If you’re a seafood lover, you know that steamed shrimp is a classic dish that never gets old. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course. But, have you ever wondered what to serve with steamed shrimp to elevate your dining experience?
Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore a variety of delicious options to serve with steamed shrimp. From simple and tasty side dishes to healthy alternatives and complete meal ideas, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Steamed shrimp is a classic dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to elevate your dining experience.
- There are simple and tasty side dishes that pair perfectly with steamed shrimp, like roasted vegetables and garlic bread.
- Healthy alternatives like quinoa salad and stir-fried greens can add a nutritious balance to your shrimp feast.
- Seafood-based sides like shrimp appetizers and seafood salads are a perfect complement to steamed shrimp.
- Pasta and noodle dishes or bread-based sides can provide a hearty base for serving steamed shrimp.
- Experiment with different side dishes to create a memorable meal featuring steamed shrimp.
Simple and Tasty Side Dishes for Steamed Shrimp
When it comes to steamed shrimp, the right side dish can make all the difference. Here are some easy and delicious options:
Side Dish | Description |
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Green Salad | A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Dress it with a simple vinaigrette for a burst of flavor. |
Garlic Butter Rice | Cook rice as usual, then toss it with melted garlic butter. The result is a fragrant and flavorful side that’s easy to make. |
Corn on the Cob | A summer classic that pairs perfectly with steamed shrimp. Boil or grill the corn, then brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt. |
Grilled Vegetables | Slice up your favorite veggies (zucchini, bell peppers, and onions work well) and grill them until they’re tender and slightly charred. Season with salt and pepper. |
French Fries | A classic that never disappoints. Whip up a batch of crispy fries to enjoy alongside your steamed shrimp. |
These easy side dishes for steamed shrimp are sure to impress. Choose one or mix and match to create a complete meal that’s both tasty and satisfying.
Healthy Side Dishes for Shrimp Lovers
If you’re looking for healthy side dishes to complement your steamed shrimp, we’ve got some delicious options to consider. These side dishes are not only packed with nutrients but are also easy to prepare, making them perfect for any busy weeknight dinner.
One healthy side dish we recommend is a simple salad made with mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Top it off with a light vinaigrette dressing for a burst of flavor. Another great option is sautéed spinach with garlic and lemon juice. This dish is rich in iron and other essential vitamins and minerals.
If you’re looking to add some grains to your meal, try quinoa or brown rice. Both are excellent sources of fiber and protein and can be easily seasoned with herbs and spices for added flavor.
For a vegetable-packed side dish, we recommend roasted asparagus with cherry tomatoes. Simply drizzle some olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting in the oven for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
Healthy Side Dishes for Steamed Shrimp | Description |
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Mixed Green Salad | A refreshing salad made with a mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, topped with a light vinaigrette dressing. |
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic and Lemon Juice | A simple and flavorful side dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. |
Quinoa or Brown Rice | A healthy and protein-rich alternative to traditional white rice. |
Roasted Asparagus with Cherry Tomatoes | A vegetable-packed side dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. |
These healthy side dishes for shrimp can be easily customized to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Incorporating them into your meal plan will not only add variety to your diet but also provide numerous health benefits.
Seafood Side Dishes That Complement Steamed Shrimp
If you’re a seafood lover, there’s no better combination than steamed shrimp paired with other delicious seafood side dishes. Not only do these dishes complement each other perfectly, but they also make for a visually stunning presentation on your table. Here are some of our favorite seafood side dishes that you can serve with your steamed shrimp:
Seafood Side Dish | Description |
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Shrimp cocktail | A classic appetizer that features shrimp served with a tangy cocktail sauce. |
Crab cakes | A crispy and flavorful side dish that is the perfect complement to succulent steamed shrimp. |
Seafood salad | A refreshing salad that combines shrimp, crab, and other seafood with fresh greens and a tangy dressing. |
Seafood chowder | A hearty and comforting soup that features shrimp, clams, and other seafood in a creamy broth. |
Seafood kebabs | A fun and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp and other seafood, grilled on skewers with vegetables and spices. |
Tip: For a truly indulgent seafood feast, serve your steamed shrimp with all of these delicious side dishes and watch your guests be wowed!
Rice and Grain-Based Sides for Steamed Shrimp
Rice and grains are one of the quintessential accompaniments for steamed shrimp, and with good reason: they provide a neutral yet flavorful base that complements the seafood’s light taste. Whether you want something buttery, nutty, or a little bit of both, you can find a rice or grain-based side that will perfectly complement your steamed shrimp.
