauce has been made, layer the potatoes and sauce in a baking dish and bake until golden brown and bubbly.
This side dish is so versatile that it would also be great with roasted chicken or fish. Go ahead and give it a try I think you will be pleasantly surprised!
Creamy Mac and Cheese
One of the best ways to enjoy cauliflower is to pair it with creamy mac and cheese. The rich cheese sauce helps to offset the slight bitterness of the cauliflower, and the dish as a whole is surprisingly light and refreshing.
Plus, it’s super easy to prepare. Simply boil some macaroni noodles, and mix in a few tablespoons of cheese sauce. As for the cauliflower, I recommend roasting it in the oven until it’s nice and crispy. Trust me, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Who knew that cauliflower could be so delicious?
Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even use this mac and cheese as a topping for your next grilled chicken breast.
Beef Stew
Now y’all, I know what you’re thinkin’. You’re thinking, “Hey, why would I want to use beef stew as a side for my cauliflower? That just sounds like a mess.” But I’m here to tell you that it’s not a mess; it’s a delicious way to dress up your boring old cauliflower.
The beef stew adds flavor and moisture, and the cauliflower soaks it all up like a sponge. Not to mention, it’s the perfect side dish for a winter meal.
Now, I ain’t no expert in the kitchen, but I can tell you how I prepare this dish. First, I cook up some beef stew using my favorite recipe. Then, I put a scoop of stew on top of a piece of steamed cauliflower, and voila!- deliciousness.
Likewise, you can also use this side dish for other things, like mashed potatoes or rice. Just get creative and have fun with it!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Let me tell y’all something, roasted Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for cauliflower.
Why you ask?
Well, first of all, they both have a nice texture that just melts in your mouth. But more importantly, they both have a slight bitterness that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients on your plate.
So whether you’re serving up hearty roast beef or a delicately baked salmon, these two vegetables will perfectly complement each other.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. How in the world do I prepare such a fancy-sounding dish?
Well, it’s actually quite simple. Just trim the ends off your Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Then toss them in a bit of olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast them in a preheated oven for about 20 minutes. That’s about it! And trust me, your guests will be impressed.
However, don’t stop there! You can also use them to top off a salad or as a tasty accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. So go ahead and give them a go.
Tomato Salad
Following the list, I have tomato salad. It’s a great side dish because the acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance out the richness of the cauliflower, and the herbs add a nice flavor.
Not to mention, this is a great dish to serve in the summertime when tomatoes are at their peak or to use up any extra tomatoes you might have lying around.
In my view, a simple tomato salad is a perfect way to show off the beautiful colors of heirloom tomatoes, and it’s super easy to prepare. Just slice up some tomatoes, onions, and green bell peppers and mix them together in a bowl.
Then, season them with salt, pepper, and a bit of vinegar or lemon juice. Best believe, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning of palates.
The acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance out the richness of the cauliflower, and the herbs add a nice flavor.
Lemon-Garlic Sauteed Green Beans
Now don’t get me wrong, I love me some cauliflower. But let’s be honest, sometimes you may just want to make mealtime a bit more exciting. That’s where these lemon-garlic sauteed green beans come in.
They add a nice pop of color and flavor to an otherwise dull dish. Plus, they’re easy peasy to make. Simply saute some green beans in olive oil with garlic and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Wham, in just a few minutes, you’ve got a delicious and healthy side dish that will brighten up any meal. And if you’re not a fan of cauliflower, no problem! These green beans would also be great as a side for roasted chicken or my favorite salmon.
Fried Okra
Next up is fried okra!
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t fried food bad for you?
Well, yes and no.
It all depends on how it’s prepared. If you fry your food in healthy oils and don’t overdo it, then it can actually be quite good for you.
That being said, fried okra is the perfect side dish for cauliflower. The crispy coating pairs perfectly with the soft center, and the flavor is out of this world.
To make it, simply slice up some okra and dip it in a batter of cornmeal, flour, and spices. Then fry it up in hot oil until it’s golden brown and delicious.
Serve it with a dipping sauce of your choice, and you’ve got yourself a winner.
Cheese Grits
Last but not least, we have cheese grits.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Aren’t grits supposed to be breakfast food?
Well, yes and no.
Grits are a type of cornmeal that can be eaten at any time of day. And when they’re paired with cheesy goodness, they make for one heck of a side dish.
To make them, simply cook the grits according to the package instructions. Then stir in some shredded cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy.
Wrapping Up
These are just a few of our favorite recipes. But don’t stop here! There are endless possibilities when it comes to side dishes. So get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed.