If you’re looking for the perfect complement to your savory Brazilian pastels, look no further. We’ve rounded up a variety of mouthwatering side dishes that will take your pastel experience to the next level. From traditional Brazilian accompaniments to international favorites, these delectable sides will add an extra burst of flavor to every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious snack, these delightful sides are a must-try. So, grab your pastels and get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Delicious Sides to Serve with Pastel
Are you craving a delicious and flavorful meal? Look no further than pastel, a traditional Brazilian dish that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. But what should you serve alongside this delectable treat? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will take a closer look at a variety of sides that pair perfectly with pastel, whether you’re looking for traditional Brazilian options, international flavors, or vegetarian choices. From fresh salads to warm and comforting sides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Traditional Brazilian Sides
When it comes to traditional Brazilian cuisine, it’s hard to beat the classic sides that complement pastel. These options not only add a burst of flavor but also provide an authentic taste of Brazil.
One beloved side dish is feijoada, a flavorful and hearty black bean stew. It is traditionally made with a variety of smoked and cured meats, such as bacon, sausage, and pork, combined with beans, onions, garlic, and spices. The rich and savory flavors of feijoada perfectly complement the crispy and savory pastel.
Another must-have side is farofa, a popular Brazilian dish made from toasted cassava flour. It adds a unique texture and flavor to the meal and can be mixed with ingredients such as bacon, onions, and eggs. The nutty and crunchy texture of farofa pairs wonderfully with the crispy pastry of pastel.
Couve a Mineira is another traditional side that is commonly served with pastel. It is made from sautéed collard greens seasoned with garlic, onions, and olive oil. The earthy flavors of collard greens bring a refreshing and vibrant taste to the meal.
To add a refreshing and tangy element to your meal, consider serving vinaigrette, a Brazilian-style salsa. With tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, vinegar, and olive oil, this colorful side dish provides a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the richness of pastel.
For those who enjoy a crispy and satisfying side, mandioca frita, or fried cassava, is the way to go. Similar to French fries, mandioca frita is made from thinly sliced cassava roots, deep-fried until golden and crispy. The crunchy texture and subtle sweetness of mandioca frita make it an excellent accompaniment to pastel.
International Sides
If you’re in the mood for international flavors to pair with your pastel, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options from around the world that will tantalize your taste buds and add a unique twist to your meal.
Guacamole, a classic Mexican side dish, is a fantastic choice to serve with pastel. Made from mashed avocados, onions, tomatoes, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro, guacamole brings a creamy and zesty element to the table. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors of guacamole perfectly contrast with the crispy and savory pastel.
Another Mexican side worth considering is pico de gallo, a fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings. Pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness and a hint of spiciness that elevates the flavors of pastel.
If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus is a great choice. Made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this creamy and flavorful dip is perfect for scooping up with your pastel. The nutty and tangy flavors of hummus create a delightful contrast to the pastry’s crispiness.
Tzatziki, a Greek cucumber and yogurt dip, is another fantastic option. Made from cucumbers, yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, tzatziki provides a cool and refreshing counterpart to the warm and savory pastel. Its creamy and tangy flavors add a Mediterranean touch to your meal.
If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, salsa is a go-to choice. This versatile Mexican condiment is made from tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, herbs, and spices. Depending on the desired heat level, you can choose from mild to extra spicy salsa. The bold and fiery flavors of salsa add a kick that enhances the taste of pastel.
For a bold and herbaceous option, consider serving chimichurri, an Argentinean sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, oil, and spices. The tangy and garlicky flavors of chimichurri bring a vibrant and aromatic twist to your pastel experience.
Vegetarian Sides
If you follow a vegetarian lifestyle or simply want to incorporate more plant-based options into your meal, there are plenty of delectable sides that will satisfy your cravings.
Grilled vegetables are a wonderful choice for adding a touch of smoky goodness to your pastel. You can opt for a variety of veggies such as zucchini, peppers, onions, eggplant, and mushrooms. Seasoned with olive oil, herbs, and spices, grilled vegetables provide a burst of flavors and a juicy texture that complements pastel beautifully.
