Hey there, shrimp lovers! As someone who’s always experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve discovered that finding the perfect side dish for fried shrimp can be tricky. But don’t worry – I’ve got your back! After countless dinner parties and family meals, I’ve put together this ultimate list of side dishes that’ll make your fried shrimp shine.
Classic Southern Sides (Because Sometimes Traditional is Best!)
1. Hushpuppies
Y’all, these deep-fried cornmeal balls are basically required when serving fried shrimp in the South. They’re crispy on the outside fluffy on the inside and just slightly sweet. Trust me, once you start making these, your family won’t let you serve fried shrimp without them!
2. Coleslaw
A cool, crunchy coleslaw is perfect for balancing out the richness of fried shrimp. I like to mix:
- Shredded cabbage
- Carrots
- Green onions
- A creamy mayo-based dressing
- A splash of vinegar for tang
3. Potato Salad
This classic never disappoints! My go-to recipe includes
- Chunky potatoes
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Red onions
- Creamy mayo dressing
- Fresh herbs
Fresh and Healthy Options (Because Balance is Everything!)
4. Roasted Vegetables
Super easy and healthy! Just toss your fave veggies with
- Olive oil
- Italian seasonings
- Salt and pepper
Pop ’em in the air fryer for 10 minutes and boom – done!
5. Greek Salad
This fresh option includes:
- Romaine lettuce
- Red onions
- Cucumbers
- Tomatoes
- Olives
- Feta cheese
Pro tip: The zesty dressing makes ALL the difference!
6. Asparagus
This 3-ingredient wonder is my go-to when I’m short on time:
- Fresh asparagus
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
That’s it! Simple but SO good!
Carb-tastic Companions (Because Sometimes You Gotta Indulge!)
7. French Fries
Move over fish and chips – fried shrimp and fries is where it’s at! My secret? Season those babies well! I use:
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- A touch of cayenne
8. Buttered Noodles
Ready in under 15 minutes:
- Cook noodles in chicken broth
- Add plenty of butter
- Toss with garlic
- Sprinkle with parsley
Simple but oh-so-satisfying!
Awesome Dipping Sauces (Because Sauce is Boss!)
9. Homemade Cocktail Sauce
Four ingredients to perfection:
- Ketchup
- Horseradish
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
10. Pina Colada Dipping Sauce
This Red Lobster copycat is AMAZING:
- Coconut cream
- Pineapple
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Optional: Malibu rum (I won’t tell if you don’t! )
Rice Options (Because Rice is Nice!)
11. Cilantro Jasmine Rice
Light, fresh, and perfect with fried shrimp.
12. Spanish Rice
Restaurant-quality in 35 minutes – yes please!
Quick and Easy Options (For Busy Weeknights)
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Air fryer + frozen sweet potato fries = 8-minute side dish heaven!
14. Corn Salad
Fresh and simple:
- Sweet corn
- Cucumber
- Cherry tomatoes
- Green peppers
- Red onion
- Tangy dressing
The Bottom Line
Listen, picking the perfect side dish for your fried shrimp doesn’t have to be complicated! I always say – go with what your family loves. Maybe that’s a simple green salad, or maybe it’s loaded au gratin potatoes (no judgment here!).
Pro Tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Balance is key! If you’re serving heavy fried shrimp, maybe go lighter on the sides
- Consider prep time – sometimes simple is best!
- Think about your audience – kids might prefer fries while adults might appreciate a fresh salad
- Don’t forget the sauces – they can make or break your meal!
So there you have it, folks! These sides will definitely take your fried shrimp game to the next level. What’s your favorite side to serve with fried shrimp? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
P.S. Don’t forget to pin this for later – your future self will thank you when you’re scratching your head about what to serve with fried shrimp next time!
#FriedShrimpSides #Foodie #CookingTips #DinnerIdeas #ComfortFood
Pineapple Fried Rice with a Twist
Courtesy of SpicedBlog.com
Take the traditional fried rice up a notch with juicy pineapple chunks and a dash of curry powder. The tangy tropical fruit adds pops of sweetness to the savory rice punctuated by bits of ham and egg.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cold cooked rice or basmati rice
- 1 cup diced pineapple
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red chili pepper diced (optional)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 2 scallions, chopped
Instructions:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add eggs and scramble until cooked then transfer to a plate. Add garlic, ginger and curry powder to skillet and cook until fragrant. Add onion, chili and pineapple cooking 2 minutes. Add rice, ham, soy sauce and toss while cooking about 5 minutes until warmed through. Stir in scrambled egg and scallions until combined. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve!
The sweet and savory essence blending tropical fruitiness and spices make this fried rice pairing an instant favorite alongside crispy coconut shrimp.
See the full recipe on SpicedBlog.com
Grilled Pineapple with a Balsamic Glaze
Courtesy of WholeFoodsMarket.com
Beautifully caramelized pineapple wedges glazed in a syrupy sweet-tart balsamic reduction make for exceptional texture and flavor contrasts playing off flaky golden coconut shrimp.
Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
Whisk balsamic vinegar and brown sugar until sugar dissolves forming a thick glaze. Brush pineapple wedges with oil then grill over direct heat 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Brush pineapple all over generously with balsamic glaze during the last minute of grilling each side so it becomes sticky and caramelized. Serve warm.
See the full recipe on WholeFoodsMarket.com
Stonington’s Fried Shrimp: 7 Awesome Sides
FAQ
What pairs well with fried shrimp?
Fried shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, including classic options like french fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce, as well as more unique choices like grits, pasta salad, or roasted vegetables.