Cornish hens are a versatile and delicious main dish that can be elevated with the right side dishes. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or a casual dinner, choosing the best sides is essential to complete your meal and enhance the flavors.
So, what should you serve with Cornish hens? In this article, we’ll explore a variety of options that cater to every taste and occasion. From classic and indulgent sides to refreshing salads and vegetable dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and take your Cornish hen dinner to a whole new level!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right side dishes can enhance the flavors of Cornish hens and elevate your meal.
- Classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes pair well with Cornish hens.
- Vegetable sides like Brussels sprouts with bacon and roasted asparagus add freshness and balance to the plate.
- Indulgent options like macaroni and cheese and garlic bread can add a touch of decadence to your meal.
- Salad sides like winter tossed salad and panzanella salad provide a refreshing and light option.
Classic Side Dishes for Cornish Hens
When it comes to serving Cornish hens, classic side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Two timeless favorites that pair perfectly with these succulent birds are mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes.
First up, we have mashed potatoes. Creamy, rich, and full of flavor, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. The smooth texture and buttery taste perfectly complement the savory meat of the Cornish hens.
If you’re looking for a side dish that brings both crunch and creaminess to the table, roasted potatoes are the way to go. The golden, crispy exterior of the roasted potatoes gives way to a soft and fluffy interior, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes are the quintessential classic sides for Cornish hens. Their timeless appeal and delicious flavors make them a favorite choice among home cooks and gastronomy enthusiasts alike.
Mashed Potatoes Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a handheld mixer until smooth.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the heavy cream and warm until hot but not boiling.
- Pour the butter and cream mixture over the mashed potatoes and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the mashed potatoes alongside the Cornish hens for a classic and comforting side dish.
Roasted Potatoes Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and serve the roasted potatoes alongside the Cornish hens for a delicious and satisfying side dish.
With these classic side dishes, your Cornish hen meal is sure to be a hit. The smooth and creamy mashed potatoes and the crispy and flavorful roasted potatoes add depth and texture to each bite, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Delicious Vegetable Sides for Cornish Hens
Adding vegetable sides to your Cornish hen meal can bring freshness and balance to the plate. Not only do vegetables provide important nutrients, but they also add vibrant colors and textures to the overall presentation. For those looking to enhance their Cornish hen dining experience, two delicious vegetable side dishes stand out – Brussels sprouts with bacon and roasted brussels sprouts with sweet potatoes.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe
If you want to add a savory and indulgent twist to your Cornish hens, consider serving Brussels sprouts with bacon. The combination of these flavorful ingredients creates a mouthwatering side dish that will tantalize your taste buds. Here is a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
This Brussels sprouts with bacon recipe brings together the smoky and salty flavors of bacon with the earthy taste of the Brussels sprouts. The result is a delightful side dish that complements the Cornish hens perfectly.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a side dish that combines sweetness and crunch, roasted brussels sprouts with sweet potatoes is a fantastic choice. The caramelization of the sweet potatoes and the crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts create a delightful contrast that will elevate your Cornish hen meal. Here’s a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, olive oil, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the vegetables are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
This roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes recipe provides a winning combination of flavors and textures. The sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness, while the Brussels sprouts provide a satisfying crunch. Together, they create a memorable side dish that will impress your guests.
Vegetable Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Key Ingredients |
---|---|---|
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon | Savory, Smoky | Brussels sprouts, bacon |
Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes | Sweet, Crunchy | Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes |
These vegetable side dishes not only add variety to your Cornish hen meal but also pack a punch of flavor. Whether you prefer the savory combination of Brussels sprouts and bacon or the sweet and crunchy blend of roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, these dishes will take your dining experience to the next level.
Indulgent Sides for Cornish Hens
Sometimes, a little indulgence is necessary when serving Cornish hens. These tender and flavorful birds deserve to be accompanied by sides that are equally indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, these indulgent sides will take your Cornish hens to the next level.
Macaroni and Cheese
When it comes to comfort food, macaroni and cheese takes the top spot. This creamy and cheesy side dish is the perfect complement to the succulent meat of Cornish hens. The combination of tender pasta and gooey melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone craving for more. Serve it as a side or even as a main course, and watch as it disappears from the plate in no time.
Garlic Bread
Crusty, buttery, and aromatic, garlic bread is a classic indulgence that pairs beautifully with Cornish hens. Made with crispy baguette slices slathered in garlic-infused butter and toasted to perfection, this side dish adds a delightful crunch and savory kick to the meal. It’s the perfect vessel for mopping up any remaining sauce or juices from the hens, ensuring that no flavor goes to waste.
Indulge in these delectable sides and elevate your Cornish hen experience to new heights. Whether you choose the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese or the aromatic delight of garlic bread, these indulgent sides will leave your taste buds satisfied and your guests impressed.
Indulgent Sides for Cornish Hens | Recipe |
---|---|
Macaroni and Cheese | Spruce Eats |
Garlic Bread | AllRecipes |
Salad Sides for Cornish Hens
If you’re looking for a refreshing and light option to accompany your Cornish hens, salad sides are the perfect choice. Not only do they add vibrant flavors and textures to your meal, but they also provide a healthy and balanced element. With a variety of salad options available, you can choose the ones that best suit your taste preferences and complement the Cornish hens.
