What to Serve with a Cuban Sandwich? 15 Must-try Side Dishes

From the comforting pickles to the flavorful pork, a Cuban sandwich is an international culinary delight.

It’s truly hard to resist its unique combination of flavors and textures – but what should you pair it with?

Many suggest chips or fries as an accompaniment, but there are so many other delicious and interesting sides that will take your Cuban sandwich experience up another notch!

On this page, you’ll learn about 15 must-try side dishes for a Cuban sandwich that your taste buds won’t forget.

From plantains to papas bravas, each dish offers something new—and fun—to complete your meal.

Let’s get started taking a look around our beloved island and discovering some amazing side dishes that make pairing them with your favorite Cuban Sandwich all the more enjoyable!

What to Serve with a Cuban Sandwich? 15 Must-try Side Dishes

1. Yucca Fries

–

Yucca fries have a crispy exterior with a fluffy, starchy interior.

They are often compared to potato fries, but they have a distinctively delicious taste and texture all their own.

When fried properly, they are incredibly addictive – it’s hard to stop at just one.

To elevate your yucca fry experience, try serving them with a dipping sauce or condiment.

Aioli, ketchup, and sriracha all pair well with these tasty fries.

And for an extra bit of flair, try sprinkling them with some shredded cheese or fresh herbs before serving.

Keep in mind that yucca fries can be quite messy to eat, so they’re best enjoyed when you’re not concerned about keeping things neat and tidy.

However you choose to enjoy them, one thing is for sure – Yucca fries are sure to leave you wanting more.

2. Tostones

–

When it comes to Cuban cuisine, there are so many delicious dishes to choose from.

One of our personal favorites is tostones.

Tostones are plantain chips that are fried and then smashed.

They are usually served with a dipping sauce on the side.

What we love about tostones is the combination of textures.

The outside is nice and crispy while the inside is soft and fluffy.

The dipping sauce also adds another level of flavor and creaminess.

If you’re looking for a new dish to try, we highly recommend giving tostones a try.

They are relatively easy to make and can be served as a side dish or appetizer.

For an added touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese on top of the tostones before serving.

3. Plantain Chips

–

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique side dish to serve with your Cuban sandwich, look no further than plantain chips.

These crispy chips are made from unripe plantains that have been fried or baked.

They have a savory flavor with a hint of sweetness, and their texture is similar to that of a potato chip.

Plantain chips are a great option if you’re looking for something different than the usual French fry or potato chip.

They’re also a healthier option since they’re not deep-fried in oil.

To make them even healthier, you can bake them instead of frying them.

• Serve them with dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
• Sprinkle them with shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or spices.
• Use them as a topping for salads, soups, or tacos.

4. Arroz Con Gandules (Rice and Pigeon Peas)

–

Arroz con gandules is a classic Cuban dish made with rice, pigeon peas, and pork.

The dish is typically seasoned with sofrito, a Cuban sauce made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and cilantro.

Arroz con gandules is often served with roasted pork or chicken, making it a hearty and filling meal.

The rice in arroz con gandules is fluffy and infused with the flavors of the sofrito and pigeon peas.

The pigeon peas add a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.

The pork adds a salty and savory element that ties everything together.

If you’re looking for a new rice dish to try, arroz con gandules is a great option.

The dish is flavorful and filling, and can be easily elevated with some simple additions.

Try adding sauteed onions or peppers, or using different kinds of sausage for the pork component.

You can also top the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.

5. Black Beans and Rice

–

Black beans and rice is a classic Cuban dish that is often served as a side dish.

The dish is simple to make and can be easily elevated with the addition of some fresh ingredients.

The taste of black beans and rice is earthy and nutty, with a slight sweetness from the addition of sugar.

The texture of the dish is creamy and smooth, with a slight chewiness from the beans.

If you’re looking for a new side dish to try, black beans and rice is a great option.

The dish is easy to make and can be easily customized to your taste.

Here are some tips on how to elevate your black beans and rice:

• Add some fresh diced tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
• Stir in some chopped cilantro for a bright, herby flavor.
• Top with crispy fried onions or bacon for a bit of crunch.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.

