Caviar is the ultimate delicacy.
But, what do you actually serve with the exquisite, pricey snack?
You have guests coming over and want to make a good impression…now what?
From smoked salmon crostini to blinis with sour cream & chives, there are numerous ways in which you can serve this gastronomic delight.
To take your caviar experience further, today we present 14 delicious side dish recipes perfect for creating an unforgettable presentation of this luxurious food.
As if that wasn’t enough mystery and perplexity surrounding caviar served on its own, try adding some of these easy-to-prepare dishes into your next gathering!
So get ready as we dive into a world of culinary delights ideal for bringing out the complexity and flavor notes of premium caviars like Beluga or Imperial Ossetra!
What to Serve with Caviar? 14 DELICIOUS Side Dishes
1. Blini
Blini are small, round pancakes that are popular in Russian cuisine.
They are made with yeast-leavened wheat or buckwheat flour and can be served savory or sweet.
Blini are often served with caviar, smoked salmon, or other fish as part of the main course.
Blini have a light and fluffy texture with a slightly yeasty flavor.
When made correctly, they should be cooked through but not too browned.
Blini are best served warm, so if you’re making them ahead of time, be sure to reheat them before serving.
There are a few things you can do to elevate your blini dish.
First, try using different flours for variety in flavor and texture.
You could also top your blini with interesting savory toppings like herbed cheese or sour cream and caviar.
For a sweet option, try serving them with fruit jam or honey.
2. Potato Chips
When it comes to side dishes, potato chips are a classic.
They’re salty, they’re crunchy, and they go with just about anything.
But let’s be honest: they can get a little boring after a while.
That’s why we’ve put together some tips on how to elevate your potato chip game.
First, let’s talk about taste.
Potato chips are typically saltier than other side dishes, so they can be a great way to add some extra flavor to your meal.
But if you’re looking for something a little different, try experimenting with other seasonings.
Herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a nice earthy flavor, while spices like chili powder or paprika can give your chips a kick.
The texture is another important factor when it comes to potato chips.
They should be crisp and easy to bite into but not so thin that they break apart easily.
If your chips are on the thinner side, try cooking them for less time or at a lower temperature to prevent them from getting too crispy.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings.
Potato chips are the perfect vessel for all kinds of flavors, so top them with whatever you’re in the mood for.
Sour cream and onion dip, salsa, guacamole, or even just some good old-fashioned ketchup and mustard.
3. Crackers
There are many different types of crackers that you can serve with caviar, but the key is to find one that has a neutral taste and a texture that won’t overwhelm the delicate flavor of the caviar.
We recommend opting for a simple cracker like a water cracker or a graham cracker.
If you want to elevate this dish, try pairing the caviar with some cream cheese or sour cream on top of the cracker.
This will help balance out the salty taste of the caviar and make it more palatable for those who are not used to eating such strong-tasting food.
You can also top it with some chopped chives or other herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
4. Toast Points
Toast points are a classic side dish that can be served with just about anything.
They are simple to make and can be easily customized to fit your taste.
Toast points are made by slicing bread into thin pieces and then toasting them until they are golden brown.
The taste of toast points is simply that of toasted bread with a slight crunch.
The texture is also slightly crunchy, but the bread is still soft enough to bite into easily.
There are a few ways to elevate the taste and texture of toast points.
One way is to add some butter or margarine to the bread before you toast it.
This will give the toast points a richer flavor and a softer texture.
Another way to change up the taste of toast points is to add different toppings such as cheese, ham, or even fruits and vegetables.
This will give the toast points more flavor and make them more filling.
5. Eggplant Caviar
Eggplant caviar is a delicious, versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or side dish.
It’s made from eggplant that’s been peeled and roasted, then pureed into a smooth paste.
The paste is then seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
This dish has a lovely, rich flavor that’s both earthy and slightly acidic.
The texture is creamy and smooth, with a slight bitterness from the eggplant.
