Roast Goose is an iconic centerpiece for any special occasion, known for its rich and succulent meat. It's a feast for the senses, but the question arises—what do you serve on the side to make it a complete and satisfying meal?
Here are 15 tasty side dishes that complement Goose beautifully.
Looking for a quick answer?
The best side dishes to serve with goose are potato wedges, green bean casserole, blooming onion, cranberry sauce, yellow rice, butternut squash, avocado salad, caramelized carrots, red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, apple sauce, roasted beets, polenta, pear and walnut salad, and mashed potatoes.
Now, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
1. Potato Wedges
Let's start with the ever-beloved potato wedges. These thick, hearty pieces of potato are seasoned to perfection, roasted until they're crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Imagine dipping a wedge into some of the rich, savory juices from the goose. The combination of flavors is nothing short of spectacular.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is an American classic that brings its own set of textures and flavors to the table. Creamy, with that iconic crunch from the fried onions on top, this dish provides a contrast to the succulent meat. It’s hearty, it’s comforting, and it belongs on your plate next to that perfectly roasted bird.
3. Blooming Onion
For an unexpected but absolutely delicious side, consider a blooming onion. Deep-fried and seasoned, this dish offers layers of crunch and is often served with a variety of dipping sauces. The spiciness and crispiness of the blooming onion can add an exciting twist to your meal.
4. Cranberry Sauce
No holiday table would be complete without cranberry sauce, and it’s a natural fit here. The tart, fruity flavors cut through the richness of the meat, offering a palate cleanser that prepares you for the next sumptuous bite.
5. Yellow Rice
Yellow rice, colored and flavored with saffron or turmeric, brings a splash of color and a touch of exotic spice to your meal. Light and fluffy, it’s perfect for soaking up some of those flavorful juices, making each bite a symphony of taste sensations.
6. Butternut Squash
Roasted butternut squash offers both sweetness and earthiness. Seasoned with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it makes each mouthful an autumnal celebration. The natural sweetness of the squash plays off the savory elements of the main dish in a way that's downright harmonious.
7. Roasted Beets
If you're in the mood for something that adds both color and a unique taste profile to your meal, roasted beets are the way to go. Their deep, earthy sweetness offers a sublime contrast to the rich, meaty flavors of Goose. Simply toss the beets in a bit of olive oil, sprinkle some salt, and roast them until they're tender. As they roast, the natural sugars in the beets caramelize, intensifying their flavor.
8. Polenta
When it comes to comfort, creamy polenta reigns supreme, and it's an excellent side dish to serve with Goose. This Italian staple has a soft, luxurious texture that serves as a canvas for flavors. Prepare it with a good broth and perhaps a dash of cream, stirring in grated Parmesan for that extra touch of flavor. The polenta can soak up the Goose's flavorful juices, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of creamy and savory. It's a side that not only stands up to the main dish but elevates it.
9. Pear and Walnut Salad
For those who desire a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, meaty flavors of Goose, a pear and walnut salad is a winner. Ripe pear slices tossed with walnuts, mixed greens, and perhaps some blue cheese create a salad that's both sweet and savory. Add a light vinaigrette to tie all the flavors together. The crispness of the pear, the crunch of the walnut, and the tanginess of the blue cheese work in unison to provide a palate-cleansing experience that readies you for the next sumptuous bite of Goose.
10. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are the epitome of comfort food and are almost universally adored, making them an excellent side dish choice for Goose. These potatoes are creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor. Infusing the mash with roasted garlic elevates the dish to a whole new level. The smooth, buttery texture of the potatoes pairs brilliantly with the succulent, flavorful meat, making it a side dish that you'll want second helpings of. It's classic for a reason, and in this context, it becomes unforgettable.
11. Avocado Salad
For a refreshing counterpoint, go for an avocado salad. The creaminess of the avocado, along with the juicy pop of cherry tomatoes and perhaps a sprinkle of crumbled feta, offers a light, fresh contrast to the richness of the main dish. It’s a burst of freshness that brightens the entire meal.
12. Caramelized Carrots
Last but not least, consider caramelized carrots. Slow-cooked in a glaze of butter and brown sugar, they take on an almost dessert-like quality. Sweet, tender, and incredibly flavorful, they offer a completely different kind of sweetness than you'll get from any other side.
13. Red Cabbage
If you want to add some color and crunch to your table, red cabbage is a great way to go. Cook it down with a bit of apple cider vinegar and a sprinkle of brown sugar. The tanginess works wonders alongside the richness of the main dish, and the vibrant color makes your table look all the more festive.
14. Brussels Sprouts
A classic choice for good reason, Brussels sprouts are versatile and delicious. Roast them with a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt until they're crispy and golden. The nutty flavors and crunchy texture make them a superb companion for a luxurious meal.
15. Apple Sauce
If you're looking to add a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory, apple sauce is an excellent choice. Whether homemade or store-bought, its natural sweetness and smooth texture can offer a pleasing contrast, making your palate dance with delight.
What To Serve With Roast Goose
Ingredients
- 1 goose
Instructions
- Make the best goose using your favorite recipe.
- Make a side dish from the list above. You can eat goose with potato wedges, green bean casserole, blooming onion, cranberry sauce, yellow rice, butternut squash, avocado salad, caramelized carrots, red cabbage, Brussels sprouts, apple sauce, roasted beets, polenta, pear and walnut salad, and mashed potatoes.
- Serve and enjoy a wonderful meal 🙂