Winter Tossed Salad Recipe
One delightful salad option to consider is the Winter Tossed Salad. This salad combines crisp greens with seasonal ingredients such as pears, pecans, and cranberries, offering a burst of flavors. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing, this salad adds a refreshing touch to the Cornish hen meal.
Panzanella Salad Recipe
Another fantastic choice is the Panzanella Salad. This Italian-style salad features chunks of crusty bread, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh basil, creating a delightful medley of flavors. The combination of textures and the vibrant colors of this salad make it a visually appealing addition to your Cornish hens.
Whether you opt for the Winter Tossed Salad or the Panzanella Salad, these salad sides provide a burst of freshness and lightness that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the Cornish hens. So, enhance your meal with these vibrant and healthy salads for a memorable dining experience.
Salad Side | Description |
---|---|
Winter Tossed Salad | A refreshing salad with crisp greens, pears, pecans, and cranberries, tossed in a tangy vinaigrette dressing. |
Panzanella Salad | An Italian-style salad featuring crusty bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh basil, creating a delightful medley of flavors and textures. |
Vegetable Sides for Cornish Hens
When it comes to creating a well-rounded and satisfying Cornish hen meal, vegetable sides play a crucial role. Not only do they add vibrant colors to your plate, but they also provide essential nutrients and a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the hens. Two great options to consider are sautéed kale and roasted asparagus.
Sautéed Kale
Kale, with its hearty texture and earthy taste, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that pairs beautifully with Cornish hens. Try this simple sautéed kale recipe for a side dish that is both delicious and packed with goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch kale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the kale, then remove the tough stems and chop the leaves.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped kale to the skillet and toss to coat it with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale wilts and becomes tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot as a flavorful vegetable side dish for your Cornish hens.
Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus, with its delicate and slightly bitter flavor, is a classic vegetable that harmonizes perfectly with Cornish hens. This easy roasted asparagus recipe adds a touch of elegance to your meal, with minimal effort required.
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash the asparagus and trim off the tough ends.
- Spread the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Remove from the oven and serve the roasted asparagus alongside your delicious Cornish hens.
Vegetable Sides | Recipes |
---|---|
Sautéed Kale | Sautéed kale recipe |
Roasted Asparagus | Roasted asparagus recipe |
Appetizers to Serve with Cornish Hens
To kick off your Cornish hen meal on a delicious note, consider serving appetizers that will tantalize the taste buds. These delectable starters will set the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. The creamy and savory filling, combined with a hint of tang from the mustard and a sprinkle of paprika, creates a burst of flavor in every bite. They are not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for entertaining.
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
For a delightful combination of flavors and textures, try bacon-wrapped brussels sprouts. The crispy bacon adds a savory touch, while the tender sprouts bring a hint of sweetness to the dish. These bite-sized treats are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, elevating your Cornish hen meal to new heights.
With these appetizers, you can set the stage for a delectable dining experience with your Cornish hens. Whether you choose the classic elegance of deviled eggs or the savory indulgence of bacon-wrapped brussels sprouts, these starters will leave your guests craving for more.
Appetizer | Description |
---|---|
Deviled Eggs | A classic appetizer with creamy, tangy filling topped with paprika. |
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts | Bite-sized sprouts wrapped in crispy bacon for a savory-sweet flavor. |
Special Occasion Sides for Cornish Hens
When it comes to special occasions, you want to create a meal that is truly memorable. Elevate your Cornish hen feast with these decadent and flavorful side dishes that are sure to impress your guests.
Creamed Spinach Recipe
Add a touch of indulgence to your Cornish hens with a creamy and savory side of creamed spinach. This classic dish is made by sautéing fresh spinach with onions, garlic, and butter, then simmering it in a rich and velvety cream sauce. The creamy textures and bold flavors of the spinach perfectly complement the tender and succulent hens.
Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe
For a show-stopping side dish, look no further than twice baked potatoes. These hearty and flavorful potatoes are baked, scooped out, mixed with a creamy filling of cheese, butter, sour cream, and herbs, then baked again to golden perfection. The result is a creamy and cheesy potato dish with a crispy and flavorful exterior, making it the perfect accompaniment to Cornish hens.
With creamed spinach and twice baked potatoes on your menu, your special occasion Cornish hen meal is guaranteed to be a resounding success. These sides not only add richness and depth of flavor, but they also create an elegant and festive ambiance for your gathering.
Christmas Dinner Sides for Cornish Hens
Celebrating Christmas with Cornish hens? Complete your holiday meal with classic sides like cranberry sauce and roasted root vegetables. These dishes add festive flavors and colors to your dinner table.
