What to Pair with Crab Cakes: 25 Perfect Sides

Serving sides with crab cakes enhances their flavor and creates a complete, satisfying meal. These pairings balance light textures with bold flavors, complementing the richness of the main dish.

Each option focuses on freshness and simplicity, ensuring a seamless dining experience. Whether it’s something crisp or creamy, these sides elevate crab cakes to a new level.

They offer a variety of tastes and textures to suit any occasion. Here are 25 of the best side dishes to serve with crab cakes:

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus serves as a vibrant vegetable side that elevates any meal.

The unique caramelization achieved through roasting enhances the natural flavors, creating an inviting dish that's both simple and satisfying.

Pairing beautifully with seafood like crab cakes, this preparation method brings out a delightful nuttiness in the asparagus spears.

With minimal effort required, you can effortlessly transform fresh asparagus into a flavorful complement for your dinner table or special occasions.

Cheese Grits

Cheese grits are a Southern dish that embodies rich, comforting flavors.

Known for their creamy texture and savory cheese infusion, these corn-based delights elevate any meal with their warmth.

Often served alongside seafood like crab cakes, they create an irresistible combination that's hard to resist.

Incorporating simple ingredients makes them easy to whip up while still impressing your guests at the dinner table.

Louisiana Style Remoulade

Louisiana style remoulade serves as a flavorful alternative to traditional condiments, making it an essential addition to your culinary repertoire.

Bursting with bold spices and rich flavors, this Cajun sauce elevates crab cakes or seafood dishes like no other.

Its unique blend of ingredients creates a tangy profile that complements fried foods perfectly.

With its origins steeped in Southern cuisine, you’ll appreciate how this versatile condiment can also enhance sandwiches and salads alike.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw complements a wide range of dishes, especially fried foods like crab cakes. Its refreshing crunch balances rich flavors and adds a delightful contrast to heavier meals.

With its tangy dressing and crisp vegetables, this dish is sure to be the talk of your next gathering as friends inquire about your secret recipe. The versatility of coleslaw allows you to experiment with various ingredients, creating endless possibilities for flavor profiles that cater to every palate.

Pairing it with seafood not only enhances taste but also elevates the dining experience altogether without overwhelming the senses.

New England Clam Chowder

New England clam chowder features a creamy base enriched with tender clams and savory potatoes.

This iconic dish shines in its comforting texture, making it an ideal companion for various seafood meals.

Homemade versions offer a depth of flavor that often surpasses what you find at restaurants, transforming any dining experience into something truly special.

Pairing this chowder with crab cakes elevates your meal to new levels of satisfaction, as the flavors complement each other beautifully while providing warmth on cooler days.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach serves as a rich and comforting side dish that elevates any meal with its velvety texture. This recipe transforms fresh spinach into a luscious creation, featuring cheese and cream for an indulgent experience.

With minimal ingredients, preparing this delightful offering becomes effortless in your kitchen. Whether accompanying steak or roasted chicken, the savory profile enhances the overall dining experience without overwhelming other flavors.

When you serve it up, expect smiles around the table as this classic favorite takes center stage among your sides.

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican street corn salad features the delightful combination of sweet corn, creamy cheese, and zesty spices that elevate any meal. This refreshing dish brings a burst of flavor to your table with its vibrant ingredients, offering a taste reminiscent of traditional Mexican street vendors.

The addition of tangy lime juice and cilantro adds an exciting kick that perfectly complements savory dishes like crab cakes. You’ll find it becomes a go-to recipe for gatherings or casual dinners alike as you share this unique salad with friends and family.

With each scoop, enjoy the robust flavors that make this side truly unforgettable.

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad serves as a classic accompaniment to fried dishes, known for its rich creaminess and zesty flavor.

This particular rendition stands out with its tangy undertones that enhance every mouthful.

Preparing a generous portion ensures you have ample leftovers to savor throughout the week, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or gatherings.

The creamy texture paired with bright notes creates a satisfying side that complements various meals effortlessly.

Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is a zesty condiment that enhances the flavors of various dishes.

This vibrant blend features ripe mangoes, which add a natural sweetness that pairs exquisitely with seafood, especially crab cakes.

The preparation involves simple chopping and mixing, making it an effortless addition to any meal or gathering.

With its bright colors and bold taste profile, this salsa not only complements but also elevates your dining experience by bringing a tropical flair to the table.

Succotash

Succotash features a delightful combination of corn and lima beans, often enhanced by regional ingredients like fresh vegetables or savory meats.

This dish captures the essence of seasonal produce while offering a unique balance between sweet and salty flavors that can elevate any meal.

The addition of crispy bacon introduces an inviting richness, making it an ideal pairing with crab cakes or grilled fish.

Peach Salsa

Peach salsa is a refreshing condiment that captures the essence of summer with its juicy sweetness and vibrant flavors.

Ideal for complementing savory dishes, this salsa pairs beautifully with fried crab cakes, enhancing their taste profile without overwhelming it.

The combination of ripe peaches, zesty lime juice, and fresh herbs creates a delightful contrast that awakens your palate.

Cucumber Avocado Tomato Salad with Pesto

Cucumber avocado tomato salad is a refreshing dish that shines with its vibrant colors and the unique twist of basil pesto dressing. This combination not only enhances the freshness of crisp cucumbers, creamy avocados, and juicy tomatoes but also elevates everyday ingredients into something special.