For a fresh and elegant side, consider serving caprese skewers. Made with fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, these skewers offer a delightful combination of tangy, creamy, and herbal flavors. Drizzle them with a balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
If you’re a fan of Brussels sprouts, you’ll love them roasted! Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic addition to your pastel meal. Tossed in olive oil, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic, and roasted until crispy, these tender yet crunchy sprouts provide a mouthwatering contrast to the crispy pastel.
For a creamy and comforting option, mushroom risotto is a great choice. Made with Arborio rice, mushrooms, onions, garlic, and vegetable broth, this rich and flavorful dish is a perfect accompaniment to pastel. The earthy flavors of mushrooms and the creamy texture of risotto create a truly satisfying culinary experience.
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, eggplant Parmesan is a fantastic side dish. Layered with breaded and fried eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, this baked casserole provides a savory and cheesy goodness that perfectly complements the crispy pastel.
Fresh Salads
If you’re looking for something light and refreshing to serve alongside your pastel, fresh salads are an excellent choice. These vibrant and crisp options bring a burst of freshness and add a healthy aspect to your meal.
A classic salad that pairs beautifully with pastel is the Caesar salad. Made with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and tangy Caesar dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy lettuce and savory dressing create a delightful contrast to the crispy pastel.
For a taste of the Mediterranean, serve Greek salad with your pastel. Made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice, this salad brings together a harmonious blend of tangy, salty, and fresh flavors. The vibrant colors and tangy components of the Greek salad provide a wonderful contrast to the savory pastel.
Another refreshing option is mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette. This salad combines a variety of fresh salad greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula, with a tangy and citrusy vinaigrette dressing. With the addition of orange or grapefruit segments, this salad bursts with bright and zesty flavors that complement the richness of pastel.
For a unique and flavorful twist, try watermelon and feta salad. Made with juicy watermelon chunks, creamy feta cheese, fresh mint leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this salad offers a refreshing and sweet-savory combination that is perfect for summer. The juicy sweetness of watermelon and the salty creaminess of feta cheese create a delightful contrast to the crispy pastel.
Cucumber and tomato salad is another simple and refreshing option. Made with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a light dressing of olive oil and vinegar, this salad provides a cool and crunchy accompaniment to your pastel. The crispness of the vegetables and the tangy dressing beautifully complement the pastry’s texture.
Dipping Sauces
Looking to add some extra flavor and excitement to your pastel experience? Dipping sauces are the way to go. These flavorful accompaniments elevate the taste of pastel and provide a fun and interactive element to your meal.
Barbecue sauce is a classic dipping sauce that adds a smoky sweetness to your pastel. With its combination of tomato, molasses, vinegar, and spices, barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering contrast to the savory pastry. Whether you prefer a tangy or a spicy version, barbecue sauce is sure to enhance the flavors of pastel.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sweet chili sauce is a fantastic choice. Made from chili peppers, sugar, garlic, vinegar, and spices, this sauce offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. The tangy and fiery flavors of sweet chili sauce add a kick that complements the savory pastel.
If you’re a fan of creamy and tangy dips, mayonnaise-based dips are a great option. From classic mayo to flavored variations like garlic aioli or chipotle mayo, these dips bring a rich and luscious element to your pastel. Whether you dip or spread, mayonnaise-based dips provide a smooth and velvety texture that enhances the flavors of the pastry.
Another versatile dipping sauce is soy sauce. With its umami-rich and salty flavors, soy sauce is a perfect complement to the savory pastel. You can enjoy it as it is or mix it with other ingredients like ginger, garlic, or chili for an extra burst of flavor.
For those who love seafood or fish pastel, tartar sauce is a must-have. Made from mayonnaise, pickles, capers, onions, and lemon juice, tartar sauce brings a tangy and briny flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood. The creamy and zesty qualities of tartar sauce add a refreshing contrast to the crispy pastel.
