Pulled pork, whether served in a sandwich or as a hearty shoulder meal, deserves a worthy companion – a side dish that complements its rich flavors without overpowering them.
The good news is that there are plenty of options to choose from, regardless of your personal taste preferences.
While pulled pork’s bold aroma has the power to draw people in, it’s understandable that you might want to find a side dish that lets this star of the show shine.
Luckily, finding the perfect pairing isn’t impossible – with its blend of Mexican and North American influences, pulled pork offers a wealth of flavor profiles to draw from.
Mustard Potato Salad with Fresh Tomatoes
Potato salad is a timeless favorite that pairs well with almost any main course. This classic recipe provides a delightful contrast to rich flavors like those found in pulled pork, particularly when garnished with juicy tomatoes. The subtle bursts of flavor from each tomato slice serve as a palate cleanser, preparing you for another satisfying bite. With its ease of preparation and ability to be made ahead of time, this potato salad is ideal for weeknight meals or parties. It also complements pork chops nicely, offering a versatile side dish that’s sure to please.
Boiled Potatoes
When it comes to choosing a side dish to accompany pulled pork, simplicity is often the way to go. This is because the bold flavors of the main dish can be quite overpowering, so a straightforward side that complements without competing with them is ideal. One such option is boiled garlic butter potatoes. Not only are these potatoes easy to prepare, but they’re also indulgently buttery and richly flavored from the garlic. The best part? They pair perfectly with the pork without overwhelming it. Consider making a batch large enough to enjoy some leftovers the next day, when you can transform them into an even more decadent potato salad.
Instant Pot Potato Salad
When selecting a side dish to accompany pulled pork, ease of preparation often takes center stage. The time-consuming process of making pulled pork can be overwhelming, so it’s essential that your sides are straightforward and stress-free. This Instant Pot potato salad checks both boxes, offering a delicious and hassle-free solution.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By cooking the potatoes in an Instant Pot, they emerge light and fluffy, while the remaining ingredients meld together seamlessly to create a harmonious blend. What’s more, you can simply add all the components to the pot, set it, and let the Instant Pot do the work for you – no timers or multiple burners are required.
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. It not only pairs perfectly with pulled pork but also makes a lovely accompaniment to steak.
Green Bean Potato Salad with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Looking for a refreshing twist on traditional barbecue sides? This green bean and sundried tomato pesto potato salad will captivate your taste buds. The crisp beans bring a delightful freshness, while the pesto infusion adds an unmistakable depth of flavor. A bonus of this recipe is its mayo-free formula, making it a perfect fit for vegan gatherings or picnic excursions where you don’t have to worry about the dressing curdling. Trust me, the harmonious union of rich tomato and fresh green bean notes paired with pulled pork will elevate the smoky meat to new culinary heights.
Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the unsung heroes of the pulled pork world! They add an earthy sweetness that elevates the entire dish, making it impossible to resist. And the best part? These Instant Pot mashed sweet potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a speedy lunch, or even reviving leftovers. To take it to the next level, drizzle your favorite pulled pork sauce over the mash and experience a flavor fusion that will leave you mind-blown! Plus, this side dish is equally impressive paired with brisket.
German Potato Salad
What sets a German-style potato salad apart from its classic counterpart is the deliberate incorporation of crispy bacon bits, which provide a delightful textural contrast in each mouthful. This thoughtful addition subtly harmonizes with the main event without overpowering it.
nThe supporting cast of ingredients also contributes to the dish’s success. Thinly sliced red onion and a tangy splash of vinegar cleverly balance the richness of the potatoes, making it impossible to resist going back for more. As an effortless accompaniment to pork-based dishes, this salad is sure to please.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are an ideal solution when catering to a large group. After investing so much effort in cooking pork, you can spare yourself the extra labor of preparing a side dish from scratch. The key to achieving exceptional sweet potato fries lies in cooking them low and slow. With more natural sugars than regular potatoes, sudden heat spikes risk caramelizing these sugars too quickly. To ensure optimal results, prepare these ahead of time and let them bake while you focus on other tasks. By the time your oven timer goes off, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying side dish for everyone to enjoy.
Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes
The humble twice-baked potato is elevated to new heights when it’s smothered in rich flavors and textures. The crispy, well-crafted exterior gives way to an incredibly fluffy and savory interior, while a generous helping of cheese and bacon adds a satisfying depth of flavor. This delectable side dish pairs perfectly with comforting classics like pulled pork, and can even be taken to the next level by topping it with the pork itself after baking – a match made in heaven!
Loaded Potato Salad
Meet the loaded potato salad, a game-changing recipe that combines the best of both worlds: chilled potato salad and roasted potatoes. The result is a dish that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, smoky, and utterly addictive. Each perfectly roasted potato is slathered in a generous helping of mayonnaise, which provides a rich and velvety base for the other flavors to shine. The addition of spices, two types of cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives takes this salad to new heights. And let’s be real – it’s almost impossible to serve this at your next gathering without everyone wanting seconds (and thirds, and fourths…).
Rice Sides for Pork
When it comes to pairing ingredients, few combinations are as harmonious as rice and pork. This unlikely duo has gained popularity outside of North American cuisines, and for good reason. The subtle fluffiness of the rice provides a delightful contrast to the rich, buttery texture of the pork, ensuring that neither element ever grows old. If you’re eager to experience this culinary marriage, I’m happy to share two recipes that are sure to leave you wanting more.
Jamaican Rice and Pigeon Peas
In Jamaica, jerk seasoning is most closely associated with pulled pork, its sweet, rich flavor profile punctuated by a spicy kick. To provide a harmonious contrast, the accompanying rice dish should be mellow and unobtrusive, allowing the pork to take center stage. Jamaican rice and pigeon peas serves this purpose admirably, each bite serving as a satisfying accompaniment to a portion of the savory meat. The aromatic rice is both flavorful and restrained, permitting the pork’s nuances to shine through while also catering to vegan dietary preferences. This pairing works equally well with ribs, making it an excellent choice for a diverse dining experience.
Black Bean Corn Avocado Salad with Rice
When it comes to pulled pork, it’s easy to assume that the accompanying sides will be indulgent as well. However, our rice dish with Mexican roots provides a refreshing contrast. By combining corn and black beans with protein-rich ingredients, this light and slightly sweet side dish is the perfect antidote to rich pulled pork. What’s more, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare, requiring only a few basic ingredients. This recipe is ideal for meal prep or bulk cooking, offering a healthy and easy option to balance out your indulgent main course.
Israeli Couscous Cucumber Salad
The first dish to tantalize your taste buds is a revitalizing couscous salad, bursting with texture and flavor. A medley of cucumber, tomato, parsley, and leeks adds a satisfying crunch, while the larger pearl-shaped couscous contributes a nuttier depth. This refreshing salad can be prepared ahead of time, but for optimal enjoyment, it’s best served fresh, allowing each component to shine. As an added bonus, this side dish pairs delightfully with lasagna, making it an excellent accompaniment to your next meal.
No-Mayo Kale Apple Slaw
Kale and apple slaw has a transformative effect on the humble green. While kale’s natural bitterness can be off-putting to some, this recipe deftly masks its earthy undertones with a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The absence of mayonnaise is a deliberate choice that allows the fresh ingredients to shine, resulting in a salad that’s surprisingly addictive. It’s a game-changer that will leave everyone craving more of its crunchy goodness.
Asian Sesame Ginger Slaw
When it comes to slaw recipes worth trying, the Asian sesame ginger slaw stands out for its bold, savory flavor profile. Unlike many sweet-centric slaws, this one expertly balances warm, spicy notes from ginger against the nutty depth of black sesame. The harmonious interplay between these ingredients creates a complex flavor experience that will keep your taste buds engaged and eager for more.
Kale and Apple Slaw
While sweet and savory flavors can be polarizing, this coleslaw recipe masterfully blends both, yielding a harmonious blend of apple and lemon juice, mustard, and creamy dressing. Each component has been thoughtfully selected to amplify the others’ unique qualities, creating a dish that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying. In particular, this slaw’s light and airy creaminess pairs beautifully with sweet pulled pork, making it an ideal accompaniment to any barbecue gathering.
