A delightful blend of crisp textures and savory flavors, crab cakes are a perennial favorite for seafood enthusiasts. But what side dishes complement this culinary star perfectly, enhancing the experience without overshadowing the delicate taste? Dive into this comprehensive guide to discover the best accompaniments for your next crab cake feast.
the expanded section focusing on those classic pairings and salads to complement crab cakes:
The Classic Pairings
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a quintessential side dish that pairs well with crab cakes because of its crunch and acidity. There are two main varieties: the creamy, mayonnaise-based version and the vinegar-based version. Both work well for different reasons. The creamy variety provides a cool, smooth texture that complements the warmth of crab cakes, while vinegar-based coleslaw delivers a sharp tanginess that cuts through the richness of the seafood. The choice between the two depends on personal preference, but either version can be elevated with shredded carrots, red cabbage, or a sprinkling of celery seeds.
Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a touch of natural sweetness that contrasts well with the savory flavor of crab cakes. When grilled, the slight char on the corn brings a smoky depth that makes it stand out as a complementary side. For a twist, consider slathering the corn with herb-infused butter, lime juice, or a dash of paprika for an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, shave the kernels off the cob and create a corn salad or relish to serve alongside the crab cakes.
Tartar Sauce
No discussion of crab cake accompaniments would be complete without tartar sauce. This tangy condiment combines mayonnaise, pickles, and lemon juice for a zesty, creamy flavor that enhances the sweetness of crab. It can be tailored to personal taste with ingredients like capers, dill, or hot sauce. Whether you make it from scratch or use a store-bought variety, tartar sauce is a classic partner that gives the dish a burst of brightness.
Salads to Accompany Crab Cakes
Mixed Greens
A salad made with mixed greens provides a refreshing balance to the heavier textures of crab cakes. Use a mix of lettuce varieties such as arugula, spinach, or radicchio to bring different flavors and colors to the table. Add toppings like sliced radishes, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for extra crunch, and drizzle with a light vinaigrette to enhance the crisp, fresh flavors.
Caesar Salad
With its rich, umami-forward flavors, Caesar salad is a robust partner for crab cakes. The crisp romaine lettuce, salty anchovies, and sharp Parmesan cheese come together with a creamy dressing that complements the briny sweetness of crab. Add crunchy croutons and a squeeze of lemon to elevate the flavor profile, making each bite a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant dish that works wonderfully alongside crab cakes. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a delightful contrast. A drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar pulls all the ingredients together, adding a touch of acidity that lifts the subtle flavors of the crab. For an extra pop, sprinkle some flaky sea salt or add a bit of cracked pepper over the top.
These classic pairings and salads are tried-and-true ways to round out your crab cake meal, offering a balance of flavors and textures that make every bite special.
Vegetable Sides
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is an excellent side dish with its smoky and slightly charred taste, offering a sophisticated contrast to crab cakes. Roasting at high heat brings out a subtle sweetness and a tender yet crisp texture. Toss the asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting to perfection. For an added layer of flavor, finish them with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a simple yet effective companion to crab cakes. The steaming process keeps the broccoli tender while retaining its bright green color and inherent sweetness. Season with a little lemon juice and olive oil or garlic butter for a quick and healthy option. The subtle, earthy flavor of steamed broccoli complements the delicate taste of crab without overwhelming it.
Grilled Zucchini
Grilling zucchini gives it a delicious, smoky flavor while maintaining a pleasant crunch. Slice zucchini lengthwise and brush it with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing it on the grill. The slight char adds a touch of complexity that pairs wonderfully with the sweet, flaky crab cakes. For added zest, drizzle with a lemon-herb vinaigrette or sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Potatoes and Grains
Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes add a comforting and familiar element to your crab cake meal. Whether you’re using fingerling, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes, the key is to roast them until they’re golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside. Toss them in olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic before roasting to infuse each potato bite with delicious flavor. They provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crab cakes.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad offers a light yet hearty side dish that introduces nutty flavors to your plate. Combine cooked quinoa with diced vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Add fresh herbs and a citrus dressing for brightness and balance. This salad pairs well with crab cakes, providing a unique texture and a nutritious alternative to traditional sides.
Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf adds an earthy and nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness of crab cakes. The distinct chewiness of wild rice provides an interesting contrast, while the herbs, dried cranberries, and nuts used in the pilaf offer delightful complexity. Serve this pilaf with a garnish of fresh parsley or cilantro to create a vibrant and rustic side.
Light and Refreshing
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a simple, cooling side that pairs perfectly with the warmth of crab cakes. Thinly sliced cucumbers combined with a touch of vinegar or yogurt dressing create a refreshing flavor. Add dill, mint, or parsley to boost the herbaceous notes. This crisp salad is light and refreshing, providing a palate-cleansing contrast.
Watermelon Salsa
Watermelon salsa brings a sweet, fruity burst to your seafood plate. Cubed watermelon, mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and finely diced jalapenos, creates a salsa that balances sweetness, acidity, and a hint of spice. The fresh juiciness of the watermelon refreshes your palate, making each bite of crab cake feel new.
Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables, such as onions, cucumbers, or radishes, offer a tangy, crunchy element to complement the richness of crab cakes. The acidity of pickled vegetables cuts through the heavier textures of crab, creating a delightful balance. They are also easy to make at home with just vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices. Choose pickled veggies that bring bright colors and bold flavors to your plate for a side that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Hearty and Filling
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with crab cakes. Its creamy, cheesy richness adds a hearty touch to the meal, providing a comforting counterpoint to the light seafood flavors. To elevate this dish, consider adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping or blending different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for a more complex flavor. The creamy texture makes each forkful indulgent and satisfying.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes bring a rich, garlicky flavor that complements the crab cakes’ delicate sweetness. Choose russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor, then blend them with roasted garlic, cream, and butter until smooth and fluffy. The creamy consistency of the mashed potatoes, with just a hint of garlic, provides a comforting base that enhances the meal.
Creamed Spinach
Creamed spinach adds a savory, earthy component to your crab cake plate. The combination of wilted spinach, cream, and a hint of nutmeg creates a luscious, velvety texture. Slightly bitter spinach contrasts well with the sweetness of the crab, providing a balanced and flavorful pairing.
Sauces and Dips for Side Dishes Go Well with Crab Cakes
Aioli
Aioli is a garlic mayonnaise that adds a bold and fragrant flavor to crab cakes. It provides a creamy and savory kick with its base of garlic, egg yolk, lemon juice, and olive oil. The subtle spice and herbaceous undertones make this dip an excellent choice to enhance the crab’s natural sweetness.
Remoulade
Remoulade is a tangy, spicy sauce that adds a Southern twist to your crab cakes. Traditionally made with a mayonnaise base, mustard, capers, pickles, and spices, it brings a unique blend of flavors that amplify the taste of the crab. Its zesty bite makes every morsel more delicious.
Chimichurri
Chimichurri, a South American sauce made from parsley, oregano, garlic, and vinegar, introduces a vibrant freshness to crab cakes. Its citrusy, herbaceous flavor cuts through the richness of the seafood, providing a zippy balance to the dish.
Regional Flavors
Southern-Style Hush Puppies
Southern-style hush puppies are deep-fried cornmeal fritters with a crispy crust and a soft, fluffy center. Their sweetness and crunchy texture bring a unique Southern flair that perfectly complements the crab cakes’ savory taste. They add a playful and rustic touch to the meal.
New England Baked Beans
New England baked beans, slow-cooked with molasses and salt pork, have a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the sweetness of the crab. The beans’ thick, hearty texture provides a comforting base, and their deep flavors bring a warm, homey feel to the plate.
Caribbean Rice and Peas
Caribbean rice and peas are made with coconut milk, allspice, and thyme, infusing the rice with aromatic, tropical flavors. The combination of beans and rice provides a hearty texture, while the coconut milk adds richness and sweetness that complements the crab cakes.
International Inspirations : The Side Dishes Go Well with Crab Cakes
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Mediterranean couscous salad offers a vibrant, tangy taste with ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers. Topped with fresh herbs and a lemon-olive oil dressing, it delivers a light and refreshing contrast to the crab cakes while introducing Mediterranean flair.
Japanese Pickled Ginger
Japanese pickled ginger, also known as “gari,” brings a zesty, sweet taste that refreshes the palate. Its sharp, bright flavor cuts through the richness of the crab cakes, cleansing the taste buds between bites and adding a subtle Asian-inspired twist to the meal.
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, or “elote,” is grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. The creamy, tangy flavor, combined with the charred, smoky notes from grilling, delivers a punchy, spicy element that enhances the seafood experience.
FAQS about the Side Dishes Go Well with Crab Cakes
What sides pair well with crab cakes?
Sides that pair well with crab cakes include coleslaw, roasted asparagus, grilled zucchini, roasted potatoes, and quinoa salad. The idea is to have sides that either contrast or complement the delicate sweetness of the crab. Light salads or pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast, while hearty sides like mashed potatoes or hush puppies offer comforting, filling options.
What is the best side dish for crab?
The best side dish for crab depends on your taste preferences. Classic sides like corn on the cob, tartar sauce, and coleslaw are popular choices because of their contrasting textures and complementary flavors. Alternatively, you can explore international flavors like Mediterranean couscous salad or Mexican street corn for something more adventurous.
What do people eat on crab cakes?
People often enjoy crab cakes with dipping sauces like aioli, remoulade, or tartar sauce to enhance the flavors. They’re also commonly served with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. To accompany the main dish, a variety of sides, ranging from salads and vegetables to grains and starches, help round out the meal.
What dessert to serve with crab cakes?
For dessert, consider light, fruity options that won’t overshadow the meal, such as lemon sorbet, fruit salad, or berry parfaits. Citrus-flavored desserts help cleanse the palate after a savory meal, while berry-based sweets bring a refreshing finish. A creamy coconut or mango panna cotta can also be a delightful way to end the evening.
What Side Dishes Go Well with Crab: Conclusion
Finding the right side dishes to serve with crab cakes is all about balance. Whether you lean towards classic pairings or prefer to experiment with international flavors, there are endless ways to customize your meal. By mixing and matching the right combinations, you can create a memorable dining experience that highlights the crab cakes’ sweet, savory goodness.