Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today I’m super excited to share my favorite side dishes that pair perfectly with bang bang shrimp. As someone who’s experimented with countless combinations, I’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you create an amazing meal.
Why Choose the Right Side Dish?
Bang bang shrimp has this amazing sweet-spicy-tangy flavor profile that we all love But picking the right side dish can make or break your meal The perfect sides should
- Balance the spiciness
- Add different textures
- Complement the Asian-inspired flavors
- Make the meal more filling
Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp
Rice and Noodle Options
-
Jasmine Rice
- Light and fragrant
- Soaks up the sauce perfectly
- Super easy to make
- Pro tip: Add a little butter and salt for extra flavor
-
Garlic Noodles
- Rich and savory
- Amazing texture contrast
- Ready in just 15 minutes
- Goes perfectly with the shrimp’s sauce
-
Cauliflower Rice (for my low-carb friends!)
- Healthy alternative
- Nutty flavor
- Add garlic butter for extra yum
- Great for keeping it light
Fresh and Crunchy Salads
-
Asian Slaw
- Crunchy cabbage and carrots
- Light sesame dressing
- Adds beautiful colors
- Perfect temperature contrast
-
Cucumber Salad
- Super refreshing
- Helps cool down the spice
- Quick 5-minute prep
- Budget-friendly option
Veggie Sides
-
Roasted Broccoli
- Crispy edges
- Healthy choice
- Simple seasoning needed
- Can be made spicy too!
-
Steamed Vegetables
- Clean eating option
- Versatile choice
- Light and nutritious
- Won’t overpower the shrimp
Fun and Creative Options
-
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Turn it into a main dish
- Add fresh toppings
- Great for parties
- Everyone loves taco night!
-
Grilled Pineapple
- Sweet and tangy
- Gorgeous grill marks
- Balances the heat
- Unexpected but amazing!
Quick and Easy Side Dishes
Sometimes we’re in a hurry but still want something tasty. Here are some 15-minute sides:
- Edamame: Just steam and salt
- Wonton Chips: Quick store-bought option
- Mango Salsa: Dice and mix
- Spring Rolls: Pre-made works great
Make It a Meal: Perfect Combinations
Here’s my fave combinations for different occasions:
Casual Dinner
- Bang bang shrimp
- Jasmine rice
- Cucumber salad
- Edamame
Fancy Dinner Party
- Bang bang shrimp
- Garlic noodles
- Grilled veggie kabobs
- Asian slaw
Light Lunch
- Bang bang shrimp
- Cauliflower rice
- Steamed veggies
- Mango salsa
Pro Tips for Serving
-
Temperature Balance
- Serve hot sides hot
- Keep cold sides chilled
- Time everything right
-
Presentation Matters
- Use different colored sides
- Vary textures
- Consider plate arrangement
-
Portion Control
- 1 cup rice/noodles
- 1 cup vegetables
- 2-3 pieces protein
Common Questions
Q: Can I prep sides ahead?
A: Totally! Most salads and cold sides can be made ahead. Just keep dressings separate.
Q: What if I don’t like spicy food?
A: Focus on cooling sides like cucumber salad and rice to balance the heat.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect side for bang bang shrimp doesn’t have to be complicated! I hope these suggestions help you create an awesome meal. Remember, the best combination is whatever makes YOUR taste buds happy!
Would love to hear what sides you end up trying – drop a comment below with your fave combo! And don’t forget to check out our other recipe guides for more yummy inspiration.
Happy cooking, friends! ✨
Note: These pairings are based on my personal kitchen experiments and feedback from countless family dinners. Feel free to adjust seasonings and portions to your taste!
5 – Spicy Mango Salsa
Spicy Mango Salsa, it’s like a fiesta on a plate. Made with ripe mango chunks, this salsa is a colorful mix of sweet, tangy, and a little heat.
We toss in diced jalapeños for a kick. Red onions and cilantro join the party, bringing freshness and spice balance.
Pair this with Bang Bang Shrimp, and it’s a match made in flavor heaven. We sometimes serve it with chips too, just as good.
Get creative, adjust the spice to your liking. Don’t shy away from adding a splash of lime juice.
6 – Garlic Butter Naan
Garlic Butter Naan, the warm and irresistible flatbread. It’s soft, chewy with a garlicky twist. We spread melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Pop the naan in a hot oven. It crisps up just right.
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Some use it to scoop up curries, while others pile it with toppings. We experiment with flavors, trying chili flakes too. It’s a versatile side—simple yet flavorful.