Surf and turf is a popular meal pairing seafood with steak. The surf typically refers to lobster, shrimp, scallops or other shellfish, while the turf is a cut of beef like filet mignon or ribeye. This combo of surf and turf provides a nice balance of flavors and textures. When creating the perfect surf and turf dinner, it’s important to consider side dishes and drinks that will complement these star ingredients.
What are good side dishes for surf and turf?
There are many tasty side dish options that pair wonderfully with surf and turf. Here are some top recommendations:
- Baked potato – A baked potato is a classic pairing with steak. Load it up with butter, sour cream, chives and bacon bits.
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are another excellent starchy side to soak up surf and turf juices.
- Rice pilaf – Rice pilaf provides a flavorful base to round out the meal.
- Sauteed vegetables – Sauteed greens like spinach, kale or asparagus add color and nutrients.
- Caesar salad – A crisp Caesar salad with parmesan and croutons balances the richness.
- Wedge salad – An iceberg lettuce wedge dressed with blue cheese dressing and bacon is a nice contrast.
- Creamed spinach – Buttery creamed spinach makes a decadent side.
- Creamed corn – Sweet creamed corn is a comforting choice.
Starchy sides like potatoes, rice or pasta make excellent pairings. Complementary vegetable sides also work very well. Salads tossed in creamy dressings can counterbalance the heartiness of surf and turf.
What are good appetizers for surf and turf?
Starting off your surf and turf dinner with a tasty appetizer is a great way to kick things off. Here are some appetizer recommendations:
- Shrimp cocktail – Large chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce whets the appetite.
- Oysters on the half shell – Fresh raw oysters make an elegant starter.
- Lobster bisque – A rich, creamy lobster bisque soup is perfect.
- Crab cakes – Savory crab cakes with remoulade or tartar sauce.
- Beef carpaccio – Thinly sliced rare beef carpaccio marinated in olive oil and lemon.
- Caesar salad – A light salad tossed in Caesar dressing.
- Wedge salad – An iceberg lettuce wedge with blue cheese and bacon.
- Bread basket – Crusty bread and butter while you wait.
Seafood appetizers like oysters, shrimp and crab complement the surf focus. Salads also work well. And carpaccio makes for a nice surf and turf combo.
What are the best drink pairs for surf and turf?
Selecting the right drinks to go with surf and turf can really enhance the meal. Here are drink options to consider:
| Drink | Notes |
|---|---|
| Pinot Noir | Pinot noir complements both the steak and seafood. |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Cabernet is bold enough to stand up to the steak. |
| Chardonnay | A buttery chardonnay pairs nicely with lobster and butter sauces. |
| Sparkling Wine | Bubbles like champagne or cava cut through the richness. |
| Scotch or Whiskey | An after dinner scotch or whiskey drink finishes strong. |
Red wines like pinot noir and cabernet pair wonderfully with both steak and seafood. White wines like chardonnay complement the seafood. Bubbly wines help cut through the decadence. And a scotch or whiskey makes a nice ending.
What desserts work well after surf and turf?
Ending your meal on a sweet note with the right dessert is the perfect way to finish off a surf and turf dinner. Here are tasty dessert picks:
- Creme brulee – The crisp caramelized sugar topping provides a nice contrast to the creamy custard.
- Chocolate lava cake – Molten chocolate cake is decadent after an indulgent meal.
- Cheesecake – Rich and smooth cheesecake is always a crowd pleaser.
- Tiramisu – Coffee and chocolate flavors in tiramisu make a pleasing post-dinner treat.
- Creme caramel – Smooth, creamy creme caramel dessert is sure to satisfy.
- Trifle – Layers of whipped cream, fruit and sponge cake in a trifle are delightful.
- Sorbet or sherbet – Light and refreshing citrus or berry sorbets provide a fresh finish.
Stick with decadent desserts like creme brulee, lava cake or cheesecake. Or offer lighter choices like sorbets if you need something refreshing after an extravagant meal. Your guests will surely be happy closing out their dining experience with something sweet.
Conclusion
A surf and turf dinner is all about bringing together the perfect balance of land and seafood. The right combination of side dishes, appetizers, drinks and desserts can elevate this meal to new heights. Starchy sides like potatoes or bread complement the richness. Seafood appetizers like oysters and shrimp get diners ready for the main course. Pinot noir and chardonnay are safe bets for wine pairings. And luscious desserts like creme brulee or chocolate lava cake provide the perfect sweet ending to a fabulous meal.
With so many wonderful options to supplement the surf and turf entrees, you’re sure create an incredible dining experience. Just be ready for your guests to request this special meal again and again!