The Reuben sandwich, a symphony of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing grilled to golden perfection on rye bread, is a culinary masterpiece in its own right. Its complex flavors – tangy, savory, rich, and slightly sweet – make it a satisfying and unforgettable meal. However, even the best sandwich benefits from the right accompaniments. Choosing the perfect sides and beverages can elevate your Reuben experience from a simple lunch to a truly memorable feast.
Classic Side Dishes That Complement a Reuben
When it comes to side dishes for a Reuben, think about flavors and textures that either contrast or enhance the sandwich’s existing profile. You want sides that cleanse the palate, add a refreshing element, or contribute a complementary taste that balances the richness of the Reuben.
The Indispensable Pickle
A pickle is almost mandatory with a Reuben. The acidity and crunch of a good pickle cut through the richness of the sandwich, providing a welcome contrast.
Dill pickles are the classic choice. Their sour, briny flavor offers a sharp counterpoint to the savory corned beef and creamy Russian dressing. Look for pickles that are fermented for a truly authentic and tangy experience.
Sweet pickles, such as bread and butter pickles, can also work well, especially if you enjoy a sweeter counterpoint to the Reuben’s savory notes. The sweetness provides a different dimension, creating a more balanced flavor profile.
Consider offering a variety of pickles to cater to different tastes. A pickle plate with dill, sweet, and even spicy pickles can be a fun and interactive addition to your Reuben meal.
Crispy Potato Perfection: Fries and Chips
Potatoes, in their various forms, are a natural pairing for sandwiches. The starchy goodness complements the savory flavors of the Reuben, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
French fries are a classic choice for a reason. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior provide a textural contrast to the soft, warm Reuben. Choose fries that are thick-cut and well-seasoned for the best results. Consider different fry variations like sweet potato fries for a touch of sweetness.
Potato chips offer a lighter alternative to fries. The crunch and salty flavor of potato chips complement the Reuben perfectly. Opt for kettle-cooked chips for a heartier texture and more intense flavor. Salt and vinegar chips can provide a tangy counterpoint to the richness of the sandwich.
For a slightly healthier option, consider baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs and spices. This provides a similar textural and flavor profile to fries but with fewer calories.
Coleslaw: Creamy and Crunchy Refreshment
Coleslaw is another excellent side dish for a Reuben. Its creamy texture and slightly sweet and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Traditional coleslaw, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing, is a classic choice. Make sure the coleslaw is well-balanced in terms of sweetness and tanginess. Avoid coleslaw that is overly sweet or bland.
Vinegar-based coleslaw offers a lighter and tangier alternative to the traditional mayonnaise-based version. This type of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the Reuben without adding extra creaminess.
Consider adding other ingredients to your coleslaw, such as celery seeds, chopped apples, or cranberries, to add extra flavor and texture.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring More Adventurous Pairings
While the classic side dishes are always a safe bet, don’t be afraid to experiment with more adventurous pairings. The Reuben’s complex flavors can handle a variety of different accompaniments.
Soup Sensations: A Hearty and Warming Combination
A bowl of soup alongside a Reuben can create a truly satisfying and warming meal, especially on a cold day.
Tomato soup, with its acidity and sweetness, complements the Reuben beautifully. The tomato soup’s brightness cuts through the sandwich’s richness. Consider a creamy tomato soup for a more luxurious experience.
Creamy potato soup offers a heartier and more comforting option. The potato soup’s creamy texture complements the Reuben’s soft interior. Add some crumbled bacon or chives for extra flavor.
French onion soup, with its rich beef broth, caramelized onions, and cheesy crouton, can be a surprisingly good pairing with a Reuben. The soup’s savory depth complements the corned beef and Swiss cheese.
Consider the season when choosing a soup. A light and refreshing gazpacho might be a good choice in the summer, while a hearty beef stew would be more appropriate in the winter.
Salads: Light and Refreshing Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter side dish, a salad is an excellent choice. Choose a salad that offers a contrasting texture and flavor to the Reuben.
A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and palate-cleansing option. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sandwich. Add some crumbled blue cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
A cucumber salad with dill and sour cream is a light and refreshing alternative to coleslaw. The cucumber’s coolness and the dill’s herbaceousness provide a welcome contrast to the Reuben’s warmth and richness.
A potato salad, while similar to fries, can offer a different flavor profile. A German potato salad, with its tangy vinegar dressing and bacon, can be a particularly good pairing.
Vegetable Medleys: Adding Nutritional Value
Adding a side of cooked vegetables is a great way to add nutritional value to your Reuben meal. Choose vegetables that are simple and well-seasoned.
Steamed green beans with a sprinkle of salt and pepper are a classic and healthy option. The green beans’ slight bitterness provides a nice contrast to the Reuben’s richness.
Roasted asparagus with olive oil and garlic is another flavorful and healthy choice. The asparagus’s slightly sweet and earthy flavor complements the corned beef and Swiss cheese.
Sautéed spinach with garlic is a quick and easy way to add some greens to your meal. The spinach’s mild flavor doesn’t overpower the Reuben’s complex flavors.
Beverages: Quenching Your Thirst and Enhancing the Flavor
The right beverage can significantly enhance your Reuben experience. Consider drinks that complement the sandwich’s flavors and textures.
Beer: A Classic Pairing
Beer and sandwiches are a natural pairing, and the Reuben is no exception. Choose a beer that is not too overpowering and that complements the sandwich’s savory and tangy flavors.
Lagers are a good all-around choice. Their crisp, clean flavor doesn’t compete with the Reuben’s complex flavors.
Pale ales can also work well, especially those with a slightly hoppy bitterness. The hops cut through the richness of the sandwich.
