Craving a Cuban sandwich but not sure what to serve with Cuban sandwich? You’re in luck!
Whether you prefer a light side dish or something more hearty, we have you covered.
We’ve researched and gathered together the best sides for your Cuban sandwich that are guaranteed to take it up a notch.
From classic options like potato chips or French fries to more inventive selections such as plantain chips, green salads, Mexican street corn, and more – there’s truly something for everyone!
What Is Cuban Sandwich?
The Cuban sandwich, also known as a Cubano Sandwich or Media Noche, is a classic Latin-style sandwich that originated in Cuba and has become popular throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.
The Cuban Sandwich contains several delicious ingredients, including sliced ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together between two slices of buttered Cuban bread.
This sandwich is usually grilled, giving it a crisp exterior and an irresistible melty interior that will have you craving more after each bite.
The Cuban Sandwich is a classic menu item in Cuban restaurants worldwide and makes for a great portable meal or snack on the go.
Whether it’s served with some plantain chips or a side of rice and beans, the Cuban Sandwich is sure to satisfy.
So head out for some authentic Cuban fare and try this classic sandwich today!
What To Serve With Cuban Sandwich?
A Cuban sandwich is a great addition to any meal, but it can be especially delicious paired with the right sides.
Here are some ideas for you on what to serve with Cuban sandwich.
Cuban Pork Stew
Cuban Pork Stew, known as Ropa Vieja in Spanish, is a classic Cuban comfort food.
It combines slow-cooked pork shoulder with a flavorful blend of tomatoes, peppers and onions that are simmered together until the meat is incredibly tender and the sauce thickens.
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The stew is usually served over white rice or with black beans.
The savory flavors of the pork stew marry perfectly with the saltiness from the cured meats in the Cuban sandwich for an incredibly flavorful combination.
The pickles and mustard also add a nice tangy flavor to the dish, making it an irresistible pairing.
Cuban Pork Stew is often served with fried plantains too, which provide a delicious sweet and salty contrast to this classic meal.
Garlic Sauced Yuca
Garlic Sauced Yuca is a traditional Caribbean dish with boiled yucca, butter, garlic, and spices.
It is typically served as an accompaniment to Cuban sandwiches because of its flavorful nature and ability to balance out the savory flavors found in the sandwich.
Garlic Sauced Yuca adds a unique depth of flavor and texture that complements the sandwich perfectly.
It also adds a pleasant crunch to each bite, providing an enjoyable contrast to the soft bread of the sandwich.
Additionally, the garlic in Garlic Sauced Yuca provides a depth of flavor and aroma that is perfect for Cuban sandwiches.
When served together, both dishes provide an irresistible combination of flavors to complete any meal.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a salad of finely shredded cabbage and carrots with mayonnaise or a vinaigrette.
It’s usually served cold or at room temperature as a side dish alongside hot sandwiches, such as the classic Cuban sandwich.
The crunchy texture and tangy dressing help cut through the sandwich’s flavorful ingredients, like ham, pork, pickles, and Swiss cheese.
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The creamy mayonnaise dressing also helps to soften the crusty bread for a delicious bite.
Coleslaw is an easy accompaniment to many other dishes; it can be served with burgers or tacos or used as a topping on pulled pork sandwiches.
It adds flavor and texture to a variety of meals.
Plus, it’s an easy way to add a nutritious vegetable side dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Baked Plantains
Baked plantains are a traditional Cuban side dish often served with Cuban sandwiches.
Plantains are firm, starchy bananas that can be cooked in various ways, but baking them brings out their natural sweetness and caramelized flavor.
The baked plantains should be cut into thick slices to hold up against the richness of the sandwich.
Served hot alongside a Cuban sandwich, baked plantains make for a delicious and filling meal.
Baked plantains are a great side dish to any Latin-American-inspired meal, such as empanadas or tacos.
This dish’s combination of sweet and savory flavors creates an unforgettable experience your family and guests will enjoy.
