15 Best Cod Side Dishes You'll Enjoy

Cod is a delicious, healthy fish that can be cooked in many different ways. It’s also a great choice for those who are looking for a lighter meal. But what are some side dishes that will make you enjoy it more?

This is something that I’ve set out to discover, and I think I’ve found some great cod side dishes that will complement your cod recipe perfectly.

One of my personal favorites is risotto, but that’s just me. Maybe you want something a little different.

Well, I’ve got you covered.

Here are some cod side dishes that will take your cod recipe to the next level:

Cod Side Dishes

Ratatouille
Risotto
Cornbread
Cheese Grits
Mac N’ Cheese
Fried Okra
Asparagus
Lemon Rice
Hush Puppies
French Fries
Zucchini Fritters
Coleslaw
Corn On The Cob
Roasted Vegetables
Green Beans

Ratatouille

When it comes to side dishes, there are endless possibilities. But sometimes you just want something simple and satisfying. That’s where ratatouille comes in. This dish of stewed vegetables is the perfect accompaniment to cod.

The sweetness of the tomatoes complements the rich flavor of the fish, and the mixture of textures provides an enjoyable contrast. Plus, ratatouille is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Risotto

Risotto is a classic Italian dish made from Arborio rice. It is a creamy and flavorful rice dish that can be used as a side dish or main course. Risotto can be made with a variety of different ingredients, including vegetables, meats, and seafood.

Cod is a delicious fish that pairs well with the risotto. The creamy texture of the risotto complements the flaky texture of the cod.

Risotto is also a versatile dish that can be flavored to suit your taste. For example, you could add Parmesan cheese and parsley for a more cheesy flavor, or you could add garlic and lemon for a more savory flavor.

Moreover, risotto can also be made in advance, so it is a great dish to serve when you have guests over.

Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic southern side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of main courses. In particular, cornbread is an excellent side for cod. The rich, savory flavor of cornbread pairs well with the delicate taste of cod, and the crunchy texture provides a pleasant contrast to the flaky fish.

Cornbread is also relatively easy to make, and it can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day.

Additionally, cornbread is a versatile side dish that can be flavored with a variety of herbs and spices. For example, adding a little cumin to the cornbread batter can give it a flavorful kick that pairs well with cod’s milder taste.

Cheese Grits

Cheese grits are a delicious and versatile side dish that goes great with Cod. There are many benefits to using grits as a side, including their ability to absorb flavors and their nutrient-rich composition.

Cheese grits are also relatively easy to make and can be tailored to match the flavors of any cod recipe. Additionally, grits are a low-calorie option when compared to other common side dishes such as mashed potatoes or rice.

When selecting a cheese grits recipe to accompany your Cod, be sure to consider the other ingredients in the dish. For example, if the Cod is being served with a cream sauce, you may want to use a lighter cheese such as mozzarella or Swiss.

Alternatively, if the Cod is being grilled or fried, you may want to choose a more robust cheese such as cheddar or Parmesan.

Mac N’ Cheese

Mac ‘n’ cheese is a classic American dish that makes a great side dish for cod.

The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta are a perfect match for the flaky fish, and the dish can be easily adapted to suit your taste.

For example, you can add extra vegetables, such as broccoli or peas, to the mac ‘n’ cheese for a heartier meal.

Alternatively, you could add some spice with a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika.

The best thing about mac ‘n’ cheese is that it is relatively quick and easy to make, so it is ideal for busy weeknight dinners. Plus, it is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Fried Okra

Fried okra is a delicious and easy side dish that pairs well with cod. The crispy texture of the okra contrasts well with the flaky fish, and the subtle flavor allows the cod to shine.

Additionally, fried okra is a healthy option as it is packed with nutrients and fiber.

It’s also pretty easy to do! To make fried okra, simply coat sliced okra in cornmeal and fry in hot oil until golden brown.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a great side dish for cod. There are many benefits to using asparagus as a side dish for cod. Asparagus is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which can help to improve the health of your heart and circulation.

Additionally, asparagus is a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate digestion. Asparagus is also low in calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.

Furthermore, asparagus pairs well with cod, complementing the mild flavor of the fish. When selecting asparagus for this dish, look for spears that are firm and green. Avoid those that are limp or yellowing.

To prepare the asparagus, simply snap off the tough ends and roast in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Serve alongside your cod for a healthy and delicious meal.

Lemon Rice

There are many reasons to consider lemon rice as a side dish for cod. For one, it provides a lovely contrast in both flavor and texture. The cod is light and flaky, while the lemon rice is hearty and filling.

Additionally, the lemon rice helps to round out the meal, providing essential nutrients that the cod may lack.