Stouts and porters can be a good pairing, especially if you enjoy a richer and more robust flavor. The roasted malt flavors in stouts and porters complement the corned beef.
Wine: A Sophisticated Option
While beer is the more common choice, wine can also be a surprisingly good pairing with a Reuben. Choose a wine that is dry and acidic to cut through the sandwich’s richness.
Dry rosé is a versatile option that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its acidity and fruitiness complement the Reuben’s savory and tangy flavors.
Riesling, especially a dry Riesling, is another excellent choice. Its acidity and citrus notes cut through the richness of the sandwich.
Pinot Noir, with its earthy and fruity notes, can also be a good pairing, especially with a Reuben made with high-quality corned beef.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing and Flavorful
If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there are plenty of options that pair well with a Reuben.
Iced tea, especially unsweetened iced tea, is a refreshing and palate-cleansing option. The tea’s tannins cut through the richness of the sandwich.
Lemonade, with its tart and sweet flavor, can provide a refreshing contrast to the Reuben.
Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a simple and refreshing option that doesn’t overpower the sandwich’s flavors.
Crafting the Perfect Reuben Experience
Serving a Reuben sandwich is more than just slapping some ingredients between two slices of rye bread. It’s about creating a complete and satisfying culinary experience.
Consider the presentation. A well-plated Reuben with attractive side dishes elevates the meal. Don’t just throw everything on a plate. Take the time to arrange the food in an appealing way.
Pay attention to the quality of the ingredients. Use high-quality corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. Freshly baked rye bread makes a big difference.
Offer a variety of options to cater to different tastes. Provide a selection of pickles, side dishes, and beverages.
Ultimately, the best thing to serve with a Reuben sandwich is whatever you enjoy the most. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect pairings. Enjoy your Reuben!
What are some classic side dish options that complement a Reuben sandwich?
Classic side dishes for a Reuben sandwich often focus on crisp, refreshing flavors that cut through the richness of the sandwich. Consider coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. These options provide a textural and flavorful contrast to the Reuben’s savory and creamy components, ensuring a balanced and satisfying meal.
Another excellent choice is a cup of creamy tomato soup or a pickle spear. The acidity of the tomato soup helps to cleanse the palate between bites, while the pickle offers a tangy crunch that complements the corned beef and sauerkraut. These additions provide a familiar and comforting feel, elevating the overall Reuben experience.
Are there any vegetable-based sides that work well with a Reuben?
Absolutely! Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts offer a healthy and flavorful counterpoint to the Reuben’s richness. Their earthy flavors and slightly charred edges provide a delightful contrast to the salty corned beef and tangy sauerkraut. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of these vegetables, making them a surprisingly delicious pairing.
Alternatively, consider a cucumber and dill salad or a simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The fresh, crisp flavors and light dressing help to balance the heavy nature of the Reuben, providing a refreshing break between bites. These vegetable-based options not only add nutritional value but also enhance the overall dining experience.
What kind of soup pairs best with a Reuben sandwich?
Creamy tomato soup is a classic pairing with a Reuben, offering a comforting and familiar combination. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the sandwich, while the creamy texture complements the melted cheese and dressing. A well-seasoned tomato soup can truly elevate the Reuben experience.
Beyond tomato soup, consider a potato leek soup or a creamy vegetable soup. These options provide a similar comforting and contrasting element to the Reuben’s flavors. The subtle sweetness of the leeks or other vegetables can balance the saltiness of the corned beef, resulting in a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
What are some less common, more adventurous side dish options?
For a more adventurous pairing, consider serving your Reuben with sweet potato fries seasoned with smoked paprika. The sweetness of the potato and the smoky spice provide a unique contrast to the Reuben’s savory profile. This unconventional side adds a playful twist to the classic sandwich.
Another option is to serve it with German potato salad, which often includes bacon and vinegar. The tangy and smoky flavors of the German potato salad complement the sauerkraut and corned beef in the Reuben. This pairing adds a layer of complexity and depth to the meal, making it a truly memorable experience.
What type of drink complements a Reuben sandwich?
A crisp, refreshing lager or pilsner is a classic beer pairing for a Reuben sandwich. The light body and subtle bitterness of these beers help to cleanse the palate between bites, cutting through the richness of the sandwich. The effervescence also aids in digestion, making it a perfect complement to a heavier meal.
If you prefer wine, consider a dry Riesling or a Pinot Grigio. These wines offer a bright acidity and crisp fruit flavors that balance the saltiness and richness of the Reuben. The subtle sweetness of a Riesling can also complement the tangy sauerkraut and sweet Russian dressing, creating a harmonious pairing.
Can I serve a Reuben sandwich with a lighter side dish option for a healthier meal?
Absolutely! A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice for a healthier side dish. Focus on using fresh, seasonal greens and a vinaigrette that’s low in sugar and oil. This provides a refreshing and low-calorie counterpoint to the richness of the Reuben.
Another healthy option is a side of steamed or grilled asparagus. Asparagus is low in calories and packed with nutrients. Its slightly bitter flavor complements the savory components of the Reuben without adding excessive calories or fat. Season simply with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a delicious and healthy meal.
What kind of appetizer goes well before a Reuben sandwich?
A simple pickle plate or a small bowl of olives makes a great appetizer before a Reuben. The acidity and brininess of these options help to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for the richness of the sandwich. These appetizers are light and refreshing, preventing you from feeling too full before the main course.
Another excellent choice is a small portion of German mustard and pretzel bites. The sharp, tangy mustard and the salty pretzels complement the flavors of the Reuben, offering a preview of the savory experience to come. Keep the portion sizes small to avoid overwhelming your guests before the main event.