Crab cakes are a popular and delicious dish, but deciding what to serve with them can be a challenge. To complement the flavors of the crab cakes, it is best to choose sides that are bright and flavorful without overpowering the main dish. Here are some perfect side dish ideas to elevate your crab cake dinner.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- When serving crab cakes for dinner, it’s important to choose sides that enhance the flavors without overshadowing the main dish.
- Light and colorful potato salad, grilled asparagus with bacon, and grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread are excellent options to complement crab cakes.
- Pasta and three-bean salad and zucchini fries with marinara sauce offer unique and tasty alternatives for side dishes.
- Heirloom tomato and roasted bell pepper salad and Asian-inspired slaw bring vibrant flavors and refreshing combinations to the table.
- An herb salad with thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano is a versatile side dish that pairs well with the rich flavors of crab cakes.
Light and Colorful Potato Salad
This light and colorful potato salad is the perfect side dish for crab cakes. Unlike traditional potato salads that use mayonnaise, this recipe is mayo-free, allowing the flavors of the potatoes and the crab cakes to shine. The addition of tart and spicy pickled onions adds a burst of flavor and complements the richness of the crab cakes.
When it comes to potato salad, most people think of the creamy mayonnaise-based version. However, this mayo-free alternative offers a lighter and more refreshing twist to the classic dish. By skipping the mayonnaise, the salad avoids being overly heavy and lets the natural flavors of the potatoes come through.
To make this potato salad, start by boiling some baby potatoes until they are tender. Let them cool before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, prepare a dressing using olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes in the dressing, ensuring that they are well coated.
To add a pop of color and flavor, include pickled onions in the salad. Thinly slice red onions and place them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices like red pepper flakes and black peppercorns. Allow the onions to marinate for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the potato salad.
The result is a vibrant and tangy potato salad that pairs perfectly with crab cakes. The combination of the creamy crab cakes and the tart and spicy flavors of the pickled onions creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy your taste buds.
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for this light and colorful potato salad:
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Baby potatoes | 1 pound |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
Minced garlic | 1 clove |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Red onions | 1 large |
Vinegar | 1/4 cup |
Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
Black peppercorns | 5-6 |
Enjoy this light and flavorful potato salad as a colorful side dish that perfectly complements your crab cake dinner. Its tart and spicy flavors are sure to impress your guests and elevate your meal.
Grilled Asparagus with Bacon
Grilled asparagus is a fantastic side dish for crab cakes, and when you add bacon to the mix, it becomes even more delicious. This recipe features jumbo asparagus, perfect for an easy grilling experience. The combination of smoky grilled asparagus with crispy bacon creates a mouthwatering flavor that complements the savory crab cakes.
To enhance the taste even further, serve the grilled asparagus with a homemade vinaigrette dressing. This tangy dressing adds a zesty kick to the dish, elevating the overall dining experience. The bright flavors of the vinaigrette beautifully balance the richness of the crab cakes, creating a perfect harmony of flavors on your plate.
Preparing this dish is a breeze! Simply grill the jumbo asparagus until it’s tender and slightly charred, then wrap each spear with crispy bacon. The result is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ready to impress your guests with this irresistible side dish? Try the recipe below:
Grilled Asparagus with Bacon Recipe
Ingredients:
- Jumbo asparagus spears
- Thinly sliced bacon
- For the vinaigrette:
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss the jumbo asparagus spears in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the asparagus for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
- While the asparagus is grilling, cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Wrap each grilled asparagus spear with a slice of crispy bacon.
- For the vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the homemade vinaigrette over the grilled asparagus with bacon.
- Serve alongside your delicious crab cakes and enjoy!
Indulge in this mouthwatering combination of grilled asparagus, crispy bacon, and tangy vinaigrette. Your guests will be delighted by the beautiful flavors and textures that this side dish brings to the table. It’s the perfect accompaniment to elevate your crab cake dinner and create a memorable dining experience.
Pictured below is a visual representation of this tantalizing dish:
Grilled Vegetables with Charred Sourdough Bread
For a colorful and flavorful side dish, try grilling a variety of vegetables and serving them with charred sourdough bread. The combination of smoky grilled vegetables and the rich, slightly charred flavor of the bread adds a delightful twist to your crab cake dinner.
To create this dish, start by selecting a mix of your favorite vegetables. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes work well, but feel free to explore different vegetables based on your preferences. The key is to choose tender vegetables that will cook evenly on the grill.
Here’s a simple recipe to guide you:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into manageable pieces.
- In a bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add some herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Place the vegetables directly on the grill grates and cook until they are tender and slightly charred, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the vegetables are grilling, slice the sourdough bread and brush it with olive oil.
