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What to Serve With Prime Rib: A Delicious and Nutritious Feast

What to Serve With Prime Rib?

When serving prime rib, there are many delicious options to consider.

Some popular choices include relish trays, shrimp cocktail, and deviled eggs for appetizers.

As for side dishes, fondant potatoes, twice-baked potatoes, garlic green beans with bacon, and roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and Dijon mustard sauce are all great options.

To complement the prime rib, a variety of wines such as Cabernet, Syrah, Petit Sirah, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Zinfandel can be served.

Additionally, horseradish and prime rib red wine au jus are excellent accompaniments.

Yorkshire puddings, cheddar bacon chive biscuits, and dinner rolls can also be served.

For dessert, traditional Christmas treats like Christmas cake, cookies, blackberry apple pie, clafoutis, bread pudding, or a simple green salad with a shallot, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, pepper, and olive oil dressing can be enjoyed.

Quick Tips and Facts:

1. Prime rib is often referred to as a standing rib roast because the bones are left intact, giving it a “standing” appearance.

2. Yorkshire pudding, a traditional English dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, is a classic accompaniment to prime rib.

3. In Argentina, prime rib is known as “Asado de Tira” and is typically cooked on a grill using only salt as seasoning.

4. The term “prime” in prime rib refers to the highest grade of beef, indicating superior marbling and tenderness.

5. Despite its name, prime rib does not necessarily need to be served on special occasions only. It can be enjoyed any time as a delicious and indulgent meal.

Relish Trays

Relish trays are perfect for starting off your prime rib feast with a burst of flavors. These trays typically include a variety of pickled vegetables, olives, and tangy sauces. The combination of tangy, crunchy, and briny flavors provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory prime rib. The acidity in the pickled vegetables helps to cut through the richness of the meat, making it the perfect accompaniment.

Some popular choices for relish trays include:

  • Pickled carrots
  • Radishes
  • Cauliflower
  • Sweet and sour gherkins

You can also add some spicy elements like pickled jalapenos or kimchi to add an extra kick. Don’t forget to include some tangy sauces like horseradish or mustard to enhance the flavor of the prime rib.

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic and crowd-pleasing appetizer that pairs beautifully with prime rib. The creamy, velvety texture and tangy flavor of the deviled egg filling complement the richness of the prime rib.

The combination of egg yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and a hint of paprika creates a luxurious and flavorful filling. The eggs are typically halved and the creamy filling is piped back into the egg white halves, creating an elegant presentation.

The deviled eggs can be garnished with fresh herbs like chives or dill for added freshness.

Serve these delectable bites alongside the prime rib and watch as your guests devour them with delight.

  • Deviled eggs are a classic and crowd-pleasing appetizer.
  • They pair beautifully with prime rib.
  • The deviled egg filling is creamy and tangy.
  • The ingredients used include egg yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, and paprika.
  • The eggs are halved and filled with the creamy mixture.
  • Garnish the deviled eggs with fresh herbs like chives or dill.

“Serve these delectable bites alongside the prime rib, and watch as your guests devour them with delight.”

Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is a classic and elegant choice as an appetizer to accompany prime rib. The succulent, chilled shrimp paired with zesty cocktail sauce creates a refreshing and indulgent addition to your meal. The sweetness of the shrimp contrasts beautifully with the savory and tender prime rib.

To prepare the shrimp, simply poach them until they turn pink and then chill them. For the cocktail sauce, mix ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper. The combination of tangy and spicy flavors in the sauce complements the richness of the prime rib.

Arrange the shrimp on a platter with the cocktail sauce in the center, and let your guests enjoy the delightful pairing.

Fondant Potatoes

If you’re looking for an elegant and indulgent side dish to go with your prime rib, fondant potatoes are an excellent choice. These potatoes are cooked in a combination of butter and stock until they are golden brown and beautifully caramelized. The result is a dish with a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior. The rich and buttery flavor of the fondant potatoes wonderfully complements the tender and juicy prime rib. These potatoes can be seasoned with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added fragrance. Serve these delightful spuds on the side and watch as they become a favorite among your guests.

Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes are a decadent and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with prime rib. These potatoes are baked until tender, hollowed out, and then mixed with ingredients like sour cream, cheddar cheese, chives, and bacon. The mixture is then piped back into the potato skins and baked again until golden and bubbly. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-infused potato dish that complements the richness of the prime rib. The combination of flavors and textures in twice-baked potatoes provides a delightful contrast to the main dish and adds an extra layer of indulgence to your meal.

Serve these beauties alongside your prime rib, and your guests will surely be impressed.

Additional Points:

  • Twice-baked potatoes are a popular side dish for special occasions such as holiday dinners or dinner parties.
  • The hollowing out of the potatoes allows for a greater filling-to-potato ratio and ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
  • You can customize the filling of the twice-baked potatoes based on your preferences. Some additional options include cream cheese, green onions, garlic, or even broccoli.
  • Garnish the finished twice-baked potatoes with additional cheddar cheese, chives, and crispy bacon for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

“Twice-baked potatoes are the perfect indulgent side dish that brings an extra level of enjoyment to your prime rib dinner.”

Cabernet Wine

No prime rib feast is complete without a selection of fine wines to accompany the meal. Cabernet wine is an excellent choice to pair with prime rib due to its bold flavors and robust body. The intense fruit flavors and firm tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon complement the rich, juicy, and beefy flavors of the prime rib. The wine’s acidity cleanses the palate, cutting through the richness of the meat and enhancing the overall dining experience. Cabernet wine also offers hints of dark berries, black currants, and oak, which bring out the flavors of the prime rib in a harmonious and balanced way.

Serve your prime rib with a glass of Cabernet wine to elevate the taste and create a memorable dining experience.

  • Cabernet wine pairs well with prime rib
  • Intense fruit flavors and firm tannins complement the rich flavors of the meat
  • The wine’s acidity cleanses the palate
  • Hints of dark berries, black currants, and oak enhance the flavors
  • Create a memorable dining experience

Syrah Wine

Another fantastic wine option to serve with prime rib is Syrah, also known as Shiraz. Syrah wines are known for their full-bodied and rich characteristics, making them an ideal partner for prime rib. The wine’s bold flavors of blackberry, plum, and black pepper amplify the flavors of the beef, creating a harmonious and satisfying combination. The robust tannins in Syrah provide structure and balance to the meal, complementing the meat’s texture and richness. The dark fruit flavors of Syrah harmonize with the caramelized crust of the prime rib, enhancing the overall taste experience. Be sure to chill the Syrah wine slightly before serving to accentuate the flavors and enjoy the perfect pairing with your prime rib.

Petit Sirah Wine

For those who prefer a more intense and full-bodied wine, Petit Sirah is an ideal choice when serving prime rib. Petit Sirah is known for its dark color, rich flavors, and robust tannins. The wine offers a combination of blackberry, blueberry, and chocolate notes, which beautifully complement the flavors of the prime rib. The wine’s powerful structure and deep flavors create a harmonious balance with the meat, enhancing every bite. The high tannin content in Petit Sirah helps to cleanse the palate, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience. Pour a glass of Petit Sirah alongside your prime rib to elevate the flavors and impress your guests.

Pinot Noir Wine

If you prefer a lighter and more delicate wine to accompany your prime rib, Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. Pinot Noir wines are known for their elegant and silky texture, as well as their vibrant red fruit flavors. The wine’s medium-bodied nature and acidity offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the prime rib. The delicate flavors of red cherries, raspberries, and earthy undertones in Pinot Noir complement the taste of the meat without overpowering it. The smooth and velvety mouthfeel of the wine creates a harmonious combination, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter wine to accompany their prime rib.

