Shrimp is a versatile seafood option that can be prepared in many ways. It can be grilled, baked, fried, or sautéed. When serving shrimp as your main dish, picking the right side dishes can elevate your meal from good to great.
The perfect side dish for shrimp should complement its delicate flavor without overpowering it.
From fresh salads and roasted vegetables to comforting starches like rice pilaf and potatoes, you have many options to choose from.
Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant seafood feast, the right sides will help create a balanced and satisfying meal.
1. Garlic Butter Rice
Garlic butter rice makes an excellent side dish for shrimp. This simple yet flavorful rice has the perfect balance of butter and garlic that complements seafood beautifully.
To prepare it, you’ll need white rice, butter, minced garlic, chicken broth, and salt. The key is getting the liquid-to-rice ratio just right for fluffy results.
The buttery texture and aromatic garlic flavor enhance your shrimp without overpowering it.
Whether you’re serving fried shrimp, grilled shrimp, or shrimp scampi, this rice pairs wonderfully with each preparation.
You can easily customize it by adding herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
2. Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan
Roasted broccoli with Parmesan is a perfect side dish to accompany your shrimp dinner. This simple yet delicious combination brings out the natural flavors of broccoli while adding a crispy, cheesy finish.
To prepare, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Then, roast in a hot oven until the edges become crispy and slightly charred.
After roasting, sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. The cheese melts slightly on the warm broccoli, creating a savory coating.
This side dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals alongside your shrimp.
3. Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta serves as a perfect companion to shrimp dishes. This Italian staple has a smooth, comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with the firm bite of well-cooked shrimp.
For an easy weeknight dinner, try topping your creamy polenta with Cajun-spiced shrimp. The spicy kick contrasts nicely with the mild, buttery base.
You can also enhance your polenta with Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Sautéed vegetables like red peppers, plum tomatoes, and onions add color and flavor to this combination.
For a more elegant approach, consider a Venetian-style dish where the polenta is topped with shrimp cooked in a white wine and garlic sauce.
4. Lemon Asparagus
Asparagus with lemon makes a perfect side dish for shrimp. The bright citrus flavor complements seafood beautifully, creating a balanced meal.
This side dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Simply roast or steam fresh asparagus and finish with fresh lemon juice and zest.
The combination works especially well with garlic butter shrimp. The vegetable’s earthy flavor contrasts nicely with the richness of the shrimp.
For a complete meal, you can serve both over pasta or keep it low-carb by enjoying them on their own.
5. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad makes a perfect companion to shrimp dishes with its fresh, light flavors. This classic Italian combination features ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves.
The simplicity of caprese complements the delicate taste of shrimp without overwhelming it.
Just drizzle with quality olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze for the perfect finish.
For a variation, try a loaded caprese with extra vegetables and lettuce. You can even incorporate shrimp directly into the salad for a more substantial option.
The bright colors and fresh ingredients create a visually appealing side that balances the richness of your shrimp main course.
6. Coconut Jasmine Rice
Coconut jasmine rice creates a perfect backdrop for shrimp dishes with its subtle sweetness and aromatic qualities. You can prepare it easily by replacing some of the water with coconut milk when cooking.
The creamy texture and tropical flavor complement both crispy coconut shrimp and grilled shrimp varieties. This side dish works especially well with spicy shrimp preparations as the coconut helps balance the heat.
For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lime juice and some chopped cilantro just before serving. This simple addition brightens the dish and ties it together with your seafood main course.
7. Greek Quinoa Salad
Greek Quinoa Salad pairs perfectly with shrimp for a complete meal. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines protein-rich quinoa with fresh vegetables for a nutritious side.
The salad typically includes cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. These ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
A light red wine vinegar dressing ties everything together with a tangy finish. You can easily customize this salad by adding more vegetables or herbs.
For a time-saving option, prepare the quinoa ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This refreshing side dish complements both grilled and sautéed shrimp beautifully.
Baked sweet potato fries make a perfect companion to fried shrimp. They offer a healthier alternative to regular fries while providing a naturally sweet contrast to savory shrimp.
8. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Making crispy sweet potato fries at home is surprisingly easy. Cut sweet potatoes into wedges or fry shapes, then season them with your favorite spices.
The key to achieving that perfect crispiness is baking them at a high temperature (around 425°F). A sprinkle of brown sugar can enhance their natural sweetness, or keep things savory with salt and pepper.
These colorful fries not only look great on your plate but also add nutritional value to your meal with their vitamins and fiber.
9. Mango Avocado Salsa
Mango avocado salsa brings a perfect balance of sweet and creamy flavors to complement your shrimp dishes. The combination of ripe mango chunks and buttery avocado creates a refreshing contrast to savory seafood.
For best results, dice the mango and avocado into small, uniform pieces. Add red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavor profile.