6. Cuban Potato Salad

–

Looking for the perfect side dish to serve with your Cuban sandwich? Try this Cuban potato salad.

It’s packed with flavor and has a great texture that pairs well with the sandwich.

Plus, it’s easy to make and can be elevated to fit any occasion.

This salad is all about the taste and texture.

The potatoes are cooked until they’re tender but still have a little bite to them.

They’re then tossed in a dressing made of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and cumin.

The result is a flavorful and slightly tangy salad that’s perfect for a summer picnic or BBQ.

If you’re looking to elevate this dish, there are a few things you can do.

First, try using different types of potatoes.

Yukon golds or red potatoes would work well in this recipe.

You could also add in some chopped vegetables like red onion or green bell pepper.

Finally, if you want to give it a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

7. Grilled Corn On The Cob

–

Grilled corn on the cob is a summertime staple.

The smoky flavor of the grilled corn pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy flavors of a Cuban sandwich.

The texture of the corn is also a perfect contrast to the crispy bread and juicy meats in the sandwich.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your grilled corn on the cob, consider adding some chili powder or cumin to the spice mix.

This will give the corn an extra kick that pairs well with the bold flavors of the Cuban sandwich.

You can also add some shredded cheese to the top of the corn before serving.

This will add a depth of flavor and make the dish even more irresistible.

8. Papas Rellenas (Stuffed Potatoes)

–

Papas Rellenas are a Cuban specialty that are basically stuffed potatoes.

They are usually filled with meat, but can also be made vegetarian.

The potatoes are deep-fried and the outside is crispy while the inside is fluffy.

The taste and texture of Papas Rellenas are really unique.

The potatoes are stuffed with a flavorful filling and then fried, so you get a mix of crunchy and soft textures in each bite.

The dish is also usually served with a dipping sauce, which adds another layer of flavor.

If you’re looking for something new to try, Papas Rellenas are definitely worth considering.

They make a great appetizer or main course, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.

• Use starchy potatoes that will hold their shape when cooked. Russet potatoes are a good option.
• Boil the potatoes whole, then scoop out the centers once they’re cooked through. This will make them easier to stuff.
• Be generous with the filling. Stuff the potatoes until they’re overflowing, then press the filling down so it’s compact.
• Fry the potatoes in hot oil until they’re golden brown and crispy all over.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Aioli, ketchup, and mustard are all popular options.

9. Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains)

–

Maduros are a dish made of fried sweet plantains that are popular in Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisine.

They can be served as a side dish or as an appetizer.

Maduros are typically served with dipping sauces such as mojo or garlic sauce.

Maduros have a sweet and savory flavor with a slightly chewy texture.

The plantains arefried until they are soft on the inside and golden brown on the outside.

Maduros can be eaten plain or with dipping sauces.

If you’re looking for a new side dish to try, maduros are a great option.

They can be served with any type of protein and make a great appetizer.

• Try serving them with a dipping sauce such as mojo or garlic sauce.
• Add some cheese to the recipe for extra flavor.
• Top maduros with shredded chicken, pork, or beef for a heartier dish.

10. Tomato Soup

–

Tomato soup is a classic for a reason.

Its simple ingredients and comforting taste make it a go-to when the weather gets chilly.

The key to a good tomato soup is in the balance of acid and sweetness.

Too much acidity and the soup will be sour, too much sweetness and it will be cloying.

The best tomatoes for soup are usually plum tomatoes, as they have less water content and more flesh.

This gives the soup a richer texture and deeper flavor.

For a bit of texture contrast, add some chopped cooked bacon or croutons.

And for a bit of an acidic punch, top with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.

A drizzle of olive oil also adds a lovely richness.

Experiment with your favorite herbs to find what you like best – thyme, basil, oregano, and rosemary all work well with tomatoes.

And don’t be afraid to add a little grated cheese on top.

A good tomato soup is hearty and satisfying, and with a few simple tweaks, it can be downright delicious.

