Complement the Flavors of Lamb Sausage with These Savory Sides

Lamb sausage brings a distinctively rich, savory, and slightly gamey flavor to the table. With its hearty meatiness, lamb sausage pairs wonderfully with sides that provide contrast through texture, acidity, creaminess, and herbs. Read on for 12 delicious side dish ideas that will perfectly complement the bold taste of lamb sausage.

Balance Lamb’s Richness with Tart, Bright Acidity

The rich fattiness of lamb sausage calls out for a bright, acidic counterpoint. Tart lemon and tangy yogurt offer just the right contrast. This Lamb Sausage with Lemon Orzo and Mint Chutney features a zesty chutney lemony orzo, and grilled lamb skewers. The fresh herbs and acidity balance the hearty meat. For another lemony option, a simple salad of arugula, shaved fennel and lemon vinaigrette would also pair beautifully.

Yogurt-based sides like tzatziki raita or cucumber salad offer a creamy tang that compliments lamb sausage’s rich meatiness. Try serving the sausages with a classic tzatziki of Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon, and fresh dill. The cooling yogurt and acidity of the lemon and garlic cut through the lamb’s richness perfectly.

Complement with Fresh Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs and spices liven up lamb sausage’s savory flavor. Mint cilantro parsley, oregano, and marjoram all pair deliciously with lamb. This Lamb Sausage with Lemon Orzo and Mint Chutney features a vibrant mint and cilantro chutney that complements the lamb skewers beautifully. Likewise, a tabbouleh salad made with bulgur, tomatoes, parsley, mint, and lemon dressing would make an ideal side.

For a heartier herb-filled side, whip up a skillet of braised greens like kale or chard sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Finish them with a squeeze of lemon and some chopped fresh oregano or marjoram. The greens’ pleasant bitterness forms a nice contrast to the lamb sausage’s richness.

Spices like cumin, coriander, and curry powders also complement lamb sausage wonderfully. Try serving the sausages with roasted cauliflower or potatoes seasoned with warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon. The aromatics will draw out the lamb flavor beautifully.

Creamy, Comforting Carb Sides

Rich, comforting carbs pair perfectly with lamb sausage’s hearty meatiness. Creamy risotto, cheesy polenta, and buttery mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up the lamb flavors. For an easy weeknight meal, simmer the sausages in tomato sauce and then toss them with pasta. The rich, meaty sauce coats the noodles deliciously. Or serve the sausages over creamy, cheese-studded polenta or grits for satisfying comfort food.

Buttery mashed potatoes are another classic pairing for lamb sausage. For extra flavor, try mashing the potatoes with roasted garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or celery root also complement the lamb sausage nicely. The natural sweetness balances the lamb’s richness. Roast them coated in olive oil, salt, and pepper for caramelized flavor.

Fresh, Crisp Veggie Sides

Fresh, crisp vegetables add color and texture contrast to rich lamb sausage. A simple salad of shaved fennel, arugula, and shaved Parmesan dressed with olive oil and lemon works perfectly. Other easy veggie sides include roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus. The charred veggies provide pleasant charred flavors that pair nicely with the lamb.

For heartier veggie sides, sautéed spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or broccolini round out the meal beautifully. Cook the veggies in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes for a flavor boost. You can also roast cauliflower or squash tossed in oil and spices for more depth of flavor. The vegetables’ bright colors and textures offset the lamb sausage’s hearty richness.

Easy Appetizer Pairings

For a casual gathering or game day appetizer, lamb sausage pairs wonderfully with many dips and finger foods. Try slicing the sausages and serving them with homemade hummus, baba ganoush, or muhammara (a red pepper and walnut dip). The dips’ creaminess complements the lamb’s richness. You can also slice the sausages and serve them with crispy pita chips or pita bread.

Lamb sausage meatballs also make fantastic appetizers. Skewer them and serve them with a tangy yogurt or tahini dipping sauce. Another easy idea is stuffing the sausage meat into grape leaves along with rice, garlic, and herbs. Serve the grape leaf dolmas warm with lemon wedges for squeezing over top.

Put It All Together – Sample Menus with Lamb Sausage

To help you put together a full meal with lamb sausage, here are some sample menus:

• Lamb sausage sandwiches with caramelized onions, arugula, and feta cheese, served with lemon oregano roasted potatoes

• Lamb sausage and orzo skillet with tomatoes, spinach, and feta, served with a Greek salad

• Lamb sausage cassoulet with great northern beans, tomatoes, and rosemary, served with a baguette and side salad

• Lamb sausage lasagna with spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, served with garlic bread

• Lamb sausage with braised lentils, carrots, and cumin, served with rice pilaf

With so many flavors to balance lamb sausage’s rich meatiness, the possibilities are endless. I hope these side dish ideas have sparked some inspiration for your next lamb sausage meal. Let the savory lamb shine by pairing it with fresh herbs, spices, tart citrus, creamy dips, or crisp vegetables. With the right combinations, you can create a truly memorable feast.