What To Serve With Cuban Sandwiches

Many people have trouble finding side dishes that complement their Cuban sandwich. Hopefully, this article will help solve that problem.

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I never realized how much I loved Cuban sandwiches until I moved to Miami.

I was born and raised in the Midwest, where the only thing resembling a Cuban sandwich is a hot ham and cheese from the local deli. But when I moved down to Miami, I was introduced to the real deal. And let me tell you, it’s amazing.

A Cuban sandwich is usually made with ham, roast pork, pickles, Swiss cheese, and mustard, all on Cuban bread. It’s then pressed and toasted until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

The first time I had a Cuban sandwich, I was hooked. And ever since then, I’ve been trying to find side dishes that complement it.

If you’re looking for side dish ideas for your next Cuban sandwich, here are ten delicious side dishes to try.

Cuban-style Yuca
Black beans
Salad
Coleslaw
Cajun Chips
Fried Plantain
Corn
Veggies With Hummus
French Fries
Tomato Soup
Fruits
Fried Pickles
Sweet potato

Cuban-style Yuca

Cuban-style Yuca is a versatile and easy-to-make side dish that goes well with Cuban sandwiches. To prepare Cuban-style Yuca, first, boil the yuca in water until it is soft. Then, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft. Add the boiled yuca to the pan and sauté for a few minutes more. Finally, season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Cuban-style Yuca is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy Cuban sandwiches.

Black beans

Black beans are a traditional side dish in Cuban cuisine, and they also make a great addition to a Cuban sandwich. The beans are usually cooked with onions, garlic, and peppers, and they are often seasoned with lime juice for a bit of acidity. The result is a hearty dish that provides a punch of flavor without overwhelming the other components of the sandwich.

Black beans are also high in fiber and protein, making them a healthy option for those looking for a filling side dish. Whether you’re making a traditional Cuban sandwich or something more creative, black beans are an excellent option that is sure to please your taste buds.

Salad

A salad adds a crunchy and bright contrast to the richness of the sandwich, making it a perfect pairing. Plus, there are numerous benefits to using salad as a side dish.

For one, it’s a great way to add more vegetables to your diet. And because salad is usually made with fresh ingredients, it’s also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.

Plus, using salad as a side dish can help to lighten up a recipe, making it a healthier option overall.

Coleslaw

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy side dish to accompany your Cuban sandwiches, look no further than coleslaw.

This simple dish is made with shredded cabbage and carrots, and can be seasoned to taste with mayonnaise and spices. While it’s often thought of as a summer food, coleslaw is actually a versatile dish that can be enjoyed all year round.

Here are some tips on how to make the perfect coleslaw to accompany your Cuban sandwiches:

Start with fresh, crunchy cabbage. Look for a head that is tight and firm, with crisp outer leaves. Avoid wilted or discolored cabbage, as this will result in a limp, flavorless slaw.
Shred the cabbage by hand or in a food procovertiredted with the shredding attachment. If using a food processor, be careful not to overshred the cabbage, as this will make it mushy.
Season the cabbage with vinegar, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add in other seasonings such as mustard, garlic, or onion powder. Start with a small amount of each ingredient and add more to taste.
Let the coleslaw sit for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this will allow the flavors to meld together. If you have the time, refrigerate it for an hour or more for even better flavor.

Cajun Chips

Cajun chips are a delicious and easy way to add a little extra flavor to any dish. They can be used as a side dish for sandwiches, as a topping for salads, or even as a snack on their own.

Cajun chips are packed with nutrients and offer a variety of health benefits. They are a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and prevent constipation.

Additionally, they are low in calories and fat, making them an ideal choice for those watching their weight. The spices in Cajun chips can also help to boost metabolism and support the immune system.

When choosing a recipe to pair with Cajun chips, be sure to consider the other flavors in the dish. The spices in the chips may not play well with other strong flavors, such as those found in some barbecue sauces. However, they can complement milder flavors nicely.

Fried Plantain

Fried plantain is a delicious and versatile side dish that can be used to accompany a variety of recipes. When used as a side dish for Cuban sandwiches, it provides a crunchy contrast to the softness of the bread and the tenderness of the meat.

Fried plantain is also an excellent source of nutrients, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, it is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those looking to watch their weight.

When compared to other side dishes, fried plantain provides a unique flavor that pairs well with many different recipes. It is also easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy individuals.

Corn

Corn is also a common side dish served with Cuban sandwiches. This combination is known as Congri, and it can be found in many restaurants and homes throughout Cuba.

There are many reasons why corn is a suitable side dish for Cuban sandwiches.

First, corn is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Second, corn is a starchy food that helps to add bulk and volume to the sandwich.
Finally, corn has a neutral flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sandwich.

Veggies With Hummus

Veggies with hummus are a perfect option for a side dish. The hummus provides a creamy and flavorful contrast to the sandwiches, while the veggies add a crunchy texture and freshness. Plus, hummus is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and satisfying side dish.

