Beef tips are cubes of tenderloin or sirloin steak with marbling that makes them tender. Perfect for skewers, beef bourguignon or stews, beef tips make a hardy, comforting meal perfect for a weeknight dinner. Choose side dishes for a meal that includes beef tips that feature a similar level of richness but whose flavor provides a lighter counterpoint.
Vegetables
Mashed or pureed root vegetables and squash are classic accompaniments to a beef main dish. Dress up ordinary mashed Russet potatoes with garlic, chives, cumin or saffron. Puree cooked sweet potatoes, parsnips, butternut squash or rutabagas for a healthy side dish. Combine the mashed veggies with plain yogurt, sour cream or butter, and season them with salt and pepper. For a green option, saute broccoli rabe in olive oil and season with lemon juice.
Grains
Include a grain side dish in your meal to provide the essential complex carbohydrates your body needs for energy. Short grain brown rice braised with chicken stock, mushrooms and asparagus makes a savory, creamy risotto. Prepare fluffy couscous with curry and chick peas alongside an Indian-themed beef dinner. A side of buttered egg noodles is a simple, quick and flavorful crowd pleaser.
Casseroles and Salads
Bake a casserole side dish, or toss together fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs in a salad. Make scalloped potatoes baked with sour cream, mascarpone or plain yogurt. A gourmet version of macaroni and cheese includes Gruyere, goat and Swiss cheeses, bread crumbs and penne pasta. Toss together arugula, shallots, champagne vinegar, sliced cherry tomatoes and Mandarin orange slices for a healthful, flavor-balanced salad.
Bread
A meal sometimes feels more complete when it includes a side dish of dinner rolls or biscuits. A package of yeast dinner rolls from the frozen-food aisle is a classic choice. If time permits, add herbs, such as rosemary, and sea salt to homemade rolls. A savory biscuit recipe includes cheese and scallions -- a perfect finishing touch.
References
- "The New Food Lover's Companion"; Sharon Tyler Herbst, et al.; 2007
- "Cook's Illustrated"; Steak Tips; May 2003
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