Don't knock it 'til you try it
Exploring unconventional food pairings can lead to delicious discoveries. From sweet and savory to creamy and tangy, trying new combinations broadens culinary tastes and surprises your taste buds.
Peanut butter and pickles
Peanut butter and pickles might sound like an odd combo, but they create a surprisingly tasty balance. The creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter perfectly complements the tangy crunch of pickles.
Chocolate and potato chips
Chocolate and potato chips are a match made in snack heaven. The sweet, rich taste of chocolate pairs wonderfully with the salty, crispy crunch of potato chips. This combination satisfies both sweet and savory cravings.
Mike Mozart, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Grilled cheese and apples
Grilled cheese and apples bring together the gooey goodness of melted cheese with the crisp, sweet freshness of apples. The apple slices add a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Wirestock Creators, Shutterstock
Watermelon and feta cheese
Watermelon and feta cheese is a classic summer pairing that hits all the right notes. The juicy, sweet watermelon contrasts beautifully with the salty, crumbly feta, creating a refreshing dish that's perfect for hot days.
Vanilla ice cream and soy sauce
Vanilla ice cream and soy sauce might sound bizarre, but it’s a flavor revelation. The salty, umami soy sauce enhances the sweetness of the vanilla, creating a complex taste that's unexpectedly delicious.
French fries and ice cream
French fries and ice cream offer a delightful mix of hot and cold, salty and sweet. Dipping a crispy fry into creamy ice cream creates a taste and texture sensation that's surprisingly satisfying.
Pear and blue cheese
Pear and blue cheese are a sophisticated pairing that brings together sweet and savory in an elegant way. The juicy, sweet pear slices balance the bold, tangy flavor of blue cheese.
sweet marshmallow, Shutterstock
Cottage cheese and pineapple
Cottage cheese and pineapple is a classic, light pairing that's both creamy and refreshing. The mild, creamy texture of cottage cheese is livened up by the sweet, tangy pineapple.
Peanut butter on a burger
Peanut butter on a burger might sound unconventional, but it adds a rich, nutty depth to the savory meat. The creamy texture of the peanut butter blends with the juicy burger.
Strawberries and balsamic vinegar
Strawberries and balsamic vinegar are a sophisticated duo that showcases the best of sweet and tangy flavors. The acidity of the balsamic vinegar enhances the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
Bacon and chocolate
Bacon and chocolate combine two beloved flavors in one irresistible treat. The salty, smoky taste of bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet, rich chocolate, creating a decadent and addictive combination that’s hard to resist.
Chocolate and avocado
Chocolate and avocado might seem strange, but they create a creamy, rich dessert. The mild flavor and smooth texture of avocado blend seamlessly with chocolate.
Bacon and maple syrup
Bacon and maple syrup is a breakfast classic that pairs crispy, savory bacon with sweet, rich syrup. The combination of salty and sweet is pure comfort food.
Apple pie and cheddar cheese
Apple pie and cheddar cheese is a traditional pairing that adds a savory twist to a sweet dessert. The sharpness of the cheddar complements the sweet, spiced apples, creating a rich, complex flavor.
Mango and chili powder
Mango and chili powder is a vibrant combination that balances sweet and spicy. The juicy, tropical sweetness of the mango is enhanced by the heat of the chili powder.
Olive oil and ice cream
Olive oil and ice cream might sound unusual, but it's a luxurious treat. The rich, fruity flavor of high-quality olive oil adds a sophisticated depth to the creamy sweetness of ice cream.
Popcorn and nacho cheese
Popcorn and nacho cheese is a match made for movie night. The light, airy crunch of popcorn covered in gooey, savory nacho cheese makes for an indulgent and satisfying snack.
BrokenSphere, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Banana and bacon
Banana and bacon bring together the best of sweet and savory. The sweet, creamy banana pairs surprisingly well with the crispy, salty bacon, creating a unique and tasty combination.
FotoosVanRobin, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Grilled cheese and jam
Grilled cheese and jam offer a delightful mix of savory and sweet. The melty, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the fruity, sweet jam, creating a comforting and flavorful bite.
Pizza and ranch dressing
Pizza and ranch dressing is a popular combo that adds a creamy, tangy kick to your slice. The cool, zesty ranch complements the hot, cheesy pizza, creating a flavor contrast.
Peanut butter and carrots
Peanut butter and carrots make for a healthy and tasty snack. The crunchy, sweet carrots dipped in creamy peanut butter offer a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Prosciutto and melon
Prosciutto and melon is a classic Italian pairing that balances salty and sweet. The thin, salty slices of prosciutto wrap around the juicy, sweet melon, creating a refreshing and elegant bite.
Fries and ice cream
Fries and ice cream are an indulgent treat that combines hot and cold, salty and sweet. Dipping crispy, salty fries into creamy, sweet ice cream creates a delicious contrast.
Rimma Bondarenko, Shutterstock
Pineapples on pizza
Pineapples on pizza spark a lot of debates, but the combination of sweet and tangy pineapple with savory cheese and tomato sauce offers a burst of flavor that many find irresistible.