Warm Sides
When the weather calls for comfort food and cozy flavors, warm sides are just what you need to pair with your pastel. These heartwarming options provide a comforting and satisfying element to your meal.
Mashed potatoes are a classic and beloved side dish that goes well with just about anything, including pastel. Creamy and smooth, mashed potatoes offer a comforting and buttery goodness that wonderfully complements the crispy texture of pastel.
If you’re a fan of bread, consider serving garlic bread alongside your pastel. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is made by spreading a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs onto slices of bread and baking them until golden and aromatic. The garlicky and flavorful bread creates a delightful combination with the savory pastel.
For a decadent and indulgent side, creamed spinach is the way to go. Made with sautéed spinach in a rich and creamy sauce, creamed spinach offers a velvety and silky texture that adds a luxurious touch to your pastel. The buttery and savory flavors of creamed spinach pair perfectly with the crispy pastry.
If you’re a fan of summertime barbecues, grilled corn on the cob is a fantastic choice. Seasoned with butter, salt, and spices, such as chili powder or smoked paprika, grilled corn on the cob provides a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements pastel. The charred and juicy kernels bring a delightful burst of freshness and a hint of smokiness to your plate.
For a taste of French cuisine, ratatouille is an excellent warm side. This vegetable stew is made with a variety of colorful and seasonal vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Slow-cooked together with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, ratatouille offers a rich and complex flavor that adds depth to your pastel.
Starchy Sides
If you’re looking to add some comforting and substantial sides to your pastel meal, starchy options are just what you need. These sides provide a hearty and filling element that complements the crispy and savory nature of pastel.
French fries are a classic choice for any meal, and they pair exceptionally well with pastel. Whether you opt for thin and crispy shoestring fries or thick and steak-cut fries, their golden exterior and fluffy interior bring a satisfying and familiar element to your plate. With a sprinkle of salt and any desired seasonings, French fries enhance the flavors and textures of pastel.
For a slightly healthier alternative to French fries, consider serving sweet potato fries. Made from thinly sliced sweet potatoes, roasted until crispy and caramelized, these fries offer a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness. The crispy exterior and soft interior of sweet potato fries add a unique twist to your pastel experience.
Potato salad is another beloved side dish that pairs wonderfully with pastel. Made with boiled and diced potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, onions, celery, and herbs, potato salad offers a creamy and tangy flavor that complements pastel perfectly. Whether you prefer a classic potato salad or a variation with added ingredients like bacon or pickles, its creamy and savory qualities bring a satisfying element to your meal.
If you’re looking for a staple side that is both versatile and customizable, rice is the way to go. From fluffy and fragrant basmati rice to sticky and flavorful sushi rice, there are endless possibilities when it comes to serving rice with pastel. Its neutral yet comforting nature allows the flavors of the pastel to shine while providing a substantial element to your meal.
For a unique and comforting option, consider serving polenta with your pastel. Made from ground cornmeal, cooked until thick and creamy, polenta offers a smooth and comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy pastry. Whether enjoyed plain or topped with cheese or mushrooms, polenta provides a warm and substantial element to your pastel feast.
Unique Sides
Want to surprise your taste buds with something out of the ordinary? These unique sides offer exciting and unexpected flavors that will take your pastel experience to the next level.
If you’re looking for a sweet and savory side, fried plantains are a must-try. Popular in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine, fried plantains are made from ripe plantains that are sliced and deep-fried until golden and caramelized. The sweet and tender nature of plantains brings a delightful contrast to the savory pastel.
For a taste of Japanese cuisine, miso soup is a fantastic option. Made from fermented soybean paste, tofu, seaweed, and various vegetables, miso soup offers a rich and savory flavor that adds depth to your pastel experience. Whether served alongside or sipped between bites, miso soup brings a unique and umami-rich element to the table.
Baked mac and cheese is a comforting and nostalgic side that pairs wonderfully with pastel. Made with pasta shells or elbows, a rich and cheesy sauce, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this dish provides creamy and indulgent flavors that perfectly complement the crispy pastry. The combination of cheese, pasta, and seasoning creates a harmonious and satisfying bite.
