What To Serve With Crab Cakes? 17 BEST Side Dishes

When crab cakes are on the menu, you know you're in for a treat. These little discs of joy are a beautiful blend of sweet, tender crab meat and crunchy crust.

But what else should join them on the plate? Here are 17 side dishes that perfectly complement the flavors of crab cakes, elevating your meal to a whole new level.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with crab cakes are garden salad, coconut shrimp, pineapple salsa, gazpacho, sausage and veggies, roasted asparagus, chicken Caesar salad, creamed corn, cheese dip, Korean corn dogs, baked zucchini fries, sweet potato wedges, garlic bread, and fresh fruit salad.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Garden Salad

A garden salad offers a crisp and refreshing contrast to crab cakes. It's a mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and maybe a few croutons for added crunch. Top it off with a vinaigrette dressing to make the flavors pop. The lightness of the salad complements the heavier crab cakes, creating a balanced meal.

2. Coconut Shrimp

Coconut shrimp add a tropical twist to your crab cake meal. Breaded in flaky coconut, these shrimp are usually deep-fried until golden and crunchy. They provide an extra layer of seafood goodness, and their crispy texture contrasts nicely with the crab cakes' softer interior.

3. Pineapple Salsa

A bowl of pineapple salsa can elevate your crab cakes to the next level. Chunks of fresh pineapple, diced jalapeños, and a sprinkle of cilantro provide a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. It's a vibrant addition that not only adds color to your plate but also complements the crab cakes excellently.

4. Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a chilled Spanish soup made from tomatoes, peppers, onions, cucumbers, and sometimes a splash of red wine vinegar. Its cool, refreshing nature makes it an excellent match for hot, freshly cooked crab cakes. The acidity of the tomatoes and the crunch of the veggies make for a well-rounded companion.

5. Sausage and Veggies

If you're looking for a heartier side, a sheet pan filled with roasted sausage and colorful veggies is the way to go. The smoky flavors of the sausage and the caramelized, roasted veggies offer a complex, savory blend that pairs beautifully with the simpler taste and texture of crab cakes.

6. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, brings both color and nutrition to the plate. Its earthy flavor and crunchy texture provide a welcome contrast to the soft, rich crab cakes.

7. Chicken Caesar Salad

Another salad option, but with a protein twist. A chicken Caesar salad has that creamy, garlicky Caesar dressing and the added bonus of grilled chicken. It's a fuller side dish that stands up to, but doesn't overpower, the crab cakes.

8. Creamed Corn

Creamed corn brings a touch of Southern comfort to your crab cake meal. It's creamy, sweet, and has that homey feel that everyone loves. Cooked slowly to bring out its natural sweetness, creamed corn adds a different texture to your plate. It's smooth and comforting, a perfect counterpoint to the crispy, complex flavors of crab cakes.

9. Cheese Dip

Nothing says indulgence like a bowl of warm cheese dip. Made with a blend of cheeses like cheddar and cream cheese, maybe spiced up with some jalapeños or bell peppers for kick, this dip adds a gooey, melty element to the table. It's great for dipping not just chips but also pieces of crab cake, making each bite a creamy, cheesy delight.

10. Korean Corn Dog

For a fun and unconventional side, try Korean corn dogs. These aren't your typical corn dogs; they're often coated in panko crumbs and feature a blend of sausage and mozzarella. The result is a crispy, cheesy treat that makes for an exciting contrast to the soft and delicate crab cakes.

11. Baked Zucchini Fries

For a healthier yet equally satisfying side, baked zucchini fries are the way to go. The zucchini's mild flavor doesn't overpower the crab cakes, while the baked coating adds a crunchy texture that complements them well.

12. Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges bring a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to your plate. Oven-roasted with a hint of cinnamon or paprika, they make for a nutritious and delicious side that pairs nicely with the savory crab cakes.

13. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread offers a crispy, buttery texture and aromatic garlic flavor that work hand in hand with crab cakes. It's a familiar comfort food that nearly everyone enjoys, adding a touch of indulgence to the meal.

14. Green Beans Almondine

If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, green beans almondine could be your pick. The green beans are tender yet crisp, and the almonds add a nutty crunch. Together, they offer a balanced flavor profile that complements the richness of crab cakes.

15. Tzatziki Sauce

If you want to add a Mediterranean flair to your crab cakes, tzatziki sauce is a must. This tangy Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce has hints of garlic and dill that will infuse your meal with zesty freshness. It's a dip that cools down the palate and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich crab cakes. Plus, it's super easy to make at home!

16. Sweet Potato Fries

For a side that's both sweet and salty, try pairing your crab cakes with sweet potato fries. They're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the salty, briny flavors of the crab, creating a harmonious taste experience.

17. Fresh Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad can be a refreshing palate cleanser, especially when featuring tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya. The natural sweetness of the fruits contrasts nicely with the savory richness of the crab cakes.

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