Side Dish | Preparation |
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Garlic Butter Rice | Melt butter in a pan, add minced garlic, and cook for a few minutes until fragrant. Stir in cooked rice and salt to taste. |
Wild Rice Pilaf | Cook wild rice in chicken or vegetable broth, add sautéed onions and mushrooms, and season with herbs like thyme or rosemary. |
Quinoa Salad | Cook quinoa and mix with chopped fresh vegetables, like cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Add lemon juice, olive oil, and salt to taste. |
Fried Rice | Sauté rice with scrambled eggs, frozen peas and carrots, and chopped scallions. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil to taste. |
Experiment with your favorite grains and rice varieties, mixing and matching them with different seasoning blends, vegetables, and proteins to create side dishes that cater to your taste buds. Rice and grain-based sides are perfect for those looking for lighter or gluten-free options, too.
Vegetable Side Dishes for a Burst of Freshness
If you want to add some freshness to your steamed shrimp meal, you can’t go wrong with vegetable side dishes. Vegetables are packed with nutrients and flavors that perfectly complement the mild taste of steamed shrimp. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Roasted Veggies
Roasting vegetables is a simple and delicious way to enhance their natural sweetness and create a tasty side dish. You can use green beans, asparagus, broccoli, or any other vegetables of your choice. Simply toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until golden brown.
Stir-Fried Greens
Stir-fried greens are a quick and easy side dish that can be prepared in minutes. You can use kale, bok choy, spinach or any leafy green vegetables. Heat some oil in a pan, add your greens and stir-fry for a minute or two until they are wilted. Add some garlic, ginger, or soy sauce for extra flavor.
Refreshing Salads
A refreshing salad is a perfect complement to steamed shrimp. You can use a variety of greens, such as lettuce, arugula, or spinach, and add some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado for extra texture. Top it off with a zesty vinaigrette to bring out the flavors of the vegetables.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is a great way to add a smoky char to their flavor and create a mouth-watering side dish. You can use zucchini, eggplant, peppers, or any other vegetables of your choice. Brush them with some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until they are tender and fragrant.
“Vegetables are packed with nutrients and flavors that perfectly complement the mild taste of steamed shrimp.”
Pasta and Noodle Accompaniments for Steamed Shrimp
Pasta and noodles are versatile and satisfying options that pair well with steamed shrimp. They provide a hearty base for your meal and can be prepared in many different ways.
Shrimp Linguine
A classic pasta dish that is easy to make and always delicious. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil until fragrant. Add the steamed shrimp and chopped parsley, and toss with the cooked linguine. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Shrimp Pad Thai
A flavorful and spicy Thai dish that combines rice noodles and steamed shrimp. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions and set aside. In a pan, sauté garlic, onion, and red chili pepper in sesame oil until fragrant. Add the steamed shrimp and vegetables of your choice (bean sprouts, bell peppers, and carrots work well), and stir-fry until cooked. Add the cooked noodles and a mixture of fish sauce, tamarind paste, and sugar. Toss everything together and top with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Ingredients | Directions |
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8 oz. udon noodles | Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions and set aside. |
1 lb. steamed shrimp | Peel and devein the cooked shrimp. |
2 cups broccoli florets | Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then rinse in cold water and drain. |
1 red bell pepper, sliced | Stir-fry the sliced bell pepper in a pan with sesame oil until cooked. |
2 cloves garlic, minced | Sauté garlic in the same pan until fragrant. |
2 tbsp. soy sauce | Combine the cooked udon noodles, steamed shrimp, blanched broccoli, and stir-fried bell pepper in a large bowl. Add soy sauce and toss everything together. |
1 tbsp. sesame oil | Top with minced garlic and a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve hot. |
Shrimp Udon Stir-Fry
A quick and easy stir-fry that combines udon noodles and steamed shrimp with crunchy broccoli and bell peppers.
Savor the Flavors of Bread-Based Sides with Steamed Shrimp
If you’re looking for a more indulgent pairing for your steamed shrimp, bread-based side dishes are the way to go. The comforting texture and flavors of warm bread perfectly complement the delicate seafood taste of shrimp. Here are some delicious ideas for bread-based sides to serve with steamed shrimp:
- Garlic bread: This classic side dish is a staple for any seafood feast. Toasted bread slices are brushed with garlic-infused butter and topped with grated cheese for an irresistible combination of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
- Bread rolls: Soft and fluffy bread rolls make for an excellent vessel for sopping up the flavorful juices of steamed shrimp. Warm them up and serve with butter on the side for an added touch of indulgence.
- Crusty baguette: A French baguette with a crispy crust and a soft crumb is a perfect bread pairing for steamed shrimp. Slice it up, toast it, and serve with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an elegant touch to your meal.
Not only are bread-based sides delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you choose to make your own garlic butter or grab a fresh baguette from your local bakery, this pairing is sure to impress.