Not to mention, the two dishes complement each other perfectly; the cod brings out the richness of the lemon rice, while the lemon rice helps to brighten up the cod.

Of course, there are other considerations as well. Lemon rice pairs well with other seafood dishes, making it an ideal choice for a summertime meal.

It is also relatively easy to prepare, which is always a bonus. Plus, it can be made in advance, freeing up valuable time on the day of your event.

Hush Puppies

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare side dish to accompany your cod, look no further than hush puppies!

These little fried cakes are the perfect complement to any fish dish, and they’re sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Best of all, they can be made in advance and reheated just before serving.

There are many benefits to using hush puppies as a side dish for cod. For one, they help to absorb some of the fishy flavors of the cod, making it more palatable for those who may not be fans of seafood.

Additionally, they add a nice crunchy texture to the dish that helps to offset the flakiness of the cod. And finally, they can be made ahead of time, which is always helpful when entertaining guests or preparing a meal for a large group.

So what makes hush puppies a suitable side dish for cod? First and foremost, it’s important to choose a recipe that calls for simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

Moreover, you’ll want to look for a recipe that’s easy to follow and doesn’t require any special cooking skills or equipment. Finally, it’s always helpful to choose a recipe that can be made in advance, as this will help to reduce the stress of last-minute preparations.

French Fries

French fries are a popular side dish that can be served with cod. When choosing a side dish, it is important to consider the benefits of each option.

French fries offer a variety of benefits that make them a suitable choice for cod. First, french fries are a good source of important nutrients like potassium and fiber. They also contain Vitamins C and B6.

In addition, french fries are low in fat and calories, making them a healthier option than some other side dishes.

Additionally, french fries can be paired with a variety of sauces and toppings to create a unique flavor that will complement the cod.

Finally, french fries are easy to prepare and can be cooked in advance, making them a convenient option for busy cooks.

Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini fritters are an excellent side dish for cod. They can be used as an appetizer or a main course. The benefits of using zucchini fritters as a side dish for cod are that they are low in calories and fat, they are a good source of fiber, and they are a good source of vitamins A and C.

Zucchini fritters are also a good source of potassium. The recipe for zucchini fritters is simple and easy to follow. The ingredients needed for the recipe are one cup of all-purpose flour, one egg, one tablespoon of olive oil, one teaspoon of salt, and one-half cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

The first step is to mix the flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Then, form the mixture into small balls and flatten them into patties.

After which, fry the patties in olive oil until golden brown and then serve with cod. Zucchini fritters can also be served with other seafood dishes such as shrimp, scallops, or lobster.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a great side dish for cod. It’s crunchy, fresh, and pairs well with the delicate flavor of cod. Plus, it’s full of nutrients like vitamins A and C.

Here are some tips for making the perfect coleslaw to accompany your cod dish:

Start with a base of shredded cabbage. You can also add shredded carrots or other vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
Add a dressing of your choice. A vinegar-based dressing will cut through the richness of the cod, while a creamy dressing will complement it.
Season with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Corn On The Cob

Corn on the cob is a popular side dish in the United States. Many recipes call for corn on the cob as a side dish, and it can be used with a variety of main dishes.

One benefit of using corn on the cob as a side dish is that it is relatively easy to prepare. Simply boiling the corn in water for a few minutes will cook it perfectly.

Additionally, corn on the cob pairs well with a variety of flavors. It can be served with butter and salt, or it can be given a more Mexican flavor by adding lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro.

Finally, corn on the cob is a healthy side dish option. It is low in calories and fat, and it is a good source of fiber.

Roasted Vegetables

There are many benefits to using roasted vegetables as a side dish for cod. For one, roasted vegetables are a healthy and nutritious option that can help to boost the flavor of the cod.

Additionally, roasted vegetables can be used with a variety of different recipes, making them a versatile and convenient side dish.

And finally, roasted vegetables typically have a lower calorie count than other side dishes, making them a good option for those looking to watch their weight.

Green Beans

In many cases, green beans make an excellent side dish for cod. For one, green beans are generally a healthier option than some of the other common side dishes out there, such as mashed potatoes or French fries.

Additionally, green beans can help to add a touch of color to your plate, making your meal more visually appealing.

Finally, green beans pair well with the delicate flavor of cod and can help to round out the dish.

Conclusion

There are many delicious cod side dishes to choose from.

While some people may prefer a more traditional option like mashed potatoes or coleslaw, there are also several healthier choices like roasted vegetables or green beans.

Ultimately, the best cod side dish is the one that you enjoy the most.

So be sure to experiment and find the perfect dish to compliment your cod recipe!