Did you know that BBQ shrimp is one of the most popular seafood dishes in the United States? It’s no surprise considering the mouthwatering combination of smoky, flavorful shrimp and tangy BBQ sauce. But what should you serve with this crowd-pleasing dish to take your meal to the next level?
In this article, we will explore the best side dish options for BBQ shrimp, whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, enjoying a casual dinner, or looking for something special to impress your guests. From classic Southern staples to fresh and light salads, comforting starches to spicy and flavorful choices, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your BBQ shrimp experience.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- BBQ shrimp is a popular seafood dish in the United States.
- Choosing the right side dish can enhance your BBQ shrimp meal.
- From classic Southern staples to fresh salads, there’s something for every taste.
- Consider grilled vegetables, comforting starches, and tropical flavors for a unique twist.
- Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing and enjoy a memorable BBQ shrimp feast.
Classic Southern Staples
If you want to capture the essence of Southern cuisine, there are some classic side dishes that pair perfectly with BBQ shrimp. Grilled corn on the cob, with its golden brown, sweet, and juicy kernels, is a standout choice. You can enhance the flavor by adding melted butter, salt, and even parmesan cheese.
Another traditional option is coleslaw, a refreshing mix of thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and peppers tossed in a tangy creamy dressing.
Red beans and rice, a soulful dish made with creamy red beans and fluffy rice, is another Southern favorite that complements New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp.
Classic Southern Staples
Side Dish | Description |
---|---|
Grilled Corn on the Cob | Golden brown, sweet, and juicy kernels with the option to enhance the flavor with melted butter, salt, and parmesan cheese. |
Coleslaw | Refreshing mix of thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and peppers tossed in a tangy creamy dressing. |
Red Beans and Rice | Soulful dish made with creamy red beans and fluffy rice, complementing New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp. |
Grilled Vegetable Delights
If you’re looking to add some healthy and flavorful options to your BBQ shrimp meal, grilled vegetables are an excellent choice. Not only do they provide a burst of vibrant colors on your plate, but they also offer a delicious accompaniment to the smoky flavors of the shrimp. Here are a few grilled vegetable ideas that will elevate your BBQ shrimp experience even further.
1. Thinly sliced zucchini and yellow squash:
When grilled to perfection, these vegetables develop a lovely char and become tender yet still retain a delightful crunch. Season them with your favorite herbs and spices to enhance their natural flavors. The combination of grilled zucchini and yellow squash adds a light and refreshing element to your meal.
2. Grilled asparagus:
Coat fresh asparagus spears in olive oil and sprinkle them with lemon zest or lemon pepper before grilling. The result is a crispy and tender vegetable with a subtle citrusy flavor that pairs exceptionally well with BBQ shrimp. The bright green color of the grilled asparagus adds a pop of freshness to your plate.
3. Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms:
Create colorful and nutritious vegetable skewers by grilling bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. The vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues of the bell peppers, combined with the earthiness of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the onions, provide a visually appealing and flavorful addition to your BBQ shrimp feast.
Adding grilled vegetables to your BBQ shrimp meal not only enhances the overall taste and presentation but also provides a healthy and nutrient-rich side dish option. The charred and smoky flavors of the vegetables perfectly complement the succulent BBQ shrimp, creating a harmonious combination of tastes and textures.
Comforting Starches
Sometimes we crave comforting starches to accompany our BBQ shrimp. Whether you’re looking for a creamy and flavorful side or a healthier alternative, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some mouthwatering choices to consider:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in a classic side dish like garlic mashed potatoes. These velvety smooth potatoes are infused with rich garlic flavor, making them the perfect accompaniment to BBQ shrimp. With their creamy, buttery texture, they provide a comforting and satisfying element to your meal.
Cheesy Baked Macaroni
For the cheese lovers, cheesy baked macaroni is an absolute must. This savory and gooey dish combines tender macaroni with layers of melted cheddar cheese. The combination of textures and flavors adds a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the BBQ shrimp.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
For a healthier twist on traditional fries, try baked sweet potatoes. Thinly sliced and seasoned with a crispy seasoning blend, these sweet potatoes offer a delicious alternative with a touch of sweetness. They provide a nutritious and tasty addition to your BBQ shrimp meal.
Jasmine Rice
If you prefer a milder option that complements the bold flavors of BBQ shrimp, jasmine rice is a perfect choice. Known for its soft and fluffy texture and subtle floral aroma, jasmine rice pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its light and delicate flavor allow the flavors of the BBQ shrimp to shine.
The Perfect Pairing
When it comes to BBQ shrimp, finding the perfect side dish can elevate your meal to new heights. Whether you prefer the creamy indulgence of garlic mashed potatoes or the gooey goodness of cheesy baked macaroni, there’s a comforting starch that will suit your taste. And if you’re looking for a healthier option, baked sweet potatoes or jasmine rice offer a satisfying complement. Choose your favorite and enjoy a delectable pairing that will satisfy your cravings.
