Crab cakes are a seafood lover’s dream, but when it comes to crafting a perfect meal, they deserve a little help from their friends – the side dishes. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, the right side dishes can elevate the flavors and make your crab cakes the star of the show. In this article, we’ll dive into a variety of mouthwatering side dishes for crab cakes, from light and fresh salads to hearty and comforting potato-based options. You’ll find something for every taste and occasion!
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Fresh and Flavorful Salads
When it comes to pairing side dishes for crab cakes, salads offer a refreshing and light contrast to the rich, savory flavor of the crab. Crisp greens, vibrant fruits, and tangy dressings can enhance your meal without overpowering the delicate flavors of the crab. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for a warm day. Let’s explore some salad ideas that perfectly complement crab cakes.
Crisp Green Salads
Nothing beats the simplicity of a crisp green salad to go with your crab cakes. The fresh, crunchy texture of the greens provides a delightful contrast to the softness of the crab. Here are a couple of options you might want to try:
Arugula and Lemon Vinaigrette Salad
A zesty lemon vinaigrette is the ideal dressing for this vibrant salad. The peppery flavor of the arugula works wonderfully with crab cakes, giving your plate a fresh, sharp bite. Add in a sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of richness and you’re all set.
Mixed Greens with Citrus Segments
If you’re looking for something with a burst of sweetness, a salad with mixed greens and citrus segments is the way to go. The tangy oranges or grapefruits brighten up the dish, while the greens balance everything out. A light citrus dressing with olive oil and honey will tie all the flavors together beautifully.
Fruit-Infused Salads
For a more daring option, try adding fruit to your salads. The natural sweetness of fruit pairs exceptionally well with crab cakes, enhancing the seafood flavors without taking over.
Strawberry and Avocado Salad
The smoothness of avocado combined with the sweetness of strawberries creates a heavenly duo. Toss them together with arugula, a dash of lime, and a honey-lime dressing. This salad is both refreshing and filling, making it the perfect side for your crab cakes.
Mango and Cucumber Salad
For a tropical twist, consider a mango and cucumber salad. The juicy sweetness of mango paired with the cool crunch of cucumber creates a vibrant, hydrating side dish. Add in some cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar for an extra layer of flavor that will brighten up your meal.
In the next part, we’ll dive into the world of tangy slaws and pickled vegetables, which make for a perfect balance of sharpness and crunch against the delicate crab cakes.
Zesty Slaws and Pickled Vegetables
If you’re looking to add a tangy and crunchy element to your meal, then slaws and pickled vegetables are the way to go. These side dishes for crab cakes offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab, while also providing that satisfying crunch. Whether you prefer spicy, tangy, or sweet, slaws and pickled veggies have the versatility to complement crab cakes in a variety of ways. Let’s explore some slaw options and pickled vegetable dishes that will take your crab cake experience to the next level.
Tangy Slaws
Slaws are an easy and classic way to add zest to your crab cakes. The crunchy texture and the tangy flavors from the dressing balance beautifully with the soft and savory crab cakes. Here are two tasty slaw ideas to consider:
Quick Pickled Slaw
This slaw is all about bright, bold flavors. By combining cabbage, carrots, and onions with a tangy apple cider vinegar-based dressing, you create a refreshing, slightly sweet side. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor alongside crab cakes.
Spicy Jalapeño Slaw
For those who love a little heat, a spicy jalapeño slaw is a fantastic choice. Toss together cabbage, carrots, and fresh jalapeños with a creamy, tangy dressing. The heat from the jalapeños complements the delicate crab cakes, adding an exciting kick without overpowering them.
Marinated Vegetables
If you’re craving something more pickled and tangy, marinated vegetables are an excellent choice. These add a sharp, acidic contrast to the sweetness of crab cakes and bring a whole new dimension of flavor.
Marinated Cucumber, Tomato, and Onion Salad
For a light and refreshing option, try a marinated cucumber, tomato, and onion salad. The cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes balance out the acidity of the onions, while a simple vinegar-based marinade ties everything together. This salad is a perfect side dish for crab cakes, giving your meal an extra touch of freshness.
Pickled Red Onions
If you want to keep things simple yet flavorful, pickled red onions make a great addition. Their tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the savory crab cakes, providing that sharp contrast that elevates your meal. Serve them on the side or garnish your crab cakes for an extra burst of flavor.
Creamy and Cheesy Delights
If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent side dishes for crab cakes, then creamy and cheesy options are sure to delight. These sides add a comforting, hearty element to your meal that perfectly complements the tender crab cakes. Whether it’s creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy cornbread, the rich textures and flavors will make your crab cake dinner even more satisfying.
