Pondering the perfect pairing for your shrimp-based main course is a challenge many of us face, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, finding new and exciting side dishes to serve alongside your seafood can be a daunting task.
But fear not, because we’re about to share with you 27 mouth-watering side dish ideas that will take your shrimp-based meals to the next level.
Zucchini Noodles
Highlighting the versatility of zucchini noodles, it’s easy to see why they’re a popular choice for substituting carbs with veggies in your diet. One of the most appealing aspects of ‘zoodles’ is their light and refreshing texture, which pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of parmesan cheese and garlic added in this recipe. These complementary flavors not only elevate the dish but also enhance the natural taste of seafood, making them an ideal match for shrimp.
Caprese Salad
Zest up your summer dinners by combining the freshness of Mediterranean flavors with the sweetness of shrimp. A caprese salad is an ideal side dish to serve alongside shrimp, thanks to its harmonious balance of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. The sweet and salty taste of shrimp pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of this Italian-inspired salad.
Coconut Rice
Looking for a side dish that complements the natural sweetness of shrimp? Coconut rice is an excellent choice. Not only is it a nutritious option, but its subtle and tropical sweetness perfectly balances out the flavor of the seafood. When you pair shrimp with coconut rice, the combination is sure to impress. With its delicate flavor and crunchy texture, coconut rice provides a lovely contrast to the softness of the shrimp.
Caesar Salad
Taking center stage as one of the most popular summer Mediterranean salads that pairs incredibly well with succulent shrimp is undoubtedly the classic Caesar salad. Its unique charm lies in its delicate balance of fresh, crisp lettuce and crunchy croutons, all perfectly harmonized by a tangy dressing that not only complements the salad but also elevates the flavor of the shrimp to new heights.
Coleslaw
Just like any other popular side dish, coleslaw is often served at outdoor gatherings such as barbecues and picnics, but its versatility makes it a great accompaniment to various mains, including seafood. This particular recipe offers a sweet yet citrusy twist on the classic coleslaw, making it an ideal match for shrimp dishes.
By incorporating ingredients like corn and honey, this coleslaw achieves a perfect balance of sweetness that complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the lemon zest adds a touch of saltiness. Overall, this side dish has been adapted to showcase its summery and refreshing qualities, making it an excellent choice for seafood lovers.
Lemon Sauteed Asparagus
Adding an extra layer of zest to this classic sautéed asparagus recipe, we’ve adapted it specifically to pair perfectly with seafoods such as succulent shrimp. The infusion of zesty lemon not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a refreshing and energizing quality that’s reminiscent of a seaside-inspired meal.
Corn Salad
Visually appealing side dishes can elevate any meal, and this corn salad recipe is no exception. Vibrant in color and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to shrimp or any other protein on a hot summer day. The harmonious balance of sweetness from the corn, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing cucumber is expertly complemented by a tangy dressing made from a blend of lemon juice, honey, red wine vinegar, and pungent garlic.
This delightful combination makes it an ideal side dish to serve at any outdoor gathering or casual dinner party.
Lime Rice
Varying your side dishes is a great way to add some excitement to your meal, and when it comes to pairing citrus flavors with seafood like shrimp, lime rice is an excellent choice. Unlike coconut rice, which can be overly sweet, lime rice provides a refreshing and energizing contrast that’s perfect for balancing out the richness of the dish.
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to lemon-infused sides, which are often paired with shrimp and other sea foods, then lime rice is definitely worth trying out.
Pesto Gnocchi
Rich in flavor and texture, potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of delicious dishes. One such dish is the creamy pesto gnocchi, which pairs perfectly with a shrimp main meal. The combination of white wine sauce and parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of depth to this side dish, making it a great accompaniment to dip your shrimp into.
Whether you’re looking for a filling side or just want to try something new, this recipe for pesto gnocchi is definitely worth considering.
Risotto
Generally speaking, risotto may seem like an unusual choice for a side dish in some people’s opinions. However, this Italian rice dish offers a unique way to enhance the calorie content of your meal without making it feel heavy or rich. The subtle flavors of risotto allow the natural taste of the shrimp to shine through, making it an excellent accompaniment to your seafood meals.
While not completely flavorless, risotto’s subtle seasoning with garlic, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of black pepper and kosher salt creates a harmonious balance that doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the shrimp. This is especially true when you add your own choice of chopped herbs to give it an extra boost of flavor. If you’re looking for a filling meal that lets the shrimp be the star of the show, then this side dish is definitely worth considering.
Succotash
Elevating the flavors of succotash is a breeze, thanks to its versatility and ability to combine an assortment of vegetables in perfect harmony. This salad makes for a fantastic accompaniment to shrimp, and its unique blend of ingredients is sure to generate excitement at dinner gatherings. The preparation process is remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal effort and utilizing easily accessible components such as cherry tomatoes, red peppers, lima beans, sweet corn, and onions.
You can swiftly put this recipe together in no time and serve it alongside your shrimp for a nutritious serving of daily vegetables.
Lemon Couscous
Blending Mediterranean flavors with North African cuisine, this recipe for lemon couscous is a fantastic side dish that’s perfect for pairing with a variety of meals. Couscous has become increasingly popular as a healthier alternative to pasta or rice, and it’s easy to see why – its light and fluffy texture makes it a joy to eat. The burst of citrus from the lemon perfectly complements the delicate flavor of shrimp, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more.
Roasted Greek Potatoes
Seeking a potato-based side dish to complement your shrimp, consider trying some traditional Greek-style roasted potatoes – they’re a recipe worth exploring. These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside wedges boast bold flavors of lemon and garlic that have been carefully infused into them. As a result, they make the perfect accompaniment to seafood dishes, adding a delicious twist to your meal. So why not try something new with these Greek roasted potatoes?
Roasted Garlic And Lemon Broccoli
Fresh from the garden or store, broccoli is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including seafood like shrimp. This particular recipe infuses the classic broccoli with a zesty lemon flavor, while the roasted garlic adds depth and richness to the dish. If you’re looking for ways to elevate your broccoli game when serving it alongside shrimp, this recipe is definitely worth trying.
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
