8 Tasty Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp
I was really nervous about my first date with my culinary school crush. We were going to meet at a nice restaurant downtown, and I wanted everything to be perfect. Unfortunately, I had a little bit of trouble with the menu. I couldn’t decide what to order, so I decided I’d just get the same thing as my date.
I was really relieved when he mentioned that he loved shrimp. I knew that I could definitely find a good side dish to complement the baked stuffed shrimp that I had ordered.
Before we go any further, I want to set something straight…
When it comes to baked stuffed shrimp, what you serve as a side dish is just as important as the shrimp itself. After all, you want your guests to be able to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures when they gather around your table.
So without further ado, here are a few of my favorite side dishes for baked stuffed shrimp:
Side Dishes for Baked Stuffed Shrimp
- Pascagoula Potato Salad
- Roasted Vegetables
- Caesar Salad
- Cheesy Garlic Bread
- Wild Rice
- Sesame Broccoli
- Greek Veggie Salad
- Couscous Primavera
Pascagoula Potato Salad
This is a must-have side dish if you’re from Mississippi. The Pascagoula Potato Salad is a creamy, mayonnaise-based potato salad that is perfect for any occasion. It’s made with red potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, celery, onion, and dill pickles.
It’s the perfect side dish for my Baked Stuffed Shrimp. You see, the creamy potatoes pair so well with the tender, succulent shrimp. Plus, the dill and celery add a lovely touch of freshness.
Now, as for preparation, it’s quite simple really. All you need to do is boil some potatoes, chop up some celery and dill, and mix it all together with mayonnaise, mustard, and a little bit of vinegar. Divine!
And if you have any leftover, it’s also excellent as a sandwich spread or on top of green salads.
Roasted Vegetables
Now y’all, I’m not one to toot my own horn… but I’ve got to say, my roasted vegetables are a perfect side dish for baked stuffed shrimp. Why, you ask?
Well, first of all, they’re absolutely delicious. But more importantly, they help to balance out the heaviness of the shrimp. And trust me, you don’t want to skimp on the shrimp when it comes to this dish.
Now, as for preparation, it’s pretty simple. Just toss your vegetables with a bit of olive oil and season them to taste. Then pop them in a preheated oven and let them roast until they’re nice and tender. Of course, you can always add your own personal touch to this dish,maybe a bit of garlic or some fresh herbs.
But however you make it, I guarantee you’ll love it.
And if you’re looking for more ideas on what to do with these delicious roasted veggies, well…the sky’s the limit. Serve them over rice or pasta, use them as a topping for pizza or salads… heck, you could even eat them straight off the pan. I’m telling you, they’re that good.
Caesar Salad
From one vegetable side to another is my go to salad. But hang on a minute, I know some folks might say that the only thing better than shrimp is more shrimp. But I beg to differ. I think the only thing better than shrimp is baked shrimp stuffed with even more shrimp.
And what pairs seemlessly with this seafood feast?
A big, bold Caesar salad, of course and it’s such a versatile dish that goes with just about anything.The crispy romaine, zesty dressing, and Parmesan cheese provide the perfect contrast to the rich, buttery shrimp. Plus, it’s a healthy way to round out your meal.
To make this salad, start by chopping up some romaine lettuce. Then, in a small bowl, whisk together some olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, anchovies, and Parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Toss the lettuce with the dressing and top with croutons and Parmesan cheese.
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Up next, is a cheesy garlic bread. I mean, what’s a meal without some sort of carb-laden side dish? Am I right?
That’s why I like to serve it up with a heaping helping of cheesy garlic bread. The rich, creamy cheese and the fragrant garlic complement the shrimp perfectly, and the bread soaks up all the delicious juices from the baking dish.
Plus, this dish is so convenient to make. Simply take a loaf of French bread and slice it into pieces. Spread on some garlic butter (or regular butter if you’re not a fan of garlic) and top with shredded Parmesan cheese.
