Crab cakes are a delightful dish, offering a rich and savory flavor that’s perfect for a special dinner or a casual get-together. But to truly make your crab cake meal shine, choosing the right side dishes is essential. The sides you select can either complement or contrast the richness of the crab, creating a balanced and satisfying culinary experience. If you’re wondering what to serve with crab cakes to create a memorable meal, you’ve come to the right place.
Classic & Refreshing Sides
When thinking about classic pairings, a refreshing element is often key to balance the richness of crab cakes. Here are a few time-tested options:
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Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a wonderful textural contrast to the tender crab cakes. Its slight acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable. A vinegar-based coleslaw can be particularly effective in brightening the palate.
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Lemon Wedges: Sometimes simplicity is best. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is a classic accompaniment to seafood, and crab cakes are no exception. The bright, citrusy flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the crab and adds a touch of zest.
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Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A light and crisp green salad tossed with a vinaigrette dressing is another excellent way to balance the richness of crab cakes. The fresh greens and tangy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint. Consider adding some herbs like dill or parsley to your vinaigrette to further complement the seafood flavor.
Vegetable Sides for a Balanced Meal
To create a well-rounded and nutritious meal, incorporating vegetable sides is a great idea. These options offer both flavor and health benefits:
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Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus, with its slightly bitter and earthy notes, pairs beautifully with crab cakes. Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender-crisp texture that’s delightful alongside the soft crab cakes. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper are all you need for perfectly roasted asparagus.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob, grilled to perfection, adds a summery touch to your crab cake meal. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory crab, and the smoky char from grilling adds another layer of flavor. A pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt are the perfect finishing touches.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Simple sautéed green beans offer a fresh and vibrant side dish. A quick sauté with garlic and a touch of olive oil brings out their best flavor and maintains a satisfying crisp-tender texture. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten the dish.
Heartier Side Dish Options
If you’re looking for sides that are a bit more substantial, these heartier options can transform your crab cake meal into a truly filling feast:
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Mac and Cheese: For a comforting and indulgent pairing, mac and cheese is a surprisingly good side for crab cakes. The creamy, cheesy richness complements the savory crab, creating a decadent combination. Consider a slightly lighter mac and cheese recipe to avoid overwhelming the palate.
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Potatoes Au Gratin: Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce create a rich and satisfying side dish. Potatoes au gratin offers a warm and comforting element that pairs well with the delicate flavor of crab cakes, especially in cooler weather.
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Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf, cooked with broth and aromatics like onions and herbs, provides a versatile and satisfying side. The fluffy rice absorbs any flavorful sauces from the crab cakes and offers a neutral base to balance the richness.
Sauce & Dip Pairings
Don’t forget about sauces and dips! The right sauce can elevate your crab cakes and side dishes to a whole new level:
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Tartar Sauce: A classic choice for crab cakes, tartar sauce provides a creamy, tangy, and slightly briny counterpoint. Its traditional flavors complement the seafood perfectly.
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Remoulade Sauce: For a bit more zest and spice, remoulade sauce is an excellent option. This creamy, mayonnaise-based sauce is typically flavored with mustard, horseradish, paprika, and herbs, offering a bolder flavor profile that can stand up to the richness of crab cakes.
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Spicy Aioli: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy aioli can be a fantastic dipping sauce. Garlic aioli with a touch of chili or sriracha adds a creamy, garlicky, and spicy kick that complements the savory crab beautifully.
Choosing the perfect Sides To Serve With Crab Cakes depends on your personal preferences and the overall dining experience you want to create. Whether you opt for classic and refreshing, balanced vegetable sides, or heartier and more indulgent options, the key is to select dishes that complement the flavor and texture of your crab cakes, creating a harmonious and delicious meal. Experiment with different pairings to discover your own favorite combinations and enjoy the delightful experience of perfectly paired crab cakes and side dishes.
