Breaded shrimp: that delightful crunch, the juicy tenderness inside, and the irresistible flavor! It’s a favorite for appetizers, main courses, and everything in between. But once you’ve got those perfectly crispy shrimp ready, the next big question is: what goes with breaded shrimp to create a truly unforgettable meal?
You’re in luck! Pairing breaded shrimp is all about balancing textures, flavors, and temperatures. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh, hearty and satisfying, or just plain fun, we’ve got a fantastic lineup of side dishes and sauces that will elevate your shrimp experience from great to absolutely amazing.
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The Essential Dipping Sauces
Before we dive into sides, let’s talk sauces! A great dipping sauce is non-negotiable for breaded shrimp, adding moisture, a burst of flavor, and truly completing the bite.
- Tartar Sauce: The classic choice! Its creamy, tangy profile with dill or relish perfectly cuts through the richness of fried shrimp.
- Cocktail Sauce: For those who love a kick! This tomato-based sauce with horseradish, lemon, and Worcestershire offers a zesty, spicy contrast.
- Remoulade Sauce: A Southern favorite, similar to tartar but often spicier and more complex, with Creole mustard, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: If you enjoy a sweet and spicy fusion, this Asian-inspired sauce adds a delightful sticky glaze and gentle heat.
- Aioli: A rich, garlicky mayonnaise-based sauce that brings a sophisticated, creamy depth. Infuse it with herbs or lemon for extra flair.
Fantastic Side Dishes for Breaded Shrimp
Now for the main event: what to serve alongside your crispy crustaceans? Here are some top picks, categorized for easy meal planning.
1. Fresh & Light Salads
Salads are a fantastic way to add a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of breaded shrimp, cleansing the palate and adding vibrant color and nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw offers a cool, crisp crunch—a perfect match.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, often featuring cherry tomatoes and cucumber, is always a winner.
- Potato Salad: Whether creamy and classic or a lighter, dill-infused variety, potato salad brings satisfying texture and heartiness.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad, perhaps with a lemon-herb dressing, fresh vegetables, and feta, can be a delightful and filling side.
- Fruit Salad: For an unexpected twist, a fresh fruit salad with berries, melon, and citrus segments offers a sweet, juicy contrast.
2. Comforting Carbs & Starches
Sometimes you just need something hearty and familiar. These options provide satisfying textures and flavors.
- French Fries: The ultimate classic! Crispy fries and crispy shrimp are a match made in heaven.
- Rice: From fluffy white rice to savory pilaf or light fried rice, it offers a comforting base and absorbs flavors well.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the shrimp’s crunch.
- Baked Potato: A fluffy baked potato with your favorite toppings (butter, sour cream, chives) is a simple yet satisfying accompaniment.
- Warm Bread: Garlic bread, crusty dinner rolls, or cornbread are wonderful for soaking up delicious sauces.
3. Vibrant Vegetable Sides
Don’t forget your greens! Vegetables add essential nutrients, different textures, and often a touch of brightness.
- Asparagus: Steamed or roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon is elegant and complements seafood beautifully.
- Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic or blanched and tossed with toasted almonds, green beans are a simple, earthy choice.
- Corn: Whether on the cob, a simple corn salad, or creamed, its natural sweetness pairs well with shrimp.
- Broccoli: Steamed, roasted, or lightly sautéed, broccoli provides a healthy and versatile side.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes) adds depth of flavor and lovely char notes.
4. Warm Comforts & Surprises
Looking for something a little different or extra comforting? These options hit the spot.
- Mac and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese offers a delightful contrast to crispy shrimp.
- Onion Rings: For double the fried goodness, onion rings provide another layer of satisfying crunch and savory flavor.
- Hush Puppies: These savory fried cornmeal fritters are a Southern staple and a natural fit for any fried seafood platter.
- Tomato Soup: A light, creamy tomato soup can be a surprisingly comforting and complementary starter or side.
- Clam Chowder: For a heartier pairing, a rich and creamy clam chowder creates a truly indulgent seafood feast.
Tips for a Perfect Breaded Shrimp Meal
To make your breaded shrimp meal truly shine, keep these friendly tips in mind:
- Variety is Key: Offer a mix of textures and flavors. If your main side is creamy, consider a crunchy salad or vegetable.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly! Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so keep an eye on them.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: High-quality shrimp and fresh ingredients for your sides and sauces make a big difference.
- Sauce is a Must: Always have at least one (preferably a couple!) of those delicious dipping sauces ready.
- Pair with Drinks: A crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), a light lager, or refreshing lemonade or iced tea can complete the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breaded Shrimp Pairings
Got a quick question? We’ve got quick answers!
- What kind of sauce goes with breaded shrimp? Classic choices include Tartar Sauce, Cocktail Sauce, Remoulade, Sweet Chili Sauce, and Aioli. Check out our ‘Essential Dipping Sauces’ section for more details!
- What do you eat breaded shrimp with? Breaded shrimp is incredibly versatile! Popular options include various salads (coleslaw, green salad), comforting carbs (fries, rice), fresh vegetables (asparagus, corn), and fun sides like mac and cheese or hush puppies. See our ‘Fantastic Side Dishes’ sections above for a full list.
- What are good side dishes for popcorn shrimp? Popcorn shrimp, being smaller fried shrimp, pairs wonderfully with many of the same sides listed here, especially lighter options like salads or French fries, and, of course, a great dipping sauce!
Ready to Enjoy Your Breaded Shrimp Feast!
Hopefully, this guide has given you plenty of inspiration for what to serve with your next batch of delicious breaded shrimp. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking and even happier eating!