Pastrami is a delicious and flavorful meat that is perfect for sandwiches or as a main dish.
However, sometimes it can be tough to decide what to serve with pastrami to make it a complete meal.
If you’re looking for some inspiration for side dishes to serve with pastrami, you’re in the right place!
Here, we’ll be sharing some quick and amazing side dishes that are perfect for serving with pastrami.
Notwithstanding your skill level in the kitchen, these side dishes are easy to whip up and will take your pastrami from a simple sandwich to a full-fledged meal.
What is pastrami? What does pastrami taste like?
Pastrami is a popular deli sandwich meat made by curing beef brisket in a brine, then smoking and steaming it.
The result of this process is a flavorful, succulent, and slightly smoky meat that is widely enjoyed.
Pastrami has a unique savory flavor that comes from the combination of the bringing spices, smoke, and steam.
It has notes of coriander, garlic, black pepper, allspice, cloves, bay leaves, juniper berries and other spices.
It is often served on rye bread with pickles or mustard. The saltiness of pastrami combined with the crunchy texture of rye bread makes for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Pastrami also goes well with melted cheese on top, such as Swiss or cheddar. Whether served hot or cold in sandwiches or on its own as an appetizer or main dish, the pastrami is sure to please everyone’s palate.
Best Sides to Serve with Pastrami
1. Potato Salad
Nothing says summer like a bowl of chilled potato salad. The creamy, tangy flavor of the salad pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the pastrami.
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be made ahead of time to save you some stress on the day of the meal.
2. Coleslaw
If you’re looking for a side dish that will include some crunch and texture in your meal, coleslaw is the answer.
The cool, crisp flavor of the slaw is a great contrast to the warm, juicy flavor of the pastrami.
3. French Fries
Sometimes, you just can’t beat a classic. French fries are a great addition to any pastrami sandwich, and they’re easy to make at home.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making garlic fries by adding minced garlic and parsley to the fries.
4. Mac and Cheese
Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This classic comfort food is the perfect side dish to serve with pastrami.
The creamy, cheesy flavor of the mac and cheese complements the subtle flavors of the pastrami.
5. Baked Beans
If you’re looking for a side dish that will add some sweetness to your meal, baked beans are a great choice.
The sweet and savory flavor of the beans accompanies perfectly with the smoky flavor of the pastrami.
6. Pickles
Pickles are a great addition to any sandwich, and pastrami is no exception. The tangy flavor of the pickles helps to cut through the rich flavor of the pastrami and adds some much-needed freshness to the meal.
7. Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking for a healthy side dish to serve with your pastrami, roasted vegetables are a great choice.
Roasting brings out the innate sweetness in the vegetables and adds some depth to the flavor.
8. Grilled Corn
Corn on the cob is an ideal classic summer side dish. Grilling the corn adds some smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the pastrami.
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be cooked right alongside the pastrami for easy cleanup.
Discover More: 17 Delicious And Amazing Vegetarian Dishes To Serve With Corn On The Cob
9. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is an absolute addition to any meal, but it’s especially delicious when served with pastrami.
The buttery, garlicky flavor of the bread is a great complement to the rich flavor of the pastrami.
10. Salad
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing side dish to serve with your pastrami, a salad is a great choice.
A simple green salad with some balsamic dressing is all you need to add some freshness and balance to your meal.
11. Sauerkraut
A tangy and savory sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of pastrami.
12. Rye Bread
Slice up some hearty rye bread for a classic sandwich combo—pastrami, sauerkraut, and rye!
13. Roasted Potatoes
Roasting potatoes adds an extra layer of flavorful crunch to your meal when served alongside pastrami.
14. Classic Reuben Sandwich
Classic Reuben Sandwich is a classic sandwich made with layers of toasted rye bread, pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing.
15. Pastrami Hash
A warm and comforting dish featuring potatoes, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers and diced pastrami served with a sunny-side-up egg on top.
16. Kasha Varnishkes
A traditional Jewish dish consisting of buckwheat groats tossed with bowtie pasta and pastrami pieces for a unique twist.
17. Matzo Ball Soup
Sub some freshly sliced pastrami into your homemade matzo ball soup for a savory flavor boost! (Recipe)
18. Pierogies With Pastrami
Top off your favorite pierogies with a layer of pastrami for added texture and flavor.
19. Grilled Pastrami Sandwich
Toast some crusty bread, spread on some spicy mustard, add layers of melted Swiss cheese and pastrami slices and grill in a panini press or skillet.
20. Latkes with Cream Cheese & Pastrami
Fry up some crispy latkes, top with cream cheese and sprinkle on some diced pastrami pieces.
21. Egg Salad Sandwich with Pastrami
Add some pastrami to your egg salad sandwich for an extra kick of smoky flavor!
22. Pastrami Pizza
Top your favorite pizza dough with a layer of marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella, then top it off with generous slices of pastrami. Enjoy!
