8 Best Sides for Shrimp Kabob You’ll Enjoy

The simple truth is that shrimp kabob is a delicious dish, but it can be hard to know what side dishes to serve with it. I, too, have been in that shrimp kabob rut, but no more!

After last year’s family cookout where I brought shrimp kabobs and no one else brought a side, I decided to get my act together and vowed never to let that happen again, so I did some research on the best side dishes for shrimp kabob.

While not all the sides I found lived up to my shrimpy standards, I did find a few that were both delicious and suitable for shrimp kabob.

In this article, I’ll explain why each side dish is suitable and provide tips on preparing each one. I’ll also give examples of other ways to use each side dish.

So Let’s get this show on the road! Here are my top picks for shrimp kabob side dishes.

Side Dishes for Shrimp Kabob

1. Sautéed Tomatoes with Garlic
2. Macaroni Pasta Salad
3. Creamy Potato Salad
4. Coconut Rice
5. Quinoa with Eggs and Avocado
6. Roasted Potatoes with Lime and Butter
7. Vinaigrette Based Coleslaw
8. Grilled corn on the Cob

Sautéed Tomatoes with Garlic

Now y’all listen here, I’m gonna tell you about one of the best side dishes there is. It’s called sautéed tomatoes with garlic and it goes perfectly with shrimp kabob. I know some persons may be thinkin’, “ain’t shrimp kabob supposed to have a fruit salsa as a side?” And I’m here to tell you that’s not always correct.

In my opinion, this dish has got something that truly sets it apart from the other sides. It’s got that zesty garlic flavor that ties the whole meal together. Plus, it’s so easy to make. All you gotta do is chop up some tomatoes and garlic, throw it in a pan with some olive oil, and let it simmer until the tomatoes are soft.

Now I’m not sayin’ that fruit salsa ain’t good, but it ain’t got nothin’ on this dish. Trust me, Sautéed Tomatoes with Garlic will take your shrimp kabob to the next level. And if you’re looking for other ways to utilize this delicious side dish, it also goes great with grilled chicken or fish.

Quick Recipe: Sautéed Tomatoes with Garlic

Ingredients:

• 4 large tomatoes, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Average Cook Time:

10 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add sliced tomatoes and cook until softened.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Macaroni Pasta Salad

Second, on my list of shrimp kabob side dishes is macaroni pasta salad. The salad’s creamy dressing pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the kabobs, and the pasta provides a satisfying crunch. Plus, the salad can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your party.

Subsequently, to prepare the salad, simply cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Once it is cooked, drain it and add it to a large bowl along with your favorite vegetables. I like to use chopped broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and black olives.

Next, add a bottle of Italian dressing and mix everything together. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Then refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. This salad is also great as a light lunch or a quick snack.

Quick Recipe: Macaroni Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups macaroni pasta
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

20 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine macaroni, cucumber, and bell pepper.
3. Add mayonnaise and mix well.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.

Creamy Potato Salad

I have to say this creamy potato salad is an excellent side dish for shrimp kabob. The mayonnaise and sour cream give it a rich and creamy flavor, while the celery and onion add a nice crunch.

Not to mention, it’s super easy to make! Just boil the potatoes, mix in the mayonnaise and sour cream, add the celery and onion, and season to taste with salt and pepper. That’s it! You can also use this salad as a dip for your shrimp kabobs. Just leave out the potatoes and add a little extra mayo and sour cream. It’s delicious!

However, if you’re looking for a more health-conscious option, you can always substitute Greek yogurt for mayo and sour cream. Either way, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue!

Quick Recipe: Creamy Potato Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, cubed
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, mayonnaise, dill pickles, and mustard.
3. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

Coconut Rice

Next, coconut rice is another excellent side dish for shrimp kabob. For one thing, it’s a great way to add some extra flavor to your kabobs. The coconut rice pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp, and the added sweetness of the rice helps to offset the spiciness of the kabob sauce.

