Shakshuka is a delicious dish hailing from North Africa particularly the Maghreb region. It’s like a flavor explosion in a pan! This amazing dish is made using ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and special spices like cayenne pepper and paprika. But you know what makes Shakshuka even better? It’s the wonderful side dishes that you can enjoy with it. These side dishes are like the trusty companions that make the Shakshuka experience complete.
Imagine your favorite meal needs a little extra something to make it perfect. That’s what these side dishes do for Shakshuka. They balance the flavors and make it even more delicious. Think of it this way Shakshuka is like the star of the show and these side dishes are its supporting cast. They complement each other perfectly!
So, in this blog post we’re going to explore ten fantastic side dishes that you can pair with Shakshuka. These dishes will make your meal complete and you’ll discover how they enhance the flavors of this incredible African dish.
Ready to find out what to serve with Shakshuka? Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
What to Serve with Shakshuka?
Shakshuka is often served as a breakfast or brunch option but it can also be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Here are some common accompaniments and sides to serve with shakshuka:
1. Garlic Pita Bread:
Garlic pita bread is a timeless and popular choice when it comes to enjoying Shakshuka. It’s like the trusty sidekick that perfectly complements the main hero!
- Classic Choice: Garlic pita bread is a classic and beloved option for enjoying Shakshuka. It’s the perfect companion for this flavorful dish.
- Ideal for Dipping: With its soft round shape and convenient pocket in the middle pita bread is designed for scooping up the rich Shakshuka sauce and runny egg yolks. It’s the ideal vessel for savoring every bite.
- Garlic-Butter Goodness: What makes garlic pita bread truly special is the delectable garlic-butter mixture brushed on top. This addition adds a layer of irresistible flavor to each piece.
- Customizable: The beauty of garlic pita bread is its versatility. Feel free to tailor it according to your preferences. Enhance it with various herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. Consider options like Italian seasoning for a herby kick, smoked paprika for smokiness, chili powder for a touch of heat, or cumin for added depth.
- Elevates the Experience: When pondering what to serve with Shakshuka don’t overlook this classic choice. Garlic pita bread not only provides a satisfying crunch but also enhances the overall Shakshuka experience. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate your meal.
2. Creamy Grits:
Creamy grits are like the cozy blanket of side dishes for Shakshuka.
- Rich and Nutty Flavor: Creamy grits are a side dish that complements Shakshuka with their rich and nutty flavor adding depth to the meal.
- Hearty and Satisfying: These humble grains transform into a warm and comforting dish making your meal hearty and satisfying.
- Perfect Pairing: The creamy texture of the grits pairs beautifully with the saucy Shakshuka creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Complete Your Meal: When serving Shakshuka you want a side dish that can hold its own and creamy grits do just that making your meal feel complete.
- Unforgettable Experience: Creamy grits bring comfort and depth to your plate making your Shakshuka experience truly unforgettable.
3. Labneh:
Labneh is a creamy and spreadable cheese made from strained yogurt. It’s a delightful addition to your Shakshuka meal known for its ability to balance and mellow out the rich flavors of the dish.
- Yogurt Transformation: To create Labneh yogurt is first strained to remove excess whey resulting in a thicker and more concentrated texture. This transformation turns ordinary yogurt into a delightful cheese-like spread.
- Mild Tanginess: Labneh offers a mild tanginess that complements the spiciness of Shakshuka providing a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the dish.
- Simple Ingredients: Making Labneh at home requires only two key ingredients yogurt and salt. It’s a straightforward process that anyone can master.
- Advance Preparation: While the preparation itself is simple Labneh does require some advance planning. After mixing the yogurt and salt, you’ll need to allow it to rest for about a day to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. This means that a little patience is rewarded with a delightful accompaniment to your Shakshuka.
- Versatile Dip: Labneh is not only perfect for serving with Shakshuka but also serves as a versatile dip for chips, veggies, and bread. Its creamy and mildly tangy profile makes it a crowd-pleaser.
4. Meatballs:
Meatballs are a versatile and protein-rich side dish that can complement your Shakshuka perfectly. They add a hearty and savory element to your meal.
- Meat Variety: You have the flexibility to choose your preferred meat for making meatballs. Whether it’s beef, chicken, lamb, or a combination you can tailor the flavor to your liking.
- Seasoning Options: Meatballs allow for endless seasoning possibilities. Experiment with different herbs and spices like garlic, onion, oregano, or paprika to match the flavor profile of your Shakshuka.