This bright salsa works wonderfully with both grilled and fried shrimp. You can adjust the heat level by adding jalapeño or serrano peppers according to your preference.
Serve this salsa fresh to maintain the texture of the avocado and vibrant colors.
10. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles, often called “zoodles,” make a perfect low-carb side dish for shrimp. These light vegetable strands provide a fresh alternative to traditional pasta.
When tossed with bright, flavorful pesto, zoodles create a vibrant complement to shrimp dishes. The basil and garlic notes in the pesto enhance the natural sweetness of your seafood.
You can prepare this dish quickly using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create the zucchini strands.
For best results, avoid overcooking your zoodles – a quick sauté keeps them tender-crisp rather than soggy.
This side dish works particularly well with Italian-seasoned shrimp or Cajun-spiced varieties for a delicious contrast of flavors.
11. Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts make a perfect side dish for shrimp. When roasted until crispy, they develop a wonderful caramelized exterior while staying tender inside.
To make them, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, roast them in a hot oven for 15-20 minutes until the edges become crispy and browned.
For extra flavor, try adding a honey balsamic glaze. The sweetness balances the natural bitterness of the sprouts and complements the shrimp beautifully.
These crispy Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost to your shrimp dinner. They’re easy to prepare and can be ready in about 20 minutes.
12. Lime Cilantro Cauliflower Rice
Lime Cilantro Cauliflower Rice offers a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to traditional rice that pairs perfectly with shrimp. This light side dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
The combination of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro brings bright, zesty flavors that complement seafood beautifully. You can easily make this dish using frozen cauliflower rice, coconut milk, lime juice, and salt for a quick preparation.
Serve this versatile side with grilled shrimp, creamy chipotle shrimp, or as the base for a shrimp taco bowl. The refreshing citrus notes cut through rich seafood dishes, creating a balanced meal.
13. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect match for shrimp dishes. Its sweet, smoky flavor complements the briny taste of shrimp beautifully.
To prepare, simply brush corn with butter and sprinkle with salt before placing on a hot grill. Cook until you see those lovely char marks appear, turning occasionally.
For extra flavor, try rubbing lime on your grilled corn and sprinkling with chili powder or paprika. This adds a zesty kick that works especially well with spicy shrimp preparations.
Corn also looks great on the plate next to shrimp, adding vibrant color to your meal. The textures work together too – juicy shrimp alongside sweet, crunchy corn creates a satisfying contrast.
14. Spicy Sriracha Slaw
Spicy sriracha slaw makes a perfect companion for your shrimp dishes. This zesty side combines crunchy cabbage with a creamy, spicy sriracha dressing that balances the seafood’s natural sweetness.
To make it, mix shredded cabbage with carrots, cilantro, and green onions. Then toss with a dressing of mayo, lime juice, sriracha, and honey for the perfect sweet-spicy balance.
You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha. This vibrant slaw works wonderfully with grilled shrimp, shrimp tacos, or as a refreshing side for fried shrimp dishes.
The bright flavors and contrasting textures make this slaw a standout side that elevates any shrimp-centered meal.
15. Tomato Basil Orzo
Tomato basil orzo makes a perfect companion to your shrimp dishes. This rice-shaped pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
You can prepare this side dish in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of fresh tomatoes and aromatic basil creates a Mediterranean flavor profile that complements shrimp perfectly.
For the best results, cook the orzo in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. This simple change adds depth to the dish without extra effort.
Add some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy finish. The cheese melts slightly into the warm orzo, creating a deliciously satisfying texture.
16. Cucumber Dill Salad
Cucumber dill salad makes a perfect light companion for shrimp dishes. The crisp cucumbers and fresh dill create a refreshing contrast to rich seafood flavors.
This simple side requires minimal effort with just three steps or less. Thinly slice cucumbers and sweet onions, then toss with a creamy dill dressing for an unbelievably delicious make-ahead dish.
You can elevate this salad by adding a tangy lime dressing. The bright acidity cuts through the sweetness of shrimp perfectly.
For best results, let the salad chill before serving. This allows the flavors to blend while maintaining the cucumber’s refreshing crunch.
17. Quinoa Tabbouleh
Quinoa tabbouleh offers a protein-packed twist on the traditional Middle Eastern salad. This refreshing dish combines fluffy quinoa with chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and cucumber.
The light, lemony dressing brings all the flavors together, creating a perfect complement to grilled or sautéed shrimp. You can prepare this dish ahead of time, as the flavors actually improve after sitting in the refrigerator.
For an extra special meal, serve your quinoa tabbouleh with lemony shrimp on top. The bright citrus notes in both the salad and seafood create a harmonious pairing that works well as a light lunch or dinner side.
