Eggs Benedict has everything—rich hollandaise, creamy yolk, and a toasty base—but it still craves the right cast of supporting flavors.
The best brunches offer contrast: crispness against the soft egg, tartness to balance the sauce, and a few fresh, colorful bites.
Whether you’re hosting a lazy Sunday or building the perfect café-style plate at home, these side dishes bring balance, beauty, and that extra touch of joy. No two are alike, and each one makes Eggs Benedict feel even more special.
1. Crispy Hash Browns
Golden shreds of potato fry until the edges turn lacey and crisp, offering crunch that cuts through the softness of the main dish. A touch of salt and a whisper of butter seal the deal.
Stacked beside the Benedict, they become a textural counterpoint—earthy, sharp, and satisfyingly rustic.
2. Sautéed Asparagus
Slender spears are pan-seared until tender, picking up caramelized edges and a hint of garlic. A quick squeeze of lemon brightens each bite.
Their earthy bitterness balances the richness of the hollandaise, turning the plate into something both decadent and light.
3. Smoked Salmon
Thin slices of cured salmon add a silky texture and a burst of briny depth that lingers on the tongue. The flavor feels elegant and coastal.
Layered beside or beneath the Benedict, it transforms brunch into something closer to celebration.
4. Avocado Slices
Ripe avocado brings creamy freshness and a cool contrast to warm eggs and sauce. A pinch of sea salt wakes it up instantly.
Its buttery texture mirrors the yolk, while its green hue adds brightness to the plate.
5. Fresh Fruit Salad
Chunks of melon, berries, and citrus create a sweet, juicy bite that refreshes the palate between rich mouthfuls. The colors pop against neutral tones.
Tart flavors and natural sugars offer a playful, refreshing rhythm to the meal.
6. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Slow-roasted until bursting, cherry tomatoes turn jammy and sweet, with skins that blister slightly. A drizzle of olive oil deepens the flavor.
They nestle beside the eggs like little jewels, adding color and zing to every bite.
7. Buttery Croissants
Layers of golden dough flake apart with each touch, their buttery flavor melting softly on the tongue. Toasted or fresh, they whisper of Parisian cafés.
Served on the side, they invite dipping, tearing, and indulgent swipes of leftover sauce.
8. Baby Spinach Salad
Tender leaves toss with a light vinaigrette, fresh herbs, and a few slices of red onion for bite. The flavor is grassy, clean, and cool.
Placed beside Eggs Benedict, the salad adds a green freshness that resets the senses.
9. Herbed Potatoes
Roasted wedges crisp on the outside and fluff inside, flavored with rosemary, thyme, and garlic. They carry warmth and depth.
The hearty texture grounds the meal, bringing comfort to each forkful.
10. Grilled Asparagus
Blackened grill marks add smokiness to these spring stalks, while olive oil and flaky salt enhance their natural snap. The flavor leans bold and savory.
Paired with Benedict, they provide a vegetal lift and a nod to outdoor brunches in early spring.
11. Maple-Glazed Bacon
Thick slices of bacon crisp in the pan, then glaze with warm maple syrup that clings to every curl. Sweet, salty, and slightly sticky.
Each bite crackles, creating contrast with the smooth sauce and poached egg.
12. Zesty Arugula With Lemon
Peppery arugula leaves toss with lemon juice and zest, giving a sharp, citrusy bite that perks up the whole plate. The taste is bold and clean.
This pairing wakes up the palate, cutting through richness without stealing the spotlight.
13. Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky biscuits rise high in the oven, their tender layers pulling apart with the faintest touch. Buttermilk adds tang and depth.
Served warm with honey or butter, they bring Southern comfort to the table in the softest way.
14. Hollandaise-Drizzled Greens
Lightly wilted greens—like kale or chard—drizzle with leftover hollandaise and a touch of nutmeg. They’re warm, creamy, and slightly bitter.
This side mirrors the star of the plate while adding leafy texture and quiet elegance.
15. Chilled Grapefruit Segments
Grapefruit slices, peeled and chilled, offer a tart burst that slices through richness like a blade. Their brightness lingers.
They serve as a gentle palate cleanser, refreshing the senses and leaving the meal on a crisp, clean note.