1. Cranberry Sauce Recipe
Nothing says Christmas like a tangy and sweet cranberry sauce. This simple recipe combines fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange zest for a delicious accompaniment to your Cornish hens. Serve it warm or chilled for a burst of flavor that complements the savory meat.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables Recipe
Add a touch of earthiness to your Christmas dinner with roasted root vegetables. Carrots, parsnips, turnips, and potatoes are tossed in olive oil, seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme, then roasted to perfection. The caramelized flavors and vibrant colors of these roasted vegetables make them an ideal side dish for Cornish hens.
Complete your Christmas feast with these delightful sides, bringing a festive touch to your Cornish hen meal. The cranberry sauce adds a pop of tanginess and sweetness, while the roasted root vegetables provide a comforting and flavorful addition to the plate.
Decadent Desserts to Serve with Cornish Hens
End your Cornish hen meal on a sweet note with decadent desserts. Baked apples and peach crisp, with their warm and fruity flavors, are delightful choices that complement the savory hens.
When it comes to desserts for Cornish hens, you want something that brings a touch of indulgence to the table. These desserts not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also balance out the richness of the main dish.
First up, baked apples. This classic dessert is a perfect match for Cornish hens. The tender and slightly tart apples are filled with a delicious mixture of cinnamon, brown sugar, and butter, creating a warm and comforting treat. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence.
“Baked apples are the ultimate comfort dessert. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, paired with a buttery crumble, is simply irresistible.” – Julia Smith, Pastry Chef
If you crave a dessert with a bit more texture, try peach crisp. This fruity dessert features juicy peaches topped with a crispy and buttery oat and almond crumble. The natural sweetness of the peaches shines through, making it a refreshing and light ending to your Cornish hen meal.
Dessert | Description |
---|---|
Baked Apples | Tender and tart apples filled with a cinnamon and brown sugar mixture, topped with a buttery crumble. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. |
Peach Crisp | Juicy peaches baked with a crispy oat and almond crumble, highlighting the natural sweetness of the fruit. |
These desserts not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the Cornish hens. The warm and fruity notes of the baked apples and the refreshing taste of the peach crisp create a perfect ending to your meal.
Don’t Forget the Nuts
If you want to add some crunch and richness to your desserts, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Pecans or walnuts work particularly well with both baked apples and peach crisp. Simply chop them and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Sprinkle them over your desserts just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Now that you have these decadent dessert options, you can impress your guests with a memorable Cornish hen meal from start to finish.
Conclusion
When it comes to pairing side dishes with Cornish hens, the possibilities are abundant. Whether you opt for classic favorites or venture into unique and indulgent choices, there is a perfect accompaniment for every palate. Consider your personal preferences and the occasion, and let your creativity soar when selecting side dishes to serve with Cornish hens.
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potatoes are timeless pairings that add richness to the meal. If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables, options like flavorful Brussels sprouts with bacon or roasted asparagus highlight the freshness and nutritional value of the hens. For those seeking indulgence, macaroni and cheese or garlic bread make for irresistible choices.
Don’t forget about salads, which bring a refreshing and light element to your Cornish hen feast. Winter tossed salad or the vibrant panzanella salad add pops of flavor and texture to complement the main dish. And for special occasions or holidays like Christmas, classic sides like cranberry sauce or roasted root vegetables add festive touches that enhance the dining experience.
In the end, the key is to have fun and experiment with different pairings. Let your taste buds guide you and try out new combinations to create a meal with Cornish hens that will leave a lasting impression on your guests. So, get ready to dine in style and enjoy the plethora of possibilities when choosing what to serve with Cornish hens!
FAQ
What are some classic side dishes for Cornish hens?
Classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and roasted potatoes are the perfect complement to Cornish hens.
What are some delicious vegetable sides for Cornish hens?
Brussels sprouts with bacon and roasted brussels sprouts with sweet potatoes are flavorful options to consider.
What indulgent sides can I serve with Cornish hens?
Macaroni and cheese and garlic bread are both delicious choices.
Are there any salad sides that go well with Cornish hens?
Winter tossed salad and panzanella salad are refreshing and light options to consider.
What vegetable sides pair well with Cornish hens?
Sautéed kale and roasted asparagus are both delicious choices to add color and nutrition to your meal.
What are some appetizers to serve with Cornish hens?
Deviled eggs and bacon-wrapped brussels sprouts make for delightful and flavorful starters.
Any special occasion sides that pair well with Cornish hens?
Creamed spinach and twice baked potatoes are perfect choices for a festive feast.
What are some Christmas dinner sides to serve with Cornish hens?
Cranberry sauce and roasted root vegetables add festive flavors and colors to your dinner table.
What decadent desserts can I serve with Cornish hens?
Baked apples and peach crisp are delightful choices to end your meal on a sweet note.
What are some pairing ideas for Cornish hens?
From classic favorites to unique and indulgent choices, there is something for everyone. Consider your personal preferences and the occasion, and get creative with your side dish selection to create a memorable meal with Cornish hens.
Source Links
- https://getonmyplate.com/what-to-serve-with-cornish-hens/
- https://insanelygoodrecipes.com/what-to-serve-with-cornish-hens/
- https://www.corriecooks.com/what-to-serve-with-cornish-hens/
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