The Best Side Orders that Complement Eastern Mediterranean Dishes
Side orders are an essential part of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. They bring balance and variety to every meal, enriching the experience with flavours and textures that complement the main dishes. From crispy bites of spiced polenta & feta fries to the warmth of fresh baked Greek pita bread, these accompaniments transform each plate into a culinary adventure.
Incorporating side orders allows diners to mix and match, creating a unique and vibrant dining experience. This variety not only adds an extra layer of enjoyment but also provides a deeper connection to the rich food traditions of the region. Side orders capture the essence of the Mediterranean — fresh, vibrant, and full of life.
Exploring the world of Eastern Mediterranean side orders invites everyone to discover how these humble dishes play a vital role in creating a harmonious meal. They complement signature dishes, enriching the taste and encouraging diners to savour every bite. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the cuisine, these side orders open the door to a delightful exploration in flavour and culture.
The Importance of Side Orders in Eastern Mediterranean Cuisine
Side orders play a crucial role in Eastern Mediterranean meals, bringing a delightful balance to the main dishes. They enrich the overall dining experience by adding layers of flavour and texture that work in harmony with central dishes like lamb shoulder or grilled sea bream. These accompaniments are not merely additions; they are essential components of the meal that enhance taste and enjoyment.
Versatility is a hallmark of these side orders. Whether it’s the creamy lushness of houmous or the zesty kick of CERU Hamara, each side offers its own unique profile that can be tailored to suit various taste preferences. This adaptability makes them perfect for pairing with a wide variety of main dishes, allowing diners to customise each meal to their liking.
Culturally, side orders also carry significant importance. They reflect the rich diversity of the region's culinary landscape. With options like the fragrant spices of orez or the earthy notes of roasted pumpkin, these sides are imbued with the traditional flavours that are synonymous with the Eastern Mediterranean. This cultural significance is celebrated not only in the preparation but also in the way these dishes bring people together, encouraging shared meals and conversation around the table.
Popular Side Orders that Elevate the Dining Experience
A meal isn't complete without the right side orders to accompany it. These popular choices bring excitement and satisfaction to dining, making every dish feel special. Let's explore some favourites from the Eastern Mediterranean CERU fusion style;
1. Spiced Polenta & Feta Fries: These “ fries “ offer a delightful crunch, seasoned with a mix of Mediterranean spices and topped with crumbled feta. They are great for dipping or enjoying on their own, providing a contrast to meat and seafood dishes or with vegetarian dishes..
2. Fresh Baked Greek Pita Bread: This staple is soft and fluffy, perfect for scooping up dips like houmous or Fadi. Its simplicity makes it a versatile partner for many dishes, adding a comforting element to the meal.
3. CERU Side Salad: A fresh and vibrant mix of greens, this salad brings a burst of colour and freshness to any plate. It pairs well with rich dishes, offering a light and refreshing counterbalance. It’s a perfect green salad to add extra green to your healthy diet.
4. Spice Roasted Potatoes: These potatoes hold a golden crispiness on the outside with a tender, fluffy interior. They are seasoned with herbs and spices that give a warming flavour, ideal alongside robust meats.
These side orders enhance the main courses by adding diversity and flair. They are highly adaptable, making it easy to mix and match with different dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Their ability to complement various flavours while standing as worthy dishes on their own speaks to their essential role in rounding out the dining experience.
Pairing Side Orders with Signature Eastern Mediterranean Dishes with our Fusion Style
Pairing the right side orders with main dishes showcases the full potential of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. Choosing the perfect sides can create a delightful balance of flavours and textures, bringing out the best in each dish.
For a classic like shish taouk with our modern style a zesty option such as CERU Side Salad, with its refreshing greens and tangy dressing, can enhance the grilled chicken's flavour. The spice roasted potatoes also make a suitable companion, adding a satisfying crunch and hearty taste.
When serving fillet of sea bream, choose sides that highlight its delicate flavour. Spiced polenta & feta fries provide a wonderful crispy texture and salty contrast that elevates the fish's succulent taste. Vine tomato and white bean salad also works well, offering a light yet flavourful side that complements the fish without overpowering it.
Consider baharat spice roasted pumpkin with lamb shoulder for an earthy and aromatic match. Its sweet and spicy notes enhance the richness of the lamb. The warm and nutty spiced warm cauliflower & walnut dish provides a unique flavour profile that adds depth to the meal.
Creating a Balanced Meal with Side Orders
Achieving a balanced meal involves blending various side orders to complete the main course, adding both nutritional value and taste excitement. Key to this is combining different textures and flavours to keep the meal inviting from the first bite to the last.
Begin with a variety of textures by pairing a creamy dip like houmous with something crispy, such as the Greek pita bread. This combination not only satisfies different taste buds but also offers a harmonious fusion of softness and crunch.
Mixing warm and cold sides like pan-fried tenderstem broccoli with the crisp apple, mint & pomegranate salad provides a dynamic contrast. This duo brings together the freshness of salad with the satisfying warmth of cooked greens, creating a full-flavoured experience.
For those who enjoy a meal with variety, try teaming sticky roasted baby aubergines with spicy sea bass. The caramelised aubergines add a sweet twist that beautifully counters the spice, while a simple side like orez ensures that the meal remains grounded and fulfilling.
Conclusion
Eastern Mediterranean cuisine is a delightful adventure of flavours but here at CERU we are adding more flavour, more spice with fusion kick, where every element on the plate plays a significant role. Side orders, though sometimes overlooked, contribute dramatically to the harmony and depth of a meal. They offer an array of tastes and textures that complement and elevate the main courses, making every dining experience unique and memorable.
As you explore these culinary combinations, you’ll discover the versatility and richness of this diverse cuisine. There's something deeply satisfying in how different side orders can be mixed and matched, each pairing offering a new dimension to the meal. It's this element of personalisation that not only fulfils hunger but also enriches the cultural experience of each dish.
Discover the vibrant world of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine at CERU with a fusion twist.
Our side orders are thoughtfully crafted to complement our sharing dishes, creating a dining experience that delights every sense. Visit our Mediterranean restaurant in London for a delicious journey through the flavours of the Mediterranean, and find the perfect sides to make your meal truly unforgettable.