Classic Creamy Sides
Creamy sides are an excellent way to balance the lightness of crab cakes with something rich and decadent. Here are two popular creamy sides that will take your crab cakes to new heights:
Macaroni and Cheese
What’s better than a plate of creamy macaroni and cheese to go with your crab cakes? The richness of the cheese and the soft pasta create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the delicate flavor of crab. You can add some extra seasonings or breadcrumbs for a bit of texture, but even a simple version will work wonders.
Creamed Spinach
Another indulgent side is creamed spinach. This dish offers a rich, velvety texture that complements the lightness of crab cakes. The creaminess of the spinach, combined with a hint of garlic and Parmesan, makes for an irresistible side that brings richness to your plate.
Cheesy Baked Dishes
If you’re looking to elevate your meal even more, cheesy baked dishes are a fantastic choice. From cornbread to zucchini fries, these sides offer a comforting, cheesy flavor that perfectly complements crab cakes.
Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread
For something savory and spicy, try cheesy jalapeño cornbread. The slight heat from the jalapeños combined with the gooey cheese creates a flavorful, satisfying side. The light sweetness of the cornbread balances well with the savory, flaky crab cakes.
Baked Zucchini Fries
For a lower-carb option, baked zucchini fries are a fantastic choice. Coated in a cheesy, crispy crust, these fries provide a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the softness of the crab cakes. Serve them with a side of tangy dipping sauce to tie the flavors together.
In the next section, we’ll focus on roasted and grilled vegetables that add a smoky, savory dimension to your crab cake meal. Stay tuned!
Roasted and Grilled Vegetables
When it comes to adding that perfect smokiness or caramelized flavor to side dishes for crab cakes, roasted and grilled vegetables are your go-to options. These vegetables add depth and texture to your plate, balancing out the lightness of crab cakes. Roasting or grilling vegetables also enhances their natural sweetness, making them a satisfying accompaniment. Let’s take a look at a few delicious options.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful caramelized touch. These vegetables pair well with the mild flavor of crab cakes, offering a savory contrast. Here are some easy-to-make roasted vegetable sides:
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon
A simple yet elegant side dish is roasted asparagus with lemon. Asparagus spears are lightly drizzled with olive oil, seasoned with salt and pepper, then roasted until crispy. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top for an added citrusy zing that complements the sweetness of crab cakes. This side is not only flavorful but visually stunning on the plate.
for more check Asparagus German Recipes
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For a heartier option, try garlic roasted Brussels sprouts. These mini cabbages become crisp on the outside while staying tender on the inside. The garlic brings out the natural flavor, and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts pairs well with the sweet crab. Toss them in olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs before roasting for a quick and easy dish.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables take on a smoky flavor that enhances their natural taste. The charred edges and rich flavor from the grill perfectly complement the delicate crab cakes. Let’s explore some fantastic grilled vegetable ideas:
Grilled Endive and Halloumi Salad with Strawberries
If you’re after something unique, a grilled endive and Halloumi salad with strawberries makes an excellent side dish. The endive has a slight bitterness that contrasts with the creamy Halloumi cheese and the sweetness of the strawberries. Grilling the endive adds a smoky depth, making this an intriguing side to serve with crab cakes.
Grilled Eggplant and Bell Pepper Medley
Another great option is a grilled eggplant and bell pepper medley. The smoky, tender eggplant pairs beautifully with the sweetness of bell peppers. Drizzle with olive oil and a little balsamic vinegar before grilling, and you’ve got a flavorful side that perfectly balances the flavors of your crab cakes.
Starchy Sides and Grains
Starchy sides and grains provide a comforting, hearty addition to your meal. These side dishes for crab cakes offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor, complementing the delicate crab without overshadowing it. Whether you prefer potatoes or grains like quinoa, these sides are sure to satisfy.
Potato-Based Sides
Potatoes are a classic, crowd-pleasing side that pairs wonderfully with crab cakes. Their soft, starchy texture works as a great base to soak up sauces or complement the crab’s flavor. Here are two tasty potato-based side dish options:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are creamy, rich, and comforting. The creamy potatoes are made even more flavorful with roasted garlic and butter, providing a deliciously smooth texture. This side dish adds a satisfying heartiness to your meal while keeping the focus on the crab cakes.
Crispy Potato Wedges
For a little more crunch, serve crispy potato wedges. These potatoes are cut into wedges, tossed with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, and roasted until golden brown. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them a perfect match for the soft, savory crab cakes.
