INTRODUCTION
Barbecue shrimp is a dish full of bold flavors, often coated in a buttery, spicy sauce that brings out the best in the shrimp. But what really takes this meal to the next level? The right sides. Choosing the best sides for barbecue shrimp can elevate the entire dining experience. Whether you want traditional Southern sides, light salads, or hearty dishes, finding the perfect accompaniment enhances the flavors of this popular shrimp dish. In this article, we’ll explore a wide variety of sides that work well with barbecue shrimp, giving you options to suit any meal or occasion.
Classic Southern Sides for Barbecue Shrimp
When serving barbecue shrimp, it’s natural to think of classic Southern sides. These traditional dishes are known for their comforting flavors and ability to complement rich and spicy shrimp. Let’s explore a few of the most popular Southern sides that are the perfect match for your shrimp dish.
French Bread
One of the best sides for barbecue shrimp is French bread. In New Orleans, it’s practically a requirement. The reason is simple—French bread is ideal for soaking up the buttery sauce that coats the shrimp. With its crispy crust and soft interior, this bread acts as the perfect vehicle for the rich flavors of the shrimp sauce. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and serve alongside your meal. No Southern shrimp meal is complete without plenty of crusty bread to mop up that delicious sauce.
Grits
Another traditional side that works beautifully with barbecue shrimp is grits. Creamy, smooth, and easy to make, grits are a staple in Southern cooking. Grits pair well with shrimp because they absorb the sauce while providing a subtle flavor that balances the dish’s spice. Whether you make plain grits or enhance them with cheese, their rich texture works harmoniously with the shrimp’s bold flavors. Shrimp and grits is a classic pairing that has long been a favorite in Southern kitchens.
Dirty Rice
If you’re looking for a side that adds even more flavor, dirty rice is an excellent option. This Louisiana favorite is made with rice, ground meat (often sausage or chicken liver), and a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery. Dirty rice is packed with flavor and spice, making it one of the best sides for barbecue shrimp. The bold, savory taste of the rice complements the shrimp’s sauce, creating a meal that’s full of depth and character.
Rice Pilaf
For a lighter, more neutral side, rice pilaf is a great choice. It’s a simple dish, often made with rice sautéed in butter or oil and cooked in broth. Rice pilaf provides a more delicate flavor that lets the shrimp take center stage. The grains of rice absorb the sauce, making every bite flavorful. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with the bold flavors of barbecue shrimp without overpowering them.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is another Southern staple that pairs wonderfully with barbecue shrimp. The sweetness of the corn contrasts beautifully with the spicy, buttery sauce. Whether you grill or boil the corn, its natural sweetness adds a fresh element to the meal. For an extra layer of flavor, try brushing the corn with butter and sprinkling it with Cajun seasoning before serving.
Vegetable-Based Side Dishes
Vegetables play an essential role in rounding out a meal, and when it comes to barbecue shrimp, they add a fresh, crunchy element that balances the rich sauce. These vegetable-based sides provide the perfect contrast to the bold flavors of the shrimp while bringing color and nutrients to the plate.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a quick and easy side dish that works well with barbecue shrimp. The slight bitterness of the asparagus contrasts nicely with the richness of the shrimp’s sauce. When roasted, asparagus develops a crispy texture and a slightly sweet flavor, which complements the spice of the shrimp. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, add a pinch of salt, and roast until tender. This simple preparation enhances the natural flavors of the vegetable while pairing perfectly with shrimp.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are another vegetable that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp. Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their sweetness while giving them a crispy texture. You can season them with garlic, salt, and pepper, or even add a bit of bacon for extra flavor. The slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts provides a nice contrast to the rich shrimp sauce, making them one of the best sides for barbecue shrimp.