11. Veggies with Hummus

–

Hummus is a delicious, nutrient-rich dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.

It’s perfect for dipping vegetables into or spreading on sandwiches.

This dish is not only tasty but also provides a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

The taste and texture of hummus are creamy and smooth with a slightly nutty flavor.

The chickpeas give it a hearty texture while the tahini and olive oil make it rich and creamy.

The lemon juice adds a bright, acidic flavor that balances out the other ingredients.

There are a few tips to consider when making this dish.

First, taste the hummus before adding any additional salt or spices.

The chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice all contain salt so you may not need to add any additional salt.

Second, if you’re finding the hummus too thick, add more liquid until it reaches the desired consistency.

And lastly, if you want to add some extra flavor, try stirring in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes.

12. Fried Pickles

–

Have you ever had a fried pickle? If not, you’re missing out on a delicious and unique experience.

Fried pickles have a crispy, crunchy exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior.

They can be served as an appetizer or side dish, and they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

If you’re looking for a new recipe to try, fried pickles are a great option.

They’re easy to make and can be customized to your liking.

Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

• Start with high-quality pickles. Look for pickles that are fresh and crisp. Avoid pickles that are soft or mushy.
• Cut the pickles into uniform slices. This will help them cook evenly.
• Use a light hand when breading the pickles. Too much breading will make them heavy and greasy.
• Fry the pickles in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the temperature of the oil will drop and the pickles will become soggy.
• Serve immediately. Fried pickles are best when they’re hot and fresh out of the fryer.

13. Cuban Flan

–

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique side dish to serve with your Cuban sandwich, why not try Cuban Flan? This traditional dessert is made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, and has a smooth, creamy texture that is simply irresistible.

The best part about Cuban Flan is that it can be easily elevated to suit any occasion – whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner party.

When it comes to taste, Cuban Flan is definitely on the sweeter side.

The rich flavor of the eggs combined with the sweetness of the sugar makes for a truly decadent treat.

However, if you’re looking to cut down on the sugar content, you can always reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe.

As for texture, Cuban Flan is very smooth and creamy – perfect for those who love a good custard.

If you’re looking for tips on how to elevate your Cuban Flan, why not try serving it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream? You could also dust it with some cocoa powder or cinnamon for an extra special touch.

Whatever you do, just make sure you enjoy every bite.

14. Homemade Coleslaw

–

Is there anything more summery than a picnic? The sun shining, the smell of fresh-cut grass, and of course, all of the delicious food.

One of my favorite dishes to bring to a potluck or outdoor gathering is coleslaw.

It’s light and refreshing, but also filling and satisfying.

Plus, it’s so easy to make.

There are endless ways to customize your coleslaw recipe.

You can add in different vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and even meats.

But my personal favorite way to make coleslaw is with a simple dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt.

This gives the dish a creamy yet tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.

If you’re looking for a dish that is sure to please at your next picnic or barbecue, give this homemade coleslaw recipe a try.

It’s easy to make and can be tailored to your taste. And trust me, it’s worth the effort.

15. Onion Rings

–

Onion rings are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed as a side dish or appetizer.

They are typically made by coating thick slices of onion in batter or breadcrumbs and then deep frying them until they are golden brown and crispy.

One of the best things about onion rings is their combination of textures.

The crispy exterior contrasts perfectly with the soft and juicy interior of the onion.

This dish is also usually quite savory, thanks to the addition of salt to the batter or breadcrumbs.

If you’re looking for a new side dish to try, why not give onion rings a go? They are relatively easy to make at home and can be tailored to your taste preferences.

For a extra crunchy texture, try using panko breadcrumbs in your batter.

You could also experiment with different dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce or ranch dressing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 15 must-try side dishes are the perfect complement to any Cuban sandwich.

From light and healthy options like Tomato Soup and Veggies with Hummus, to heartier dishes like Fried Pickles and Maduros, there’s something for everyone.

So next time you’re wondering what to serve with your Cuban sandwich, be sure to try one (or all) of these delicious side dishes.