To fully enjoy this pairing, consider the following:

  • Serve a slightly chilled bottle of Pinot Noir for a delightful dining experience.
  • Let the wine breathe for a few minutes before serving to enhance its aromas.
  • Choose a Pinot Noir from a reputable vineyard to ensure quality and consistency.
  • Experiment with different vintages to explore the various flavor profiles that Pinot Noir can offer.

“A meal without wine is like a day without sunshine.” – Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

Merlot Wine

Merlot wine is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a smooth and approachable wine to pair with their prime rib. Merlot wines are known for their soft tannins, lush fruit flavors, and velvety texture. The wine’s medium to full body and flavors of ripe plums, black cherries, and chocolate make it an ideal partner for prime rib.

The soft and rounded characteristics of Merlot complement the tenderness and juiciness of the meat, creating a delightful combination. The wine’s balanced acidity helps to cleanse the palate, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavors of both the wine and the prime rib.

Pour a glass of Merlot to enhance the taste of your prime rib and enjoy a memorable dining experience.

Key points:

  • Merlot wines are known for their soft tannins, lush fruit flavors, and velvety texture.
  • Flavors of ripe plums, black cherries, and chocolate make Merlot an ideal partner for prime rib.
  • The soft and rounded characteristics of Merlot complement the tenderness and juiciness of the meat.
  • Merlot’s balanced acidity helps to cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of both the wine and the prime rib.

Zinfandel Wine

Zinfandel wine is a bold and robust choice to pair with prime rib. Zinfandel wines offer intense flavors of blackberries, black cherries, and spice, creating a powerful and satisfying combination with the prime rib. The wine’s full body and firm tannins beautifully complement the richness and meaty flavors of the dish. Zinfandel’s spicy and peppery notes add depth to the overall taste experience, creating a delightful contrast with the prime rib. The wine’s complexity and power make it a fantastic choice for those seeking an adventurous and flavorful pairing. Serve a glass of Zinfandel alongside your prime rib to elevate the dining experience and indulge in a remarkable flavor combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is traditionally served with prime rib?

When it comes to serving prime rib, the focus should be on complementing the flavors of the roast without overshadowing it. Classic accompaniments such as roasted garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans harmonize perfectly with prime rib, enhancing its succulent taste. These traditional sides help create a well-rounded and irresistible prime rib dinner experience.

Regarding prime rib, the ideal pairing involves sides that embrace and enhance its rich flavors. To achieve a delectable combination, consider serving prime rib with creamy horseradish sauce, which adds a tangy kick that perfectly complements the meat’s richness. Accompanied by caramelized roasted Brussels sprouts, lightly seasoned to maintain their natural flavor, this ensemble creates a delightful balance of tastes, allowing prime rib to truly shine.

Is prime rib served well done?

Prime rib is typically not served well done. The ideal final temperature for prime rib is around 120-125°F for rare meat, 130-135°F for medium rare, and 140-145°F for well done. To ensure a crowd-pleasing result, it is recommended to remove the prime rib from the oven at around 120°F and let it rest for 20 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the meat to continue cooking slightly and reach the desired level of doneness without overcooking it.

When should I eat prime rib?

To enjoy prime rib at its best, you should aim to eat it when it has reached a medium-rare internal temperature of 130-135 degrees F. However, for a tender and juicy experience, it’s recommended to remove it from the heat source when the temperature reaches 120-125 degrees F (rare), and allow it to rest for 20 to 30 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the meat to retain its juices and for the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a mouthwatering prime rib experience.

Should prime rib be served cold?

While traditionally prime rib is served hot, there are certainly compelling reasons to consider serving it cold as well. Cold prime rib can offer a unique and delicious flavor profile, especially when thinly sliced and incorporated into sandwiches or salads. Its tenderness and marbling make it an ideal addition to various dishes, such as breakfast hashes, cheesesteaks, or stir-fries, providing a delightful twist to traditional recipes. Ultimately, whether it should be served cold or hot depends on personal preference and the desired culinary experience.

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