12 Down
NYT Daily • August 12, 2025
Partner of soup
Answer:
SALAD
Hint:
Often served as a light side dish alongside a warm bowl.
Explanation:
The clue "Partner of soup" hints at a common food pairing, where "salad" is often served alongside soup in meals. It plays on the idea of complementary dishes rather than literal partnership. The answer is straightforward, relying on the familiar combination found in many restaurants and home meals. No wordplay or puns are involved—just a simple association.