Sides是指在餐厅或饭局上搭配主菜的小菜，常见的有沙拉、土豆泥、蔬菜等。它们可以为主菜增添口感和营养，也可以让餐桌更加丰富多彩。在美食文化日益丰富多元的今天，Sides的选择和制作也越发讲究和有趣。
What Are Sides?
When you go to a restaurant and order a main dish, you’ll often be asked what sides you want with it. Sides are dishes that are served alongside the main course and complement it. They can include vegetables, grains, salads, potatoes, and more. Sides can add color, flavor, and texture to a meal, and they can also increase its nutritional value. Let’s take a closer look at sides and why they’re important.
The Benefits of Sides
One benefit of sides is that they can provide a balance of nutrients. For example, if you’re eating a steak that’s high in protein and fat, you might choose a side of roasted vegetables or a salad to add some fiber and vitamins. This can help you feel more satisfied and promote better digestion. Similarly, if you’re having fish or chicken, a side of brown rice or quinoa can provide complex carbohydrates and energy.
Sides can also make a meal more interesting and flavorful. For example, if you’re having a bland chicken breast, a side of sautéed mushrooms and onions can add depth and umami. If you’re having a spicy enchilada, a side of cool and creamy guacamole can balance the heat. Sides can also help you try new ingredients and flavors. If you’ve never had roasted beets or kale salad before, a side menu can give you the chance to explore them in a low-risk way.
Types of Sides
There are countless types of sides, but here are some common categories:
- Vegetables: These can be raw, steamed, roasted, grilled, or sautéed. Popular options include broccoli, carrots, spinach, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts.
- Salads: These can be leafy, grain-based, pasta-based, or fruit-based. Popular options include Caesar salad, quinoa salad, macaroni salad, and fruit salad.
- Starches: These include potatoes, rice, pasta, bread, and other grains. Popular options include mashed potatoes, risotto, spaghetti, and garlic bread.
- Legumes: These include beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Popular options include chili, refried beans, hummus, and falafel.
- Sauces: These can be creamy, tangy, savory, or sweet. Popular options include gravy, pesto, salsa, and barbecue sauce.
Pairing Sides with Main Dishes
Choosing the right sides can enhance the flavors and textures of your main dish. Here are some tips:
- If you’re having a rich, fatty main dish like steak or pork chops, pair it with a side of green vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts to cut through the richness.
- If you’re having a spicy main dish like curry or chili, pair it with a side of cooling yogurt or sour cream to balance the heat.
- If you’re having a mild, neutral main dish like chicken or fish, pair it with a bold, flavorful side like roasted tomatoes or grilled peppers to add interest.
- If you’re having a hearty main dish like lasagna or shepherd’s pie, pair it with a light, refreshing side like a cucumber salad or fruit salad to contrast the richness.
In Conclusion
As you can see, sides are an important and versatile element of any meal. They can provide balance, flavor, and interest to your dining experience, and they can also promote better nutrition. So the next time you’re at a restaurant or planning a meal at home, take a few minutes to consider your sides and how they can enhance your main dish.