Eggplant caviar is typically served with bread or crackers, but it can also be used as a condiment for grilled meats or vegetables.
If you’re looking to elevate your eggplant caviar, try serving it with smoked salmon or trout.
The smokiness of the fish pairs perfectly with the richness of the caviar.
You could also garnish the dish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
6. Sour Cream
Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in sweet or savory dishes.
It has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with many different flavors.
There are a few things to keep in mind when using sour cream in your cooking.
First, it’s important to taste the sour cream before you use it.
Some brands can be quite tangy, while others are only mildly so.
You’ll want to adjust the amount you use based on your personal preference.
Second, sour cream can thicken as it cooks, so if you’re looking for a thinner consistency, be sure to add it towards the end of cooking time.
There are endless ways to incorporate sour cream into your dishes.
Try adding it to mashed potatoes or using it as a topping for chili.
For a sweeter option, use sour cream in place of yogurt in your favorite fruit salad recipe.
7. Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon is a delicious and rich seafood dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
The taste and texture of smoked salmon are similar to that of other fish, but with a slightly smoky flavor.
One way to enjoy smoked salmon is to serve it with caviar.
This combination is not only delicious but also elegant and sure to impress your guests.
Caviar is typically served on its own as an appetizer, but it can also be used to top other dishes, such as smoked salmon.
If you’re looking for something a little different, try serving smoked salmon with cream cheese and crackers.
This classic combo is easy to make and always satisfies.
For a more elevated presentation, try serving smoked salmon on top of a salad or in a wrap.
8. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a fantastic side dish to serve with caviar.
They are light and fresh tasting and the perfect contrast to the rich, salty flavor of caviar.
Plus, they are incredibly easy to make.
The key to great grilled vegetables is to choose the right ones.
I recommend using vegetables that have a good amount of natural sweetness, like zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, and sweet onions.
You’ll also want to steer clear of any veggies that are too watery – they will just end up steaming instead of grilling.
Once you’ve selected your veggies, it’s time to get grilling.
I recommend preheating your grill to medium-high heat before adding the vegetables.
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You’ll want to cook them until they are slightly charred on the outside but still tender on the inside.
This usually takes about 10 minutes.
To really elevate this dish, I suggest serving the grilled vegetables with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
9. Pickled Vegetables
There’s something about pickled vegetables that just makes them irresistible.
Perhaps it’s the tangy, slightly acidic flavor or the firm yet crunchy texture.
Or maybe it’s the fact that they add a touch of sophistication to any dish.
Whatever the reason, pickled vegetables are definitely one of our favorite things to eat.
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your next meal, try adding some pickled vegetables to the mix.
They’ll add a pop of flavor and color that will really make the dish stand out.
Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home.
Simply choose your favorite vegetables, and then pickle them in a vinegar solution for 24 hours.
The longer they sit, the more flavorful they’ll become.
So go ahead and experiment with different herbs and spices to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
10. Quail Eggs
If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to serve eggs, try quail eggs.
These little eggs have a delicate flavor and a unique texture that is sure to please.
Here are some tips on how to incorporate them into your next meal:
- Quail eggs can be served hard-boiled, soft boiled, or fried. They make a great addition to salads, pasta dishes, and grain bowls.
- If you’re looking for an elegant presentation, try serving quail eggs on top of blini with caviar.
- For a fun and festive twist, try making quail egg deviled eggs. Simply remove the yolks and mix them with your favorite seasonings (mayo, mustard, etc.) before spooning them back into the egg white halves. Top with a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
11. Foie Gras
Foie gras is a French dish that is made from the liver of a duck or goose.
The liver is usually fattened up through a process called gavage, which involves force-feeding the bird with food until its liver becomes engorged.
This results in a liver that is incredibly rich and fatty, making it perfect for foie gras.
The taste of foie gras is very rich and buttery, with a slightly gamey flavor.
