What to Serve with Shrimp Salad: 8 Delicious Sides to Make
Salad can be a great dish, but it’s not always easy to come up with the perfect side dishes to go with it. You want something that will taste great and complement the other ingredients used, but what do you choose?
I finally figured it out a few days ago and put this list together.
Look:
I was all set to make a romantic dinner for my husband on Valentine’s Day. The table was set, the candles were burning, and the music was playing softly in the background. I had even gone out and bought a fresh seafood salad for us to enjoy. But when it came time to dish up the salad, I realized that I had no idea what to serve as a side dish.
Do I need bread? A vegetable? Something else entirely?
So, I ran to the grocery store and browsed the aisles for inspiration. I found some beautiful fresh cucumber and decided to make a tantalizing cucumber salad. I also grabbed some rice, because I knew my husband loved it.
I was so proud of my creation! The shrimp salad was simple but elegant, and the side dishes complemented it perfectly. My husband was thrilled with the meal, and we enjoyed a romantic dinner together.
If you’re looking for side dish inspiration for your next shrimp salad, look no further! Here are some of my favorite dishes to serve with shrimp salad. Ready?
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Salad
- Fried Okra
- Fried Rice
- Corn on the Cob
- Cucumber Salad
- Deviled Eggs
- Baked Potatoes
- Cornbread
- Macaroni and Cheese
Fried Okra
First off, I am known for my love of all things fried, and okra is no exception. This Southern classic is often served as a side dish, and it goes particularly well with shrimp salad.
In my experience, the crispy texture of the fried okra helps to contrast the creaminess of the salad, and the two dishes complement each other perfectly.
So to prepare fried okra, simply coat fresh okra in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Trust me, your guests will be coming back for seconds (and thirds)!
And if you’re looking for other ways to enjoy this delicious side dish, try pairing it with grilled fish or steak. It’s also great as a standalone snack, just add a little hot sauce, and you’re good to go!
Fried Rice
Y’all know that shrimp and rice are a match made in heaven. But have you ever tried fried rice as a side dish for shrimp salad? Trust me, it is ah-mazing!
The rice soaks up all the delicious flavors of the shrimp salad, and the lightly crisped edges add an excellent contrast in texture. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rice you might have.
Now, I’m not gonna lie to you. This dish does take a little bit of effort to prepare. But it’s oh so worth it! First, you’ll need to cook the rice until it’s nice and fluffy. Then, you’ll need to fry it in some oil until it’s golden brown and crispy. Once that’s done, simply add your shrimp salad and enjoy!
Corn on the Cob
Next up is one of my favorites, corn on the cob. If I may say so myself, corn on the cob as a side dish for shrimp salad is the best thing since sliced bread! Maybe it’s the crunchy texture of the corn that pairs so well with the juicy shrimp, or maybe it’s the sweetness of the corn that offsets the tanginess of the dressing.
Either way, this is one combination that you’re sure to love.
To make this dish, simply boil a few ears of corn and then cut the kernels off the cob. Add them to your shrimp salad, along with some diced celery and red onion. However, if you prefer, you can serve your corn on the cob whole with your salad on the side.
You can also use this corn on the cob as a side dish for chicken salad or fish tacos
Cucumber Salad
This next side dish is so refreshing and light; it’s perfect for summertime! Cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with shrimp salad, and it’s a great way to use up any extra cucumbers you might have.
To make this dish, simply dice up some cucumbers and red onion and mix them with a vinegar-based dressing. I like to use apple cider vinegar, but you can use any type of vinegar you like. Then, simply add your shrimp salad and enjoy!
Deviled Eggs
Up next is another classic, deviled eggs. These little delights make an excellent side dish! Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Why do deviled eggs go so well with shrimp salad?” Well, let me tell you!
First of all, they both have mayo in them. And we all know that anything with mayo is bound to be delicious! But seriously, the creaminess of the mayo pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of the shrimp. Plus, the eggs add a lovely touch of elegance to the dish.
Now, I’m sure you’re wondering how to prepare this delightful side dish. It’s really quite simple! Just boil some eggs, remove the yolks, and mix them with mayo, mustard, and a little bit of salt and pepper.
Afterward, spoon the mixture back into the egg whites, and voila! You’ve got yourself a delicious side dish that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Of course, this scrumptious side dish isn’t just for shrimp salad. It would also be wonderful with chicken salad, tuna salad, or pretty much any other type of salad.
Baked Potatoes
Following that, are baked potatoes. Now, can this even work? “Baked potatoes? Really?” But trust me, they are really good!
The thing is the starchiness of the potato pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the shrimp salad. And when you add a little bit of sour cream and chives on top, it takes the dish to a whole new level.
I know what you’re thinking, “This sounds like a lot of work.” But it’s really not! You can easily bake potatoes in the oven or microwave. Then, simply add your shrimp salad on top and enjoy!
Cornbread
Next up is cornbread. I know, I know. You’re probably thinking, “What the heck? Cornbread doesn’t go with shrimp salad!” But take my word, it does!
In fact, the first time I had cornbread and shrimp salad together was at a potluck party. I was really hesitant to try it, but I’m glad I did! The combination of flavors was amazing. The sweetness of the cornbread paired perfectly with the tanginess of the shrimp salad. It ended up being one of my favorite dishes at the party!
So, to make this dish, simply bake a batch of cornbread and cut it into small squares. Then, add your shrimp salad on top, and BOOM! You’ve got yourself a delicious and unique side dish.
Macaroni and Cheese
Last but not least is macaroni and cheese. But you’re probably wondering, “What, macaroni and cheese is a main dish, not a side dish!”
Well, my friend, you would be wrong! Macaroni and cheese is an excellent side dish for shrimp salad. The thing is the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of the shrimp. Plus, the cheesy goodness makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Still not convinced? Just give it a try! I’m confident you’ll be hooked after just one bite.
Lastly, to prepare this delectable side dish, simply cook some macaroni and mix it with a cheese sauce. Then, add your shrimp salad on top and chow down!
FAQ
What can I serve with seafood salad?
There are a few different options that you could choose from. Some people prefer to keep things simple and just serve a salad with their seafood dish. Other options include avocado, crackers, or even a sandwich.
What vegetable goes with shrimp?
Again, there are a variety of options to choose from. Some great choices include asparagus, broccoli, or even green beans.
What wine is good with shrimp?
Shrimp pairs best with wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio.
Can I pair red wine with shrimp?
Yes, you can! Some great red wines to pair with shrimp include Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Conclusion
What it all boils down to is that there are a variety of different side dishes that go great with shrimp salad. So, whether you’re looking for something simple or something more unique, there’s sure to be a dish that will suit your needs.
I hope that this list of my favorite side dishes has helped you out. And remember, when in doubt, just add more shrimp! Believe me, it’ll be delicious. 😉