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
When you try this recipe, I’m confident that your air fryer will become an indispensable kitchen companion. The humble zucchini is transformed into a culinary delight with minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving up a classic pulled pork dish or a hearty vegetarian casserole, these crispy zucchini bites are sure to impress. And the best part? They require hardly any effort at all. Simply chop the zucchini, add some seasoning, toss them in the air fryer, and come back when they’re done – it’s that easy!
Fennel & Apple Salad
The harmonious union of fennel and apple is a culinary delight that transcends its individual components, particularly when paired with pork dishes. This serendipitous combination has resulted in the inclusion of this fennel and apple salad on our esteemed list.
This revitalizing side dish expertly balances the subtle bitterness of the fennel with the natural sweetness of the apple, yielding a heavenly concoction that is nothing short of sublime. The recipe’s greatest asset lies in its ability to be prepared ahead of time; simply store it in the refrigerator and serve when desired. Its adaptability makes it an ideal choice for picnics, meal prep, or any occasion where a light and refreshing accompaniment is required.
Whole30 Creamed Spinach
When it comes to elevating the flavor of pulled pork dishes, a creamy element can make all the difference. But how do you choose a healthy option that complements the rich flavors without overpowering them? One solution is to opt for a dairy-free creamed spinach recipe that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This light and airy version has none of the heaviness often associated with traditional dairy-based recipes, making it an ideal accompaniment to balance out the bold flavors of the pulled pork. What’s more, this homemade creamed spinach recipe is a healthier alternative to store-bought options due to its lack of dairy and gluten. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up fresh for your table, making it a great addition to any meal.
Easy Roasted Carrots with Honey and Feta
Roasted carrots are, without a doubt, one of the most exceptional vegetable side dishes out there. While they demand little preparation and attention, the payoff is immense when cooked with love. The secret to achieving perfectly roasted carrots lies in adopting a low-and-slow approach. This method allows for even cooking, resulting in warm and buttery carrots from core to crust. A quick burst of high heat at the end can add a desirable char on the outside, further enhancing their natural sweetness. Ultimately, the versatility of these sweet treats is unmatched, whether served plain or paired with your preferred accompaniments, as the natural sugars within the carrot ensure a delicious experience regardless of the company they keep.
Asian Chopped Salad
This vibrant Asian-inspired chopped salad boasts an impressive combination of protein-rich ingredients and fiber-packed goodness. The harmonious balance of textures is a true delight, with the satisfying crunch of edamame and cabbage providing a striking contrast to the tender pulled pork. To offset the earthy undertones, mandarin oranges bring their sweet and tangy essence into play. Each succulent orange segment is infused with just the right amount of sweetness, leaving you craving another bite before you’ve even finished your first.
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pork pairings, this watermelon feta mint salad harmoniously balances sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chunks of watermelon, bursting with freshness from the mint, and creamy undertones from the feta create a delightful experience for the palate. While it’s perfectly fine to prepare the watermelon and mint in advance, the crumbled feta should be added just moments before serving to preserve its rich texture. This sophisticated side dish is sure to wow your guests at your next dinner gathering.
Butternut Squash Fries
A surprising finale in our lineup of healthy dishes is a game-changing take on a global comfort food: butternut squash fries. This sweet and earthy gourd, when paired with pulled pork, reveals its full potential. But what happens when we transform it into crispy, caramelized fries? The result is nothing short of astonishing. Not only do these vibrant orange sticks add a pop of color to the plate, but their natural sweetness also shines through. This clever recipe is the perfect way to convert even the most skeptical family members into veggie enthusiasts.
Low Carb Sides for Pulled Pork
Contrary to popular belief, ditching carbs doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. In fact, the recipes in this low-carb section are packed with delicious and unexpected surprises. From innovative salads to creatively baked veggies, every dish is a culinary discovery waiting to happen.
No Mayo Coleslaw
The first recipe featured is a stunning low-fat, high-protein coleslaw that’s so vibrant it almost takes flight off the plate. This easy-to-whip-up slaw is an excellent option for your next BBQ, and its refreshing lightness makes it the perfect counterbalance to rich pulled pork. The crunch adds a delightful textural contrast, making this recipe a must-have for any outdoor gathering.
