Complementing Shrimp: 18 Delicious Side Dishes for Shrimp

Shrimp is one of the most versatile and popular seafood ingredients It can be prepared in endless ways – grilled, baked, sauteed, fried, and more But what should you serve alongside? Having the right side dishes can really take your shrimp from great to spectacular. Here are 18 delicious options for pairing with shrimp entrees or appetizers.

The Best Vegetable Side Dishes for Shrimp

Vegetables make excellent accompaniments for shrimp Their fresh flavors and colors liven up a plate while adding nutrition Some great veggie sides include

1. Succotash

This Southern corn, lima bean, and red pepper medley is a classic The sweet corn pairs nicely with the brininess of shrimp Toss in some crisp bacon or chopped tomato for extra flavor.

2. Roasted Broccoli

Broccoli becomes sweet and caramelized when roasted. Toss florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast at 400°F until browned along the edges. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired.

3. Asparagus with Cheese Sauce

Blanched, sautéed, or grilled asparagus coated in a rich cheese sauce is a match made in heaven for shrimp. Goat cheese or gouda work well in the sauce.

4. Roasted Cauliflower

Like broccoli, cauliflower transforms when roasted, taking on a sweet, nutty flavor. Toss florets with oil and spices like cumin or curry powder before roasting.

5. Green Beans Almondine

Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds and lemon make an easy and elegant side for shrimp. Blanch beans briefly before sautéing to maintain their snap.

6. Roasted Radishes

This is a unique but delicious pairing. Halved radishes caramelize beautifully when roasted. Toss first with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Serve warm alongside garlicky shrimp.

7. Grilled Zucchini

Simple grilled zucchini is flavorful and pairs nicely with shrimp. brush zucchini planks with olive oil and grill 2-3 minutes per side over direct heat. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Satisfying Starch Side Dishes for Shrimp

Carbohydrate side dishes like rice, potatoes, and pasta combine affordably with pricey shrimp while soaking up any delicious pan sauces or butters. Great options include:

8. Cheesy Grits

Rich, creamy grits are a classic Southern side dish for shrimp. Sprinkle shredded cheese over piping hot grits just before serving. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack work well.

9. Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf provides the perfect blank canvas for soaking up buttery garlic shrimp sauce. Jazz it up with peas, carrots, mushrooms or other mix-ins.

10. Pasta Salad

Chilled pasta shells tossed with a vinaigrette makes a refreshing counterpoint to hot shrimp. Toss with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, artichoke hearts or broccoli.

11. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

What doesn’t taste better with garlic mashed potatoes? They’re easy to make and pair with just about any shrimp dish. For extra richness, fold in sour cream, cream cheese, or parmesan.

12. Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes are easy to toss together and bake while preparing shrimp. Red potatoes, fingerlings or russets work equally well.

13. Creamed Corn

Sweet creamed corn is delightful served with shrimp. Simmer corn kernels with cream, butter, and spices for an easy side. Garnish with fresh chives.

14. Scalloped Potatoes

For special occasions, rich, cheesy scalloped potatoes complement shrimp perfectly. Layer potatoes and cheese sauce in a baking dish and bake covered until tender.

15. Quinoa

Fluffy quinoa tossed with vegetables makes a lighter, gluten-free pairing for shrimp. Mix in corn, bell peppers, edamame, or other add-ins for a nutrition and flavor boost.

Bright, Fresh Salad Side Dishes

Salads provide color and freshness alongside rich shrimp dishes. Some excellent salad side options include:

16. Greek Salad

This salad combines crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and feta cheese with a tangy dressing. It’s a perfect match for grilled shrimp skewers.

17. Watermelon Feta Salad

Refreshing watermelon, salty feta, and fresh mint drizzled with olive oil is an unexpected but delightful salad pairing for shrimp.

18. Cole Slaw

Creamy, crunchy coleslaw provides the perfect tangy crunch next to breaded and fried shrimp. For a change of pace, try broccoli or carrot-based slaws.

More Tips for Picking Sides for Shrimp

Beyond specific dishes, keep these general tips in mind when selecting side dishes for shrimp:

• Match intensities – Bright, acidic sides help cut richness while starchy, creamy sides complement more delicate shrimp flavors.

• Consider textures – Crisp, crunchy sides contrast nicely with tender shrimp. Avoid overly soft or mushy pairings.

• Use color – Vibrant vegetable sides make for attractive pairings. But don’t forget white cauliflower or potatoes to provide contrast.

• Balance flavor profiles – If shrimp is spicy, offer a cooling yogurt sauce side. If bland, provide a punchy chimichurri sauce.

• Season simply – Let shrimp shine by not over-seasoning sides. A little olive oil, salt and pepper usually suffices.

With so many tasty options, there’s no shortage of ways to complement shrimp! I hope these side dish ideas inspire you to think beyond just rice or fries next time you cook up shrimp. Get creative with bright vegetable medleys, satisfying starches, or fresh salads for memorable meals.