5 Things To Serve With Moussaka

Updated on 
26 March, 2023

5 Things To Serve With Moussaka

Moussaka is a delicious dish that's sure to please! It's a traditional Greek casserole made with layers of eggplant, potatoes, and ground meat topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. If you're looking for something to serve alongside your moussaka, look no further. Here are five great side dishes that will complement your moussaka perfectly.

5 Things To Serve With Moussaka

First up is a classic Greek salad. This tangy mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, feta cheese and olives tossed in an olive oil and lemon juice dressing is the perfect light side for moussaka. It adds wonderful freshness and flavor that balances out the savory richness of the dish.

Another great option is grilled vegetables. Roast some peppers, zucchini, eggplant and mushrooms in the oven or on the grill and drizzle them with olive oil to add a nice smoky flavor - they'll bring beautiful colors and textures to your plate! Serve them either warm or at room temperature to contrast with the hot moussaka.

Keep reading to learn more about what goes best with moussaka!

Definition Of Moussaka

Moussaka is a popular Greek dish made from layers of eggplant, potatoes, and ground beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce. It's usually served hot with a topping of creamy white béchamel sauce. As an example, Maria, who is from Greece, grew up eating moussaka as one of her favorite dishes. She loves the combination of the savory flavors and textures that make it so special to her. The complexity of this traditional dish is what makes it stand out amongst all other Greek cuisine. To understand how moussaka is prepared, we must first look at the main ingredients used to create it.

Main Ingredients In Moussaka

Moussaka is a classic Mediterranean dish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Traditionally, it is made with ground beef or lamb, eggplant, potatoes, and a tomato-based sauce. The ingredients are layered in order and then baked until the top layer is golden and bubbly. To complete the dish, a béchamel sauce is spread over the top before serving.

Now that we know what moussaka is and what goes into making it, let's explore some sides to accompany this hearty casserole. Delicious accompaniments such as tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, pita bread and hummus can help to round out the meal.

Sides To Accompany Moussaka

What could be more comforting than a classic Greek dish like moussaka? To make it even better, you should pair it with delicious sides. To get started, consider adding some salad. A simple Greek salad is always a great option, but if you're looking for something different, try a Mediterranean couscous or quinoa salad. You can also serve some fresh vegetables like green beans, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots.

To add some extra flavor and texture to the plate, why not serve a warm pita bread or focaccia with olive oil and balsamic vinegar on the side? This will help to soak up all of the delicious flavors from the moussaka. With these sides in mind, let's look at what dips and sauces can be served with moussaka.

Dips And Sauces To Serve With Moussaka

In addition to sides, dips and sauces are another great option for enhancing the flavor of moussaka. The best way to go about choosing a dip or sauce is to consider the flavors already present in the dish. A light, creamy tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly with the savory components of moussaka. This yogurt-based sauce can be made with garlic, fresh herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Hummus is a delicious vegan alternative that can be served as an appetizer before the main course. An interesting combination of chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice and sesame oil creates a flavorful dip for the moussaka. Lastly, a homemade chunky tomato salsa is an excellent accompaniment for this Greek dish. It adds just enough spice and acidity to balance out the richness of the dish. With all these tasty options to choose from, you'll have plenty of dips and sauces to serve with your moussaka! Ready to move on to beverage pairings?

Beverage Pairings For Moussaka

When it comes to beverages to accompany moussaka, a good option is a glass of Greek red wine. Its bold and fruity taste pairs well with the flavors of this hearty dish. A dry white wine could also be served, as it balances the richness of the eggplant and other ingredients.

Those looking for something non-alcoholic will find that a sparkling water or light juice pairs nicely with moussaka. This can help to cut through some of the heavier elements in the dish, making it easier to enjoy all the flavors. No matter what beverage you choose, it's sure to be delicious when served alongside moussaka! Next, we'll look at some creative garnishes for this classic dish.

Creative Garnishes For Moussaka

Moving away from the beverage pairings, let's explore some creative garnishes to add a bit of flair to your moussaka. There are several ways you can elevate the presentation of this classic Greek dish.

One way is to use fresh herbs. Parsley, oregano and thyme all work well with moussaka. A few leaves scattered over the top adds a nice contrast of color and flavor. You could also sprinkle some chopped nuts for crunch, such as pine nuts, slivered almonds or walnuts. Another option is to use crumbled feta cheese for added saltiness and texture.

These are just a few ideas for enhancing the presentation of your homemade moussaka. With a little creativity, you can create an appetizing and flavorful dish that will be sure to impress your family or friends!

Conclusion

Moussaka is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any meal. With the right sides, dips, sauces, beverages and garnishes, it can be transformed into an unforgettable feast. When served with a selection of these dishes, moussaka takes on a whole new life and flavor that can truly tantalize the taste buds.

A side of bright and crunchy pita bread can add texture to your meal while also providing a filling accompaniment. Serve up some tangy tzatziki dip to add flavor and creaminess to the plate, or whip up some garlicky skordalia for a bold taste. And when it comes to drinks, pair your moussaka with a light white wine or a fruity rosé—it's like having summer in a glass! Finally, no moussaka would be complete without some creative garnishes; try sprinkling feta cheese or fresh herbs like oregano over top for an extra burst of flavor that will make your guests' mouths water.

Moussaka is an amazing dish that is sure to be remembered when served with all its perfect complements. Every bite will be an explosion of flavor so intense you'll think you've been teleported to Greece! You won't regret taking the time to find just the right sides, sauces and garnishes that will turn your moussaka into something out of this world.

Jennifer
Jennifer is a certified nutritionist and weight loss coach with a Master's in Nutrition from Cambridge. With over 10 years experience, she shares healthy recipes and science-backed slimming tips on SheCooksSheEats to help people reach their wellness goals. Jennifer stays up-to-date by regularly attending conferences and continuing her nutrition education. She aims to provide research-backed advice to inspire balanced, happy living.
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