3 Tips for Pairing Wine & Vegetarian Dishes
Eat your veggies!
Even though we love our steaks, chops, roasts, and other meaty dishes, many people are switching to more plant-based meals and menus. Whether you go whole vegetarian or just pile on the veggies, it’s time to explore the best wines that complement meatless dishes! There is such a wide range of veggie options; it’s not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing a wine, so let’s take a look at some of the basics and where to start.
Ingredients
Light, fresh, and delicious!
With the variety of veggie dishes available, don’t put all vegetarian pairings under one umbrella. If you have a hearty lentil stew, consider a wine that can hold up to something robust such as a Cabernet or Merlot. But if you’re having a medley of steamed or roasted vegetables, consider a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. Traditionally, earthy mushrooms go really nicely with Pinot Noir (look for one from Burgundy, France, for the best match-up.) Also, think about the acidity level of your dish. For vegetarian dishes with tomatoes, vinegar, and citrus, look for wines with a higher acidity so they can cut through the sharpness in the food, such as Chianti, when you’re having pasta with tomato sauce. Other high-acidic wines are Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Albariño, Chablis, or even Champagne.
Flavors
What are the primary flavors and seasonings used in the dish? Besides thinking about the ingredients, focus on taste. If you’re serving a spicy stir fry, try pairing it with a fruity red; if you're serving a mild, herbed salad, choose a wine that won’t overpower the delicate greens and herbs, such as a dry Riesling.
Textures
No meat, no problem!
We're looking for a wine that will be a nice balance and complement the overall texture. Pair a creamy pasta dish with a silky Pinot Noir, or add the bubbly essence of Brut or Prosecco to crisp tempura.
This list can get you started on pairing wines with veggie food, but in the end, it all boils down to what you like and what tastes good to you. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy!
Want to learn more about pairing food and wine? Check out our tastings and pairings at Boston Winery. We have exciting events all through the month!
