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.
As a food blogger and home cook, I love whipping up a crispy batch of fried shrimp. There’s just something irresistible about that golden, crunchy breading giving way to sweet, succulent shrimp. But figuring out what sides to serve alongside fried shrimp can be a tricky balancing act. You want something that enhances the flavors without overpowering the star of the meal.
In this article, I’ll share my favorite side dish pairings that perfectly complement fried shrimp. These recipes range from southern classics to fresh veggie sides to provide a variety of flavors and textures. Keep reading for 18 delicious ideas to round out your next fried shrimp dinner!
Southern Sides for Downhome Flavor
Fried shrimp has its roots in southern cooking, so pairing it with similar soulful sides is a natural fit. Here are some comforting options that evoke the flavors of the south:
-
Hushpuppies – Cornbread fritters are a tried and true partner for fried seafood. Their crispy outside and fluffy interior adds nice contrast to the shrimp.
-
Succotash – This mix of corn, lima beans, and peppers is a southern staple. It offers sweetness and creaminess to balance the shrimp
-
Okra and rice – Okra’s trademark mucilage pairs well with rice’s fluffiness. The spice blend gives a flavor punch to the meal.
-
Grits – Creamy buttery grits are the ultimate comfort food. Topping them with a heaping pile of fried shrimp creates a satisfying meal.
-
Coleslaw – Cool, crunchy cabbage coated in a tangy dressing complements the hot, crispy shrimp.
Fresh Veggies for Bright Contrast
Since fried foods can be heavy, serving lighter veggie sides makes for nice balance. Here are some bright, fresh options to pair with your shrimp:
-
Asparagus – Blanched or grilled asparagus has a refreshing crunch and herby flavor. A cheese sauce can add richness.
-
Broccoli salad – Broccoli, onions, and cheese tossed in a lemony dressing tastes fresh and vibrant next to fried shrimp.
-
Roasted vegetables – Roasting cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli caramelizes their natural sweetness.
-
Spinach salad – Baby spinach, tomatoes, bacon, onions, and a zesty vinaigrette perk up a plate of fried shrimp.
-
Corn on the cob – Grilled or roasted corn on the cob naturally complements seafood. Slather with butter or spice rub for extra flavor.
Starchy Sides to Satisfy Appetites
When frying up shrimp for a hungry crowd, starchy sides help fill up the plate. Round out the meal with these hearty pairings:
-
Potato salad – Chunky potato salad with hard boiled eggs, pickles, and mustard dressing makes a satisfying counterpoint.
-
Baked potatoes – Load up russet or sweet potatoes with melting butter, sour cream, bacon, and cheese for comfort food bliss.
-
Biscuits – Flaky, hot biscuits sop up any leftover juices and cocktail sauce on the plate.
-
Garlic bread – Warm, buttered garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment for soaking up shrimp juices.
-
Mac and cheese – Creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni makes an indulgent yet comforting side dish.
Takeaway Tips
The key to great shrimp side dishes is balance – pick options that complement the shrimp instead of overpowering it. Traditional southern sides, fresh veggies, and hearty starches are all excellent pairings. Just be careful not to go overboard on heavy carbs or rich dishes. Keep flavors and textures varied for maximum enjoyment.
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.
The best side dishes for seafood
What side dishes go with fried shrimp?
I’ve gathered together my 15 favorite side dishes to serve with fried shrimp to get the ball rolling. Looking for a quick answer? The best side dishes to serve with fried shrimp are jambalaya, zucchini alfredo, and dirty rice. There are also some excellent sauces to serve alongside your fried shrimp, like tartar and cocktail sauces.
What food goes well with kimchi?
Foods that go well with kimchi are Korean barbecue pork, avocado toast, Korean dumplings, shrimp pineapple fried rice, braised short ribs, cheese omelette, kimchi loaded fries, beer-battered fish tacos, chicken wings, Korean sushi rolls.
What to eat with fried shrimp?
Mango, avocado, green onion, red bell peppers, and sunflower seeds are tossed in olive oil and lemon dressing mixed with fresh cilantro or parsley. It’s great as a side dish or to throw your fried shrimp in the bowl and enjoy a one-pot meal. 15. Pesto Zoodles Zoodles are a fresh, low-carb, and healthy alternative to traditional pasta noodles.
What to serve with shrimp?
A Greek-inspired veggie salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese will make a nice refreshing side along a more heavy shrimp dish. If you’re serving your shrimp in a cheesy pasta dish or any equally hearty entree, you’ll want something light and fresh to balance it out. A low-in-fat Greek salad will do just the trick! 5.