Hollandaise sauce is a classic French sauce that has been around for centuries. Made from egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and warm butter, this rich and creamy sauce is one of the five mother sauces in French cuisine.
It’s commonly served as a finishing sauce for eggs Benedict, poached fish, and asparagus. But what else can you pair this delicious sauce with? If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and experiment with hollandaise sauce, you’re in luck!
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best dishes to serve with hollandaise sauce. From classic pairings to unexpected combinations, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the many ways to enjoy this versatile sauce!
What Does Hollandaise Sauce Go With?
Hollandaise sauce is a versatile sauce that can be paired with a variety of dishes. Its rich and creamy texture makes it the perfect complement to many different foods. Here are some of the best dishes to serve with hollandaise sauce:
1. Vegetables: Hollandaise sauce is a classic pairing with asparagus, but it also goes well with other vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and green beans. Simply steam or roast the vegetables and drizzle the hollandaise sauce over them.
2. Fish: Hollandaise sauce is a natural pairing with fish, especially poached or grilled salmon, halibut, or cod. The sauce adds a rich and buttery flavor that complements the delicate flavor of the fish.
3. Chicken: Hollandaise sauce can also be used as a topping for chicken dishes. Try it on top of grilled or roasted chicken breasts for a decadent twist on a classic dish.
4. Eggs: Of course, hollandaise sauce is most commonly served with eggs Benedict, but it can also be used as a topping for other egg dishes like omelets or frittatas.
5. Sandwiches: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a spread on sandwiches, especially those with ham or turkey. It adds a rich and tangy flavor that takes the sandwich to the next level.
6. Potatoes: Hollandaise sauce is a delicious topping for baked potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. It adds a creamy and indulgent flavor that pairs perfectly with the starchy potatoes.
7. Pasta: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a creamy pasta sauce, especially when paired with seafood like shrimp or scallops.
Classic Pairings: Eggs Benedict And Beyond
One of the most classic pairings for hollandaise sauce is with eggs Benedict. This dish consists of a toasted English muffin topped with Canadian bacon or ham, a poached egg, and hollandaise sauce. The rich and buttery flavor of the sauce complements the savory flavors of the bacon and egg perfectly.
But don’t stop at eggs Benedict! Hollandaise sauce can be used in a variety of other breakfast and brunch dishes. Try it on top of scrambled eggs or as a topping for a breakfast sandwich.
Hollandaise sauce also pairs well with other brunch classics like quiches and frittatas. The creamy texture of the sauce adds a decadent touch to these savory egg dishes.
For a lighter option, try pairing hollandaise sauce with steamed asparagus or other vegetables. The sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the freshness of the vegetables.
Seafood Delights: Poached Fish And Shellfish
When it comes to seafood, hollandaise sauce pairs exceptionally well with poached fish and shellfish. Poached salmon with capers and hollandaise sauce is a classic dish that is both elegant and easy to make. The rich and buttery flavor of the sauce complements the delicate flavor of the poached salmon, creating a dish that is bursting with bright, vibrant taste.
Hollandaise sauce also goes well with other types of poached fish like halibut or cod. The sauce adds a luxurious touch to these mild-flavored fish, making them even more delicious.
Shellfish like shrimp and scallops are another great option for serving with hollandaise sauce. The creamy texture of the sauce pairs perfectly with the tender texture of these delicate seafood options. For a twist on traditional pasta dishes, try serving hollandaise sauce over pasta with shrimp or scallops for a decadent and flavorful meal.
It is important to note that when preparing seafood dishes with hollandaise sauce, it is crucial to use the freshest ingredients possible and to handle them carefully to ensure food safety. Proper cooking techniques and temperature control are essential to avoid any potential health risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked seafood.
Green Goodness: Asparagus And Other Vegetables
Asparagus is a classic vegetable to pair with hollandaise sauce, and for good reason. The crisp and slightly sweet flavor of asparagus pairs perfectly with the rich and buttery flavor of hollandaise sauce. Simply steam or roast the asparagus and drizzle the sauce over it for a quick and easy side dish.
But asparagus is not the only vegetable that goes well with hollandaise sauce. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and green beans also pair well with this creamy sauce. Roast or steam the vegetables until tender, then drizzle with hollandaise sauce for a delicious and indulgent side dish.
Hollandaise sauce can also be used to elevate simple salads. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers, then top with a poached egg and a generous drizzle of hollandaise sauce.
For a heartier meal, try serving hollandaise sauce with roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes. The starchy potatoes pair well with the rich and creamy sauce, making for a filling and satisfying side dish.
Meaty Marvels: Steak And Beyond
When it comes to pairing hollandaise sauce with meat, steak is a classic choice. Filet mignon, beef tenderloin, or a similar cut of meat topped with hollandaise sauce and jumbo lump crab or lobster meat is known as an Oscar-style steak. However, hollandaise sauce can also be paired with other meats like chicken, fish, lamb, and pork.
For a perfectly cooked steak, allow it to come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes and up to 90 minutes. Pat the meat dry with paper towels and coat it with canola or grape seed oil. Salt well and add pepper to taste. Heat oil in a cast iron pan on high heat for 1 minute and put the steaks in the hot pan. Immediately turn the heat down to medium to medium-high and sear untouched for at least 3 minutes. Flip the steaks and cook for another 2-5 minutes depending on how rare or well-done you like your meat. Use the finger test or a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the steak to test doneness.
Aside from steak, hollandaise sauce can also be paired with lamb or pork for a more robust flavor. Grilled or roasted lamb chops or pork tenderloin topped with hollandaise sauce make for a delicious and indulgent meal.
Unexpected Combinations: Hollandaise Sauce With Surprising Dishes
While hollandaise sauce is commonly associated with breakfast and brunch dishes, it can also be used in unexpected ways to enhance other meals. Here are some surprising dishes that are elevated by the addition of hollandaise sauce:
1. Grilled Steak: While hollandaise sauce may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about steak toppings, it can add a unique and delicious flavor. Try drizzling hollandaise sauce over a grilled ribeye or filet mignon for a decadent twist.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Hollandaise sauce is not just limited to steamed or roasted vegetables. Try grilling vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers and topping them with hollandaise sauce for a smoky and flavorful dish.
3. Pizza: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a base for pizza instead of traditional tomato sauce. Top with ingredients like bacon, mushrooms, and spinach for a delicious and unique pizza experience.
4. Tacos: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a creamy and tangy topping for tacos. Try it on top of fish tacos or grilled chicken tacos for a flavorful twist.
5. Burgers: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a gourmet topping for burgers, especially those made with beef or turkey. Add some caramelized onions and arugula for a delicious and sophisticated burger experience.
6. Grilled Cheese: Hollandaise sauce can be used as a spread on grilled cheese sandwiches instead of traditional butter or mayo. Add some ham or bacon for an extra indulgent treat.
By thinking outside the box, you can discover new and unexpected ways to enjoy hollandaise sauce with your favorite dishes.
