What to Serve with Shrimp Cocktail – 15 Tasty Ideas

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Are you wondering what to serve with shrimp cocktail? This classic seafood appetizer can be served with a variety of dishes, so there are plenty of options to choose from! We have chosen the best sides and accompaniments to complete your shrimp cocktail platter. From light salads to hearty sides, there’s something for everyone. Read on to learn all about the perfect pairings for this delicious dish.

What is Shrimp Cocktail?

Shrimp cocktail, or prawn cocktail, is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. This dish has been a staple in seafood restaurants and cocktail parties for decades, and it’s not hard to see why.

The star of the show is, of course, the succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and chilled, served with a tangy cocktail dipping sauce. It’s a refreshing and elegant appetizer that is loved by many.

The flavor of the shrimp is beautifully complemented by the zesty cocktail sauce made from a combination of ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. The sauce adds a kick of heat and tanginess to the dish. It’s the perfect balance of flavors that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. 

The beauty of shrimp cocktail lies in its versatility. While it’s a showstopper on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. From light and refreshing salads to more substantial sides like roasted potatoes or creamy pasta, the options are endless.

So, whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or simply craving a delicious appetizer, shrimp cocktail is sure to impress. Its combination of succulent jumbo shrimp and tangy shrimp cocktail sauce is a match made in seafood heaven. And when paired with the perfect side dishes, it becomes a complete and memorable dining experience. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and indulge in the irresistible goodness of shrimp cocktail.

What to Serve With Shrimp Cocktail

With the right side dishes and the best shrimp cocktail with fresh homemade cocktail sauce, your party or get-together will be a big hit! Try some of these ideas for either the best appetizer spread ever or a complete meal for your family to enjoy. 

1. Caprese Skewers

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil combine to add a bright and fresh flavor to the shrimp cocktail. This easy appetizer will take no time to throw together but it will be one of the most loved by your guests. For a fun variation try blueberry caprese skewers.

2. Avocado Salsa 

Creamy avocado, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lime make for a refreshing and vibrant side dish. The light flavor of avocado is an excellent choice with the slightly spicy flavor of shrimp cocktail and a great way for guests to cool off if the extra flavor of cocktail sauce is a little too much. Serve this salsa with tortilla chips for an easy and delicious side dish.

3. Lump Crab Cakes

Creamy and buttery, a great pairing with the light and tender shrimp cocktail. Crab cakes bring a little more substance to your appetizer spread, which is the best way to fill everyone up if it’s just a cocktail party or a get-together where there won’t be a full meal. 

4. Oysters Rockefeller

More seafood makes the perfect shrimp cocktail side! Decadent topping provides a luxury flavor pairing to the juicy shrimp. This dish is made of fresh oysters which are served in a rich and creamy sauce made with ingredients like butter, parsley, breadcrumbs, and a variety of herbs and spices. 

5. Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Parmesan Zucchini Fries are a healthy, easy-to-make side dish that is both guilt-free and delicious! This healthy appetizer is light and fresh.

6. Mussels

Briny and savory, mussels provide a light flavor addition to the dish. Steaming mussels is the easiest way to cook up this simple but delicious side for shrimp cocktails.

7. Stuffed Mushrooms

These button mushrooms are stuffed with ground sausage and other delicious ingredients. These little bites have huge flavor!

8. Oyster Cocktail 

This appetizer option is just like your shrimp cocktail recipe, but with oysters. This is a good option to serve alongside shrimp cocktail for those who prefer oysters or have a shrimp allergy. 

9. Fried Calamari

A crispy, crunchy, and tasty appetizer that goes great with the mild shrimp and makes a great finger food. Serve this with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. 

10. Smoked Salmon Rolls

These rolls are bright, creamy, and smoky all at once. They make a great side dish to shrimp cocktail for an appetizer spread and they’re a little fancier if you’re looking for a great option for a party like a baby shower or wedding shower. 

11. Fried Mozzarella with Marinara

A classic appetizer that adds cheesy richness to the meal. This is always a popular option and a great addition when you’re serving appetizers because it’s a classic dish that goes well with anything! 

12. Baked Brie

Ooey, gooey brie is perfect for scooping up with crackers and makes an excellent appetizer. This creamy side dish will seriously elevate your appetizer spread!

13. Stuffed Dates

Sweet, sticky date wrapped in bacon provides a fantastic compliment to the shrimp. The contrast of flavors is the perfect addition to your shrimp cocktail experience. These are great finger foods too, so they’re easy to serve as appetizers. 

14. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a delicious appetizer or side dish that combines the salty flavor of cured Italian ham with the fresh flavor of fresh asparagus. It’s a great way to add savory flavors to your delicious shrimp cocktail appetizer spread and can be served hot or cold.

15. Melon and Prosciutto Skewers

A sweet and salty combination adds a burst of fresh flavor to the spread. This combo is an explosion of flavor and a great idea for easy serving if you’re having an appetizer party.