What To Know
- With these make-ahead side dishes, you can elevate your steak night experience and impress your guests with a complete and satisfying meal.
- From the vibrant flavors of roasted garlic parmesan asparagus to the creamy indulgence of mashed potatoes, these dishes will complement your steak perfectly and make your dinner a culinary triumph.
- You can keep your side dishes warm in a low oven (200-250°F) or in a slow cooker set to “warm.
Grilling a juicy steak is an art form, but the perfect side dishes can elevate your culinary masterpiece to new heights. However, preparing side dishes on the fly can be a time-consuming hassle. That’s where make-ahead side dishes come to the rescue, allowing you to focus on the main event while ensuring your meal is complete and satisfying.
1. Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
Bring a burst of flavor to your plate with roasted garlic parmesan asparagus. Simply toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and grated parmesan cheese. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
2. Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in a creamy and savory side dish with spinach and artichoke dip. Sauté spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and cream cheese until bubbly. Transfer to a baking dish and top with grated parmesan cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Add a touch of summer to your steak night with grilled corn on the cob. Soak corn in water for 30 minutes, then grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush with melted herb butter made from butter, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Caprese Salad Skewers
Create a vibrant and refreshing side with caprese salad skewers. Skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Roasted Butternut Squash with Honey and Thyme
For a sweet and savory side, roast butternut squash with honey and thyme. Cube butternut squash, toss with olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in a classic side dish with creamy mashed potatoes. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of sour cream for extra richness.
7. Baked Beans with Bacon
Add a smoky and flavorful touch to your meal with baked beans with bacon. Brown ground beef and bacon, then combine with canned baked beans, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 hours, or until thickened and bubbly.
The Art of Preparation
To ensure your make-ahead side dishes are ready to serve when you need them, follow these tips:
- Plan ahead: Determine which side dishes you want to prepare and allow ample time for preparation and cooling.
- Choose versatile dishes: Opt for side dishes that can be served warm or cold, giving you flexibility in your meal planning.
- Use airtight containers: Store prepared side dishes in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage.
- Reheat carefully: When reheating make-ahead side dishes, do so gently to avoid overcooking or drying them out.
Elevate Your Steak Night Experience
With these make-ahead side dishes, you can elevate your steak night experience and impress your guests with a complete and satisfying meal. From the vibrant flavors of roasted garlic parmesan asparagus to the creamy indulgence of mashed potatoes, these dishes will complement your steak perfectly and make your dinner a culinary triumph.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these side dishes the day before serving?
A: Yes, most of these side dishes can be made the day before. Simply store them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: How can I keep my side dishes warm until serving time?
A: You can keep your side dishes warm in a low oven (200-250°F) or in a slow cooker set to “warm.”
Q: Can I freeze any of these side dishes?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked beans with bacon, creamy mashed potatoes, and roasted butternut squash with honey and thyme. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