Perfect for warm days, it pairs beautifully with seafood like crab cakes or can stand alone as a light meal on its own. The balance of flavors makes it an ideal choice for gatherings or just enjoying at home when you crave something bright and invigorating.

You’ll find this salad to be both satisfying and energizing during sunny afternoons.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean quinoa salad is a refreshing dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean region.

This wholesome combination features protein-packed quinoa paired with an assortment of colorful vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, creating a fulfilling meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.

With its bright herbs and zesty dressing, this recipe offers a delightful departure from traditional pasta or potato salads while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes serve as a comforting companion to various dishes, elevating any meal with their creamy texture.

They pair exceptionally well with crab cakes, enhancing the dining experience through rich flavors and satisfying consistency.

This staple side dish is simple enough for anyone to prepare while also allowing room for creativity, think about adding garlic or herbs for an extra kick.

Sriracha Mayo

Sriracha mayo is a zesty condiment that elevates any dish with its creamy and spicy kick.

Crafted from just four straightforward ingredients, this sauce makes an exceptional companion for crab cakes and countless other snacks or appetizers.

With its versatility, you can easily incorporate it into sandwiches, wraps, or as a drizzle over grilled vegetables to enhance flavor profiles.

This easy-to-make sauce adds a delightful punch to your culinary creations while keeping the preparation simple and quick.

Rainbow Pasta Salad

Rainbow pasta salad features an assortment of fresh vegetables, bringing an eye-catching burst of color to your meal. This dish shines with its homemade dressing that perfectly complements the various textures and flavors within.

A generous serving not only satisfies hunger but also provides delightful leftovers for later enjoyment. You’ll find this recipe easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or casual gatherings when you want something quick yet visually appealing on the table.

With every bite, you experience a refreshing blend that's sure to impress anyone who sees it.

Dirty Rice

Dirty rice is a beloved staple in Creole and Cajun cooking, distinguished by its hearty combination of white rice enriched with finely chopped meats and an array of spices.

This dish not only delivers robust flavor but also showcases the culinary traditions of Louisiana, where every spoonful tells a story.

The enticing aroma wafts through your kitchen as you prepare it, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a satisfying meal.

Whether served alongside grilled proteins or enjoyed on its own, dirty rice brings warmth and depth to any dining experience while reflecting the rich culture behind it.

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli serves as a creamy and aromatic dip that elevates your meals with its bold flavor.

Infused with the rich essence of garlic, this condiment pairs wonderfully with sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and hot dogs alike.

Its versatility shines through when used as a delightful dipping sauce for crab cakes or fried seafood dishes.

Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this homemade creation will enhance every bite you take while adding an irresistible touch to your culinary adventures.

Green Beans Almondine

Green beans almondine highlights tender green beans sautéed in rich brown butter, complemented by crunchy almonds and aromatic shallots.

This dish stands out with a zesty touch of lemon that brightens the flavors beautifully.

With each bite, you'll appreciate the delightful contrast between the nutty texture of almonds and the crispness of perfectly cooked beans.

A fantastic choice for elevating any meal, it pairs well with various main courses while adding an elegant flair to your dining experience.

Squash Casserole

Squash casserole features tender sweet squash enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce and finished with a crunchy layer of buttery cracker crumbs.

This comforting dish stands out for its creamy texture and satisfying crunch that enhances each bite.

With its mild flavors, it serves as an excellent side or even a light main course that complements various meals effortlessly.

The combination of fresh ingredients creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen while baking, making it hard to resist going back for more.

Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a timeless dish known for its crisp romaine lettuce and rich, creamy dressing.

This classic favorite features crunchy croutons and savory Parmesan cheese that elevate the overall taste experience.

A few simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal or side dish that complements any occasion.

With this easy recipe, you can whip up an impressive Caesar in no time, making it ideal for casual lunches or dinner gatherings with friends.

Arroz con Gandules

Arroz con gandules is a classic Puerto Rican rice dish that boasts a savory profile, combining tender grains with pigeon peas and rich flavors from salted pork.

Infused with sofrito, olives, and tomato sauce, this recipe captures the essence of Latin cooking in every scoop.

The unique blend of spices creates an aromatic experience that complements various main courses beautifully; it pairs exceptionally well with crab cakes for those seeking a delightful culinary adventure.

Easy Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Baked sweet potato fries are a nutritious and delicious option that redefines the classic fry experience.

Their natural sweetness combined with a crispy exterior offers an exciting alternative to traditional French fries, making them perfect for any meal or snack.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip these up in no time.

These golden sticks provide not just flavor but also essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins A and C.

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a luscious side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh corn, resulting in a rich and creamy texture.

Crafting it from scratch means you’re bypassing store-bought options and bringing an exceptional depth of flavor to your table.

Simple ingredients come together seamlessly to create this comforting accompaniment that pairs well with various main courses.

Whether served at family gatherings or weeknight dinners, its appeal lies in its straightforward preparation without sacrificing taste.

Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread

Bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread elevates the classic side dish to a savory delight that’s packed with flavor.

Infused with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty jalapenos, this recipe transforms ordinary cornbread into an unforgettable accompaniment.

Perfect alongside seafood dishes or served on its own, it strikes a wonderful balance of textures and tastes.

The warmth from the peppers mingles beautifully with the richness of cheese and smokiness of bacon, making each bite satisfying.