Eating croissants for dinner may seem unconventional, but it can actually be a delicious and satisfying meal option. Here are quick answers to some common questions about having croissants for dinner:
Why would you eat croissants for dinner?
There are a few reasons why croissants can make a good dinner:
- They are tasty and filling – Croissants are light and flaky on the outside but can be filled with ingredients like cheese, chocolate, or ham that make them hearty and satisfying.
- They are easy to prepare – Croissants can be store-bought or homemade ahead of time and simply heated up or served cold.
- They offer variety – Savory or sweet croissant options allow you to customize your dinner.
- They are a nice change of pace – Having something like croissants instead of a typical dinner food can be a nice way to mix up your meal routine.
What kinds of croissants work well for dinner?
Here are some of the most popular types of croissants that make a good dinner:
Savory Croissants
- Ham and cheese – These are filled with sliced ham and cheese (cheddar, Swiss, provolone) which provides protein.
- Spinach and feta – The spinach adds nutrients while the feta gives a tangy, salty flavor.
- Chicken salad – Shredded chicken mixed with mayo, celery, onion makes for a tasty filling.
- Tuna melt – Flaky croissants filled with tuna salad and melted cheese is a classic option.
- Roasted vegetable – Croissants filled with roasted veggies like tomato, eggplant, or zucchini work well.
Sweet Croissants
- Chocolate – A rich, chocolate filling turns a croissant into a decadent dessert.
- Almond – Finely ground almonds and a touch of almond extract create a lovely frangipane filling.
- Custard – Vanilla or chocolate custard fillings pair nicely with the flaky pastry.
- Fruit preserves – Croissants filled with jams or jellies complement the buttery dough.
- Cream cheese – A sweetened cream cheese filling provides richness.
What should you serve with croissants for dinner?
Here are some tasty side dishes and drinks that pair well with croissants:
| Side Dishes | Drinks |
|---|---|
| Green salad | Coffee |
| Vegetable soup | Tea |
| Fresh fruit salad | Wine |
| Roasted potatoes | Hot chocolate |
| Quiche | Milk |
A fresh green salad adds color and nutrition. Vegetable soup makes it feel like a heartier meal. Fruits like grapes or melon slices provide complementary sweetness. Potatoes or quiche offer savory components. Coffee, tea, or wine can round out the meal.
How do you heat up and serve croissants for dinner?
Here are some serving tips for warm, delicious croissants:
For pre-made croissants:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Place croissants on a baking sheet.
- Heat for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve croissants warm with desired toppings/fillings.
For homemade croissants:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Brush unbaked croissants with egg wash.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before filling and serving.
Warm croissants are ideal but you can also serve them at room temperature. Set out oven-safe plates and let guests assemble their own croissants with provided fillings and toppings for a personalized dinner experience.
What are some sample dinner menus with croissants?
Here are a couple sample dinner menus featuring croissants as the main course:
Savory Croissant Dinner
- Spinach and feta croissants
- Tomato basil soup
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Fresh fruit salad
Sweet Croissant Dinner
- Chocolate croissants
- Chicken noodle soup
- Roasted broccoli
- Hot tea
Mix and match different fillings, sides, and drinks for a delicious croissant dinner.
Conclusion
Eating croissants for dinner can be a creative way to enjoy this versatile French pastry. Savory fillings like ham and cheese or sweet fillings like chocolate turn croissants into a satisfying main course. Pair them with soups, salads, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve them straight from the oven or at room temperature alongside wine or tea. With endless tasty fillings and topping options, croissants make for a fabulous dinner either on their own or as part of a larger menu.