The Ultimate Guide to Side Dishes for Pork Roast Dinner

When it comes to putting together a complete meal, side dishes play a crucial role. They not only complement the main dish but also add variety and balance to the menu. A well-rounded meal includes a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients, and side dishes can provide just that.

This article will take a closer look at the benefits of side dishes for pork roast, as well as provide a list of 20 top side dishes that pair well with this classic main dish. We will also touch on the importance of having a well-rounded meal and how side dishes can help achieve that.

Benefits of Side Dishes for Pork Roast

Complementary Flavors

One of the key benefits of side dishes is the way they can bring out the flavors of the main dish and complement it in a harmonious way. A juicy and flavorful pork roast, for example, can be elevated by the addition of side dishes that highlight its taste and texture.

Balancing the Meal

Another benefit of side dishes is the way they can balance the meal by adding different elements to the table. A meal that consists of a fatty and rich main dish, such as a pork roast, can be balanced with lighter and healthier side dishes, such as a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Adding Variety to the Menu

Side dishes can also add variety to the menu, providing a change of pace and a different texture, flavor, or ingredient. This can help keep the meal interesting and prevent boredom.

Top Side Dishes to Serve with Pork Roast

Roasted Vegetables

1. Carrots roasted with thyme and garlic: Carrots are a classic side dish for pork roast. Roasting them with thyme and garlic enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their earthy flavor. Simply toss sliced carrots with olive oil, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
2. Parsnips roasted with honey and balsamic vinegar: Parsnips have a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pork roast. Roasting them with honey and balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that complements the rich flavor of the pork. Simply slice the parsnips, toss them with olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until tender and golden brown.
3. Brussels sprouts roasted with bacon and onion: Brussels sprouts are a versatile and flavorful side dish that goes well with pork roast. Roasting them with bacon and onion adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the rich taste of the pork. Simply slice the Brussels sprouts in half, toss with olive oil, diced bacon, chopped onion, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until crispy and caramelized.
4. Sweet potatoes seasoned with rosemary and paprika: Sweet potatoes are a great side dish for pork roast, as their natural sweetness balances the rich, savory flavor of the pork. Seasoning them with rosemary and paprika adds a touch of herbaceous and smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Simply slice the sweet potatoes, toss them with olive oil, chopped rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender and golden brown.

Potatoes Dishes

1. Mashed potatoes flavored with garlic and chives: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for pork roast, and adding garlic and chives gives them a fresh, savory flavor. Simply boil peeled and cubed potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, garlic, chives, salt, and pepper. Serve the mash hot, topped with a sprinkle of chopped chives.
2. Roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and lemon: Roasted potatoes are a tasty and versatile side dish for pork roast. Seasoning them with rosemary and lemon adds a fresh, herby flavor that pairs well with the rich taste of the pork. Simply slice the potatoes, toss them with olive oil, chopped rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

Grains and Legumes

1. Quinoa salad with roasted vegetables: Quinoa is a nutritious and flavorful grain that makes a great side dish for pork roast. Mixing it with roasted vegetables adds a variety of flavors and textures to the dish. Simply cook the quinoa, then mix it with roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, along with some diced red onion, lemon juice, and herbs.
2. Lentils with bacon and onion: Lentils are a protein-packed legume that makes a great side dish for pork roast. Cooking them with bacon and onion adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the rich taste of the pork. Simply simmer lentils in a mixture of chicken broth and water, then stir in cooked bacon and caramelized onion before serving.
3. Brown rice pilaf with mushrooms: Brown rice pilaf is a simple and flavorful side dish that goes well with pork roast. Adding mushrooms give it a meaty, earthy flavor that pairs well with the rich taste of the pork. Simply cook the brown rice with a mixture of chicken broth and white wine, then stir in sautéed mushrooms before serving.

Salads and Coleslaw

1. Spinach and bacon salad: A simple spinach and bacon salad is a great way to add a touch of green to your meal, and the bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor that pairs well with the pork. Simply mix washed spinach with crumbled bacon, diced red onion, and a simple vinaigrette.
2. Coleslaw with apples and raisins: Coleslaw is a classic side dish that goes well with pork roast, and adding apples and raisins gives it a touch of sweetness and crunch. Simply mix shredded cabbage and carrots with diced apples, raisins, and a mayonnaise-based dressing.
3. Mixed greens salad with pecans and blue cheese: A mixed greens salad with pecans and blue cheese is a great way to add a variety of flavors and textures to your meal. The pecans add crunch, while the blue cheese adds a tangy, salty flavor that complements the rich taste of the pork. Simply mix washed greens with pecans, crumbled blue cheese, and a simple vinaigrette.

Sauces and Gravies

1. Apple cider gravy: Apple cider gravy is a simple and flavorful sauce that pairs well with pork roast. Simply mix chicken broth, apple cider, and flour in a saucepan, then simmer until thickened. Serve the gravy hot, drizzled over sliced pork roast.
2. Cranberry sauce: Cranberry sauce is a classic side dish for pork roast, and adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the meal. Simply simmer cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Serve the sauce hot or cold, alongside the pork roast.
3. Horseradish sauce: Horseradish sauce is a tangy and spicy sauce that pairs well with pork roast. Simply mix grated horseradish, mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice in a bowl, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the sauce chilled, alongside the pork roast.

Baked Goods

1. Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic side dish that adds a sweet and crumbly texture to the meal. Simply mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk, then bake in the oven until golden and set.
2. Biscuits: Biscuits are a flaky and buttery side dish that goes well with pork roast. Simply mix flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and shortening, then bake in the oven until golden and puffed.
3. Dinner rolls: Dinner rolls are a soft and fluffy side dish that adds a warm and comforting texture to the meal. Simply mix flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and milk, then bake in the oven until golden and puffed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, side dishes play an important role in a meal, offering complementary flavors, balancing the meal, and adding variety to the menu. When it comes to pork roast, there are many delicious options to choose from.

We encourage you to experiment with different side dishes and find what works best for your tastes. Mix and match different ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods to create a meal that is both satisfying and enjoyable.

Lastly, it’s important to remember the importance of having a well-rounded meal. Side dishes can help bring balance and variety to the table, making the meal both nutritious and enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself and your family, don’t forget the power of a good side dish.