Sweet Poppyseed Coleslaw
Just as the previous coleslaw recipe was wrapping up, another crunchy twist is ready to take center stage. This one’s uniqueness lies in its incorporation of poppy seeds and sunflower seeds, elevating its texture to a whole new level while boasting impressive nutritional credentials.Despite being relatively sugar-free, this slaw still packs a flavorful punch thanks to the judicious use of a keto-friendly sweetener. The result is a harmonious balance of flavors that will surely complement your meal.For optimal results, consider preparing this slaw in advance and allowing it to chill in the fridge overnight before serving. The dressing’s magic will have all the flavors mingling together in perfect harmony, making for an even more delectable experience.
Green Beans with Garlic and Bacon
In the heart of Southern soul food, green beans with bacon reign supreme. The harmonious union of crispy bacon’s saltiness and the tender green beans’ subtle freshness creates a delightful contrast that leaves you craving more. This classic combination is further elevated by the rich flavor of garlic, which skillfully balances the sweetness of the accompanying pulled pork. As two comfort foods converge, the result is a culinary symphony that warms the soul.
Smoked Cauliflower
Cauliflower’s remarkable ability to absorb flavors makes it a versatile ingredient in many recipes. Its capacity to soak up flavors is unparalleled, much like a sponge’s ability to absorb liquids. This quality is particularly evident when smoked cauliflower is prepared, as each floret takes on the rich notes of smoke and char from the smoker. The added spice rub further enhances the dish’s flavor profile. The pairing with pulled pork, which originated in the BBQ scene, is a natural fit due to its affinity for smoky side dishes. This combination is a match made in heaven.
Keto Cauliflower Au Gratin
As we bid farewell to the smoker, let’s turn our attention back to the oven, where a delectable treatment for cauliflower awaits. This keto cauliflower bake is an excellent way to pay homage to this humble vegetable.What’s more, with only eight ingredients required, you’re free to scale up or down as needed. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply seeking leftovers for the next day, this recipe has got you covered. The velvety cheesiness and tender cauliflower provide a delightful contrast to the bold pulled pork, making them a natural pairing on the plate.
Keto Zucchini Fritters
To achieve the perfect fritter, a crispy exterior is paramount. This zucchini fritter recipe proves that even the most moisture-prone vegetables can be transformed into a delightful treat. The secret to its success lies in extracting every last drop of water from the shredded zucchini, resulting in a sturdy base that won’t become soggy or clumpy during cooking. Once you’ve mastered this technique, the possibilities are endless – simply pair your fritters with a sauce of your choice or experiment with different spice blends to complement your pork or other dishes.
Keto Broccoli Salad
For those who don’t typically think of broccoli in a positive light, the combination of ‘broccoli’ and ‘salad’ might initially seem like a daunting prospect. However, this recipe is designed to convert even the most skeptical of eaters into believers.
The key lies in striking a balance between the crunchiness of the broccoli and the creamy, tangy flavors that accompany it. By dressing the vegetable in ranch and crispy bacon, the dish achieves a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that complements the richness of the main course – namely, pulled pork.
To elevate this side dish to new heights, make sure to use only the freshest ingredients and herbs available. And if you’re looking for an added layer of complexity, consider serving it alongside your favorite ground lamb recipe.
Best Sides for Pulled Pork
When it comes to complementing the rich flavor of pulled pork, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re drawn to soulful comfort food, vibrant street eats from South America, or tropical flavors reminiscent of Hawaiian getaways, there’s a perfect side dish waiting to be discovered.
The key is to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find the combination that hits the spot. And if the end result is as delicious as it is satisfying, who can blame us for embracing the scientific method?
If you’re looking for inspiration to elevate your pulled pork game, these tried-and-true side dishes are the perfect place to start.
Corn Casserole
For me, the words ‘corn’ and ‘casserole’ evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. They’re deeply rooted in memories of lazy summer days, sizzling barbecues, and the unmistakable aroma of buttery goodness wafting from the kitchen. This corn casserole takes a slightly different approach to traditional cornbread, boasting a richer, more indulgent flavor profile that’s perfect for pairing with your next pork-centric meal.