French Fries

French fries are a delicious and versatile side dish that can be used in various recipes. For example, they can be used as a side dish for Cuban sandwiches.

The benefits of using French fries as a side dish for Cuban sandwiches include the fact that they are easy to cook, require no special ingredients, and can be easily customized to suit your taste. In addition, French fries pair well with the other ingredients in a Cuban sandwich, such as ham, cheese, and pickles.

When choosing a recipe for your French fry side dish, be sure to select one that is easy to follow and does not require any special skills or techniques. There are many excellent recipes available online or in cookbooks. Once you have selected your recipe, be sure to read it carefully and make any necessary adjustments before beginning to cook.

Moreover, when cooking French fries, be sure to use fresh potatoes that have been properly peeled and cut into uniform pieces. It is also important to cook the fries at the correct temperature to achieve the desired results.

If you are not sure how to cook French fries, there are many helpful tutorial videos available online. After cooking, be sure to season your French fries with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.

Tomato Soup

While commonly thought of as a main course or appetizer, tomato soup can make a delicious and unique side dish for Cuban sandwiches. The soup’s acidity helps to cut through the richness of the sandwich, while its creamy texture pairs well with the crispy bread.

Moreover, tomato soup is an easy way to add some extra veggies to your diet. While there are many different recipes for tomato soup, a simple version can be made by roasting tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the oven and then pureeing the roasted vegetables with chicken or vegetable broth. For a heartier soup, you can also add some diced potatoes or ground beef.

Fruits

Fruits make an excellent side dish for Cuban sandwiches. There are many benefits to using fruits as a side dish, including the fact that they are healthy and can add a touch of sweetness to the sandwich.

Additionally, fruits are easy to prepare and can be used in many different recipes. For example, they can be diced and added to the sandwich, or mixed into the mayonnaise or mustard.

Some of the best fruits to use as a side dish for Cuban sandwiches include pineapple, mango, and papaya. These fruits are all native to Cuba and have a distinct flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sandwich. Plus, they are all high in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Fried Pickles

Fried pickles are a delicious and versatile side dish that can be used in various recipes. For example, they are a perfect pairing for Cuban sandwiches.

The benefits of using fried pickles as a side dish include the fact that they add a unique flavor to the sandwich, and they can also help to create a crunchy texture. In addition, fried pickles are suitable for vegans and vegetarians, as they are made without any animal products.

When choosing a recipe to pair with fried pickles, it is important to consider the other flavors in the dish. For instance, if the recipe includes strong spices, the pickles will help to balance out the flavors. Alternatively, if the recipe is relatively bland, the pickles will add a much-needed boost of flavor.

Sweet potato

Sweet potato is a delicious and healthy alternative to the usual white potato. It can be baked, fried, or steamed, and its crispy coating goes well with the Cuban sandwich. Sweet potato is also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for a side dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are other options when choosing what to serve with Cuban sandwiches?

Cuban Flan
Sweet Potato
Potato Salad
Cuban-Style Yuca
Black Beans
Sweet Potato Fries
Potato Chips
Baked Plantains
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Caesar Salad

Does a Cuban sandwich include lettuce?

Cuban sandwich does not typically include lettuce, but there are variations that include it.

Is a Cuban sandwich gluten-free?

No, a Cuban sandwich is not gluten-free because of the bread. However, there are variations that use gluten-free bread.

What kind of cheese is used in a Cuban sandwich?

The most common cheese used in a Cuban sandwich is Swiss cheese, but you can also use mozzarella or cheddar cheese.

Does a Cuban sandwich include mayo?

A Cuban sandwich does not typically include mayo, but there are variations that include it. Mayo can add a creamy richness to the sandwich and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a way to take your Cuban sandwich to the next level, try adding a dollop of mayo to your sandwich.

What is the difference between a Cuban and a Reuben sandwich?

The difference between a Reuben and a Cuban sandwich is that a Reuben includes corned beef, whereas a Cuban sandwich typically includes roast pork. Both sandwiches are topped with cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing, but the Reuben also includes Russian dressing.

What are some tips when choosing what to serve with Cuban sandwiches?

When choosing what to serve with Cuban sandwiches, it is important to consider the other flavors in the dish.

For instance, if the recipe includes strong spices, the pickles will help to balance out the flavors. Alternatively, if the recipe is relatively bland, the pickles will add a much-needed boost of flavor.

Additionally, fruits are easy to prepare and can be used in many different recipes. For example, they can be diced and added to the sandwich, or mixed into the mayonnaise or mustard.

Conclusion

When it comes to what to serve with Cuban sandwiches, the options are endless. Whether you want a healthy side dish or something more indulgent, there is sure to be a recipe that fits your needs.

So go ahead and experiment with different side dishes until you find the perfect pairing for your Cuban sandwich recipe.