Grain Salads
Grain salads offer a refreshing yet hearty option that pairs well with crab cakes. They provide texture and flavor, adding variety to your meal. Try these two grain salad ideas for a satisfying side:
Lemon Vinaigrette Pasta Salad with Field Peas
This pasta salad with field peas is both refreshing and filling. The light lemon vinaigrette dressing brings a citrusy burst that enhances the flavors of the crab cakes. Add in some fresh vegetables and herbs, and you have a balanced, flavorful side dish.
Quinoa Salad with Cranberries and Cilantro
For something a little more unique, quinoa salad with cranberries and cilantro is a fantastic choice. The nutty quinoa is complemented by the sweet, tart cranberries and fresh cilantro, creating a dish full of flavor. This side dish is perfect for those looking for a lighter option with a bit of sweetness to complement the crab cakes.
If you’re craving more delicious ideas, check out our other recipes for more side dish inspiration!
Sauces and Dips to Elevate Crab Cakes
A great sauce or dip can take your side dishes for crab cakes to the next level. The right sauce adds moisture, flavor, and an extra layer of excitement to your crab cakes, making each bite more flavorful. Whether you prefer creamy, tangy, or spicy, there are countless options to enhance your meal. Let’s explore some sauces and dips that will complement your crab cakes perfectly.
Creamy Sauces
Creamy sauces add richness and smoothness to your crab cakes, balancing the delicate seafood flavor. Here are a couple of options that pair wonderfully with crab cakes:
Remoulade Sauce
A classic choice for crab cakes, remoulade sauce is a tangy, creamy sauce with a hint of spice. Made with mayonnaise, mustard, capers, and pickles, it offers a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the crab. This sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling over the top of your crab cakes for an extra kick of flavor.
Tartar Sauce with Lemon Zest
Another classic, tartar sauce with lemon zest, is a beloved accompaniment for crab cakes. The creaminess of the mayonnaise combined with the tangy pickles and a burst of citrus from the lemon zest adds a refreshing touch. This sauce provides a familiar, comforting flavor that enhances the delicate taste of crab.
Spicy Sauces and Dips
For those who love a little heat, spicy dips and sauces are a great way to add a bold kick to your crab cakes. The balance of heat and flavor can create an exciting contrast to the crab’s mild taste.
Sriracha Aioli
If you enjoy a little spice, sriracha aioli is a fantastic choice. This creamy, garlicky sauce combined with the spicy kick of sriracha gives a bold flavor that pairs beautifully with crab cakes. Its creamy texture enhances the crab’s flavor, while the heat adds a fun twist.
Spicy Mango Salsa
For a refreshing, spicy dip, consider spicy mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango combined with the heat from jalapeños creates a lively flavor that complements crab cakes perfectly. The vibrant colors and flavors of this salsa not only elevate your meal but also add a tropical touch to your dish.
Pairing Drinks with Crab Cakes
When you’re enjoying a delicious plate of crab cakes, the right drink can elevate the whole experience. Whether you’re serving a zesty cocktail, or a refreshing mocktail, pairing your drink with the side dishes for crab cakes enhances both the flavors of the crab and the overall meal. Let’s take a look at some fantastic drink pairings to enjoy alongside your crab cakes.
Cocktails and Mocktails
If you prefer cocktails or mocktails, there are plenty of refreshing drinks that pair well with crab cakes. These beverages can bring out the flavors in both the crab and the sides you serve with it.
Gin and Tonic
A gin and tonic is a crisp, refreshing cocktail that works wonders with crab cakes. The botanicals in the gin pair nicely with the delicate flavor of the crab, while the citrusy notes of the tonic provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
Virgin Mojito
For a non-alcoholic option, a virgin mojito is a fantastic choice. The mint and lime flavors are fresh and zesty, making it an ideal companion to crab cakes. Its lightness and acidity enhance the flavors of both the crab and the side dishes, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.
To complete your crab cake meal with perfect drinks, explore more side dishes for crab cakes on our website for further inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What side dish goes well with crab cakes? Roasted vegetables, creamy slaws, garlic mashed potatoes, and simple salads are all excellent choices.
- What do Marylanders eat with crab cakes? In Maryland, crab cakes are often paired with cole slaw, fries, or a side of corn on the cob.
- What pairs well with crab for dinner? Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and light pasta dishes are great pairings.
- What flavors go well with crab cakes? Tangy, creamy, or slightly spicy flavors, like tartar sauce, remoulade, or lemon zest, complement crab cakes well.
- Do you eat crab cakes plain? Crab cakes are often served with sauces or side dishes, but they can be enjoyed plain, especially if they’re well-seasoned.