Fresh and Light Salads
If you’re in the mood for something fresh and light, salads are a great choice to serve with BBQ shrimp. They provide a delightful contrast to the smoky flavors of the shrimp while adding a healthy dose of vegetables to your meal. Here are a few salad options that will take your BBQ shrimp to the next level:
Grilled Shrimp Salad
A grilled shrimp salad is a complete meal in itself. It combines smoky grilled shrimp with crisp mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your choice of dressing. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and refreshing dish that will leave you wanting more. It’s the perfect balance of protein and vegetables, making it an ideal choice for a light and filling meal.
Wedge Salad
The wedge salad is a classic pairing for grilled shrimp. It features chunks of iceberg lettuce topped with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and a rich and creamy blue cheese dressing. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite a delight. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, the wedge salad is sure to impress.
Caprese Salad
If you’re looking for a refreshing option, the caprese salad is a perfect choice. It combines ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and creamy avocado slices, drizzled with balsamic glaze. The vibrant colors and flavors of the caprese salad complement the grilled shrimp beautifully, creating a light and flavorful combination.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
A creamy cucumber salad is a cool and refreshing side dish that complements the spicy flavors of BBQ shrimp. Thinly sliced cucumbers are coated in a tangy dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, and fresh dill. The creamy texture of the dressing combined with the crunch of the cucumbers creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a simple yet incredibly delicious addition to your BBQ shrimp meal.
Overall, these fresh and light salads provide a variety of options to enhance your BBQ shrimp experience. Whether you choose the grilled shrimp salad, wedge salad, caprese salad, or creamy cucumber salad, you’ll be treated to a burst of flavors that perfectly complement the bold and smoky taste of the shrimp. Incorporate these salads into your BBQ repertoire and enjoy a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Bread and Biscuits
Warm, soft bread and buttery biscuits are always crowd-pleasers, and they pair perfectly with BBQ shrimp. Garlic bread, with its savory butter-garlic flavor, is a natural choice for shrimp dishes. Buttermilk biscuits, with their light and fluffy texture, are a classic Southern accompaniment. Cornbread, with its slightly sweet and tender crumb, is another great option that adds a touch of Southern flair to your meal.
When it comes to bread and biscuits, the options are endless. Garlic bread, with its irresistible aroma and flavors, is a delightful addition to your BBQ shrimp feast. The combination of warm, toasty bread and the rich, savory taste of garlic is simply irresistible. Whether you decide to make your own garlic bread or pick up a fresh loaf from your local bakery, it’s sure to be a hit.
Buttermilk biscuits, with their light and fluffy texture, are a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with BBQ shrimp. These tender and flaky biscuits are the ideal vessel for soaking up the delicious flavors of the shrimp. Whether you enjoy them plain or slathered in butter, these biscuits are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Another great option is cornbread, with its slightly sweet and crumbly texture. This Southern classic adds a touch of sweetness to your meal and complements the savory flavors of the BBQ shrimp. Whether you prefer traditional cornbread or a variation with jalapenos or cheese, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your shrimp feast.
So, whether you opt for the savory goodness of garlic bread, the light and fluffy buttermilk biscuits, or the slightly sweet and tender cornbread, bread and biscuits are a wonderful addition to your BBQ shrimp meal. These versatile and delicious side dishes enhance the flavors and provide the perfect balance to make your meal complete.
Tropical Flavors
If you want to add a tropical twist to your BBQ shrimp, consider serving grilled pineapple or mango salsa as a side dish. Grilled pineapple slices, caramelized, and juicy, provide a sweet and tangy flavor combination that pairs well with the spicy BBQ sauce on the shrimp. Mango salsa, with its fresh and zesty flavors, adds a burst of tropical goodness to any seafood dish. These side dishes add a vibrant and refreshing element to your meal.
Grilled pineapple is a fantastic addition to your BBQ shrimp feast. The natural sweetness and smoky flavor from grilling create a perfect balance with the savory shrimp. To grill pineapple, simply slice it into rings or chunks and cook them on a hot grill until they are lightly charred and juicy. The result is a mouthwatering tropical treat that will transport you to a sunny beach destination.
Mango salsa, on the other hand, brings a burst of freshness to the table. Made with ripe mangoes, red onions, bell peppers, lime juice, and cilantro, this tangy salsa complements the BBQ shrimp with its vibrant flavors. It adds a touch of tropical flare and a hint of spiciness that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve it chilled alongside your grilled shrimp for a delightful combination of flavors.
