What To Serve With Short Ribs? 15 Tasty Side Dishes

Short ribs are a tender, flavorful, and indulgent dish that can elevate any meal to a memorable dining experience. Slow-cooked or braised, these succulent ribs are perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply a satisfying dinner at home.

To enhance your short ribs feast, we've put together a list of 15 fantastic side dishes that will perfectly complement your main course, along with some helpful tips.

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The best side dishes to serve with short ribs are creamy polenta, mashed sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, roasted root vegetables, cauliflower pot gratin, garlic herb risotto, red wine braised cabbage, balsamic glazed brussels sprouts, and rosemary bread.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Creamy Polenta

The smooth and creamy texture of polenta is a great match for the rich, meaty flavors of short ribs. Its mild flavor helps to balance the intensity of the ribs, and it also helps to soak up any delicious juices and sauces.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables

A medley of roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and turnips, adds earthy flavors and a variety of textures that pair well with the rich, hearty taste of short ribs.

3. Mashed Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes complements the savory richness of short ribs. Add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg to accentuate the flavors and create a comforting side dish.

4. Cauliflower Gratin

A creamy, cheesy cauliflower gratin is both comforting and indulgent, making it an excellent side dish for short ribs. The cauliflower's mild flavor lets the short ribs take center stage.

5. Garlic Herb Risotto

A rich, creamy risotto flavored with garlic and fresh herbs is a luxurious side dish that complements the decadence of short ribs. The Arborio rice's natural creaminess pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy meat.

6. Green Beans

Sautéed with garlic and a splash of lemon juice, green beans offer a crisp, fresh contrast to the tender short ribs. They provide a pop of color and a touch of brightness to your plate.

7. Braised Cabbage

The tangy and slightly sweet flavor of red wine braised cabbage adds depth and complexity to your meal. The acidity of the red wine helps to cut through the richness of the short ribs.

8. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Roasting Brussels sprouts and glazing them with a balsamic reduction adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to this side dish, creating a fantastic contrast to the succulent short ribs.

9. Rosemary Bread

Freshly baked rosemary bread serves as a fantastic vehicle to mop up any remaining sauce or juices from your short ribs. The herbaceous aroma of rosemary complements the rich flavors of the meat.

10. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus adds a smoky, charred flavor that pairs wonderfully with the robust taste of short ribs. The crisp-tender texture of asparagus offers a pleasant contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth ribs.

11. Roasted Potatoes

Perfectly seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and garlic, these herb roasted potatoes provide a hearty and comforting side dish that complements the rich flavors of short ribs.

12. Creamed Spinach

This classic side dish is both luxurious and indulgent. The creamy texture and mild flavor of creamed spinach work well with the bold flavors of short ribs, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

13. Mushroom Risotto

Earthy wild mushrooms combined with creamy Arborio rice create a luxurious and flavorful risotto that pairs beautifully with the succulent short ribs.

14. Charred Corn and Avocado Salad

This colorful and refreshing salad combines the smoky sweetness of charred corn with creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing. It adds a light and fresh element to your short ribs dinner.

15. Apple and Fennel Slaw

The refreshing crunch of apple and fennel slaw adds a light, crisp contrast to the tender short ribs. Its bright, tangy flavors help to cut through the richness of the meat.

These options offer a variety of flavors and textures to enhance your short ribs meal, ensuring each bite is as delightful and satisfying as the last. Remember to balance rich and indulgent sides with lighter, fresher options to create a well-rounded and memorable dining experience.

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