Explore More: 23 Delicious Side Dishes That Go Perfectly with Pastrami Sandwiches
What are the best flavors to go with pastrami?
Pastrami is a smoked, cured beef cut that is traditionally served as a sandwich.
It is most commonly paired with hearty, flavorful accompaniments that complement its smoky flavor. A classic way to enjoy pastrami is on rye bread with Swiss cheese and mustard.
For an even bolder flavor combination, try pairing it with pickles, coleslaw or sauerkraut.
Also, some creamy dressings, such as Thousand Island dressing or horseradish sauce, can be delicious when combined with the smokiness of pastrami.
If you’re looking for something unique, try adding a few slices of avocado or tomato to your pastrami sandwich.
For a truly indulgent experience, top your sandwich off with melted provolone cheese and caramelized onions.
How do you jazz up pastrami?
There are many ways to jazz up pastrami. You can try adding different spices or herbs to the meat, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dry mustard, cumin, and caraway seeds.
You can also add more heat with hot sauce or horseradish. For a sweeter flavor profile, you can glaze the pastrami with honey or brown sugar before tossing it on the grill.
Lastly, for a smoky twist on your favorite cut of meat – smoke it! Try experimenting with different smoking woods like hickory or applewood to get that perfect flavor you’re looking for. Enjoy!
How do you display pastrami on a platter?
To display pastrami on a platter, one should first arrange the pieces of pastrami in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
This could involve arranging the slices in concentric circles, overlapping them in a fan-like shape, or stacking them into neat columns.
Additionally, one can also add colorful garnishes such as olives and pickles to give the presentation additional visual appeal.
To give the platter more depth and texture, it can be accompanied by fresh crunchy vegetables like sliced cucumbers and carrots, as well as bread like rye toast or pita chips.
Finally, a drizzle of olive oil over the top will lend a pleasant sheen and delicate aroma to this appetizing display.
Learn More: 15 Perfect and Amazing Dishes to Serve with Hot Roast Beef
Tips on How to Choose the Most Suitable side dishes for Pastrami
1. Consider the flavor of pastrami
Pastrami has a strong, smoky flavor that pairs well with bold side dishes such as roasted vegetables or pickled cabbage
2. Think about texture
Crunchy sides like potato salad or coleslaw contrast nicely with the softness of pastrami
3. Look for complementary flavors
Dishes like sauerkraut, macaroni and cheese, and kimchi are all great options to pair with pastrami
4. Balance out the meal
Add in some lighter sides, such as salads or fruit, to balance out the heaviness of pastrami.
Get creative! Try experimenting with different combinations until you find something that works best for you. Have fun with it, and get creative!
5. Don’t forget the condiments
Mustard is a classic choice for pastrami, but feel free to explore other options as well, such as horseradish sauce or mayonnaise.
6. Choose beverages that won’t overpower the meal
Light beers or wines work well with pastrami, as do non-alcoholic drinks like sodas or sparkling waters.
7. Check out recipes online
There are lots of delicious recipes available online if you’re looking for some new ideas on how to serve pastrami.
8. Add in some extra protein
If you want to make your meal even heartier, consider adding in some additional protein, such as hard-boiled eggs or tofu.
9. Enjoy with the right sides,
Pastrami can be a delicious and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. So don’t forget to sit back, relax, and enjoy the meal.
What wine goes with Pastrami?
The 7 best wines to pair with pastrami are Zinfandel, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot and Sangiovese.
Zinfandel has a strong, peppery flavor that wonderfully complements the smoky notes of pastrami.
Syrah is medium-bodied with a bit of spice and subtle tannins that bring out the rich flavors of the meat.
Pinot Noir has a bright acidity and juicy berry flavors that perfectly balance the richness of the meat.
Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and robust with a complexity that pairs well with pastrami’s bold flavor profile.
Malbec is jammy and dark fruit-forward, which adds an interesting layer to the dish. Merlot is smooth and lightly oaked with mild tannins that meld beautifully with the fatty pastrami.
And lastly, Sangiovese is full-bodied and spicy, which rounds out the taste experience perfectly.
With these seven wines, you’ll have no problem finding a perfect pairing for your pastrami! Happy tasting!
Explore More: 17 Best Food Options to Pair with a Malbec for a Memorable Dining Experience
What cheese goes well with pastrami
Many food aficionados believe that the best cheese to accompany pastrami is one with a strong flavor and creamy texture.
Aged cheddar, sharp provolone, blue cheese, and robust Swiss varieties are all excellent choices to pair with the savory flavor of pastrami. If you’re looking for something more unique, try gouda or brie.
The hint of sweetness in these cheeses will balance out the spiciness of the pastrami perfectly.
Another great option is Raclette, an Alpine cheese with a nutty flavor and semi-firm texture that pairs well with cured meats.