- Cooking Methods: Meatballs can be prepared in various ways including frying, baking, steaming, or braising. This versatility means you can customize them to your preferred cooking method and desired texture.
- Pairing Perfection: The savory and slightly spicy notes of Shakshuka beautifully complement the rich taste of meatballs. The combination of the two dishes creates a satisfying and flavorful meal.
- Protein Boost: Meatballs are an excellent source of protein making your Shakshuka meal even more substantial and satisfying.
- Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a family dinner meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy. Their familiar and comforting flavors make them a reliable choice as a side dish for Shakshuka.
5. Arugula Lemon Salad:
Arugula Lemon Salad is a delightful, light, and tangy side dish. It features a mix of fresh arugula leaves dressed with simple yet flavorful ingredients, including balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts.
- Refreshing Contrast: This salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Shakshuka. While Shakshuka boasts deep spicy flavors the Arugula Lemon Salad provides a vibrant and zesty counterpart.
- Simple Ingredients: The salad’s simplicity is part of its charm. With just a handful of ingredients it’s easy to prepare and pairs perfectly with Shakshuka.
- Peppery Arugula: Arugula with its slightly peppery and distinct flavor adds a delightful kick to the salad. It’s a refreshing change of pace when enjoyed alongside the hearty Shakshuka.
- Nutty Crunch: The addition of pine nuts brings a pleasant nutty crunch to the salad enhancing its texture and overall appeal.
- Lemon Zest: The inclusion of lemon zest infuses the salad with a bright and zesty quality elevating the taste and making it a wonderful complement to Shakshuka.
- Customization: While this Arugula Lemon Salad recipe is straightforward you can customize it further by adding ingredients like mushrooms, tomatoes, nuts, avocados, seeds, fruits, or cooked bacon to suit your taste preferences. It’s a versatile side dish that allows for creative variations.
6. Pickled Beet Hummus:
Pickled Beet Hummus is a visually striking side dish that immediately grabs attention with its vibrant pink hue. This eye-catching color adds a pop of excitement to your meal presentation.
- Creamy Texture: This hummus is known for its irresistibly creamy texture. It’s silky and smooth making it perfect for spreading or dipping.
- Sweet and Tangy Flavor: Pickled beet hummus offers a delightful balance of flavors. It carries subtle sweetness from the beets combined with a pleasant tanginess. This unique combination adds complexity to your Shakshuka meal.
- A Colorful Addition: When you serve Pickled Beet Hummus with Shakshuka you introduce a burst of color to your plate. The vivid pink of the hummus contrasts beautifully with the deep reds and rich browns of the Shakshuka.
- Versatile Dip: While it pairs exceptionally well with Shakshuka you can also enjoy pickled beet hummus as a standalone appetizer or dip. It’s versatile and complements various dishes.
- Easy Preparation: Crafting this hummus is straightforward especially if you have a food processor. You simply blend the ingredients to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The unique appearance and delightful taste of pickled beet hummus make it a crowd-pleaser. It is likely to leave a lasting impression on your guests and enhance the overall dining affair.
7. Shepherd’s Pie:
Shepherd’s Pie also known as cottage pie is a hearty and comforting dish originating from the UK. It’s characterized by its layers of creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful minced meat.
- Satisfying Combination: When served as a side dish with Shakshuka Shepherd’s Pie adds a layer of comfort and satisfaction to your meal. The rich and savory flavors of the minced meat often made with lamb or beef, pair wonderfully with the spicy and tangy notes of Shakshuka’s sauce.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: One of the defining features of Shepherd’s Pie is the creamy mashed potato topping. This not only enhances the overall taste but also provides a wonderful contrast to the textures of Shakshuka.
- Balanced Meal: Combining Shepherd’s Pie with Shakshuka creates a balanced and wholesome meal. You get the protein-rich goodness from the meat the heartiness of the mashed potatoes and the bold flavors of Shakshuka’s sauce.
- Ideal for Cool Evenings: Shepherd’s Pie is often enjoyed during colder seasons due to its warmth and comfort. However it can be a delightful addition to your Shakshuka meal at any time of the year.
- Customizable: Shepherd’s Pie offers room for customization. You can choose between lamb or beef for the meat base and season it to your liking. This allows you to tailor it to your specific taste preferences.
- Impressively Delicious: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home Shepherd’s Pie alongside Shakshuka is an impressively delicious combination that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
8. Grilled Onions and Zucchini:
Grilled onions and zucchini are a healthy and savory side dish that perfectly complements the rich and flavorful ingredients of Shakshuka.
