If you’re a fan of tri-tip, you know that it’s a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways. Whether you prefer grilled, smoked, or roasted, tri-tip is a delicious filling option for any occasion.
But if you want to take your tri-tip game to the next level, pair it with the right sides. After all, a good side dish can elevate the flavors of the meat and turn a simple meal into a culinary masterpiece.
In this article, I will share some of my favorite sides to serve with tri-tip. We’ll cover classic options like roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes and more innovative and unexpected choices like grilled peaches and quinoa salad.
I’ll also include suggestions for healthy and vegetarian sides, so whatever your dietary preferences are, you’ll find something delicious to enjoy.
So, let’s get started and take your tri-tip meals to the next level with the perfect sides.
Classic Sides
Some classic sides just can’t be beaten when it comes to serving tri-tip. You’ll find these sides at most BBQ joints and restaurants, and for a good reason – they pair perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of tri-tip.
First up, we have roasted vegetables. This could include anything from carrots and onions to bell peppers and zucchini. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a charred flavor that perfectly complements the meat.
Next, we have mashed potatoes. Creamy, buttery, and comforting mashed potatoes are a classic side that never goes out of style. You can keep them simple with butter and cream or mix them with herbs, cheese, or roasted garlic.
And, of course, we can’t forget about garlic bread. Toasty, garlicky, and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up delicious meat juices. It’s also a great option for serving a crowd, as you can easily make a large batch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always put your spin on these classic sides. Add herbs or spices to your roasted veggies, or make garlic knots instead of garlic bread. The possibilities are endless, and your creativity impresses your guests.
Innovative Sides
If you want to switch things up and try new sides with your tri-tip, I have some creative and unexpected options to impress you.
First up, we have grilled peaches. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of peaches and gives them a slightly smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory tri-tip. Cut the peaches into wedges and grill them until tender and slightly charred. Serve them as is, or toss them with some arugula and a tangy vinaigrette for a delicious salad.
Another great option is quinoa salad. This grain salad is light, refreshing, and packed with protein and fiber. Mix cooked quinoa with chopped veggies like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, and toss with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. You can also add in some crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Finally, we have sweet potato fries. These fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, packed with vitamins and fiber. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges and toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, like chili powder or smoked paprika.
Roast them in the oven until they’re crispy and golden, and serve alongside your tri-tip for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
These innovative sides will impress your guests and add variety to your tri-tip meals. Give them a try and see which ones become your new favorites!
Healthy Sides
If you want to keep things healthier when serving tri-tip, plenty of delicious and nutritious options exist.
First up, we have roasted Brussels sprouts. These little cruciferous veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness.
Toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, like garlic and parmesan, and roast them in the oven until they’re crispy and caramelized.
Another great option is a simple green salad. You can use any greens, such as arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, and add some chopped veggies like cucumber and bell pepper. Top with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard, and you’ve got a light and refreshing side full of flavor.
Try roasted sweet potatoes if you’re looking for something more substantial. These orange tubers are packed with vitamins and fiber, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness.
Cut them into wedges, toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, like cinnamon and nutmeg, and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized.
These healthy sides are a great way to balance out the richness of tri-tip and make your meal a little bit lighter. Give them a try and see how delicious and satisfying, healthy eating can be!
Vegetarian Sides
If you’re looking to serve tri-tip alongside some vegetarian options, plenty of delicious sides will satisfy both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.
First up, we have grilled portobello mushrooms. These meaty mushrooms are a great vegetarian option packed with flavor and texture.
Simply brush them with olive oil, season them with salt and pepper, and grill them until tender and slightly charred. Serve them alongside your tri-tip for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Another great option is roasted root vegetables. Cut up various veggies, like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, and toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, like rosemary and thyme. Roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized, and serve them alongside your tri-tip for a colorful and nutritious side.
If you want something a little lighter, try a simple quinoa salad. Cooked quinoa makes a great base for a salad packed with protein and fiber.
Mix it with chopped veggies like bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, and toss with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
These vegetarian sides are sure to satisfy everyone at the table, packed with flavor and nutrition. Give them a try and see how delicious vegetarian eating can be!
Conclusion
There you have it, folks! A guide to the best sides to serve with tri-tip, from classic options to innovative and healthy choices to vegetarian sides sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re grilling up tri-tip for a summer barbecue or serving it alongside roasted veggies in the winter, plenty of sides will complement and enhance the flavor of this delicious cut of beef.
I hope this guide has given you some inspiration and ideas for your next tri-tip meal. Remember, there are no rules for pairing sides with tri-tip, so feel free to get creative and try new combinations.
Happy cooking!