Honey Butter Cornbread
In contrast to previous recipes, this cornbread variation takes a sweeter approach. The subtle honey notes infuse a deep richness into the buttery, crumbly texture, making it impossible to resist. This harmonious balance is particularly noteworthy when paired with pulled pork’s smoky sweetness, as the two flavors meld together seamlessly. What I appreciate most about this recipe is its speed and ease of preparation – but even more so, is the infectious enthusiasm it sparks. The moment you present the dish, eyes light up in anticipation of that first bite, building a sense of excitement around the table.
Instant Pot Pinto Beans
While canned baked beans have their convenience, it’s hard to beat the simplicity and customization that comes with making your own at home. When cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot, pinto beans transform from ordinary to extraordinary, requiring minimal effort on your part. The result is a flavorful experience where the pork’s taste evolves with each bite, thanks to the warm spice notes and aromatic undertones. If you’re a baked bean enthusiast, consider cooking up a large batch and storing it in an airtight container for later use – your future self will thank you!
Baked Mac and Cheese
The notion of ‘soul food’ instantly evokes the velvety stretch of melted cheese as it’s ladled over macaroni in a steaming hot bowl. And it’s no surprise – a well-crafted mac and cheese is, without a doubt, the epitome of comfort food. The rich, baked goodness has a profound impact on other dishes, too. In this case, the subtle smokiness and sweetness of pulled pork are heightened by the creamy casserole, making each bite a harmonious balance of flavors. For many, mac and cheese is the ultimate dinner upgrade, capable of elevating even the most humble meals to new heights.
Elote Style Corn with Furikake
The fusion of Mexican street food with Japanese elements yields a truly international culinary masterpiece that showcases the magic of global inspiration in cooking. Furikake, a rice seasoning consisting of seeds and spices, elevates plain rice to new heights when paired with elote, a match made in heaven. While there are numerous furikake blends available, a trip to your local Asian market can lead you to discover a variety of options to suit your taste.
Cowboy Beans
Cowboy beans are a culinary staple that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. The harmonious blend of flavors, including crispy bacon, sweet BBQ sauce, and tangy ketchup, creates a savory symphony that tantalizes the taste buds. This hearty dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to prepare in large quantities. In fact, you can conveniently double or triple your recipe and store the excess in the freezer for up to three months, ensuring cowboy beans are always at your beck and call.
Savory Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Pudding
Imagine a dessert that defies tradition – one where cornbread, buttermilk, and cream combine to create a rich and creamy pudding. This innovative twist on the classic bread pudding recipe swaps out white bread for its savory counterpart, adding a layer of complexity to this indulgent treat. The addition of spicy jalapeno slices and crumbled cheddar cheese gives the dish a bold and tantalizing flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced by the tender pulled pork.
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Salad
When it comes to pasta salads, I prefer to take a more indulgent approach. Case in point: this broccoli-free, cheddar-studded number that’s perfect for summer gatherings. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or potluck. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly you can whip it up – just be sure to serve it promptly once it’s assembled, as the fresh ingredients will start to lose their crunch if left out for too long.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Elote, the quintessential Mexican delight, has won hearts globally. Its portable salad version is an excellent choice for impressing your guests at your next social gathering. The harmonious balance of sweet corn and creamy dressing creates a satisfying mouthful that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you opt for frozen corn year-round or wait for fresh cobs as a summer treat, this salad is an ideal addition to any meal, capable of elevating dishes like pork nachos to new heights.
Easy Hawaiian Baked Beans
As we near the end of our culinary journey through pulled pork’s tropical potential, we’re reminded of its significance in Hawaii’s diverse regional cuisine. To capitalize on this flavor profile, I’d like to introduce you to a sweet and smoky baked bean recipe that cleverly fuses traditional ingredients with pineapple for an innovative twist on a classic dish. This unique combination not only adds a new dimension to your dinner table but also beautifully complements the pork’s rich flavors. If you’re looking to experiment with something new, this Hawaiian-inspired baked bean recipe is an excellent place to start.