- Simple Preparation: To prepare this delicious side dish you’ll need minimal ingredients olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. This simplicity allows you to focus on the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Grilling Enhances Flavor: Grilling the onions and zucchini intensifies their flavors and brings out their natural sweetness. The slight char and smokiness from the grill add depth to the dish.
- Ideal for Balance: Shakshuka is known for its bold and spicy tomato sauce. Grilled onions and zucchini provide a refreshing and mild contrast helping to balance out the meal.
- Versatile Seasoning: You can customize the seasoning to your preference. Whether you prefer a touch of herbs like rosemary or thyme or enjoy a bit of garlic grilled onions and zucchini are versatile and adaptable to various flavor profiles.
- Perfect Texture: When grilled to perfection these vegetables achieve a tender yet slightly crisp texture making them a delightful addition to your Shakshuka meal.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: While grilling is often associated with outdoor cooking during the warmer months you can enjoy grilled onions and zucchini with Shakshuka all year round.
- Simplicity Meets Flavor: The beauty of this side dish lies in its simplicity. It allows you to savor the genuine taste of grilled onions and zucchini while enhancing the overall dining experience of your Shakshuka meal.
9. Roasted Potatoes with Dill:
Roasted potatoes with dill are a satisfying side dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer them crispy and golden or soft and tender these potatoes are incredibly versatile.
- Enhancing Shakshuka’s Flavors: One of the remarkable qualities of roasted potatoes with dill is their ability to enhance the flavors of Shakshuka. While Shakshuka brings bold and spicy notes to the table the subtle earthiness of dill and the hearty goodness of roasted potatoes complement the dish perfectly.
- Seasoning Options: When preparing roasted potatoes you have various seasoning options at your disposal. You can keep it simple with just salt, pepper and olive oil or you can add a touch of garlic, paprika, or rosemary for extra depth of flavor. The choice is yours making it easy to align the potatoes with the spices used in your Shakshuka.
- Texture Variety: Roasting potatoes allows you to achieve the desired texture. Some may prefer crispy and slightly charred edges while others enjoy the tenderness of well-roasted potatoes. This flexibility ensures that the side dish complements Shakshuka’s textures and doesn’t overpower the main dish.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: Roasted potatoes with dill are a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re serving Shakshuka for brunch in the spring or a cozy dinner in the winter these potatoes are always a welcome addition.
- Balance and Fulfillment: Shakshuka can be rich and intense with its tomato-based sauce and spices. Roasted potatoes offer balance and fulfillment to the meal providing a hearty and satisfying component that rounds out the dining experience.
- Customizable Experience: With roasted potatoes with dill, you have the flexibility to create a customized dining experience. Adjust the seasonings, cooking time, and texture to suit your preferences ensuring that every bite complements your Shakshuka perfectly.
10. Baked Feta Cheese and Olives:
Baked feta cheese and olives offer a side dish that exudes simple elegance. Despite its ease of preparation this combination has a sophisticated and impressive presence on the table making it an ideal accompaniment for Shakshuka.
- Salty and Creamy Fusion: The magic of baked feta cheese and olives lies in the fusion of flavors. Feta cheese known for its salty and tangy profile pairs harmoniously with the briny and savory notes of olives. This combination creates a delightful contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of Shakshuka.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact: Preparing baked feta cheese and olives requires minimal effort. You can simply arrange the ingredients in a baking dish add a drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle some herbs or spices if desired and let the oven work its magic. The result is a dish that looks and tastes like you’ve put in a lot of effort.
- Versatile Pairing: The salty and creamy nature of baked feta cheese and olives makes them a versatile pairing for Shakshuka. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this side dish can seamlessly accompany the main course, enhancing its overall appeal.
- Visual Appeal: Beyond its flavor, baked feta cheese and olives have visual appeal. The golden-brown crust on the feta and the vibrant colors of the olives create an eye-catching presentation. This adds to the overall dining experience making it as visually pleasing as it is delicious.
- Crostini Companion: To complete the experience consider serving baked feta cheese and olives with crostini or slices of crusty bread. The creamy feta and olives can be spread or scooped onto the bread offering a delightful textural contrast to Shakshuka.
- Balancing Act: Shakshuka, with its bold and spicy flavors benefits from the balancing act provided by baked feta cheese and olives. The creaminess of the cheese and the salty bite of the olives counteract the heat of the tomato-based sauce creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Answers To Your Question:
What to Serve with Shakshuka for Breakfast?
