Hoppin' John, also known as Carolina peas and rice, is a tasty Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and pork. It's often eaten for good luck on New Year's Day. This dish is great on its own, but adding the right sides can make it even better.

Here are 15 tasty side dishes that go really well with Hoppin' John. They add different flavors and textures, making your meal more interesting and enjoyable.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with hoppin' john are jasmine rice, cornbread, collard greens, oven roasted zucchini, green beans with bacon, quinoa, shrimp skewers, pork loin back ribs, butter lettuce salad, grilled beets, brussels sprouts, buckwheat bread, baked salmon, honey glazed carrots, roasted sweet potatoes.

Now, let's get cooking!

Table of Contents

1. Jasmine Rice
2. Cornbread
3. Collard Greens
4. Oven Roasted Zucchini
5. Green Beans with Bacon
6. Quinoa
7. Shrimp Skewers
8. Pork Loin Back Ribs
9. Butter Lettuce Salad
10. Grilled Beets
11. Brussels Sprouts
12. Buckwheat Bread
13. Baked Salmon
14. Honey Glazed Carrots
15. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
What To Serve With Hoppin' John

1. Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is a fragrant and fluffy side that pairs beautifully with Hoppin' John. Its subtle floral aroma and soft texture make it a great base for soaking up the flavorful juices of the dish. You can serve it plain or toss in some chopped herbs for added color and freshness. Jasmine rice offers a gentle, aromatic contrast to the robust flavors of Hoppin' John.

2. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic Southern side that's a must with Hoppin' John. Its sweet, buttery flavor and crumbly texture complement the savory, smoky taste of the dish. For an added twist, mix in some cheddar cheese or green onions into the batter. Cornbread is not only delicious but also perfect for mopping up any leftover juices on your plate.

3. Collard Greens

Collard greens are another traditional Southern staple that goes well with Hoppin' John. Slow-cooked with a bit of bacon or ham hock, they bring a smoky, earthy flavor to the meal. The greens' slight bitterness and tender texture provide a nice contrast to the creamy black-eyed peas and rice.

4. Oven Roasted Zucchini

Oven roasted zucchini adds a light and healthy touch to the meal. Cut zucchini into slices or wedges, season with herbs and olive oil, and roast until tender. This simple yet flavorful vegetable complements the hearty flavors of Hoppin' John, adding a nice balance to the dish.

5. Green Beans with Bacon

Green beans sautéed with bacon are a delicious and easy side. The green beans provide a fresh, crisp texture, while the bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor. This combination pairs wonderfully with the earthy tones of Hoppin' John, adding both crunch and depth to your meal.

6. Quinoa

Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative to rice. It's light and fluffy, with a slightly nutty taste, making it a perfect backdrop for the bold flavors of Hoppin' John. You can cook it in vegetable or chicken broth for extra flavor and stir in some chopped vegetables for added color and nutrition.

7. Shrimp Skewers

Shrimp skewers offer a delightful seafood twist. Grill or sauté shrimp with a touch of garlic and lemon for a light, flavorful side. The succulent shrimp provide a lovely contrast in both flavor and texture, adding a luxurious element to the overall meal.

8. Pork Loin Back Ribs

Pork loin back ribs make a hearty addition to a Hoppin' John meal. Slow-cook or grill them with a glaze of your choice, like a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. The rich, meaty flavor of the ribs pairs exceptionally well with the savory black-eyed peas and rice, offering a satisfying and indulgent complement.

9. Butter Lettuce Salad

A butter lettuce salad is a light and refreshing choice. Dress it simply with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The crispness and mild flavor of the butter lettuce provide a fresh contrast to the hearty Hoppin' John, making for a balanced meal.

10. Grilled Beets

Grilled beets offer a sweet and earthy flavor that complements the dish. Their firm texture and vibrant color add a beautiful and tasty element to your meal. Slice the beets, brush them with oil, and grill until tender. This side adds a unique and flavorful touch to your Hoppin' John experience.

11. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts, roasted until crispy and seasoned with a bit of garlic and parmesan, are a delicious addition. Their nutty and slightly bitter taste pairs well with the creamy black-eyed peas, bringing both flavor and nutrition to your meal.

12. Buckwheat Bread

Buckwheat bread, with its rich, earthy flavor, is a great gluten-free option. Serve it warm with a bit of butter, and it's perfect for sopping up any leftover flavors on your plate. This bread adds a wholesome and hearty element to the meal.

13. Baked Salmon

Baked salmon is an excellent choice for adding a light, healthy protein to your meal. Season it simply with lemon, dill, and a touch of butter, then bake until flaky. The salmon's delicate flavor and buttery texture contrast beautifully with the robust Hoppin' John, adding an elegant touch.

14. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey glazed carrots bring a sweet and savory flavor to the table. Roast them with a touch of honey and butter until they're tender and slightly caramelized. Their natural sweetness and tender texture make them a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with the savory Hoppin' John.

15. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a final, fantastic addition. Cut them into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and a hint of cinnamon, then roast until tender. Their natural sweetness and soft texture offer a delicious contrast to the savory flavors of Hoppin' John, rounding out the meal beautifully.