Maque Choux
Maque Choux is a traditional Louisiana dish made with corn, bell peppers, onions, and sometimes tomatoes. This Cajun side dish is sautéed in butter, which makes it rich and flavorful. The sweetness of the corn, combined with the savory vegetables, pairs wonderfully with the spicy shrimp. Maque Choux adds both color and texture to the meal, making it a great choice if you want to stay true to the flavors of Louisiana cuisine.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are always a good option for pairing with barbecue shrimp. The slight char from the grill adds a smoky flavor that complements the shrimp’s spiciness. You can use a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions. Grilled vegetables are easy to prepare and bring a fresh, light contrast to the rich shrimp dish. Season them with olive oil and salt, and you’ve got a simple yet effective side dish.
Hearty and Creamy Sides
For a more indulgent and satisfying meal, hearty sides can be a great way to balance the lighter shrimp. These dishes are rich and creamy, making them the perfect complement to the spiciness of barbecue shrimp. Here are some hearty sides that work exceptionally well.
Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta is one of the best sides for barbecue shrimp. Polenta is made from ground cornmeal and has a smooth, rich texture that’s similar to grits. When prepared with butter and cheese, polenta becomes a luxurious side dish that pairs wonderfully with shrimp. It soaks up the sauce, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. The creamy texture of the polenta contrasts nicely with the tender shrimp, making it a standout side.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side that adds a cooling element to the meal. There are many variations of potato salad, but both creamy and tangy versions work well with barbecue shrimp. A mayonnaise-based potato salad adds richness, while a vinegar-based version provides a tangy contrast to the shrimp’s buttery sauce. Potato salad is easy to prepare and serves as a refreshing side that helps balance the spicy flavors.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and it’s also one of the best sides for barbecue shrimp. The creamy, cheesy pasta complements the bold flavors of the shrimp. Macaroni and cheese adds a richness to the meal that satisfies those who crave a heartier side dish. Whether baked or stovetop, mac and cheese brings an indulgent touch to your barbecue shrimp dinner.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing, crunchy side that pairs beautifully with barbecue shrimp. Furthermore, its tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the shrimp, providing a light contrast. Additionally, you can opt for a creamy coleslaw with mayonnaise or a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter option. Moreover, the crisp cabbage adds texture to the meal, making it a great choice for balancing the shrimp’s richness.
Light and Fresh Side Dishes
If you’re looking to lighten up your meal, fresh salads and light sides are the perfect complement to barbecue shrimp. These dishes bring brightness and freshness to the plate, balancing out the richness of the shrimp.
Mixed Green Salad
A mixed green salad is a simple yet effective side that works well with barbecue shrimp. Moreover, the freshness of the greens, combined with a light vinaigrette, adds a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp. Additionally, you can customize the salad with ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and nuts for added flavor and texture. Ultimately, this light side dish keeps the meal balanced and ensures that the shrimp remain the star.
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad is a cool, refreshing side that pairs perfectly with barbecue shrimp. The crisp slices of cucumber and the tangy dressing provide a cooling effect that balances the spiciness of the shrimp. This side is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option when you need something fresh and light to complement the bold shrimp flavors.
Tomato and Avocado Salad
Tomato and avocado salad adds both freshness and creaminess to your barbecue shrimp meal. The juicy tomatoes bring brightness, while the creamy avocado goes well with the shrimp’s buttery sauce. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice tie the salad together, making a tasty side that balances the richness of the shrimp.
Watermelon Salad
Watermelon salad is a surprising yet refreshing side that works beautifully with barbecue shrimp. In fact, the sweet, juicy watermelon contrasts with the spicy shrimp, creating a balanced flavor combination. Furthermore, adding some mint and feta cheese to the salad provides an extra layer of flavor. Ultimately, this unique side dish is perfect for warm weather meals, offering a fresh and light counterpoint to the rich shrimp sauce.
Regional and Specialty Pairings
If you want to go beyond the basics and add some Southern flair to your meal, then consider these regional and specialty pairings. In addition, these dishes bring authenticity and extra flavor to your barbecue shrimp dinner.
