When serving a roast for Christmas or any other occasion, you want to make sure that you pair it with the perfect side items. Impressing your family and guests is all about providing them with plenty of choices at the dinner table. Here are some great side items to consider adding to your spread:
Roast potatoes
Roast potatoes are absolutely delicious and they make the meal that much more comforting during the colder months. When adding these to your menu, you’ll need to make extra because you can be sure that you’re guests will go back for more! Roast them along with your meat for added flavour! Add some whole onions in there two for an especially delicious result.
Glazed carrots
If you fancy something with a bit of a sweet flavour, then glazed carrot slices are perfect! Slice and cook your carrots before preparing a basic sugar and starch glaze. You don’t need to add too much sugar to enhance the rich flavours of your carrots and your guests will welcome the sweetness on their plates.
Spinach
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious way of adding a touch of green to your plates, try creamy spinach! If you’re not too sure about making it yourself from scratch, there are tinned and frozen varieties that will make your job easier.
Beans and peas
As an alternative green vegetable, you can choose green beans or peas. If you’re not a fan of glazed carrots, you could serve a blend of chopped carrots and peas. If you’re strapped for time, buy a bag of frozen veggies from your local supermarket.
Pumpkin
Another sweet option if desired, you can serve pumpkin or butternut in so many ways. You could roast them in the oven with some butter, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Alternatively, you can peel and boil them before mashing together with butter, sugar or honey, and some cinnamon. Again, you decide how sweet you want to make this side dish.
Other options like asparagus, brussle sprouts, and mushrooms might not be popular with all of your guests. Mushrooms need to be prepared at the last minute and they are better received as a starter for the table than a side item with your roast. Don’t forget the gravy! Serve white and brown gravy based on the types of meats you are serving.