A classic fish fry isn’t complete without the perfect side dishes to complement the crispy, golden-brown fish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard fish fry, a Friday night tradition, or just craving a seafood feast, the right sides can elevate your meal and bring out the best flavors. From crispy fries and tangy coleslaw to buttery cornbread and refreshing salads, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. In this guide, we’ll explore the best side dishes to serve with a fish fry, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying meal for everyone to enjoy!
Classic Fish Fry Side Dishes
Perfect side dishes can make your fish fry meal even better. From creamy coleslaw to tangy tartar sauce, these sides are loved by many. They add a special touch to your next feast.
Coleslaw Variants
Coleslaw is a must-have at fish fries. It’s crunchy and creamy. You can try different coleslaw recipes to make it unique.
Traditional coleslaw has shredded cabbage and carrots. It’s mixed with a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. You can add Dijon mustard, maple syrup, or lime zest for extra flavor.
Tartar Sauce Fundamentals
Homemade tartar sauce is essential for fish fries. It makes the fish taste even better. To make great tartar sauce, mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles, capers, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
These simple ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors. You can also add hot sauce or finely chopped onions to make it your own.
Flavorful Cornbread
Cornbread is a great choice for a side dish. It’s moist and slightly crumbly, which contrasts well with fried fish. Make a batch using cornmeal, flour, eggs, buttermilk, and sugar.
Bake it until it’s golden, which takes about 40 minutes. It serves 12 people, perfect for big gatherings.
Healthier Alternatives to Fish Fry Sides
Looking to make your fish fry healthier? Try adding some nutritious sides. These options are tasty and won’t make you feel guilty. They add variety and flavor to your meal.
Grilled Vegetable Medley
Grilled vegetable medleys are a great choice. They add smoky flavors that go well with fish. Start with fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and onions.
Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Grill over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, turning to get even char.
Just before serving, squeeze lemon juice over the veggies. This adds a burst of flavor. It’s colorful, nutritious, and pairs well with fish. Try different veggies to find your favorite mix.
Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing
Quinoa salad is another excellent side. Quinoa is a protein-rich superfood. Cook it, let it cool, then mix it with chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
Add black beans for extra protein. For the dressing, mix lemon and lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together, then chill for 30 minutes.
This salad is colorful, refreshing, and full of nutrients. It’s a perfect match for your fish fry. These sides not only taste great but also keep your meal healthy and balanced.
Comfort Food Sides to Pair with Fish
Creating the perfect fish fry feast is all about the sides. They make your main dish even better. Whether you love cheesy goodness or crispy delights, these sides are a must.
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is incredibly soothing. The secret is in the velvety cheese sauce. It coats every pasta piece, making it indulgent.
Use sharp cheddar and mozzarella for a great flavor. Don’t forget to top it with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb. It adds extra texture to this classic.
Crispy French Fries
No fish fry is complete without crispy French fries. Getting them just right is key. Start by soaking the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch.
This helps them become crunchier. Try baking them on high heat for a healthier option. Follow our recipe for consistent, delicious results.
Savory Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are a must for any Southern-style fish fry. They offer a mix of flavors and textures. Add cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and onions for extra taste.
The secret to perfect hush puppies is a well-mixed batter. This ensures they’re light and fluffy. Serve them hot for the best taste.
International Fish Fry Side Inspirations
Why not mix up your fish fry menu with international sides? Exploring dishes from around the world can add excitement to your gatherings. Let’s dive into two tasty options: Mexican street corn and Mediterranean couscous salad.
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, or Elote, is a vibrant side that goes great with fish. Grill sweet corn until it’s charred. Then, slather it with a creamy mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cilantro. Top with crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a burst of flavor.
For a unique twist, add Chipotle’s corn salsa elements like jalapeños, red onions, and cumin. This makes Mexican street corn a standout at any fish fry.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
The Mediterranean couscous salad is another great choice. It combines couscous with fresh veggies and herbs. Cook couscous, then mix in sun-dried tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
For the dressing, blend olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper. This zesty dressing makes every bite refreshing. The mix of crunchy veggies and creamy feta, with a tangy dressing, is perfect for summer.
Adding these international sides to your fish fry will make it unforgettable. It’s a chance to explore different cultures through food, all while enjoying time with friends and family.
Quick and Easy Fish Fry Side Recipes
Looking for tasty sides that are quick and easy? This section is for you. You’ll find these easy fish fry side dishes perfect for your meal. Let’s dive into three simple recipes that will wow your guests.
Simple Garlic Butter Asparagus
Asparagus is a great choice for quick sides, pairing well with fish. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add a pound of trimmed asparagus and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender.
Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter and 2 minced garlic cloves for another minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This side is ready in under 10 minutes.
Instant Pot Rice Pilaf
Instant Pot side dishes like rice pilaf make cooking grains easy. Start by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat 2 tablespoons of butter. Add a small chopped onion and cook until translucent.
Stir in 1 cup of rinsed long-grain rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 5 minutes. Let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This side dish complements your fish fry perfectly.
Potato Wedges with Herbs
Potato wedges are a classic choice for easy fish fry sides. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut 4 medium potatoes into wedges and toss them in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of rosemary, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and a pinch of sea salt and pepper.
Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet and bake for around 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden and crispy. These herbaceous wedges are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Conclusion
By adding these quick and simple sides, you can make your fish fry feast better without spending hours cooking. Each recipe is designed to bring out the best flavors, making your meal delightful and convenient.