Tri-tip steak is a versatile cut of beef that is often grilled or roasted, and a favorite among meat lovers. However, the perfect tri-tip meal isn’t complete without the right side dishes to complement it. Choosing the right sides can enhance the flavor and balance of the meal, turning an already great dish into a spectacular one. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of classic, creative, and dietary-restriction-friendly side dishes to serve with tri-tip.
Classic Side Dishes for Tri-Tip
1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with tri tip steak. They are creamy and flavorful, and the garlic adds an extra layer of depth to the dish. To make garlic mashed potatoes, start by boiling peeled and quartered potatoes until they are tender. Drain the water and add in butter, garlic, milk, and salt to taste. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a hand mixer until they are smooth and creamy. This classic side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
2. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious side dish to serve with tri tip. They are easy to prepare and add a colorful and nutritious component to the meal. To make grilled vegetables, chop up a variety of veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the vegetables on a preheated grill for 10-15 minutes until they are charred and tender.
3. Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach is a rich and decadent side dish that pairs well with the bold flavor of tri tip steak. To make creamed spinach, start by cooking chopped onions and garlic in a pan with butter until they are soft. Add in fresh spinach and cook until it is wilted. In a separate pot, heat heavy cream and parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted. Add the cream mixture to the spinach and stir until the spinach is coated. This creamy and flavorful side dish is a great way to sneak some greens into the meal.
4. Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are a classic side dish that pairs well with tri tip. They are easy to prepare and have a natural sweetness that complements the savory flavor of the steak. To make roasted root vegetables, chop up a variety of root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Roast the vegetables in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes until they are tender and crispy on the outside.
5. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that pairs well with the rich flavor of tri tip. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. To make coleslaw, start by shredding a head of cabbage and mixing it with shredded carrots and chopped onions. In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and stir until it is evenly coated. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Creative Side Dishes for Tri-Tip
1. Charred Corn and Tomato Salad
Charred corn and tomato salad is a fresh and flavorful side dish that adds a pop of color and texture to the meal. To make charred corn and tomato salad, start by grilling fresh corn on the cob until it is charred and tender. Cut the kernels off the cob and mix them with chopped tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro. Dress the salad with lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This side dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or any time you want a light and refreshing complement to your tri-tip steak.
2. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Vinaigrette
Grilled asparagus with lemon vinaigrette is a simple and elegant side dish that pairs well with the bold flavor of tri-tip. To make grilled asparagus, brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill the asparagus over high heat for 2-3 minutes until it is tender and lightly charred. For the lemon vinaigrette, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the grilled asparagus and serve.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
Mediterranean quinoa salad is a healthy and flavorful side dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. To make a Mediterranean quinoa salad, cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. Mix in chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Dress the salad with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This side dish is perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch.
4. Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges with Chimichurri Sauce
Roasted sweet potato wedges with chimichurri sauce is a flavorful and colorful side dish that pairs well with the rich flavor of tri-tip. To make roasted sweet potato wedges, cut sweet potatoes into wedges and toss them in olive oil, salt, and paprika. Roast them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes until they are tender and crispy on the outside. For the chimichurri sauce, blend together fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt. Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the roasted sweet potato wedges and serve.
5. Spicy Garlic Green Beans
Spicy garlic green beans are a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs well with the bold flavor of tri tip. To make spicy garlic green beans, cook fresh green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are tender. Drain the water and toss the green beans in garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. This side dish is quick and easy to prepare, and the spicy garlic flavor adds a delicious kick to the meal.
Dietary-Restriction-Friendly Side Dishes for Tri-Tip
1. Vegan Garlic Aioli Potatoes
Vegan garlic aioli potatoes are a flavorful and creamy side dish that is perfect for those following a vegan or dairy-free diet. To make vegan garlic aioli potatoes, start by boiling peeled and quartered potatoes until they are tender. Drain the water and mix in a homemade vegan garlic aioli made with silken tofu, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. This side dish is full of flavor and a great way to cater to dietary restrictions.
2. Gluten-Free Cornbread
Gluten-free cornbread is a classic side dish that is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. To make gluten-free cornbread, mix together gluten-free flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in eggs, milk, and melted butter and mix until it is combined. Bake the cornbread in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Paleo Cauliflower Rice
Paleo cauliflower rice is a healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional rice. To make paleo cauliflower rice, pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they are the size of rice grains. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and add the cauliflower rice. Cook for 5-7 minutes until it is tender and lightly browned. This side dish is perfect for those following a paleo or low-carb diet.
4. Dairy-Free Creamed Spinach
Dairy-free creamed spinach is a delicious and creamy side dish that is perfect for those following a dairy-free diet. To make dairy-free creamed spinach, start by sautéing minced garlic and onion in olive oil. Add in fresh spinach and cook until it is wilted. In a separate pan, mix together coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch until it thickens. Add the coconut milk mixture to the spinach and mix until it is combined. This side dish is full of flavor and a great way to cater to dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a tri-tip is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Whether you are looking for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty and filling potato dish, there are many side dishes that can complement the bold and rich flavor of tri-tip.
Additionally, there are many side dishes that cater to dietary restrictions, such as vegan, gluten-free, and paleo diets. With these side dish options, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. So next time you cook up a tri-tip, consider trying out one of these tasty side dish recipes.