- Once the vegetables are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Place the sliced sourdough bread on the grill and cook until it’s nicely charred on both sides.
- Remove the bread from the grill and serve it with the grilled vegetables.
This dish offers a beautiful contrast of textures and flavors. The grilled vegetables retain their natural sweetness and juiciness, while the charred sourdough bread adds a smoky, rustic element. It’s a perfect complement to the succulent crab cakes, adding depth and variety to your meal.
Try experimenting with different vegetables and seasonings to find your favorite combination. You can also serve the grilled vegetables with a dipping sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the vibrant, nutritious, and satisfying flavors of this grilled vegetable side dish alongside your delicious crab cakes.
Pasta and Three-Bean Salad
Combine the flavors of pasta salad and three-bean salad with this delicious side dish. This 30-minute side dish is the perfect addition to your crab cake dinner. The recipe calls for fresh green beans, which add a vibrant crunch to the salad. If you’re looking for an alternative to green beans, field peas work wonderfully as well.
The key to this pasta and three-bean salad is the dressing. You can customize the dressing to your preference, whether you prefer a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing. Just be sure to dress the salad right before serving to maintain its freshness and crispness.
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Pasta and Three-Bean Salad Recipe
- 1 cup cooked pasta (choose your favorite shape)
- 1 cup cooked and cooled fresh green beans or field peas
- 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup canned garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve the pasta and three-bean salad alongside your flavorful crab cakes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooked pasta | 1 cup |
Cooked and cooled fresh green beans or field peas | 1 cup |
Canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed | 1 cup |
Canned garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed | 1 cup |
Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1/2 cup |
Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/4 cup |
Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Red wine vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Zucchini Fries with Marinara Sauce
Zucchini fries are a crispy and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with crab cakes. These delicious fries can be enjoyed on their own or dipped in marinara sauce for an extra burst of flavor. With their crunchy texture and savory taste, zucchini fries are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Reminiscent of mozzarella sticks or French fries, they offer a satisfying and healthier alternative. For a delightful combination, try pairing zucchini fries with a flavorful seafood dip. The combination of the crispy zucchini and the creamy dip creates a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish that complements the crab cakes beautifully.
Recipe: Zucchini Fries
If you’d like to try making zucchini fries at home, here’s a simple and tasty recipe to follow:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and dry 2 zucchinis, then cut them into thin, fry-like strips.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs.
- Dip the zucchini strips into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated zucchini fries on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy the zucchini fries alongside your crab cake dinner for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Heirloom Tomato and Roasted Bell Pepper Salad
This flavorful salad combines the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, the smoky flavor of roasted bell peppers, and the texture of roasted black-eyed peas. The combination of flavors in this salad is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s a make-ahead salad, allowing you to prepare most of it up to three days in advance, making it a convenient option for a dinner with crab cakes.
Heirloom tomatoes are known for their vibrant colors and unique flavors. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a visually appealing addition to any dish. When combined with the roasted bell peppers, the salad becomes even more visually striking.
To create the perfect flavor combination, the roasted black-eyed peas add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor to the salad. They also provide a good source of plant-based protein, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
This Heirloom Tomato and Roasted Bell Pepper Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish that complements the richness of the crab cakes. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures to elevate your crab cake dinner.
Asian-Inspired Slaw
This Asian-inspired slaw offers a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional coleslaw. Made with angel hair cabbage, crisp carrots, and crunchy radishes, it combines the mild and crunchy combination of vegetables with a rice vinegar dressing that adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
The recipe for this coleslaw alternative includes a balanced combination of mild rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and mustard seed. The result is a refreshing and flavorful slaw that perfectly complements the main dish of crab cakes.
The mild and crunchy combination of vegetables in this Asian slaw provides a delightful contrast to the richness of the crab cakes. The angel hair cabbage adds a light and delicate texture, while the carrots and radishes contribute crispness and a mild peppery flavor.
Whether served as a side dish or used as a topping for the crab cakes, this Asian-inspired slaw is a perfect accompaniment. The refreshing and flavorful qualities of this slaw make it a popular choice that is sure to impress your guests.
Try this Asian slaw with your next crab cake dinner and experience the delightful combination of flavors for yourself.
Key Ingredients:
- Angel hair cabbage
- Crisp carrots
- Crunchy radishes
- Mild rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Salt
- Mustard seed
Herb Salad with Thyme, Tarragon, Basil, Rosemary, and Oregano
This herb salad is a refreshing and comforting option as a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with crab cakes. The combination of thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano creates a fragrant and flavorful mix that enhances the overall dining experience.
With its refreshing taste and comforting aroma, this herb salad is a delightful addition to any meal. The flavorful herbs add a vibrant touch to the crab cakes, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.