For a tropical and exotic twist, serve coconut rice with your pastel. Made by cooking rice with coconut milk, this fragrant and creamy side dish adds a subtle sweetness and a delicate coconut flavor to your meal. The gentle aroma of coconut rice pairs wonderfully with the savory and crispy nature of pastel.
If you’re a fan of cold soups, try serving gazpacho alongside your pastel. This Spanish dish is made with a mixture of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and olive oil, all blended together until smooth. Gazpacho offers a refreshing and tangy flavor that provides a cooling contrast to the crispy pastel. Its vibrant and colorful appearance also adds a visual appeal to your plate.
Healthy Options
For those seeking healthier alternatives to traditional sides, there are plenty of options that pack a nutritional punch without compromising on flavor. These sides are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients to support a balanced diet.
For a nutrient-packed side, consider serving quinoa salad with your pastel. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that is cooked and combined with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. The combination of flavors and textures in quinoa salad brings a refreshing and nutritious element to your meal.
Roasted vegetables are a great way to incorporate more plant-based goodness into your pastel meal. Whether you choose colorful bell peppers, sweet potatoes, carrots, or a mix of various vegetables, roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and offers a caramelized flavor. Seasoned with herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil, roasted vegetables provide a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment to pastel.
For a light and satisfying option, serve couscous salad with your pastel. Couscous is a versatile grain that can be cooked in minutes and combined with various ingredients. Tossed with colorful vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing, couscous salad brings a hearty and nutritious element to your meal.
If you’re looking for a leafy green option, spinach salad is a fantastic choice. Packed with vitamins and minerals, spinach is a nutritious addition to any meal. Combined with fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds, and a light vinaigrette, spinach salad offers a refreshing and healthy counterpart to the crispy pastel.
Chickpea salad is another healthy and filling option. Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas provide a nutritious base for a salad. Combine them with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a zesty dressing for a flavorful and satisfying side that complements pastel beautifully.
Kids-Friendly Sides
When it comes to feeding the little ones, it’s important to have sides that are not only delicious but also appealing to their taste buds. These kid-friendly sides offer familiar and tasty options that will make mealtime a breeze.
For a fun and cheesy side, serve cheesy tater tots with your pastel. These crispy and bite-sized potato treats are loaded with melted cheese, providing a comforting and savory flavor that kids love. Whether enjoyed on their own or dipped in ketchup or ranch dressing, cheesy tater tots are sure to be a hit.
If your kids are fans of macaroni and cheese, they’ll go crazy for macaroni and cheese balls. Made with a creamy macaroni and cheese mixture that is rolled into balls and breaded, these cheesy bites offer a crispy and melty texture that kids adore. Serve them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
Garlic Parmesan fries are another kid-friendly option that adds a burst of flavor to your pastel meal. These thinly cut fries are baked until crispy, then tossed with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. The combination of the savory and cheesy flavors creates a delicious and addictive side that both kids and adults will enjoy.
For a classic and crowd-pleasing choice, look no further than corn dogs. Made by coating hot dogs with cornmeal batter and deep-frying them until golden and crispy, these handheld treats offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Serve them with ketchup, mustard, or any desired dipping sauce for a fun and tasty side.
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly twist on a classic, try making mini grilled cheese sandwiches. Made with your kids’ favorite type of cheese and toasted to perfection, these bite-sized sandwiches provide a comforting and familiar option that pairs wonderfully with pastel. Whether enjoyed alone or dipped in tomato soup, mini grilled cheese sandwiches will surely put a smile on any child’s face.
In conclusion, when it comes to serving delicious sides with pastel, the options are endless. Whether you prefer traditional Brazilian sides, international flavors, vegetarian options, fresh salads, dipping sauces, warm sides, starchy accompaniments, or unique twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From enhancing the flavors and textures of pastel to adding a burst of freshness or indulgence to your meal, these sides are sure to elevate your pastel experience and leave you craving more. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that is full of delightful flavors, no matter which side you choose to serve with your pastel.