A quick look at the various types of beef sandwiches makes it seem like there’s hardly any difference besides the toppings. But the distinct flavors jump out when you dig into each of them. For instance, the Italian beef sandwich stands out for its Italian seasonings and pickled vegetables.
Thus, if you don’t know what to serve with Italian beef sandwich, it’s an excellent move to match your choices with the sandwich’s flavor profile. Indeed, most of the recipes in this article are Italian-inspired. But you’d also want to keep it simple, so you don’t hide those rich, beefy flavors.
1. Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
While mozzarella cheese sticks aren’t authentic Italian dishes, mozzarella originated in Italy; thus, its flavors still pair well with Italian beef sandwiches. Some even top theirs with mozzarella slices, allowing the cheese to melt into gooey goodness. However, if you want some crunch with that cheese, skip the topping and follow this recipe instead. They’re still as tasty, and you might get an impressive cheese string!
2. Baked Crispy Polenta Fries
French fries are a go-to for all sandwiches, including Italian beef. However, if you want to switch up, trade the usual potato fries for these baked polenta fries. Appearance-wise, there’s not much difference except for the slightly more yellow color and thicker cuts. But inside, the flavors and textures are unique because polenta is made from cornmeal. Hence, these fries taste much like corn.
3. Au Jus
Unlike French dip, beef gravy or au jus isn’t standard with Italian beef sandwiches. However, many have discovered that they love dunking their Italian-spiced sandwich into au jus to make it more flavorful and moist. Thus, it’s recommended that you try it, too. The best au jus is the one made from the beef used to make the sandwich, but if you can’t, here’s an easy recipe.
4. Spicy Onion Rings
Onion rings, like fries, are often eaten to help make sandwiches or burgers more filling and delicious. It also contributes crunchy textures and sweet flavors, which are enjoyed much by our taste buds. While you can have the usual onion rings with your Italian beef sandwiches, it’s great to try the spicy version. It adds a kick to the meal, especially if you have spicy peppers as toppings.
5. Refrigerator Pickles
Pickled vegetables, especially peppers, are a staple of Italian beef sandwiches. Examples of such are peperoncino, which is peppers, or giardiniera, which are mixed veggies. Their tangy flavors bring brightness to the dish, and wouldn’t it be great to build on that, right? Thus, you can pair your Italian beef sandwich with refrigerator pickles. Besides the tang, it also contributes some saltiness, spiciness, crispness, and crunchiness.
6. Roasted Potatoes and Artichokes
Nearly all types of roasted vegetables are recommended with Italian beef sandwiches. Roasted potatoes, in particular, are a great choice if you want to stick to safe flavors and tender flesh. With this recipe, you can make perfectly delicious and soft roasted potatoes and include artichokes in the mix. Thus, you get to explore both familiar and new flavors and textures.
7. Italian Tortellini Salad
Italian salads are spectacular with Italian beef sandwiches because they contribute bright colors, interesting textures, and essential nutrients. They also often feature Italian seasonings, herbs, or dressings, so their flavors match or complement the sandwich. For instance, this tortellini salad has Italian pasta, dressing, and cured meats, such as salami. All those, along with the veggies, make your Italian beef sandwich taste more flavorful and more satisfying.
8. Cucumber Tomato Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing
Cucumbers and tomatoes by themselves are incredibly refreshing and juicy. Thus, both in one bowl is excellent for pairing with your Italian beef sandwich under the hot summer heat. Besides them, there are also onions in this salad, which contribute a subtle spicy sweetness. Also, the homemade dressing consists of olive oil, oregano, basil, parsley, and other classic Italian flavorings, just like your sandwich.
9. Italian Chopped Salad with Parmesan Vinaigrette
Did you know you can make a vinaigrette out of cheese? Such an exciting concept results in a delicious blend of tangy, creamy, and cheesy flavors; you can experience those when you make this recipe! Besides the vinaigrette, another fantastic element in this dish is the marinated chickpeas. These chickpeas are marinated with the same parmesan vinaigrette, creating more flavor layers you must try.
10. Pesto Potato Salad
Potato salads come in many forms and flavors, from creamy and cold to herby and fresh. This recipe ties together both ends by making a pesto potato salad that’s a bit creamy, herby, fresh, and cool. It also stands out for its verdant green color, courtesy of the homemade parsley pesto. The author specifically used parsley instead of basil to make it more affordable but just as delicious.
11. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is an icon among Italian salads. It’s so simple, consisting only of three elements, yet such makes it distinct. The flavors, which are creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and juicy tomatoes, are also new to Italian beef sandwiches. Thus, it’s a great way to elevate such a meal. The optional balsamic glaze also provides sweet and tangy flavors that benefit both the salad and the sandwich.