Hush Puppies
Hush puppies are a classic Southern side that pairs wonderfully with barbecue shrimp. These deep-fried cornmeal balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are perfect for dipping into the shrimp sauce, adding both texture and flavor to the meal. Hush puppies are a great choice if you’re looking for a traditional Southern side to complete your shrimp dish.
Cheese Grits
For a twist on traditional grits, cheese grits are a fantastic option. In addition, the addition of cheese gives the grits a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the shrimp. Moreover, sharp cheddar or Parmesan are popular choices for adding depth of flavor to the grits. Overall, this side dish is indulgent, satisfying, and certainly one of the best sides for barbecue shrimp..
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are a Southern classic that works well with barbecue shrimp. The tanginess of the tomatoes, combined with their crispy coating, adds a unique contrast to the rich shrimp sauce. Fried green tomatoes are easy to prepare and offer both texture and flavor, making them a great side for shrimp.
Cajun Cornbread
Cajun cornbread is a tasty side that goes well with the shrimp’s bold flavors. It’s made with cornmeal, jalapeños, and Cajun spices, adding a spicy kick to your meal. Plus, the slightly crumbly texture of the cornbread lets it soak up the shrimp sauce, making it a perfect match for barbecue shrimp. This dish really boosts the overall dining experience.
Best Beverages to Pair with Barbecue Shrimp
No meal is complete without the right beverage, and when it comes to barbecue shrimp, there are several options that complement the flavors beautifully. Here are a few drinks that work well with this bold dish.
Beer
Beer is a classic choice for pairing with barbecue shrimp. Moreover, a light lager or pale ale provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp sauce. In addition, the crispness of the beer cleanses the palate between bites, which makes it a great choice for balancing the bold flavors of the shrimp.
White Wine
If you prefer wine, a crisp white wine is the perfect pairing for barbecue shrimp. Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are popular choices because of their acidity and freshness. These wines enhance the shrimp’s flavor while cutting through the richness of the sauce. White wine adds an elegant touch to your shrimp meal, making it a great option for special occasions.
Iced Tea
For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is a Southern staple that pairs well with barbecue shrimp. Its slightly sweet, refreshing flavor balances the heat of the shrimp sauce. Whether you choose sweetened or unsweetened iced tea, it provides a cooling contrast that makes the meal even more enjoyable.
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is another excellent non-alcoholic option for pairing with barbecue shrimp. The bubbles refresh the palate, and the neutral flavor won’t compete with the bold shrimp dish. Add a slice of lemon or lime for an extra burst of freshness.
FAQs Section
What is traditionally served with barbecue shrimp?
Traditionally, barbecue shrimp is served with French bread. The bread soaks up the rich, flavorful sauce, making it an essential part of the meal.
Can you serve barbecue shrimp with pasta?
Yes, pasta can be a great option for serving with barbecue shrimp. Fettuccine or spaghetti works particularly well, allowing the shrimp sauce to cling to the noodles.
What vegetables go well with barbecue shrimp?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts pair well with barbecue shrimp. Their fresh, crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the rich shrimp sauce.
Is rice a good side for barbecue shrimp?
Absolutely! Both dirty rice and rice pilaf are excellent sides for barbecue shrimp. They complement the bold flavors while soaking up the sauce.
Can barbecue shrimp be served as an appetizer?
Yes, barbecue shrimp can be served as an appetizer. Pair it with crusty bread and small sides for a lighter start to your meal.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Barbecue Shrimp Meal
Barbecue shrimp is a tasty and bold dish that deserves great side dishes. Whether you like classic Southern pairings like French bread and grits or lighter options like fresh salads, there are plenty of sides to complement your meal. Choosing the right sides for barbecue shrimp can really enhance your dining experience. From hearty and creamy dishes to light and fresh sides, these pairings will make your barbecue shrimp meal balanced, satisfying, and memorable. So, the next time you prepare shrimp, think about trying one of these sides to boost the flavors of your dish.
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