Weird But Worthy Food Combos
When it comes to food pairings, there are lots of tried-and-true combinations to consider. But there are also lesser-known ones that pack a surprising punch. If you want to explore new foods and flavors, this is a list of 20 items you absolutely need to try together. Did we miss any of your favorite pairings?
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1. Strawberries and Feta
Strawberries and feta taste like a delightful contrast of sweet and savory. The fresh, juicy sweetness of the strawberries complements the salty, tangy creaminess of the feta. This pairing is versatile and can be used in salads, crostini, or even as a simple snack that tastes gourmet.
2. Sandwiches with Chips
The textures contrast so well, and the fact that you get both crunchy and soft in every bite makes each mouthful so much more enjoyable. The burst of salty, crunchy chips with the gooey or savory filling is also just a surprise of flavor that is always welcome. It's a pairing that turns a plain old sandwich into a fun and easy meal that just feels so nostalgic.
3. Mango and Prosciutto
Mango and prosciutto is one of those sweet-and-salty flavor combos that's both refreshing and just a bit decadent. The juicy tropical sweetness of mango is balanced by savory, fatty prosciutto. It makes for a light appetizer or snack that's surprisingly elegant but totally effortless.
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4. Cottage Cheese and Honey
The combination of cottage cheese and honey is creamy and sweet with a pleasant mild tang. Simple as it is, the blend of flavors can be surprisingly satisfying. Cottage cheese's tangy creaminess pairs well with the floral sweetness of honey.
5. BBQ and Mac and Cheese
BBQ and mac and cheese are a delicious and satisfying combination. The smoky and savory flavors of BBQ are a great match for the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. This dish is sure to please any crowd with its bold and comforting flavors.
6. Grilled Cheese and Apples
There's something about grilled cheese and apples that just works together. The sweet and tart flavor of the apples pairs so well with the gooey cheese and buttery bread. Plus, the crunch of the apples is the perfect contrast to the soft, melty cheese.
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7. Bacon and Cake
Bacon and cake mix sweet and salty for a flavor that's unexpected and delicious. The salty, crunchy bacon pairs with the moist, sugary cake for a rich, layered taste. It's a decadent dessert that turns a classic treat into an exciting adventure.
8. Hot Chocolate with Chili Powder
Hot chocolate with chili powder is a comforting and slightly spicy beverage that adds a kick to a traditional sweet drink. The combination creates a warm, spicy-sweet flavor profile where the chili powder enhances the richness of the chocolate without overwhelming it. It's a cozy, surprising twist that makes every sip both soothing and thrilling.
9. Peanut Butter and Pickles
The combo of peanut butter and pickles provides a satisfying mix of creamy, salty, and tangy flavors. The crisp texture of the pickle is a perfect contrast to the smooth, rich consistency of the peanut butter. It's an unusual pairing that strikes a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and savory.
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10. Peanut Butter and Burgers
Peanut butter is delicious on burgers. It adds a sweet, nutty flavor that really complements the savory beef. It's also a little bit rich and creamy, which is a great contrast to the burger.
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11. Popcorn and Soup
Putting popcorn in soup is a fun snack because it provides a crunchy texture and soaks up some of the salty flavors in each spoonful. The light, fluffy kernels contrast with the warm, savory liquid, making the meal feel indulgent and cozy.
12. Dill in Egg Salad
Dill brings a bright, herbaceous note to egg salad that pairs beautifully with the richness of the eggs and mayonnaise. Its subtle tanginess adds depth of flavor, elevating each forkful with a fresh, aromatic quality. It's a simple twist that turns a traditional comfort dish into something unexpectedly sophisticated and flavorful.
13. Salt and Ice Cream
Salt sprinkled on ice cream helps to make it sweeter and more intense. It is just a little unexpected contrast, but there's also a physiological effect. Salt can make overly rich, creamy textures seem more balanced.
14. Tajín and Watermelon
Sprinkling Tajín on watermelon is a quick way to make the fruit extra tart and juicy. The spice blend adds a zesty tang that plays off the sweetness of the melon. Chili and lime give a subtle, spicy bite to every juicy bite.
15. Black Pepper on Oranges
Sprinkling black pepper on oranges creates a pleasantly spicy contrast with the fruit's sweetness. The pungent, mildly smoky heat of the pepper amplifies the juicy citrus flavor, adding depth and complexity to each bite. It's an easy way to transform a familiar snack into an unexpectedly gourmet experience.
16. Kimchi in Grilled Cheese
Kimchi in grilled cheese elevates the classic comfort food with its tangy, spicy kick. The fermented crunch of kimchi complements the gooey, melted cheese for a flavor-packed bite. This unexpected combination transforms a familiar sandwich into a crave-worthy culinary adventure.
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17. Ranch and Potatoes
Ranch and potatoes are a classic pairing. They’re delicious on roasted potatoes, mixed into mashed potatoes, or as a dip for fries. The creamy tang of ranch takes the potato to the next level.
18. Wendy’s Frosty and Fries
Pairing Wendy's Frosty with fries is delightfully addictive. The contrast of salty fries dipped into the sweet, creamy Frosty is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It's a nostalgic, playful way to turn an ordinary meal into an indulgent treat that's simple but satisfying.
19. Spicy Chicken and Maple Syrup
The combination of spicy chicken with maple syrup is surprisingly delicious. The chicken's spiciness is nicely offset by the sweetness and full-bodied flavor of the maple syrup. Every bite has just the right balance of sweet and spicy. This dish is a tasty twist on the ordinary that's sure to satisfy.
20. Ketchup and Rice
It’s a dish that’s not very flashy, but in its own way it hits the spot. The sweetness of the ketchup and the mild flavor of the fluffy rice combine for an easy-to-make comfort food. It’s a simple, easy-going meal with a nostalgic quality that you can customize with whatever add-ins you’d like.