Quick and Easy Shrimp Meal Ideas
If you’re looking for fast and delicious ways to serve steamed shrimp, we have a few ideas for you. These quick and easy meal ideas include sides, sauces, or additional proteins to make your shrimp dinner extra special.
Shrimp Scampi Linguine
For a classic pasta dish that’s easy to make, try shrimp scampi linguine. Simply sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and shrimp in butter and olive oil, then toss with cooked linguine, lemon juice, and fresh parsley. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Shrimp Tacos
Combine the flavor of seafood with a Mexican twist with these easy shrimp tacos. Sauté shrimp with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, then serve on warm tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. Top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor.
Shrimp and Quinoa Salad
For a satisfying dish that’s also healthy, try a shrimp and quinoa salad. Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then toss with cooked shrimp, diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil and lemon juice. Chill before serving for a refreshing meal.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Fire up the grill and try some grilled shrimp skewers for a fun and flavorful meal. Marinate shrimp in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, then skewer and grill for a few minutes on each side. Serve with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a colorful and delicious plate.
Shrimp Stir Fry
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to incorporate vegetables into your meal, try a shrimp stir fry. Sauté shrimp with your favorite veggies, such as broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, and season with soy sauce and sesame oil. Serve over rice or noodles for a filling meal.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. With a little creativity, you can create your own personalized shrimp dinner that’s quick, easy, and delicious.
Conclusion
Steamed shrimp is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. From simple and tasty options to healthy alternatives, seafood-based sides, creative variations, and complete meal ideas, we hope this article has provided you with plenty of inspiration for your next seafood dinner.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations, or to try out new recipes. The possibilities are endless!
Keep it Fresh
One tip to keep in mind is to focus on fresh ingredients. Using local, seasonal produce and high-quality seafood will enhance the flavors of your meal and make it even more enjoyable.
Don’t Overcomplicate
Another thing to keep in mind is to not overcomplicate things. Sometimes the best side dishes for steamed shrimp are the simplest ones, such as a green salad or a roasted vegetable medley. Remember, the goal is to complement the flavors of the shrimp, not to overpower them.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab some fresh shrimp, choose your favorite side dishes, and enjoy a delicious seafood feast!
FAQ
What are some delicious ideas for what to serve with steamed shrimp?
There are plenty of options to serve with steamed shrimp, including simple and tasty side dishes, healthy alternatives, seafood-based sides, rice and grain-based dishes, vegetable accompaniments, pasta and noodle dishes, bread-based sides, and complete meal ideas. Explore the different sections in this article to find the perfect pairing for your steamed shrimp.
Are there any healthy side dishes for shrimp lovers?
Absolutely! In the “Healthy Side Dishes for Shrimp Lovers” section, you’ll find nutritious alternatives to pair with your steamed shrimp. Discover tasty options packed with vitamins and nutrients that will add a healthy balance to your shrimp feast.
Can I find seafood side dishes that complement steamed shrimp?
Certainly! In the “Seafood Side Dishes That Complement Steamed Shrimp” section, we’ll cover side dishes that not only taste delicious but also feature other varieties of seafood. From shrimp appetizers to seafood salads, you can create a seafood extravaganza to accompany your steamed shrimp.
Are there any rice and grain-based sides that go well with steamed shrimp?
Rice and grains are a classic pairing with shrimp, and in the “Rice and Grain-Based Sides for Steamed Shrimp” section, we’ll explore various options such as pilaf, fried rice, or quinoa salads that complement the flavors of steamed shrimp.
What are some vegetable side dishes that pair well with steamed shrimp?
Vegetables add a burst of freshness to any seafood dish, and in the “Vegetable Side Dishes for a Burst of Freshness” section, you’ll find creative options such as roasted veggies, stir-fried greens, and refreshing salads that beautifully pair with steamed shrimp.
Can I find pasta and noodle accompaniments for steamed shrimp?
Absolutely! In the “Pasta and Noodle Accompaniments for Steamed Shrimp” section, you’ll discover different pasta and noodle dishes that can be easily prepared to create a satisfying and delicious meal alongside your steamed shrimp.
What are some bread-based sides that go well with steamed shrimp?
Bread-based sides add texture and indulgence to any seafood meal, and in the “Savor the Flavors of Bread-Based Sides with Steamed Shrimp” section, we’ll explore options such as garlic bread, bread rolls, or crusty baguettes that pair perfectly with steamed shrimp.
Can I get some quick and easy shrimp meal ideas?
Of course! In the “Quick and Easy Shrimp Meal Ideas” section, we provide complete meal ideas featuring steamed shrimp. These ideas include sides, sauces, or additional proteins that can turn your shrimp dinner into a memorable feast without much hassle.
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