The texture is smooth and creamy, making it melt in your mouth.
When cooked properly, the outside should be slightly crisp while the inside remains soft and luscious.
There are many ways to elevate foie gras and make it even more special.
One way is to sear it so that you get a nice crispy exterior.
Another way is to pair it with something sweet, like a fruit compote or jam.
You can also serve it with something savory, like smoked meats or pickled vegetables.
12. Kobe Beef Tartare
Kobe beef tartare is a dish that can be both simple and complex, depending on how it’s made.
The key to a great tartare is in the quality of the beef.
Kobe beef, which comes from a specific breed of Japanese cattle, is known for its intense marbling and rich flavor.
When paired with fresh, flavorful ingredients, it can make for a truly exceptional dish.
In terms of texture, Kobe beef tartare is relatively smooth and velvety.
This unique texture is due to the high-fat content of the beef.
When eaten raw, the fat melts in your mouth, creating a rich and luxurious dining experience.
If you’re looking to elevate your Kobe beef tartare, try pairing it with an aioli or horseradish cream sauce.
Both of these condiments will help to balance the richness of the dish and add an extra level of flavor.
Kobe beef tartare is a dish that is best savored slowly and enjoyed with good company.
With its combination of juicy, flavorful beef and fresh, zesty ingredients, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palate.
13. Oysters
Oysters are a unique food that not everyone has the opportunity to try.
They have a distinct taste and texture that can be hard to describe, but once you’ve had them, you’ll know exactly what they are.
Oysters are best served with a simple dish that elevates their flavor.
Some people say that oysters taste like the sea.
They have a briny, salty flavor that is unique and unmistakable.
The texture of oysters is also quite different from other foods.
They are soft and slightly chewy, with a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
If you’re looking to elevate your oyster dish, there are some simple things you can do.
First, try serving them with a simple sauce or dressing.
A light vinaigrette or lemon juice can enhance the flavor of oysters without overpowering them.
You can also experiment with different garnishes, such as fresh herbs or diced vegetables.
Oysters are a unique and delicious food that everyone should try at least once.
They have a distinct flavor and texture that sets them apart from other foods.
When served with a simple dish that enhances its flavor, they make an unforgettable meal.
14. Champagne
When it comes to serving caviar, champagne is always a good choice.
The light, bubbly taste of champagne helps to cleanse the palate in between bites of caviar, and the bubbles also add a bit of fun and excitement to the dish.
The texture of champagne is also important.
Most champagnes are on the drier side, which helps to offset the richness of the caviar.
But if you prefer a sweeter taste, there are plenty of options out there.
Just be sure to choose a brut or extra dry champagne so that the sweetness doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the caviar.
There are a few things to keep in mind when pairing champagne with caviar:
- Make sure the champagne is well chilled so that it doesn’t lose its effervescence.
- Pour just enough champagne into each flute so that you can still enjoy the aroma of the wine.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of champagnes until you find one that you really love.
Conclusion
Caviar is a luxurious dish that is perfect for special occasions.
It can serve as an appetizer or main course, and there are many different ways to enjoy it.
To make the most of your caviar experience, be sure to serve it with one of these 14 delicious side dishes.
From simple toast points to more complex dishes like foie gras, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
What to Serve with Caviar? 14 DELICIOUS Side Dishes
Ingredients
- 1. Blini
- 2. Potato Chips
- 3. Crackers
- 4. Toast Points
- 5. Eggplant Caviar
- 6. Sour Cream
- 7. Smoked Salmon
- 8. Grilled Vegetables
- 9. Pickled Vegetables
- 10. Quail Eggs
- 11. Foie Gras
- 12. Kobe Beef Tartare
- 13. Oysters
- 14. Champagne
Instructions
- Select your favorite sides from the list above.
- Prepare the side dish according to the recipe instructions.
- If you’re short on time, some of these can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
- Serve and enjoy!
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!