15 Sides That Pair Perfectly with Juicy Shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile protein that can be prepared in endless ways. From grilled shrimp skewers to shrimp scampi, garlic butter shrimp, and more, there are so many delicious shrimp recipes to choose from!

While the shrimp might be the star of the show, it’s important not to overlook the sides. The right side dishes can really take your shrimp dinner to the next level. After all, shrimp goes great with a variety of flavors and textures.

In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best side dish options to serve with succulent shrimp Keep reading to get inspired with side dish ideas that complement shrimp beautifully!

Colorful Veggie Sides

Vibrant fresh vegetables make excellent complements to shrimp. Here are some of the best veggie side dishes to consider

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Nothing says summer quite like juicy grilled corn on the cob slathered with butter. The sweet flavor of the corn balances nicely with the briny shrimp. Grill the corn right alongside the shrimp for maximum flavor.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli in the oven caramelizes it slightly and adds great charred flavor. Toss the florets with olive oil salt and pepper before roasting. The crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with tender shrimp.

Asparagus with Cheese Sauce

Asparagus coated in a rich, cheesy sauce is an elegant side for shrimp. Blanch the asparagus briefly to soften it while retaining its crispness. Then coat it in a quick cheese sauce made with cheddar, cream cheese, and heavy cream.

Succotash

This classic Southern side dish combines fresh corn and lima beans. Saute some onion and garlic, then add the corn and lima beans and season with thyme and parsley. The medley of veggies and herbs complements shrimp beautifully.

Starchy Sides

From rice to potatoes, starchy sides help balance out a shrimp dinner. Here are some top options:

Cajun Dirty Rice

Dirty rice gets its name from the ground meat that’s typically cooked right into it. For a flavorful Cajun-style dirty rice, saute ground sausage with the trinity aromatics (bell pepper, onion, and celery). Then add white rice and Cajun seasoning and cook until fluffy.

Loaded Baked Potato

Nothing satisfies quite like a loaded baked potato. Top a hot baked russet potato with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions. The cool, creamy potato balances the hot, briny shrimp wonderfully.

Rice Pilaf

A simple rice pilaf is an easy and versatile side for shrimp. Saute onions and garlic in butter or oil, then add rice and broth. Herbs like thyme, parsley or lemon zest add brightness. The pilaf soaks up all the delicious flavors.

Parmesan Risotto

Creamy parmesan risotto is a classic Italian side that pairs impeccably with shrimp. Gradually add broth to arborio rice as it cooks, stirring frequently. Finish it with grated parmesan for a rich, cheesy flavor.

Quick Breads

Warm, freshly-baked breads complement shrimp dinners flawlessly. Here are some top picks:

Skillet Cornbread

Cast iron skillet cornbread is an easy, crowd-pleasing bread. The cornbread bakes up with a crispy bottom and edges with a moist, soft center. Drizzle with honey butter for even more flavor.

Jalapeño Cheddar Biscuits

These cheesy biscuits pack some heat from chopped jalapeños. Knead the shredded cheddar and minced jalapeños right into the biscuit dough before baking until golden brown. Serve these flavorful biscuits warm right out of the oven.

Focaccia Bread

Focaccia is a flat Italian bread that’s covered in olive oil and herbs. Try topping focaccia with rosemary, oregano, garlic, and Parmesan before baking for a perfect match with shrimp.

Skillet Apple Bread

This sweet quick bread is flavored with apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar. The apples add moisture while the cinnamon and brown sugar give it a wonderful aroma and flavor. Enjoy a slice alongside your shrimp.

Tasty Salads

Don’t underestimate salads when it comes to pairing with shrimp! These flavorful salads work beautifully:

Greek Salad

This classic salad combines crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. It’s bursting with fresh flavors that complement shrimp perfectly.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A simple tomato and cucumber salad drizzled with a red wine vinaigrette is refreshing and light. It balances heavier flavors nicely.

Potato Salad

Potato salad is a staple side dish for good reason – it just goes with everything! Making your own homemade potato salad allows you to season it just the way you like.

Pasta Salad Primavera

This colorful pasta salad is loaded with crisp vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets. Toss with Italian dressing for a tasty salad the whole family will love.

More Classic Pairings

Lastly, here are a few more classic side dishes that never disappoint with shrimp:

• Hushpuppies – Crispy, deep-fried cornmeal batter makes the perfect accompaniment for shrimp.

• Coleslaw – Cool, creamy coleslaw complements the hot shrimp beautifully.

• Macaroni and cheese – Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? The rich, cheesy pasta pairs perfectly with shrimp.

• French fries – You really can’t go wrong with crisp, hot french fries alongside juicy shrimp.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to what to serve alongside seared, grilled, or fried shrimp. Any of these 15 sides are sure to be delicious pairings. From colorful vegetables to starchy favorites, quick breads, tasty salads, and other classics, you have lots of options to choose from.

Next time you’re making shrimp, take a look at this list and get inspired with the perfect side dishes to complement your meal! Fill up your plate with a flavorful, well-rounded dinner by pairing shrimp with one or more of these tasty sides.