Potato Chips
Potato chips are made from thin potato slices baked or deep-fried until they are crisp.
They are usually served as a side dish, snack, or appetizer and are often salted and flavored with various seasonings.
Potato chips can be found in nearly every grocery store around the world.
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The classic accompaniment for a Cuban sandwich is potato chips, which help to provide a crunchy contrast to the soft and savory flavors of the sandwich.
The salty flavor and crisp texture of the chips also add another layer of complexity and flavor to this delicious meal.
Potato chips are an iconic part of most Cuban sandwiches, but they can also be served with many other types of dishes.
Caesar Salad
Romaine lettuce and croutons are the base of this well-known classic salad, which is then topped with Parmesan cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, egg, and black pepper.
It was created in the 1920s by Italian restaurateur Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico.
This delicious salad is served cold or at room temperature with a side of your favorite dressing.
A heartier meal can also be topped with grilled or roasted chicken, shrimp, bacon, and other proteins.
When served as an accompaniment to the classic Cuban sandwich, Caesar salad helps balance the flavors of the sweet and savory sandwich.
The freshness of the lettuce, in contrast to the protein-rich sandwich, makes for a filling and delicious meal.
The creamy Caesar dressing adds a zesty flavor that complements the Cuban sandwich’s fried plantains, ham, roast pork, cheese, and pickles.
Tomato Bisque
Tomato Bisque is a thick and creamy soup made with tomatoes, onions, butter, cream, and various herbs and spices.
It’s often served as an appetizer alongside Cuban sandwiches because it complements the flavors of the sandwich perfectly.
The richness of the bisque stands out against the crunchy bread of the sandwich while also providing a beautiful and velvety texture that perfectly balances out the salty sandwich flavors.
The bisque is a great way to start your meal and adds a unique twist to any Cuban sandwich.
Whether you decide to serve it alongside your favorite sandwiches or as an appetizer, Tomato Bisque will surely be a hit!
Mango Salsa
Mango Salsa is a delicious condiment consisting of diced mango, tomatoes, cilantro, red onion, garlic, lime juice and jalapeño.
It adds a sweet and spicy flavor to many dishes and is especially great when served with Cuban sandwiches.
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The sweetness of the mango pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the sandwich, creating a perfect balance of flavor.
The combination of crunchy vegetables and juicy fruit is also delightful and gives each bite a great texture.
Mango Salsa is also straightforward to make, so you can quickly whip up a batch in no time!
It pairs perfectly with Cuban sandwiches and is also fantastic as a dip for chips or served over grilled fish and chicken.
FAQs
Do You Serve Swiss Cheese With Cuban Sandwich?
Yes, Swiss cheese is a popular choice for Cuban sandwiches.
It’s especially delicious when melted and paired with some ham or pork. You can also add pickles or mustard to give it an extra kick of flavor.
What Cheese To Serve With Cuban Sandwich?
Swiss cheese is the most popular to serve with a Cuban sandwich, although other cheeses such as Havarti and Provolone can be used.
For an extra flavor boost, you could also try sharp cheddar or pepper jack.
What Vegetables To Serve With Cuban Sandwich?
In addition to cheese, you can include a variety of vegetables in your Cuban sandwich. Popular choices include lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
You could also try adding some jalapeños or peppers if you like a bit of extra spice.
Do You Serve Sandwiches For Dinner Or Lunch?
It’s totally up to you! A Cuban sandwich can be served for either lunch or dinner.
You could even serve it as an appetizer if you’re having a party. It will be a hit with your guests!
Conclusion
Cuban sandwiches have a unique blend of ingredients and flavors that are hard to match. Luckily, there are many options for you on what to serve with Cuban sandwich.
Baked plantains, potato chips, Caesar salad, tomato bisque, and mango salsa perfectly contrast or enhance the classic Cuban sandwich.
With each of these dishes, you’ll achieve a balance of flavors and textures that will make your Cuban sandwich complete.
So, whenever you’re in the mood for one of our favorite meals, don’t forget to serve it with some delicious sides!
