When it comes to prime rib, finding the right salad to accompany it is crucial. The rich, juicy flavor of prime rib calls for something refreshing and light to balance it out. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best salad options to serve with prime rib, from classic Caesar to Mexican street corn salad.
Classic Caesar Salad Recipe for Prime Rib
A classic Caesar salad is a reliable and delicious side dish for prime rib. Made with crisp romaine lettuce, a creamy dressing, and crispy croutons, it’s a timeless recipe that never fails to impress. To start, chop up fresh romaine lettuce and toss it with homemade dressing, made with garlic, anchovies, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil. Don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese and croutons to add texture and crunch. Serve on a large platter alongside the prime rib for a classic combination that’s sure to please.
For a twist on the classic Caesar salad, try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp to the mix. The added protein will make the salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal. You can also experiment with different types of lettuce, such as kale or arugula, to add some variety to the dish.
If you’re looking to make the salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the lettuce from getting soggy and ensure that the croutons stay crispy. You can also prepare the croutons in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to use them.
Spinach Salad with Bacon and Blue Cheese Dressing
If you’re looking for a salad with a bit more of a punch, try a spinach salad with bacon and blue cheese dressing. The combination of savory bacon and tangy blue cheese goes perfectly with the bold flavor of prime rib. Begin by browning up some bacon until it’s crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Make a dressing with blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, vinegar, and a touch of honey. Toss fresh spinach leaves with the dressing and top with the crispy bacon pieces for a perfect side dish for prime rib.
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Spinach is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron and calcium. Bacon, while not the healthiest option, does provide protein and some B vitamins. Blue cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin K. So, while this salad may not be the most low-calorie option, it does offer some nutritional benefits to balance out the indulgence of the prime rib.
Arugula Salad with Parmesan and Lemon Vinaigrette
An arugula salad with parmesan and lemon vinaigrette is an elegant and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with prime rib. The bitterness of the arugula compliments the richness of the prime rib while the Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. For the dressing, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Drizzle over the arugula and top with shaved Parmesan cheese.
Arugula is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients. It is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. Adding arugula to your diet can help improve your overall health and boost your immune system.
When making this salad, it is important to use high-quality ingredients. Look for fresh arugula and Parmesan cheese that has been aged for at least 24 months. This will ensure that the flavors are bold and well-developed.
Grilled Romaine Salad with Balsamic Glaze and Shaved Parmesan
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a grilled romaine salad with balsamic glaze and shaved Parmesan. This salad adds a unique twist to traditional greens and enhances the flavor of the prime rib with its charred and smoky flavor. Cut romaine hearts in half and drizzle them with olive oil, then grill them until they’re lightly charred. Drizzle them with balsamic glaze and top with shaved Parmesan cheese for a creative and delicious salad that’s sure to impress.
Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Romaine lettuce is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and folate. Adding grilled romaine to your diet is a great way to switch up your usual salad routine and get some extra nutrients in.
If you’re looking to make this salad even heartier, try adding some grilled chicken or shrimp on top. The smoky flavor of the romaine pairs perfectly with the savory taste of grilled meat or seafood. This salad is a great option for a light and healthy lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to customize to your liking.
Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Pecans
If you’re looking for something with a bit more color and texture, try a roasted beet salad with goat cheese and candied pecans. The combination of earthy beets and creamy goat cheese is a fantastic contrast to the richness of prime rib. To prepare, roast beets until they’re tender, then slice them into thin rounds. Toss them with fresh greens, crumbled goat cheese, and candied pecans. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
Beets are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly nutritious. They’re high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a great addition to any meal. Additionally, beets contain nitrates, which have been shown to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.
If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked beets for this salad. Look for them in the produce section of your grocery store. You can also experiment with different types of cheese and nuts to mix up the flavors and textures. Feta cheese and walnuts would be a great alternative to goat cheese and pecans.
Mixed Greens Salad with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Feta Cheese
A mixed greens salad with cranberries, walnuts, and feta cheese is another option that pairs well with prime rib. The sweetness from the cranberries and the crunch from the walnuts balance the richness of the prime rib. To make the dressing, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Toss fresh greens with the dressing and top with crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
In addition to being a delicious side dish for prime rib, this mixed greens salad is also packed with nutrients. The greens provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, while the walnuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein. The cranberries add a dose of antioxidants, making this salad a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.
If you’re looking to switch up the flavors in this salad, try swapping out the feta cheese for goat cheese or blue cheese. You could also add some sliced apples or pears for a touch of sweetness and crunch. No matter how you customize it, this mixed greens salad is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.
Wedge Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing and Crispy Bacon Bits
A wedge salad with homemade ranch dressing and crispy bacon bits is a classic and delicious option that pairs well with prime rib. Start by cutting a head of lettuce into quarters and topping it with creamy homemade ranch dressing. Crumble crispy bacon bits over the top for added flavor and crunch. Serve on a large platter alongside the prime rib for a classic and tasty combination.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some diced tomatoes and sliced red onions to your wedge salad. These fresh ingredients will add a pop of color and texture to the dish, while also complementing the creamy ranch dressing and salty bacon bits. You can also try using different types of lettuce, such as iceberg or romaine, to switch up the flavor and presentation of the salad. Experiment with different toppings and dressings to find your perfect wedge salad combination!
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Basil
A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a light, refreshing option that goes well with prime rib. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil is a perfect match for the rich flavor of the prime rib. For a simple and delicious salad, layer sliced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella on a platter, then sprinkle with chopped basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Greek Salad with Cucumbers, Feta Cheese, and Kalamata Olives
A Greek salad with cucumbers, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives is a Mediterranean-inspired option that is tangy, salty, and refreshing. Toss fresh cucumbers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano. Top with crumbled feta cheese and sliced Kalamata olives for a zesty and flavorful salad.
Warm Potato Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette
A warm potato salad with mustard vinaigrette is a hearty and comforting side dish that pairs well with prime rib. Begin by boiling potatoes until they’re tender, then toss them with a tangy mustard vinaigrette. Top with fresh chives and serve alongside the prime rib for a satisfying and delicious combination.
Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
A refreshing cucumber tomato avocado salad is a great option to balance out the richness of prime rib. Toss together sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and diced avocado with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Top with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.
Broccoli Slaw with Cranberries and Sunflower Seeds
A broccoli slaw with cranberries and sunflower seeds is a colorful and nutritious side dish that pairs perfectly with prime rib. Shave fresh broccoli into thin slices and toss with dried cranberries and sunflower seeds. Drizzle with a simple dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and honey for added sweetness. Serve on a large platter alongside the prime rib.
Kale Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
If you’re looking to add some protein to your salad, try a kale Caesar salad with grilled chicken. The heartiness of the kale and the savory flavor of the grilled chicken are a great match for prime rib. Make a dressing with Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then massage it into the kale leaves. Top with grilled chicken breast and parmesan cheese for a complete and satisfying meal.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
A Mexican street corn salad is a bold and flavorful choice that adds a touch of spice to your meal. This salad is made with fresh corn, chili powder, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro. Mixed with jalapenos, cotija cheese, and bell peppers, this salad is a great choice for those looking for something a little different. Serve alongside prime rib for a fusion of flavors.
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to pairing salads with prime rib. Whether you’re looking for something classic, light, tangy or hearty, there’s a salad option that’s perfect for you. Try out any of these salad recipes at your next dinner party and pair with prime rib for a truly unforgettable meal.
