When you’re planning a meal with shrimp, selecting the right side dishes is crucial to complement the flavors and enhance the dining experience. Diverse sides can bring out the best in shrimp, whether grilled, boiled, or sautéed.
What pairs best with shrimp? From fresh salads to savory roasted vegetables, the options are plentiful, ensuring that you can find something to suit any palate.
1) Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Corn is a fantastic side dish to pair with shrimp. The flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese complement the sweetness of the corn, making each bite irresistible.
To prepare, start by husking the corn and brushing it with melted butter mixed with crushed garlic. Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally until it is slightly charred.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot corn. The cheese melts, mingling with the garlic butter to create a savory coating. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
You can also add a bit of chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while it’s hot alongside your shrimp dish. The contrast of textures and flavors will make your meal truly special.
2) Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad makes a delightful side dish for shrimp. The quinoa is fluffy and light, providing a wonderful base for the fresh ingredients.
You start by cooking the quinoa and letting it cool. This helps it absorb flavors better.
Chop up fresh herbs like parsley and thyme. These herbs add a bright, fresh taste to the salad.
Add lemon zest and lemon juice. The citrus flavor pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
Mix everything together with the quinoa in a large bowl. Toss well to ensure it’s evenly coated.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple yet flavorful salad is sure to complement your shrimp dish nicely.
3) Creamy Avocado Coleslaw
Creamy avocado coleslaw pairs perfectly with shrimp. The rich, smooth taste of avocado elevates the classic coleslaw to a whole new level.
You will need shredded cabbage and carrots as the base. This mix adds a crunchy texture.
Next, prepare the creamy dressing. Mash ripe avocados and mix them with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. You can also add a bit of yogurt for extra creaminess.
Combine the cabbage, carrots, and dressing. Make sure everything is well-coated. The avocados make the coleslaw extra creamy without being too heavy.
Feel free to add some chopped cilantro or green onions for more flavor. This side dish is both refreshing and satisfying. It complements the taste of shrimp beautifully.
4) Spicy Mango Salsa
Spicy mango salsa is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs well with shrimp tacos. The sweetness of the mango balances the spicy kick from the jalapeños.
To make this salsa, you will need fresh mangoes, jalapeños, red onions, and cilantro. Peel and dice the mangoes, chop the jalapeños and onions finely, and mix everything together.
For added flavor, squeeze the juice of a few limes over the mixture. This not only enhances the taste but also helps the ingredients meld together.
Let the salsa sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to intensify and makes the salsa even more delicious.
You can serve the spicy mango salsa with tortilla chips or as a topping for shrimp tacos. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors will elevate your meal and impress your guests.
5) Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan
Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan is a simple yet delicious side dish perfect for shrimp. It’s easy to make and adds a vibrant green to your plate.
First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Rinse, dry, and trim the asparagus. Then, place the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss the asparagus to coat it evenly.
To add flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the asparagus. You can also add minced garlic and lemon zest for extra taste.
Roast the asparagus in the oven for 8-12 minutes. The exact time depends on how tender you like your asparagus. It should be tender but still slightly crisp.
Once done, remove the asparagus from the oven. Serve immediately alongside your shrimp. The Parmesan will give a nice, salty richness that pairs well with the shrimp.
6) Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with shrimp. It combines the fresh, zesty flavors of lime and cilantro with the warmth of fluffy rice.
You start by cooking your rice until it’s tender and fluffy. While the rice cooks, finely chop fresh cilantro and squeeze the juice from several limes.
Once the rice is done, stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of lime zest. This adds a burst of flavor and a touch of brightness to each bite. You can also add a little bit of salt to enhance the taste.
To make it even more delicious, you might want to add a hint of garlic or onion powder while cooking the rice.
Serve your Cilantro Lime Rice hot alongside your shrimp. The citrusy and herbal notes of the rice complement the savory, tangy flavors of the shrimp beautifully. This refreshing side dish is simple to prepare and always a hit.
7) Sriracha Honey Brussels Sprouts
Sriracha Honey Brussels Sprouts bring a sweet and spicy twist to your meal. The combination of honey and sriracha makes these veggies irresistible.
