What to Serve with French Onion Soup

French onion soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a warm and comforting soup that is perfect for cold winter nights. The soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a layer of melted cheese. It is a simple yet delicious dish that can be served as a starter or as a main course.

When it comes to serving French onion soup, many people wonder what to serve with it. While the soup is delicious on its own, it can be paired with a variety of different dishes to create a complete meal. Some popular options include a crusty baguette, a fresh green salad, or a hearty sandwich. These options can help to balance out the richness of the soup and provide a variety of textures and flavors.

Classic Pairings

French onion soup is a classic dish that is perfect for a chilly evening. The soup is rich, savory, and has a distinct sweet taste. To elevate the flavors of the soup, serving it with the right accompaniments is key. Here are some of the classic pairings that go well with French onion soup.

Crusty Bread

Crusty bread is a must-have when serving French onion soup. The bread is perfect for soaking up the soup and adds a nice crunch to every bite. A baguette or a sourdough loaf is ideal for this purpose. To make it even more special, try toasting the bread with a little bit of butter and garlic before serving it.

Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere cheese is a classic pairing with French onion soup. The nutty, earthy flavor of the cheese complements the sweetness of the onions and the richness of the broth. To serve, place a few slices of Gruyere cheese on top of the soup and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

By serving crusty bread and Gruyere cheese with French onion soup, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone.

Salads

Arugula Salad

Arugula salad is a great option to pair with French onion soup. The peppery and slightly bitter taste of arugula complements the rich and savory flavors of the soup. To make an arugula salad, simply toss some arugula leaves with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. You can also add some shaved Parmesan cheese and cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.

Caesar Salad

Another classic salad that goes well with French onion soup is Caesar salad. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of Caesar salad provide a nice contrast to the soup’s texture and flavor. To make a Caesar salad, mix together some romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.

Both arugula and Caesar salads are easy to make and can be prepared in advance. They are also light and refreshing, which makes them a perfect side dish for a hearty and comforting soup like French onion.

Proteins

Roast Chicken

Roast chicken is a classic protein that pairs perfectly with French onion soup. The tender and juicy meat of the chicken complements the savory flavors of the soup, making for a satisfying and filling meal.

To prepare the perfect roast chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Roast it in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. Serve it alongside a piping hot bowl of French onion soup for a delicious and comforting meal.

Grilled Steak

For those who prefer a heartier protein, grilled steak is an excellent choice to pair with French onion soup. The charred and smoky flavors of the steak complement the rich and savory flavors of the soup, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.

To prepare the perfect grilled steak, season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices such as garlic or paprika. Grill it to your desired level of doneness and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve it alongside a bowl of French onion soup for a satisfying and hearty meal.

Vegetables

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables are a great side dish to serve with French onion soup. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables complement the rich broth of the soup. Some popular vegetables to roast include carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts. To prepare, simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.

Sauteed Greens

Another great option to serve with French onion soup is sautéed greens. These can include spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or any other leafy green. To prepare, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the greens and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, you can also add garlic or lemon juice to the greens while cooking.

By serving roasted vegetables or sautéed greens with French onion soup, you can add some healthy and delicious options to your meal.

Starches

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

French onion soup is a hearty and filling dish that pairs perfectly with a starchy side. Garlic mashed potatoes are a classic choice that will complement the rich flavors of the soup. To make garlic mashed potatoes, simply boil peeled potatoes until they are tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The creamy texture and savory flavor of the garlic mashed potatoes will balance out the sweetness of the caramelized onions in the soup.

Rice Pilaf

Another great option to serve with French onion soup is rice pilaf. This dish is made by sautéing rice with onions and other aromatics, then cooking it in broth until it is fluffy and tender. The nutty flavor of the rice and the savory notes from the onions and broth will complement the sweetness of the soup. To make it even more flavorful, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rice while it cooks. Rice pilaf is also a great gluten-free option for those who can’t have bread or other wheat-based starches.

In summary, garlic mashed potatoes and rice pilaf are both excellent choices to serve with French onion soup. They are both easy to make and will add a satisfying starchy component to the meal.

Wine Pairings

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a popular choice to pair with French onion soup. Its crisp acidity and buttery notes complement the rich flavors of the soup. A medium-bodied Chardonnay with a hint of oak can enhance the flavors of the soup even more. Look for Chardonnays from California or Australia for a great pairing.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine that pairs well with French onion soup. Its high tannin content can cut through the richness of the soup, while its fruity notes can complement the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Look for Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley or Bordeaux for a classic pairing.

Remember to serve the wine at the appropriate temperature. Chardonnay should be served chilled, while Cabernet Sauvignon should be served at room temperature.

Desserts

Fruit Tart

Fruit tarts are a perfect dessert to serve with French onion soup. The tartness of the fruit balances the richness of the soup, making it a refreshing end to the meal. A classic fruit tart consists of a buttery pastry crust filled with pastry cream and topped with fresh fruits such as berries, kiwi, and mango. For a twist, you can also try adding some sliced peaches or apricots.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is another great dessert option to serve with French onion soup. The bitterness of the chocolate pairs well with the sweetness of the soup, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. You can serve a small piece of dark chocolate on a plate with a sprig of mint for a simple yet elegant presentation. Alternatively, you can also serve a chocolate mousse or a chocolate truffle for a more indulgent dessert option.

Overall, these desserts are a perfect way to end a meal featuring French onion soup. Whether you prefer something fruity or chocolatey, there is a dessert option to suit every taste.