What are your favorite summer food pairings? Pineapple on pizza? Vanilla ice cream and olive oil? After reading this article, you’ll realize that these pairings pale in comparison to what we have in store for you.
People love unusual combinations for a variety of reasons, from cultural influences to pregnancy-related cravings, or just plain weirdness. If you want to challenge your taste buds this summer, here are some weird food combinations you might like — or not.
Why Some People Like Weird Food Combinations
You may have heard of the TikTok trend where people are trying the weirdest food combinations. Some were just a little bit weird, from spicy Cheetos to pickles to elote to noodles.
But a few people have managed to pull out all the stops with unusual combinations like peanut butter and onion or watermelon and pickles. Either way, it’s hard not to wonder: Why do we like to eat strange food combinations?
According to an article from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, some people are drawn to strange food combinations because of the thrill of novelty and the excitement they bring to their taste buds. This spirit of adventure stimulates the brain’s reward system, making the experience enjoyable and memorable.
But when you’re not doing it for fashion or fun, some weird food combinations make sense. When you think about it, these combinations are considered weird because they have conflicting tastes.
Take potato chips and chocolate, for example. These foods are delicious on their own, but they also pair well together. The Escoffier School of Culinary Arts explains that balancing these tastes helps distribute the flavor across your tongue, further stimulating your taste buds. The result? A pleasant flavor profile.
7 Weird Combos That Are All the Rage This Summer
Want to get in on the trend of weird but potentially delicious summer food combinations? Who knows, you might love them, hate them, or maybe somewhere in between.
Whatever the result, it’s a real challenge for your taste buds. Here are a few you can start with.
Avocado and chocolate
Using avocados to make a creamy, chocolatey dessert that’s healthier than traditional pudding can be surprisingly delicious. The avocado provides a rich texture and healthy fats, while the chocolate adds sweetness and flavor.
Chocolate Avocado Pudding is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and indulgent treat. Plus, it makes a great starter dish combination for those who aren’t ready to tackle the craziest options.
Grilled watermelon
Grilled fruit isn’t such a strange concept, but some people may not be familiar with it yet. If you’ve never tried grilled watermelon, give this smoky treat a try this summer.
Grilling watermelon brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a smoky flavor. The heat from the grill caramelizes the watermelon, creating a delicious contrast between the charred exterior and the juicy interior. This unique take on a summer staple is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a refreshing dessert.
After grilling your burgers, be sure to clean your grill thoroughly before placing your watermelon on it, lest you leave meat residue on your fruit. If you don’t want to have to clean your entire grill, use a grill pan.
Peanut Butter and Pickles
Craving something sweet and salty? Skip the salted caramel popcorn and opt for this combination instead.
According to the New York Times, this surprisingly controversial combination has a cult following. The creamy, salty peanut butter pairs surprisingly well with the tangy, crunchy pickles. It’s a quick and easy snack that offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, so give it a try for yourself.
And if you want something with a richer flavor than pickles? Hear me out, try a dab of peanut butter with pickled eggs. The sweetness, tartness, and saltiness will all be there, but with an added touch of richness from the egg yolk.
Fries and ice cream
Here’s an option that most of us are familiar with. Who hasn’t dipped their fries in a milkshake?
The contrast between hot fries and cold ice cream is especially satisfying, a fun treat that combines two favorite comfort foods into one indulgent experience. Plus, it’s a great snack for summer barbecues since you probably already have these foods on the table.
Fruit and Balsamic Glaze
Did you know that many South and Southeast Asian countries, like Thailand and the Philippines, dip their fruit in salty foods? Salt is the most popular choice, but soy sauce and shrimp paste are also good candidates. The salt balances out the sweetness of the fruit, and as we mentioned earlier, these contrasting tastes create a balanced flavor profile.
Balsamic glazed fruits follow the same principle. Drizzling balsamic vinegar over fresh fruit, such as strawberries or peaches, enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness and adds a tangy complexity. Enjoy this sophisticated combination as an appetizer or a refreshing dessert.
Mango and chili powder
Mango and chili powder is a popular combination in Mexico and some Southeast Asian countries like Thailand. The heat from the chili powder enhances the sweetness of the mango, creating a bold and flavorful treat that’s perfect for summer.
Fresh mangoes are a great addition to this culinary mix. If your local restaurant offers ripe mangoes, go for that option first. If you can only find green mangoes, their flavor will be a pleasant mix of sourness and spice, which is also worth trying.
Watermelon and feta cheese
Imagine biting into a juicy slice of watermelon, its sweetness and refreshing texture instantly quenching your thirst. Now, imagine that delicious experience enhanced by the salty and creamy texture of feta cheese. It seems a little strange at first, but you’ll love it.
Whether you’re lounging poolside or hosting a barbecue, this vibrant salad will be the star of the show. Add a sprinkle of fresh mint or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
Final Thoughts
Unusual food combinations are not just a trend, they are actually a great way to stimulate your taste buds and expand your palate. Even though they may seem unappealing at first, giving them a try won’t hurt.
Try this summer’s weirdest food combinations and you’ll see what I mean. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find your next culinary obsession.
Jessica Haggard is dedicated to helping people cook easy everyday recipes with a focus on bioavailable, nutrient-dense foods. She helps people overcome food allergies and discover healthy recipes that make a difference in their health through gluten-free, low-carb, and keto cooking at Primal Edge Health.