For a delightful Shakshuka breakfast, consider complementing this flavorful dish with sides that enhance the morning experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Freshly Baked Bread: Enjoy Shakshuka with warm, freshly baked bread such as crusty baguette, challah, or pita. The bread’s soft texture is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce and runny egg yolks.
- Garlic Pita Bread: The classic choice of garlic pita bread adds a satisfying crunch and pairs well with the bold flavors of Shakshuka. Its convenient pocket design makes it an ideal vessel for dipping and scooping.
- Arugula and Feta Salad: A light and refreshing salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta provide a zesty contrast to Shakshuka’s savory notes, creating a well-balanced breakfast.
What to Serve with Shakshuka for Lunch?
When serving Shakshuka for lunch, opt for sides that provide a hearty and fulfilling midday meal. Here are some lunchtime accompaniments:
- Creamy Grits: Creamy grits, with their rich and nutty flavor, serve as a satisfying side for Shakshuka. They add a comforting element to the meal and make for a hearty lunch combination.
- Meatballs: Versatile meatballs, made with your choice of meat and seasonings, offer a protein-rich addition to Shakshuka. Their savory notes complement the dish, making for a flavorful and filling lunch.
- Grilled Onions and Zucchini: A side of grilled onions and zucchini, seasoned with olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper, provides a healthy and savory option that balances Shakshuka’s bold flavors.
Can shakshuka be eaten for dinner?
Absolutely! While shakshuka is often associated with breakfast or brunch it can be enjoyed for dinner as well. In fact its rich and savory flavors make it a satisfying option for any meal of the day.
What to Serve with Shakshuka for Dinner?
When Shakshuka takes center stage for dinner, pair it with sides that add substance and create a well-rounded evening meal. Here are some dinner-worthy options:
- Shepherd’s Pie: The hearty layers of mashed potatoes and minced meat in Shepherd’s Pie provide a satisfying and comforting side for Shakshuka. This combination creates a balanced and wholesome dinner.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: A creamy wild mushroom risotto offers a gourmet touch to the dinner table. Its rich, earthy flavors complement the bold taste of Shakshuka, creating an elevated dining experience.
- Baked Feta Cheese and Olives: Impressively simple, baked feta cheese and olives contribute to a sophisticated dinner pairing. The salty and creamy fusion adds depth to Shakshuka’s flavors, creating a memorable meal.
Whether you’re starting the day with a breakfast feast, enjoying a hearty lunch, or indulging in a well-rounded dinner, these side dishes enhance the Shakshuka experience, making every meal a culinary delight.
What else to serve with shakshuka?
Besides the suggested side dishes you can also serve shakshuka with options like couscous, rice, or a simple green salad. These additions can provide more variety and substance to your meal.
How is shakshuka traditionally served?
Shakshuka is traditionally served in a cast-iron skillet or similar pan directly from the stovetop. It’s typically enjoyed with fresh bread such as pita or challah for dipping and sopping up the flavorful sauce and eggs.
Do you eat shakshuka by itself?
Shakshuka can be enjoyed by itself as a standalone dish especially when served with plenty of bread for dipping. However many people like to serve it with side dishes to add variety, balance, and complementary flavors to the meal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion these ten side dishes are the perfect companions for your Shakshuka adventure. Each dish has its own unique qualities that can complement and enhance the flavors of this North African delight.
- Balance and Contrast: Whether you opt for the classic garlic pita bread or the visually appealing baked feta cheese and olives these side dishes offer a balance and contrast to the rich and spicy notes of Shakshuka.
- Versatility: From hearty options like meatballs and Shepherd’s Pie to lighter choices like arugula lemon salad and pickled beet hummus, there’s a side dish for every occasion and preference.
- Effortless Elegance: Many of these side dishes like grilled onions and zucchini or roasted potatoes with dill provide effortless elegance to your Shakshuka meal impressing both your taste buds and guests.
- Memorable Dining Experience: Don’t miss the chance to create a memorable dining experience by trying these side dishes. Shakshuka is undoubtedly flavorful on its own but the addition of these sides will elevate your meal to new heights.
- Get Creative: Feel free to get creative with your Shakshuka sides. Mix and match, customize, and experiment with flavors to find your perfect combination.
- Enhance Shakshuka: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, lunch, or dinner, these side dishes can enhance the rich tapestry of flavors in your Shakshuka making every bite a culinary delight.
- Expand Your Culinary Horizons: Shakshuka is a journey through North African cuisine and these side dishes are your passport to a diverse and satisfying culinary experience. So why wait? Explore, savor, and enjoy!