Dare to Pair: 10 Unusual Food Combinations That Work Surprisingly Well

BY: ANDRES CHAPARRO, E2M CHEF & E2M KITCHEN DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION

10 Unexpected Flavor Pairings That Surprisingly Work

Exploring unique food combinations can transform everyday dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Here are ten unexpected dairy-free flavor pairings that may seem unusual at first but deliver delightful results.

Strawberries and Basil
The sweet juiciness of strawberries perfectly complements basil’s aromatic, herbal freshness. Try them in salads or infused beverages.

Chocolate and Chili
Adding a hint of heat from chili peppers enhances chocolate’s rich, sweet flavors, creating depth and complexity.

Watermelon and Mint
The juicy sweetness of watermelon pairs perfectly with mint’s cooling freshness, making it ideal for a summer salad.

Coffee and Steak
Coffee rubs on steak create a smoky, rich flavor and help tenderize the meat, resulting in a deliciously robust taste.

Avocado and Chocolate
Creamy avocado pairs well with chocolate in desserts like mousse or brownies, adding smoothness and a nutritional boost.

Peanut Butter and Pickles
The creamy nuttiness of peanut butter surprisingly complements the crisp acidity of pickles, creating a unique snack sensation.

Pineapple and Cilantro
Sweet pineapple and fresh cilantro together produce a vibrant, refreshing taste—ideal for salsas, tacos, and grilled dishes.

Sweet Potato and Cinnamon
Warm, naturally sweet potatoes are enhanced beautifully by cinnamon’s aromatic spice, perfect for roasting or mashing.

Mango and Chili Powder
Fresh, sweet mango sprinkled with spicy chili powder creates a tasty balance of sweetness and heat, popular in street food worldwide.

Apple and Almond Butter
The crisp sweetness of apples pairs wonderfully with creamy almond butter, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

Step outside your culinary comfort zone and explore these unexpected dairy-free combinations—you might just discover your new favorite flavor pairing!

Andres Chaparro
Director of Production, E2M Kitchen

Learn More:

www.e2mfitness.com  –  www.e2mpremium.com  –  www.e2mkitchen.com  –  www.eager2run.com