These tropical side dishes not only enhance the flavors of BBQ shrimp but also add a colorful and visually appealing element to your plate. The combination of juicy grilled pineapple and zesty mango salsa will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Quick and Easy Options
Sometimes you need quick and easy side dishes to complete your BBQ shrimp meal. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking for hassle-free options, these quick and easy recipes will help you create delicious accompaniments in no time. From simple salads to no-cook sides, these dishes require minimal preparation, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Simple Salads
A salad can be a refreshing addition to your BBQ shrimp feast. Try a cherry tomato and cucumber salad for a burst of freshness, or opt for a Mediterranean quinoa salad for a more filling option. These simple salads can be prepared in minutes and offer a vibrant and flavorful element to your meal.
Grilled Vegetables
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy option, grilled vegetables are a great choice. Zucchini and peppers can be easily grilled and seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices. Not only do they provide a nutritious side dish, but they also add a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ shrimp.
No-Cook Sides
When you’re in a hurry, no-cook sides are a lifesaver. Asian quick pickled cucumbers offer a tangy and refreshing accompaniment to BBQ shrimp. Alternatively, you can whip up a tangy coleslaw with minimal effort. These no-cook sides require minimal preparation, allowing you to focus on grilling the perfect shrimp.
Dish | Description |
---|---|
Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Salad | A simple salad made with ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers. Tossed in a light vinaigrette for a tangy and refreshing flavor. |
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad | A nutritious salad featuring quinoa, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. Dressed with a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a burst of flavor. |
Grilled Zucchini and Peppers | Thinly sliced zucchini and colorful bell peppers grilled to perfection. Seasoned with herbs and spices for a smoky and flavorful side dish. |
Asian Quick Pickled Cucumbers | An easy and tangy side dish made by marinating cucumbers in a soy-based dressing. Provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ shrimp. |
Tangy Coleslaw | A classic coleslaw recipe with a tangy twist. Made with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that complements BBQ shrimp perfectly. |
Spicy and Flavorful Choices
If you like a bit of heat with your meal, there are spicy side dishes that pair well with BBQ shrimp. Cornbread with jalapenos, with its crispy bits of bacon and fiery peppers, adds a flavor explosion to every bite. Spicy pickles, whether quick-pickled cucumbers or tangy kimchi, provide a burst of heat and tanginess that complements the smoky flavors of BBQ shrimp. These side dishes are perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meal.
Conclusion
When it comes to serving BBQ shrimp, there are countless options for delicious and complementary side dishes. Whether you prefer classic Southern staples, fresh and light salads, grilled vegetables, comforting starches, or quick and easy options, there is something for everyone. From tangy coleslaw to cheesy baked macaroni, each side dish adds its own unique flavor and texture to the meal. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing and elevate your BBQ shrimp to a whole new level. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What are some classic side dishes to serve with BBQ shrimp?
Classic side dishes that pair perfectly with BBQ shrimp include grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, and red beans and rice.
What are some healthy side dishes to serve with BBQ shrimp?
Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, yellow squash, asparagus, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, are a great choice for a healthy and flavorful accompaniment to BBQ shrimp.
What are some comforting starches to serve with BBQ shrimp?
Garlic mashed potatoes, cheesy baked macaroni, baked sweet potatoes, and jasmine rice are all comforting starch options that pair well with BBQ shrimp.
What are some fresh and light salads that go well with BBQ shrimp?
Some fresh and light salad options to serve with BBQ shrimp include grilled shrimp salad, wedge salad, caprese salad, and creamy cucumber salad.
What are some bread and biscuit options to serve with BBQ shrimp?
Garlic bread, buttermilk biscuits, and cornbread are all great bread and biscuit choices to complement BBQ shrimp dishes.
How can I add a tropical twist to my BBQ shrimp meal?
Grilled pineapple or mango salsa can add a tropical twist to your BBQ shrimp meal, providing a sweet and tangy flavor combination.
What are some quick and easy side dishes to serve with BBQ shrimp?
Quick and easy side dishes that pair well with BBQ shrimp include simple salads like cherry tomato and cucumber salad or Mediterranean quinoa salad, as well as grilled vegetables and no-cook sides like Asian quick pickled cucumbers or tangy coleslaw.
Are there any spicy side dishes that go well with BBQ shrimp?
Spicy side dishes like cornbread with jalapenos or spicy pickles, such as quick-pickled cucumbers or tangy kimchi, can add a burst of heat and tanginess to your BBQ shrimp meal.
What are some pairing options for BBQ shrimp?
There are countless options for side dishes to serve with BBQ shrimp, including classic Southern staples, fresh and light salads, grilled vegetables, comforting starches, quick and easy options, spicy choices, and even tropical flavors. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing.
Source Links
- https://www.agoudalife.com/what-to-serve-with-grilled-shrimp-10-best-side-dishes/
- https://sabrinacurrie.com/what-to-serve-with-bbq-shrimp-top-50-side-dishes/
- https://thehappierhomemaker.com/what-to-serve-with-bbq-shrimp/
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