Finally, goat cheese adds a tart contrast to the salty flavors found in pastrami; try offering it as part of a charcuterie board alongside some other specialty cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Manchego.
What condiment goes with pastrami
A popular condiment to accompany pastrami is mustard. Mustard adds a spicy, tangy flavor that helps to balance out the savory richness of the pastrami.
Dijon or whole grain mustard are popular options, as they have a more robust flavor than yellow mustard.
Other condiments, such as horseradish sauce and pickles, can be used as well for added flavor.
Mustard is particularly popular because it’s easy to find in many households and grocery stores, and it pairs nicely with pastrami’s unique and intense flavors.
Find Out More: Taking Pastrami to the Next Level: Creative Condiments to Try
Wrap Up on what to serve with pastrami
Pastrami is a delicious and flavorful meat that can be transformed into a complete meal with the addition of some amazing side dishes.
From the classic French fries to the healthy roasted vegetables, there’s a side dish on this list for every taste and preference.
Whether you’re making a sandwich or serving pastrami as a main dish, these side dishes will take your meal to the next level.
So, go forth and cook up a delicious meal with these quick and amazing side dishes to serve with pastrami!
FAQs
How much pastrami per person?
It is recommended that each person should have about 3 ounces of pastrami for a satisfying meal. This amount can be adjusted based on individual preferences and portion sizes.
Pastrami is an incredibly flavorful and savory type of cured meat, usually made with beef or turkey, which is coated with a mixture of spices before being smoked and cooked.
It can be served hot or cold in sandwiches, as a topping for salads, or as an accompaniment to many different dishes.
Because it is so flavorful, pastrami goes a long way – even just a few ounces will add major taste and texture to whatever it’s paired with!
What meat goes with pastrami?
A classic pairing with pastrami is rye bread and cheese, but you can also enjoy it with a variety of other accompaniments.
For example, pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut are great for adding texture and flavor.
You can also try layering the pastrami with slices of hard salami or Swiss cheese, as this combination adds a unique flavor to the dish.
Slathering some mustard on the sandwich is another traditional option that goes quite well with pastrami.
If you want to add a bit of crunch and color to your meal, consider adding some lettuce leaves or tomato slices.
What bread goes with pastrami?
Pastrami and rye bread are a classic combination. Rye bread has an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the salty, smoky notes of pastrami.
It also has a firmer texture than other breads, which is ideal for holding the moist slices of pastrami sandwich.
If you’re looking to switch it up, pumpernickel or dark wheat can also be great choices to accompany pastrami.
Sourdough is another excellent option, as its tangy flavors help bring out the full-bodied taste of the meat.
For an even heartier sandwich, try using rye-based focaccia, as it has a slightly crunchy exterior and soft center – perfect for soaking up all the juices from your beloved pastrami!
How do you eat pastrami other than sandwiches?
Pastrami can be enjoyed in many other ways than sandwiches. It is often served as an appetizer, with slices of pastrami accompanied by pickles and olives.
Pastrami can also be added to salads or grilled on skewers with vegetables for kebabs.
Additionally, pastrami is delicious when combined with potatoes and onions to make a hash or casserole dish.
When used in chili or stew recipes, it adds a smoky flavor that accents the savory notes of the rest of the dish.
What vegetables go well with pastrami?
Pastrami is a type of smoked and cured beef that has a distinct salty, smoky flavor.
It pairs well with many vegetables, including roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, eggplant, pickled beets, and zucchini.
Other vegetables that are excellent choices for a pastrami sandwich or platter include roasted sweet potatoes, cucumbers, spinach or kale greens, diced tomatoes, and roasted cauliflower.
For added flavor and texture, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, over the top of your dish.
Additionally, you could try adding some creamy avocado slices to your sandwich or platter to provide a creamy contrast to the savory flavors of the pastrami.
What is the best sauce to put on pastrami?
The best sauce to pair with pastrami is a creamy, tangy mustard. Mustard provides an ideal contrast to the succulent, savory flavor of pastrami and helps to cut through the richness and bring out its smoky sweetness.
Additionally, its acidity helps to balance out the fat content of the meat and adds another layer of flavor.
For an extra kick, try making your own spicy version by adding fresh chilies or chili flakes.
A good quality Dijon mustard also works well; it’s slightly sweeter than regular yellow mustard and has a richer texture that pairs perfectly with pastrami.
For something more traditional, French’s Classic Yellow Mustard is always a great option.
What kind of mustard goes on a pastrami sandwich?
A classic pastrami sandwich usually calls for a deli-style yellow mustard, such as French’s or Gulden’s. It adds the perfect amount of tangy flavor to the savory, smoky pastrami.
Some people also opt for spicy mustards, like Dijon or horseradish, to give the sandwich an extra kick.
Other condiments that are sometimes added include mayonnaise, pickles, onions and tomatoes. Whatever you choose to put on your pastrami sandwich, it’ll be delicious!
