Sides for Fried Shrimp – 15 Delicious Ideas

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Wondering what to serve with fried shrimp? These delicious side dishes are the perfect pairing for this classic seafood recipe.

If you’re a seafood lover like me, you know that the crispy texture of golden brown fried shrimp is hard to resist. If you’re looking for ideas for what to eat with fried shrimp, you’re in the right place.

Whether you’ve whipped up a batch of classic southern fried shrimp, coconut shrimp, or pan fried shrimp, finding the perfect side dish can take your meal to the next level. These 15 mouthwatering options will tantalize your taste buds and make your fried shrimp dinner even better.

1. Potato Salad

A nice fresh potato salad with hard-boiled eggs, sliced green onions, and a creamy sauce is a perfect side dish for a fried shrimp main course. 

2. Hushpuppies

Hushpuppies are a classic side for a fried shrimp recipe or any fried seafood for that matter. The subtly sweet deep-fried balls of cornmeal add the perfect flavor to the meal.

3. Zesty Bell Pepper Slaw

Kick up the freshness with a zesty bell pepper slaw. Thinly sliced red and green bell peppers, tossed in a tangy dressing of lime juice and olive oil, provide a crunchy and vibrant contrast to the succulent shrimp.

4. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

Swap out regular fries for a healthier twist with crispy sweet potato fries. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory goodness of fried shrimp, making it a delightful combination.

5. Parmesan Zucchini Noodles

Embrace a low-carb option with Parmesan-coated zucchini noodles. Tossed in garlic powder and olive oil, these zoodles offer a flavorful and guilt-free accompaniment to your shrimp feast.

6. Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta

Transform plain pasta into a flavorful delight by mixing it with a generous serving of fresh basil pesto. The aromatic pesto enhances the overall dining experience, making it a great choice for shrimp lovers.

7. Classic French Fries

No list of best sides is complete without the ever-popular French fries made with russet potatoes. These crispy delights complement fried shrimp perfectly. Serve them hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra savory kick.

8. Macaroni Salad

A cold pasta salad is a great option for a fried shrimp dinner side. Creamy pasta with fresh, crisp veggies mixed in makes the perfect complementary side to crunchy shrimp.

9. Feta Cheese and Cherry Tomato Salad

Refresh your palate with feta cheese and cherry tomato salad. The tanginess of the feta complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, creating a perfect balance with the fried shrimp.

10. Parmesan Garlic Knots

Elevate your bread game with Parmesan garlic knots. These irresistible bites of doughy goodness brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and garlic powder will have everyone coming back for more.

11. Crispy Panko Breadcrumb Onion Rings

Give your meal an extra crunch with crispy panko breadcrumb onion rings. These golden rings are a delightful alternative to traditional fries, adding a burst of flavor and texture.

12. Tangy Coleslaw

Brighten up your plate with a tangy coleslaw. The zesty kick complements the richness of the shrimp, creating a refreshing and flavorful side.

13. Fresh Salad

This simple side dish is always a perfect addition to any meal. Top with fresh veggies like red bell pepper, green peppers, tomatoes, cheese, and homemade croutons for an added crunch. You could also try a hibatchi-style ginger salad and clear soup for a more Asian inspired flare.

14. Cucumber and Corn Salad

Create a complete meal with a southern fried shrimp and a cucumber and corn salad. The combination of fresh vegetables, shrimp, and a creamy dressing makes this dish a wholesome and delicious choice.

15. Garlic Butter Wild Rice

Take your taste buds on a journey with garlic butter-infused wild rice. The rich flavor of the rice, combined with the succulent shrimp, makes for a satisfying and hearty side dish.