What Goes With A Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved deli classic that combines corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing between slices of grilled rye bread. Its rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture have made it a favorite choice for lunch enthusiasts and comfort food lovers alike. But no sandwich exists in isolation — the sides and accompaniments you choose can elevate the entire dining experience. Understanding what goes with a Reuben is essential for creating a well-balanced, enjoyable meal.

The key purpose of pairing the right sides with a Reuben is to complement and contrast its bold flavors while providing variety in taste and texture. A Reuben is heavy, salty, and tangy, so the best pairings either cut through those intense qualities or add a refreshing counterbalance. Think of it as an exercise in flavor harmony — each element on the plate should work together to make every bite feel complete rather than overwhelming. This approach helps people turn a simple sandwich into a thoughtful, restaurant-quality meal at home.

The most traditional companion to a Reuben is a classic Kosher dill pickle — crisp, briny, and sharp. The pickle's acidity refreshes the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy sandwich, preventing flavors from becoming monotonous. Alongside the pickle, potato chips or homemade batch-cooked fries are a staple for good reason: their salty crunch provides a textural contrast to the soft bread and melted cheese. These simple additions are what you would typically find at a classic deli like Katz's in New York or a neighborhood Jewish eatery.

For those looking to balance out the meal with something lighter, a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette or a bowl of tomato soup can work beautifully. The acidity in tomato soup mirrors the tang of sauerkraut while introducing a warm, comforting element. A coleslaw, especially one with a tangy vinegar-based dressing, is another excellent choice, as its crispness and freshness lighten the heavier aspects of the sandwich. Imagine hosting a casual lunch with friends where you offer the Reuben alongside a crisp coleslaw and a light potato salad — the combination feels balanced and satisfying without leaving anyone feeling sluggish.

When it comes to beverages, the ideal partners to a Reuben include iced tea, lager beer, or a crisp dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc. A Belgian-style wheat beer with subtle citrus notes can cut through the richness of melted Swiss cheese, while a bold Irish stout mirrors the sandwich's hearty depth. Even a simple sparkling water with lemon serves as an excellent palate cleanser, especially if the meal leans heavily on salty and tangy flavors. Choosing the right drink is often the overlooked piece that brings everything together.

Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe - Saving Room for Dessert

To explore pairings on your own, start with the simplest approach: try your Reuben with a pickle and chips first, then gradually experiment with heavier or lighter sides across several meals. Keep a mental note of which combinations leave you feeling satisfied versus overstuffed. Vary ingredients — try swapping Russian dressing for mustard-based alternatives in your sides, or add a seasonal vegetable like roasted Brussels sprouts for an unexpected twist. Most importantly, trust your own palate; the best pairing is the one that makes you enjoy the meal most.

In the end, knowing what goes with a Reuben is about far more than following a recipe — it is about understanding how flavor, texture, and freshness interact on a plate. The right side dish transforms a solitary sandwich into a complete, memorable dining experience that satisfies not just hunger but also the joy of good food. Whether you prefer the classic deli spread or a modern, inventive approach, the perfect accompaniment is one that honors the Reuben while offering something new to discover on every plate.