Then, pop it in the oven while the shrimp is baking and let it bake until the bread is nice and crusty and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Basically, you’ll have a complete meal in no time. Now that’s my kind of cooking!
However, if you’re looking for another great way to enjoy this delicious side dish, try pairing it with a nice bowl of soup. It’s the perfect comfort food combo. I’m confident you’re going to love it!
Wild Rice
Following up our carb-heavy side dish is a light and fluffy wild rice. This nutty grain is the perfect partner for baked stuffed shrimp, providing a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
Moreover, it’s so easy to make. Just cook the rice according to the package instructions and then fluff it with a fork. That’s it!
But, if you want to get a bit exotic you can stir in some chopped green onions, toasted pecans, or dried cranberries. But however you make it, I guarantee it’ll be tasty.
My first taste of wild rice was at a restaurant and I have to say, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Plus, you can use it as a side dish or as a main course since it’s perfect for both vegetarian and meat-based dishes.
Sesame Broccoli
We continue with another vegetable side dish, sesame broccoli. This unique take on a classic side dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In fact Sesame broccoli is an outstanding side dish for baked stuffed shrimp. The reason is simple, it’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Plus, the sesame seeds add a delicious nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
To prepare sesame broccoli, simply steam or saute the broccoli florets until they’re tender. Then, toss them with a bit of sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds and you are done! Now just serve it up alongside your baked stuffed shrimp and you’re good to go.
Rest assured, your guests will be impressed. And if you’re looking for other ways to enjoy this delicious side dish, feel free to try it with grilled chicken or fish. It’s so versatile, you really can’t go wrong.
Greek Veggie Salad
Another of my favorite salads that partner so well with baked stuffed shrimp is this Greek Veggie Salad.
The salad’s bright colors and flavors complement the shrimp so magically. Likewise, this salad is a chock full of healthy ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese that is tossed in a light and refreshing Greek dressing.
Not to mention, it only takes minutes to make! Simply chop up all the veggies and mix them together in a bowl. Then, add your favorite Greek dressing and Boom! You’re done.
Greek Veggie Salad is also versatile so it can be served as a light meal on its own or as a side dish for chicken, fish or beef.
Couscous Primavera
Last, but certainly not least, is Couscous Primavera. This is one of my all-time favorite side dishes because it’s healthy, flavorful, and so easy to make.
Couscous Primavera is the perfect blend of fresh vegetables and fluffy couscous. The best part is that you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. I typically use green peas, carrots, yellow bell peppers, and red onions.
But feel free to get creative and add in your favorite veggies. Once you’ve chopped up the veggies, simply cook them in a bit of olive oil until they’re tender. Then, add the couscous and cook according to the package instructions.
After that, just add in your favorite herbs and spices and you’re good to go! I like to use a bit of garlic, basil, and thyme. But again, feel free to get creative and use whatever you like best.
Additionally, couscous can also be served as a side dish for other seafood dishes, such as scallops or lobster. I hope you enjoy this Couscous Primavera as much as I do!
FAQ
What vegetable goes with shrimp?
There are many vegetables that go well with shrimp. However bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are some of the most popular.
What can I serve with shrimp scampi?
There are many options when it comes to what to serve with shrimp scampi. Some popular choices include pasta, rice, quinoa, and couscous. You could also try a vegetable side dish or salad.
What is a good side dish for shrimp?
There are many good side dishes for shrimp. However, some of the most popular choices include rice, quinoa, couscous, and vegetables. You could also try a salad or soup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many delicious side dishes that go well with baked stuffed shrimp. I hope this guide has helped you choose the perfect side dish for your next meal.
They’re all healthy, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, they’re each versatile enough to be enjoyed as a meal on their own or as a side dish for chicken, fish, or beef.
So the next time you’re looking for the perfect side dish, be sure to give one of these a try. I promise, you won’t be disappointed!