What Goes With Reuben Sandwiches

You’ve just built a Reuben masterpiece. Sauerkraut glistens. Swiss cheese oozes. Russian dressing threatens a mutiny. Now what? Don’t just stare at your plate like a deer in headlights. Let’s talk about the sidekicks, the drink buddies, and the weird-but-wonderful pals that make your Reuben a legend.

The Classic Crunch Crew

First, let’s address the obvious hero: the pickle. You need a good kosher dill spear, cold and snappy. It cuts through all that fatty, salty, tangy business like a crisp zing. Don’t settle for a limp, sad pickle. It’s a betrayal of the Reuben’s trust.

Fries are next. But not just any fries. You want skinny, crispy fries. Shoestring or waffle cut? Both are welcome. Dip them in leftover Russian dressing or some malt vinegar. It’s not a crime—it’s a strategy.

Potato Salad? Really?

Yes, really. A classic German potato salad—warm, vinegary, with bacon bits—is a soulmate for the Reuben. Don’t use the creamy, mayo-heavy kind. That’s a different party. The tangy, warm style is a knockout punch.

Or go full American with a pile of colcannon. That’s mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale. It’s like the sauerkraut’s distant cousin who brings better dance moves. Quirky fact: Colcannon was once used as an Irish fortune-telling game. Stick a ring or coin in it. You might find your next date between bites.

Soup’s On, Baby

A bowl of matzo ball soup is a cozy, unexpected pair. The fluffy dumpling is a cloud. The broth is a hug. One minute you’re biting into corned beef, the next you’re floating on chicken-scented clouds. It’s a cultural mash-up that works.

Tomato soup is also a wildcard. Think of it as the Reuben’s shy friend who suddenly starts breakdancing. Dip your sandwich in it. Do it. The tangy tomato and the briny kraut create a flavor volcano. Don’t blame us if you get messy.

Reuben Sandwich

Beer: The Obvious MVP

Let’s talk drinks. A dark stout or a crisp lager is your Reuben’s best buddy. The stout brings roasted chocolate notes. The lager scrubs your palate clean. Avoid sweet cocktails. They’ll fight the sandwich and lose. Funny fact: Reubens were reportedly invented during a poker game in 1914. The owner of the Reuben’s Deli in New York supposedly created it to feed a hungry actor. Beer was definitely there.

What about a Cel-Ray soda? It’s a celery-flavored soda from New York delis. It sounds weird. It tastes like a garden party for your tongue. Celery salt and sugar fizz together. It’s the Reuben’s weird cousin everyone secretly loves.

Salads That Don’t Suck

Don’t roll your eyes. A cabbage slaw with a vinaigrette is a fresh slap. No mayo. Just shredded cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and maybe some caraway seeds. It’s crunchy, bright, and won’t make your sandwich feel lonely.

Try a beet and goat cheese salad. Earthy beets, creamy cheese, and a balsamic drizzle. The sweetness tames the Reuben’s salty punch. It’s like putting a bow tie on a bulldog. Unexpected, yet perfect.

Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe - Saving Room for Dessert

Dessert? Are You Kidding?

If you dare to eat dessert after a Reuben, go light. A lemon sorbet or poached pear cleans your palate. Or have a black and white cookie—a true New York deli classic. It’s soft, sweet, and has zero shame. Fun fact: The black and white cookie was popularized in New York Jewish delis, the same places that perfected the Reuben. It’s a family reunion on a plate.

The Weird, Wonderful Leftovers

What to do with leftover Reuben fixings? Make a Reuben omelet. Chop leftover meat, kraut, and cheese into scrambled eggs. Drizzle with Russian dressing. It’s breakfast crime. It’s glorious. You’ll feel like a culinary rebel.

Or stuff everything into a grilled cheese with extra Swiss. Call it a Reuben’s wild cousin. Dip it in leftover fry sauce. Your arteries will grumble. Your taste buds will throw a parade.

Here’s a pro tip: Never serve your Reuben with a boring side of chips from a bag. You’re better than that. You are a sandwich artist. Treat it like a star. Pair it with something that sings back. Whether it’s a pickle spear, a celery soda, or a warm potato salad, make it memorable.

So go ahead. Build your plate. Experiment. Laugh at the weird combos. The Reuben is a forgiving sandwich. It loves adventure. And so should you. Now, go eat. Your Reuben is waiting.