Want to know what to serve with fried shrimp? These tasty side dishes go perfectly with this classic seafood dish.
Those of you who like seafood like I do know how hard it is to say no to golden brown fried shrimp. If you’re looking for ideas for what to eat with fried shrimp, you’re in the right place.
It doesn’t matter if you make traditional southern fried shrimp, coconut shrimp, or pan-fried shrimp; the right side dish can really make your meal. These 15 mouthwatering options will tantalize your taste buds and make your fried shrimp dinner even better.
It goes well with fried shrimp. A fresh potato salad with hard-boiled eggs, green onions, and a creamy sauce is a great side dish.
Hushpuppies are a classic side for a fried shrimp recipe or any fried seafood for that matter. The subtly sweet deep-fried balls of cornmeal add the perfect flavor to the meal.
Kick up the freshness with a zesty bell pepper slaw. Thinly sliced red and green bell peppers are mixed with a sour dressing made of olive oil and lime juice. They add a crunchy and colorful contrast to the juicy shrimp.
Swap out regular fries for a healthier twist with crispy sweet potato fries. When you eat fried shrimp with potatoes, the natural sweetness of the potatoes goes well with the saltiness of the shrimp.
Embrace a low-carb option with Parmesan-coated zucchini noodles. When mixed with garlic powder and olive oil, these zoodles make a tasty and guilt-free side dish for your shrimp feast.
Popcorn shrimp is a crispy, crunchy appetizer or main dish that is beloved by many. The battered, bite-sized shrimp provide a burst of briny flavor encased in a light, crispy exterior. When serving up this crowd-pleasing dish, it’s important to consider what sides will best complement the zesty seafood.
The good news is that popcorn shrimp pairs well with a wide variety of sides that can take your meal from basic to spectacular. By choosing dishes that offer contrasting or complementary textures and flavors, you can create a well-rounded dining experience. Read on for 15 sensational recipe ideas for irresistible sides that will elevate your popcorn shrimp to new heights of flavor.
Coleslaw
Tangy coleslaw is an excellent accompaniment to popcorn shrimp. The cool crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots contrasts deliciously with the hot crispy shrimp. Creamy coleslaw dressing provides a rich counterpoint to the seafood’s crispy coating. This classic side offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures to start your meal off right.
French Fries
You can never go wrong pairing popcorn shrimp with crispy french fries This beloved, comforting side dish matches the crispy texture of the fried shrimp. As far as seasoning, you could go classic with just salt, or spice it up with cajun seasoning or spicy dipping sauces like sriracha mayo This easy crowd-pleaser is welcome at any table.
Hushpuppies
Warm, soft hushpuppies served alongside popcorn shrimp make for finger-licking-good eating. Hushpuppies provide a similar crispy exterior and soft interior to complement the shrimp’s crunch. Serve these fluffy cornbread fritters with honey butter for even more bliss. The sweet and savory flavors pair perfectly with the briny seafood.
Macaroni and Cheese
For ultimate comfort food, try popcorn shrimp with homemade macaroni and cheese The smooth, creamy pasta provides a decadent counterpoint to the crunchy shrimp. Using a combination of cheese like cheddar, parmesan, and gouda takes this side over the top Crispy fried shallots or breadcrumbs on top add extra texture.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad is an excellent choice for a lighter meal with popcorn shrimp Cool romaine lettuce tossed in a zesty dressing provides freshness and invigoration to balance the fried seafood Garlicky croutons match the crunch factor. Add some shaved parmesan for even more flavor.
Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery garlic bread is a match made in heaven with popcorn shrimp. The savory toastiness of the bread contrasts sublimely with the seafood to excite your tastebuds. Adding melty cheese on top takes this side to the next level. Dip the garlic bread in any leftover cocktail or tartar sauce for finger-licking satisfaction.
Lemon Rice
Fluffy lemon rice brings brightness and zest to pair with popcorn shrimp. Rice pilaf seasoned with lemon zest, lemon juice, and herbs offers a light, citrusy flavor to complement the shrimp’s richness. For more texture, add slivered almonds or peas to the rice. The simple flavors marry beautifully with the seafood.
Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are the perfect vessel for popcorn shrimp, cocktail sauce, and any other tasty toppings you love. Fill up the fluffy spuds with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions for a supremely satisfying side. Or, for lighter fare, top your baked potato with plain greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Corn on the Cob
Charred corn on the cob makes for irresistible eating alongside popcorn shrimp. Grill the corn, slather on some spicy lime-cilantro butter, and enjoy this handheld side. The natural sweetness of corn balances beautifully with the savory shrimp. For added flair, sprinkle cotija cheese and chili powder on the corn.
Cole Slaw
Crisp, cooling coleslaw is a great choice for a picnic or backyard cookout starring popcorn shrimp. The zesty cabbage slaw offers the perfect crunchy, tangy counterpart to the seafood. Vary the flavor with additions like chopped pineapple, grated carrot, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, or lime juice. The options are endless for this easy-to-make side.
Potato Salad
Creamy potato salad is a classic complement to popcorn shrimp. Potatoes, hard boiled eggs, celery, onion, and herbs in a creamy mayo-based dressing offer a comforting, homey side. Bring the flavors into balance by adding a splash of vinegar or mustard to cut through the richness. Sprinkle the top with paprika for bonus flavor and flair.
Caprese Salad
For a lighter accompaniment, try a fresh caprese salad with popcorn shrimp. Sliced tomato, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing take on this classic salad. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic reduction to let the flavors shine. The bright acids and herbs in this salad beautifully accent the briny shrimp.
Green Beans
Fresh green beans liven up a popcorn shrimp meal. You can keep it simple by steaming and tossing the crisp beans with browned butter and toasted almonds. Or up the flavor with sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The vegetables’ pleasant crunch contrasts the fried shrimp perfectly.
Mango Salsa
Sweet, tropical mango salsa freshens up a platter of popcorn shrimp wonderfully. Diced mango, red onion, chili pepper, cilantro, and lime juice make for an easy pico de gallo style salsa. The sweet and spicy flavors interplay delightfully with the seafood. Scoop up the salsa with the shrimp for bursts of flavor.
Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft dinner rolls conveniently soak up any cocktail or tartar sauce left on your plate after devouring popcorn shrimp. Brush rolls with garlic butter or sprinkle with parmesan before baking for extra richness. Or go classic with plain rolls to simply soak up the flavorful sauces. Either way, these are essential for getting every last drop.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to finding that perfect side for popcorn shrimp. From cool, crunchy coleslaw to hot, buttery garlic bread, there are so many delicious ways to round out your meal. Browse this list for inspiration at your next seafood feast, and get ready to impress your guests. With sensational sides like these, your popcorn shrimp will be the star of the show.
Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta
Transform plain pasta into a flavorful delight by mixing it with a generous serving of fresh basil pesto. The aromatic pesto enhances the overall dining experience, making it a great choice for shrimp lovers.