Best sides to serve with soup

• Turn simple soup into a filling supper with these quick side dishes
• Pair soups with grilled cheese, hearty salads, or savoury bakes
• Use roasted vegetables or stuffed potatoes to add nutrition and bulk

There is little more comforting than a warm bowl of soup, but it often leaves you wanting something more. Transforming soup from a simple starter to a complete, filling supper is easier than you think with these quick and satisfying side dishes.

The Elevated Grilled Cheese

The classic pairing for tomato soup is a grilled cheese sandwich, and for good reason. The combination is a nostalgic favourite that balances the soup's acidity with rich, buttery, and cheesy goodness. But you don't have to stop at a simple slice of cheese between bread. Elevate this classic by using quality bread like sourdough or brioche. Experiment with different melting cheeses such as Gruyère, Gouda, or even a creamy brie. Add a layer of complexity with fillings like caramelised onions, a thin slice of ham, fig jam, or a spread of pesto. For a quick and flavourful twist, a mozzarella and basil toast offers a fresh, Italian-inspired take.

Hearty and Wholesome Salads

A salad is a perfect way to add freshness and crunch, but to make it a filling side, it needs substance. A simple green salad won't cut it. Instead, opt for robust salads that can stand up to a hearty soup. A warm spinach salad with bacon and a tangy dressing can be a delicious counterpart. For something with a bit more heft, consider a grain salad featuring quinoa, farro, or couscous mixed with roasted vegetables. Bean salads, like a black bean and corn salsa, add both protein and fibre. Even a classic Caesar or a peppery arugula salad can be made more substantial with the addition of grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a hard-boiled egg.

Quick Savoury Bakes

When you crave something warm and bready but want a change from a sandwich, quick savoury bakes are the answer. Flaky garlic and cheddar biscuits can be prepared in under 15 minutes before they go into the oven and offer a buttery, cheesy bite. Savoury muffins are another versatile option. You can also turn to quesadillas, which are incredibly fast and can be filled with cheese, vegetables, or beans for a satisfyingly crispy and gooey side. Even simple breadsticks or store-bought flatbreads like naan or pita can be quickly warmed and served for dipping.

The Stuffed Potato

A baked potato is practically a meal in itself, making it a fantastic partner for lighter, broth-based soups. A classic baked potato can be loaded with cheese, sour cream, and chives, or you can get more creative. For a vegetarian spin on a creamy soup, try pouring something like a broccoli-cheese soup directly over a split baked potato. Sweet potatoes also work wonderfully; simply bake them until tender and top with butter, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a dollop of Greek yoghurt and a sprinkle of chilli powder for a sweet and savoury contrast.

Roasted Vegetables with a Twist

A side of roasted vegetables adds both nutrients and texture to your meal. To keep things quick, choose vegetables that cook fast like asparagus, green beans, cauliflower, or broccoli. Tossing cauliflower florets in an air fryer with some spices can result in a tender-crisp side in about 15 minutes. For a more substantial vegetable side, consider roasted delicata squash rings—the skin is edible, so prep is minimal. To add protein and a satisfying crunch, try roasting chickpeas with olive oil and smoked paprika until crispy; they can be served on the side or used as a crouton-like topping.