Not only is this herb salad a flavorful accompaniment to crab cakes, but it is also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing salad, or mix it into pasta or rice for a more substantial meal. The options are endless!
Prepare this herb salad with fresh and high-quality herbs to ensure the best flavor. Simply chop the herbs and toss them together in a bowl. You can drizzle the salad with a light vinaigrette or simply enjoy it as is, allowing the natural flavors of the herbs to shine.
Embrace the power of herbs and elevate your crab cake dinner with this refreshing and comforting herb salad. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, this versatile side dish is sure to impress.
Key Ingredients: | Benefits: |
---|---|
Thyme | Provides a subtle earthy flavor and is rich in antioxidants. |
Tarragon | Imparts a slight anise-like taste and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. |
Basil | Delivers a sweet and aromatic flavor while offering anti-inflammatory properties. |
Rosemary | Brings a fragrant and pine-like taste and is known for its potential health benefits. |
Oregano | Adds a bold and zesty flavor and contains powerful antioxidants. |
Conclusion
When it comes to serving crab cakes for dinner, choosing the perfect side dish is essential. The ideal side dish should be bright and flavorful, without overpowering the crab cakes. There are numerous options available to elevate your crab cake dinner, such as the light and colorful potato salad or the grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread.
Whether you prefer classic pairings or unique flavor combinations, these sides are sure to impress. The variety of options allows you to experiment and find your personal favorite. So, elevate your dinner with these perfect sides for crab cakes and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
With their delightful flavor combinations, these side dishes not only complement the crab cakes but also add a burst of freshness and texture to your plate. From the zesty pickled onions in the potato salad to the smoky grilled vegetables, each side dish enhances the overall dining experience. Consider trying different options to create your own flavor combinations and create memorable meals with family and friends.
FAQ
What are some perfect sides for crab cakes dinner?
Some perfect sides for crab cakes dinner include light and colorful potato salad, grilled asparagus with bacon, grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread, pasta and three-bean salad, zucchini fries with marinara sauce, heirloom tomato and roasted bell pepper salad, Asian-inspired slaw, and herb salad with thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano.
What is a light and colorful potato salad?
A light and colorful potato salad is a mayo-free potato salad that allows the flavors of the potatoes and the crab cakes to shine. It is made with tart and spicy pickled onions to add a burst of flavor and complement the richness of the crab cakes.
How can I make grilled asparagus with bacon?
To make grilled asparagus with bacon, grill jumbo asparagus and add crispy bacon. Serve it with a homemade vinaigrette dressing that adds a tangy flavor, which pairs perfectly with the savory crab cakes.
What is grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread?
Grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread is a colorful and flavorful side dish. The dish involves grilling a variety of vegetables to retain their natural flavors and textures. The addition of charred sourdough bread adds a smoky flavor that complements the crab cakes.
How can I make pasta and three-bean salad?
To make pasta and three-bean salad, combine fresh green beans, pasta, and three types of beans. Customize the dressing to your preference and dress the salad just before serving to maintain its freshness.
What are zucchini fries with marinara sauce?
Zucchini fries are crispy side dishes that can be enjoyed on their own or dipped in marinara sauce for added flavor. They are reminiscent of mozzarella sticks or French fries and can be paired with a tasty seafood dip for a delicious combination.
What is a heirloom tomato and roasted bell pepper salad?
Heirloom tomato and roasted bell pepper salad combines the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, the smoky flavor of roasted bell peppers, and the texture of roasted black-eyed peas. The majority of this salad can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for serving with crab cakes.
What is an Asian-inspired slaw?
An Asian-inspired slaw is a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional coleslaw. It is made with angel hair cabbage, crisp carrots, and crunchy radishes, tossed in a balanced combination of mild rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and mustard seed. It adds a distinct Asian twist that complements the crab cakes.
What is a herb salad with thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano?
A herb salad with thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano is a refreshing and comforting side dish that pairs well with crab cakes. The combination of flavorful herbs creates a fragrant mix that enhances the overall dining experience. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.
What are some perfect sides to elevate a crab cakes dinner?
To elevate a crab cakes dinner, you can choose from a variety of perfect sides such as light and colorful potato salad, grilled asparagus with bacon, grilled vegetables with charred sourdough bread, pasta and three-bean salad, zucchini fries with marinara sauce, heirloom tomato and roasted bell pepper salad, Asian-inspired slaw, and herb salad with thyme, tarragon, basil, rosemary, and oregano. These sides offer flavor combinations and variety to enhance your dining experience.
Source Links
- https://www.southernliving.com/food/side-dishes/crab-cakes-sides
- https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/side-dish-recipes-for-crab-cakes/
- https://gypsyplate.com/the-best-sides-for-crab-cakes/
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