Complementing Soft Shell Crab: The Best Side Dishes and Sauces

Soft shell crab is a delicious indulgent seafood dish. The sweet, succulent meat and crispy exterior make for an incredibly tasty eating experience. However the richness of fried or sautéed soft shell crab calls for some bright, fresh components to balance out the meal. In this article, I’ll recommend the best side dishes and sauces to serve with soft shell crab entrees.

Soft shell crab refers to blue crabs that have recently molted their outer shell and are still soft. They can only be harvested during brief windows in early spring and late summer when crabs are molting. This gives soft shell crab seasonality and makes them a prized delicacy.

The soft shell is fully edible giving a satisfying crunch. The meat inside is tender and naturally sweet. Soft shell crabs are typically fried, sautéed or broiled until crispy. Their rich decadence deserves equally flavorful accompaniments.

When planning a soft shell crab dinner, consider sides and sauces that provide contrasting flavors, textures and colors. Here are some excellent options in different categories.

Crisp, Fresh Salads

The rich soft shell crab tastes fantastic when served with a light crunchy salad on the side. The acidity and freshness balance the fried seafood beautifully. Try pairing it with

• Kale salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Watercress and orange salad
• Shaved Brussels sprouts salad with parmesan
• Arugula salad with shaved fennel and citrus dressing

Vibrant green salads with tangy dressings work really well. Throw in contrasting flavors like citrus segments, toasted nuts or shaved veggies.

Crunchy Coleslaws

Cool, crisp coleslaw adds another layer of texture contrast. The vibrant cabbage also cuts through the decadence of soft shell crab. whip up a quick slaw with:

• Thinly sliced purple cabbage, shredded carrots, rice vinegar and sesame oil
• Shredded napa cabbage, bell peppers, scallions and peanut dressing
• Shaved brussels sprouts and kohlrabi with a creamy cider dressing

Play around with different vegetable textures and assertive flavors like ginger, chili or lime.

Seasonal Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies caramelize beautifully in the oven to pair with crispy soft shell crab. Favorites include:

• Asparagus – Toss spears with olive oil and roast at 400°F until tender. Finish with lemon and parmesan.

• Green beans – Toss haricots verts with olive oil and roast at 425°F. Sprinkle with toasted almonds.

• Delicata squash – Toss rings with oil and roast at 425°F. Finish with fresh herbs.

• Carrots – Roast carrot batons tossed in honey at 400°F until caramelized.

Fresh Herb Sauces

Vibrant herb sauces lend brightness and moisture to fried soft shell crab. They cling nicely to the crabs without weighing them down. Try these sauce ideas:

• Chimichurri – Chop parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, olive oil, vinegar and chili flakes.

• Caper lemon aioli – Mix mayo, lemon zest, capers, garlic and dill.

• Chive creme fraiche – Fold chopped chives and lemon juice into creme fraiche.

• Cilantro avocado puree – Blend cilantro, avocado, lime juice, garlic and olive oil.

Decadent Starches

Some buttery, rich starches provide comfort with fried soft shell crab. Excellent choices include:

• Garlic mashed potatoes – Boil and mash russet potatoes with butter, cream and roasted garlic.

• Parmesan polenta – Simmer polenta in broth and cream. Finish with parmesan.

• Honey glazed carrots – Roast carrot batons simply with butter and honey.

• Cheesy grits – Cook grits in simmering water until creamy, then stir in grated cheddar.

Tangy Condiments

Bright condiments with acidity and spice help cut through the richness of soft shell crab. Offer guests:

• Lemon wedges – Fresh lemon juice provides acidity to balance the crispy crab.

• Homemade tartar sauce – Fold capers, cornichons, shallots and herbs into aioli.

• Spicy honey mustard – Whisk together honey, whole grain mustard and a pinch of chili flakes.

• Quick pickled shallots – Pickle thin sliced shallots in rice vinegar with salt and sugar.

With so many tasty sauces and sides to choose from, you can serve soft shell crab a different way every time. Vary flavors and textures to keep the meal exciting. These recommendations will perfectly complement the star of the show.