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Clean and slice the brussels sprouts in half. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Place the brussels sprouts cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast them for about 20 minutes until they are slightly browned and crispy.
While the brussels sprouts roast, mix sriracha and honey in a small bowl. Once the brussels sprouts are done, toss them in the sauce until they’re well-coated.
Serve these Sriracha Honey Brussels Sprouts alongside your shrimp dish. The balance of sweet and spicy flavors will complement the shrimp perfectly.
8) Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with shrimp. This salad combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.
To make this dish, you will need cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. The key is in the dressing, made from olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix the pasta with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Then, pour the dressing over the salad and toss. The result is a colorful, flavorful side dish that complements shrimp with its light and tangy taste.
9) Cheesy Jalapeno Cornbread
Cheesy jalapeno cornbread adds a spicy and savory kick to your meal. It’s the perfect side dish for shrimp, balancing the sweetness of the corn with the heat of jalapenos and the richness of cheese.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In one bowl, mix your dry ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Add shredded cheese and chopped jalapenos to the mixture, folding them in carefully.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cheesy jalapeno cornbread pairs well with the flavors of shrimp, making your meal flavorful and satisfying.
10) Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a perfect side dish for shrimp. The rich flavors blend well with the taste of the shrimp.
Start by trimming the mushroom stems and cutting them into even pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
In a large skillet, warm some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring.
Once the bottoms are brown, give them a stir. Continue to cook until all sides are browned and the mushrooms release their moisture. This should take a few more minutes.
Add minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Stir well so the garlic and butter coat the mushrooms evenly. Cook for another couple of minutes until fragrant.
Serve the garlic butter mushrooms warm alongside your shrimp. This combination of garlic, butter, and mushrooms will enhance your shrimp dish with its savory taste.
11) Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad pairs perfectly with shrimp. It’s fresh and full of veggies. The ingredients include chickpeas, bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas. Place them in a large bowl. Add the diced bell peppers, sliced cucumbers, chopped red onions, and halved kalamata olives.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together. Make sure all the vegetables and chickpeas are well coated.
Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese. You can also add fresh herbs like mint or basil for extra flavor. This salad can be served right away or chilled in the fridge for a bit before serving.
12) Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a fantastic side dish for shrimp. The crispiness of the bacon and the tender asparagus create a delicious mix of textures. The smoky bacon also adds a rich flavor that complements the shrimp well.
To make bacon-wrapped asparagus, start by trimming the asparagus. You only need to remove the tough ends. Then, wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon.
Cook the wrapped asparagus on the grill at medium-high heat until the bacon is crispy. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You can also roast them in the oven for similar results.
For extra flavor, you can brush the bacon with a bit of maple syrup before cooking. This adds a touch of sweetness. Another tip is to par-cook the bacon first, which makes sure it gets crispy without overcooking the asparagus.
Bacon-wrapped asparagus pairs well with shrimp since both are easy to cook and have complimentary flavors. Adding this dish to your meal can make it more special and complete.
13) Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Crispy baked zucchini fries make an excellent side dish for shrimp. They are easy to prepare and offer a healthy alternative to traditional fries.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the fries don’t stick and helps them become crispy.
Cut the zucchinis into thick matchsticks, leaving on the peels for extra nutrition. In a shallow bowl, mix bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, and your favorite seasonings like garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
Dip the zucchini sticks into a mixture of milk and egg, then coat them with the bread crumb mixture. Place them on the baking sheet and lightly grease them with oil to help with crispiness.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even baking. They should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Pair these fries with your favorite dipping sauce. Popeyes Sweet Heat Sauce, with its blend of honey, vinegar, and red peppers, could add an exciting twist.
These crispy baked zucchini fries are sure to add a delicious and healthy crunch to your shrimp meal.
14) Fresh Tomato Basil Salad
A Fresh Tomato Basil Salad pairs perfectly with shrimp. It’s light and offers a burst of flavor.
You’ll need ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Begin by slicing the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the basil leaves roughly.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes and basil.
Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the mixture. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss everything gently to coat the tomatoes and basil evenly.
Serve the salad chilled. It’s a refreshing side that enhances any shrimp dish.
15) Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Garlic roasted potatoes are a perfect side for shrimp. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The strong flavors of garlic and olive oil give them a delicious taste.
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut your potatoes into 1.5-inch pieces. Make sure to dry them well with a paper towel.
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.
Roast the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Stir them halfway through cooking to ensure they brown on all sides.
These garlic roasted potatoes pair well with many shrimp dishes. They add a warm and hearty element to your meal. Enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes for Shrimp
Eating the right side dishes with shrimp can make your meal more nutritious. They can add essential vitamins, minerals, and a good balance of calories and macronutrients, enhancing the overall health benefits of your meal.
Vitamins and Minerals
Many popular side dishes for shrimp are rich in vitamins and minerals. For example, Caesar salad provides significant amounts of vitamins A and K from the leafy greens, which support vision and blood health.
When you include sides like zucchini or asparagus, you get a boost of potassium, beneficial for heart function, and vitamin C, which strengthens your immune system.
Black beans and corn salad can be great sources of iron and magnesium. Iron supports healthy blood cells, while magnesium is vital for muscle function and bone health. These side dishes help ensure you’re getting a variety of essential nutrients alongside your shrimp.
Calories and Macronutrients
Balancing calories and macronutrients in your side dishes is key for a well-rounded meal. For example, plain rice or Indian Fire Roasted Tomato Rice offers a good source of carbs, giving you energy. Carbs are essential for fueling your body, especially when combined with the protein in shrimp.
Parmesan Roasted Zucchini and Garlic Lime Steamed Asparagus are low in calories but high in fiber and healthy fats. These sides help you feel full longer without adding many calories.
Orzo salad can provide a balance of carbs and protein, especially when mixed with legumes. This balance supports muscle maintenance and overall energy levels. Being mindful of your side dishes’ calorie and macronutrient content ensures your meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
Pairing Tips for Shrimp Side Dishes
When choosing side dishes to pair with shrimp, consider the flavor profiles and textures that complement the natural sweetness and tenderness of the shrimp. These tips can help you create well-rounded and delicious meals.
Flavor Profiles
Shrimp has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well with both bold and subtle side dishes. Citrus flavors like lemon and lime enhance shrimp’s natural sweetness and add a refreshing tang.
Herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and basil can also bring out the best in shrimp. For a more savory combination, you might pair shrimp with side dishes incorporating garlic or chili peppers to add a bit of heat.
You can also try Asian-inspired flavors like ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. If you prefer Mediterranean cuisine, side dishes with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese can add a rich, savory balance.
Texture Considerations
Pairing shrimp with a variety of textures can make your meal more interesting and satisfying. Crunchy side dishes like fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or crispy breadsticks provide a nice contrast to the tender texture of shrimp.
Creamy dishes such as mashed potatoes or risotto can complement the softness of shrimp without overpowering it. You could also consider serving al dente pasta or grilled vegetables to add a chewy or charred texture that pairs well with the delicate bite of shrimp.
For a unique textural experience, try zoodles (zucchini noodles) which provide a crunchy and low-carb alternative. Avoid pairing shrimp with overly heavy sides that could overshadow its delicate taste and texture.
Preparing Side Dishes Ahead of Time
Preparing side dishes ahead ensures a smooth meal by minimizing last-minute tasks. It also helps maintain the flavors and textures of the dishes.
Make-Ahead Storage Tips
Use airtight containers to keep side dishes fresh. Plastic containers and glass jars work well for most items. For salads, keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
Line containers with paper towels to absorb extra moisture, especially with leafy greens. Label containers with the date to ensure freshness.
Use the fridge for short-term storage, but if you’re planning to store items for over 2 days, consider freezing them. For freezable sides like mashed potatoes, use freezer-specific bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating and Serving
Reheat side dishes at medium heat to maintain their texture. For casseroles or baked sides, use the oven at 350°F. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist.
Microwave reheating is quick but may alter the texture. Stir the food halfway through to ensure even heating. Use a steamer for vegetables to keep them crisp.
When serving, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of dressing to enhance the presentation and flavor. Make sure to allow some dishes to come to room temperature before reheating, especially delicate ones like creamy sides.