18. Herbed Couscous with Lemon
Herbed couscous with lemon makes a light and refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully with shrimp. This quick-cooking grain-like pasta is ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
Pearl couscous works especially well, offering a pleasantly chewy texture that contrasts nicely with tender shrimp.
Simply cook the couscous according to package directions and toss with fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and dill.
The bright flavor of lemon zest and juice cuts through the richness of shrimp dishes. Add a drizzle of olive oil and minced garlic for depth.
You can customize this versatile side dish with your favorite herbs or add toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
19. Cheesy Grits
Cheesy grits make a perfect companion to shrimp dishes. This creamy Southern staple transforms ordinary shrimp into a complete meal.
The rich texture of grits combined with melted cheese creates a smooth base that balances the lean protein of shrimp.
You can customize your cheesy grits with cheddar, Parmesan, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
For the best results, cook your grits slowly and stir frequently. Adding butter and cream enhances the richness, while a dash of garlic powder adds depth.
Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the warm, comforting texture alongside your perfectly prepared shrimp.
20. Buttered Peas and Carrots
Buttered peas and carrots make a perfect side dish for your shrimp meal. This classic combination is quick to prepare and adds both color and nutrition to your plate.
You can make this dish using frozen peas and fresh carrots. Simply simmer them in butter and vegetable broth until tender for maximum flavor.
This versatile side works for both everyday dinners and special occasions. The sweetness of the peas and carrots complements the savory flavor of shrimp beautifully.
Enhance the flavor with simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic.
This approachable side dish takes just minutes to prepare but makes any shrimp dish feel complete.
21. Ratatouille
Ratatouille makes an excellent side dish for shrimp that brings a Mediterranean flair to your meal. This classic French vegetable stew combines eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs for a colorful and flavorful accompaniment.
You can serve shrimp directly on top of ratatouille for a complete one-dish meal. The vegetable medley offers a sweet and savory contrast to the natural sweetness of shrimp.
For a complete dinner, consider placing the ratatouille and shrimp over buttered egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes for Shrimp
The right side dishes can transform your shrimp meal from simply delicious to nutritionally complete. Well-chosen accompaniments add essential nutrients that complement the protein-rich profile of shrimp.
Balancing Macronutrients
Shrimp is primarily protein with minimal fat and no carbohydrates. Adding carb-rich sides creates a balanced meal that provides sustained energy.
Rice and potatoes offer complex carbohydrates that digest slowly and keep you feeling full longer.
Vegetable sides like roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach add fiber while contributing minimal calories. This fiber aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Healthy fat sources complement shrimp nicely. Consider:
- Avocado in salads
- Olive oil drizzled on vegetables
- Nuts as garnish on rice dishes
These fats help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins in your meal and provide essential fatty acids your body needs.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Colorful vegetable sides provide vitamins that shrimp lacks. Dark green vegetables like kale and spinach contain vitamins A, C, and K. These support immune function, vision health, and proper blood clotting.
Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa offer B vitamins and minerals including magnesium and zinc. These nutrients support energy production and immune function.
Citrus-based sides provide vitamin C, which helps your body absorb the iron in shrimp more efficiently. This combination fights fatigue and supports overall health.
Starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene and potassium. These nutrients support eye health and help regulate blood pressure when paired with the lean protein in shrimp.
Popular Cuisines for Shrimp Pairings
Shrimp’s versatility makes it a star in cuisines around the world. Different culinary traditions offer unique and delicious ways to complement shrimp dishes with sides that enhance their natural flavors.
Mediterranean Flavors
Mediterranean cuisine pairs beautifully with shrimp through bright, fresh flavors. Lemon rice makes an excellent base for grilled shrimp, with its citrus notes enhancing the seafood’s natural sweetness.
Greek salads with cucumber, tomato, red onion, feta, and olives offer a crisp contrast to warm shrimp dishes. The tangy dressing complements without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavor.
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers drizzled with olive oil and herbs make a hearty but light accompaniment. These vegetables take on a sweet, smoky quality when roasted that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
Garlic bread or warm pita serves as the perfect vehicle for soaking up flavorful sauces from shrimp dishes. The garlic complements the seafood while providing satisfying carbohydrates to round out the meal.
Asian Culinary Influences
Asian cuisine offers some of the most popular shrimp pairings with bold, complex flavors.
Steamed jasmine or coconut rice provides a subtle, aromatic base that absorbs sauces while letting the shrimp remain the star.
Cold sesame noodles with a sprinkling of green onions make a refreshing side for spicy shrimp preparations.
The sesame oil adds depth while the chilled temperature balances heat.
Stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, snow peas, and water chestnuts add crunch and freshness.
These quick-cooked veggies retain their texture while taking on flavors from garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
Pickled sides such as kimchi or quick-pickled cucumbers cut through rich shrimp dishes with their tangy acidity.
These fermented accompaniments also aid digestion and add probiotic benefits to your meal.
