What To Serve With Etouffee: 16 Tasty Side Dishes

hen you're diving into a comforting bowl of etouffee, you want side dishes that can keep up with its robust flavors. Whether it's the creamy consistency or the spicy kick that you love about this Southern classic, the right accompaniments can make your meal truly unforgettable.

So, what should you pair with crawfish etouffee ? Here are 16 amazing side dishes that really bring out the best in this Cajun and Creole marvel.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with etouffee are jasmine rice, cornbread, cauliflower rice, quinoa, polenta, wedge salad, eggplant parmesan, mashed potatoes, green bean almondine, roasted brussel sprouts, southern-style collard greens, sweet potato fries, black-eyed peas salad, grilled asparagus, garlic knots, and apple coleslaw.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice and etouffee go together like peanut butter and jelly. The rice soaks up all the flavors from the etouffee, making for a delightful eating experience. Plus, the aromatic quality of jasmine rice adds an extra layer of complexity to the meal. It's not just a filler -  it's a side dish that contributes to the whole experience.

2. Cornbread

Cornbread is not just a slice of the South; it's also an ideal partner for etouffee. Its sweet, crumbly texture pairs incredibly well with the spiciness of the main dish. You can serve it up warm, and if you're up for it, slather a generous amount of butter on top. Honestly, each bite of cornbread alongside etouffee feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. You can even add some jalapenos to the cornbread mix for an extra kick!

3. Cauliflower Rice

Are you on a health kick? No worries; cauliflower rice has got you covered. Its texture mimics that of regular rice but offers a lighter carb footprint. You can even toss in some chopped parsley or a squirt of lime juice to amp up the flavor. It's not just about cutting carbs; it's about adding a new layer of taste to complement crawfish etouffee. Truly a guilt-free indulgence!

4. Quinoa

Let's talk about quinoa. It's not just for salads; its nutty, earthy flavor makes it a strong contender as a side for etouffee. It's protein-packed, so you're getting nutrients along with a mouthful of flavor. Plus, the grains have a wonderful ability to soak up all the etouffee goodness. It's a winning combination of health and taste, suitable for any day of the week, really.

5. Polenta

Soft and creamy, polenta serves as a wonderful base for shrimp etouffee. Its smooth texture and mild taste provide balance against the robust flavors of the main dish. Add a touch of parmesan for extra flavor.

6. Wedge Salad

If you're looking for something lighter, a classic wedge salad can do the trick. The crispness of iceberg lettuce along with toppings like bacon and blue cheese make for a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of shrimp etouffee.

7. Eggplant Parmesan

I know what you're thinking—eggplant parmesan and etouffee, really? But trust me on this. The cheesy, crispy layers of eggplant offer a kind of richness that contrasts yet complements the spicy etouffee. It's like a culinary yin and yang. Plus, you're adding some veggies to your plate, so it's a win-win for flavor and health.

8. Mashed Potatoes

Forget regular mashed potatoes -  we're talking about a side dish with personality. The creamy, fluffy texture is just the thing you need to soak up all the spices and flavors from the etouffee. A touch of roasted garlic or a dash of fresh chives can turn this staple side into a show-stealer. It's comfort food that adds a layer of coziness to your crawfish etouffee.

9. Green Bean Almondine

Green beans with a sprinkle of almond slivers can bring a crisp, nutty addition to your etouffee. This dish adds color and a different texture that complements the mushier, creamy etouffee. Toss them in some lemon juice and garlic, and you’ve got yourself a side that’s as easy as it is delicious.

10. Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Don't roll your eyes just yet; Brussel sprouts have made a comeback. When roasted, they offer a rich, earthy flavor and a delightful crunch. Their slightly bitter taste can cut through the richness of the Etouffee, creating a balanced meal you'll love.

11. Sweet Potato Fries

If you're a fan of the sweet and spicy combo, sweet potato fries are your jam. Their natural sweetness pairs amazingly with the heat from the Etouffee, creating a fun play on flavors. Crisp them up in the oven with a dash of salt, and you've got a winning side.

12. Black-eyed Peas Salad

A fresh and zesty black-eyed peas salad can add a new dimension to crawfish etouffee. Packed with protein and fiber, it's a side dish that holds its own. A little bit of lemon juice, some diced tomatoes, and a sprinkling of herbs, and you’re all set.

13. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled to perfection, asparagus adds both color and flavor to shrimp etouffee. A slight char on the asparagus adds smokiness, while its inherent sweetness makes it a balanced side. A drizzle of olive oil and a dash of salt are all you need.

14. Garlic Knots

For those of us who can't resist bread (and let's face it, who can?), garlic knots are a heavenly choice. Soft, warm, and loaded with garlic and butter, they do a fantastic job of soaking up the etouffee sauce, making sure none of it goes to waste.

15. Southern-style Collard Greens

Bring some Southern charm to your plate with collard greens. Slow-cooked with bacon or ham hocks, these greens bring smoky and tangy flavors that harmonize with spicy Etouffee. They’re a taste of tradition that pairs well with this Louisiana classic.

16. Apple Coleslaw

Who says coleslaw is only for barbecues? A simple apple coleslaw can add a crunchy, sweet contrast to your spicy etouffee. Thin apple slices and cabbage tossed in a light mayo or yogurt dressing, and you've got yourself a side that’s both refreshing and satisfying.