Additionally, the rice provides a nice contrast in texture to the succulent shrimp. The fluffy rice is a perfect backdrop for the tender shrimp, and the overall dish is simply delicious.

Of course, you can also enjoy coconut rice as a main dish. Simply prepare the rice according to the package directions, and then top it with your favorite toppings. Grilled chicken, fish, or tofu would be delicious additions to this already flavorful dish.

Quick Recipe: Coconut Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon salt

Average Cook Time:

20 minutes

Instructions:

1. Rinse rice under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine rice, coconut milk, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
4. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Quinoa with Eggs and Avocado

Yet another of my absolute favorite side dish for shrimp kabobs is quinoa with eggs and avocado. Some people might think that’s a weird combo, but I promise you it’s absolute perfection. Frankly, the creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the fluffy quinoa, and the eggs add a nice rich flavor.

Beyond that, it’s all healthy and nutritious, so you can feel good about eating it. As well as the eggs provide a boost of protein that will keep you full and satisfied all evening long.

From my experience, to prepare this delectable dish, simply cook the quinoa according to the package directions. Then, in a separate pan, scramble some eggs. Once both components are cooked, stir them together and add in some diced avocado and serve alongside your shrimp kabob.

Likewise, this dish can also be enjoyed as a main course or as a hearty snack.

Quick Recipe: Vinaigrette Based Coleslaw

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

10 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

Roasted Potatoes with Lime and Butter

Naturally, when it comes to side dishes, potatoes are always a safe choice. They can be roasted, mashed, or fried, and they go well with just about anything.

However, when you’re looking for something a little more special, try roasting them with lime and butter. The acidity of the lime helps to cut through the richness of the butter, and the result is a wonderfully balanced side dish that pairs perfectly with shrimp kabobs.

Typically, to make this dish, simply toss diced potatoes with melted butter and fresh lime juice. Then bake in a preheated oven until tender and golden brown. It’s that easy! And if you’re feeling like taking your culinary skills up a notch, you can even top your potatoes with a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder before serving.

Quick Recipe: Roasted Potatoes with Lime and Butter

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, cubed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss potatoes with melted butter, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Vinaigrette Based Coleslaw

Following that, coleslaw is always a fantastic option when you’re looking for shrimp kabob sides. In my opinion, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity, and crunch.

And best of all, it’s easy like pie to prepare! Simply mix together your favorite vinaigrette with some shredded cabbage and carrots. That’s it!

If you want to get a little more elaborate, you can also add in some diced red onion or green peppers. But honestly, even the basic recipe is delicious. Serve it alongside your shrimp kabobs, and savor the flavors of summer.

In addition, this coleslaw can also be enjoyed as a main dish. Simply top it with grilled chicken, steak, or even pork, and you’ve got a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Quick Recipe: Vinaigrette Based Coleslaw

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

10 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Last but not least, grilled corn on the cob is another shrimp kabob side that’s sure to please. The sweet corn pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp, and the overall dish is just bursting with flavor.

Plus, it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. And let’s be honest, anything that’s grilled just tastes better.

To make this dish, simply grill your corn on the cob according to your preferred method. Then, once it’s cooked, brush it with some butter and enjoy. Easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Quick Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cob

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of corn
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Average Cook Time:

15 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush each ear of corn with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred.

FAQ

What sides go with grilled shrimp?

There are a variety of sides that go well with grilled shrimp. Some options include rice, quinoa, potatoes, corn on the cob, and coleslaw.

What vegetable goes good with shrimp?

Many vegetables go well with shrimp. Some of the best options include broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, and squash.

What side dishes go good with seafood?

Some amazing sides to serve alongside seafood include potatoes, pasta, grilled or steamed vegetables

Conclusion

In a word, shrimp kabobs are delicious. But what makes them even better is when they’re served with the perfect side dish.

Whether you’re looking for something healthy or something hearty, there’s a shrimp kabob side dish on this list that’s sure to catch your eye or better yet, your taste buds. So blaze up the grill and get to grilling! Your stomach (and your guests) will thank you.