Crab cakes are a tasty seafood dish that many people enjoy. They’re great on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes can make your meal even better.
You can choose from many different sides to go with crab cakes. Some options are light and fresh, while others are more filling. This article will look at 12 side dishes that go well with crab cakes. You’ll find ideas for salads, vegetables, and other foods that taste good with this seafood favorite.
1. Lemon Herb Rice
Lemon herb rice makes a great side dish for crab cakes. It’s light and refreshing, with a zesty flavor that complements the crab.
To make it, cook white rice and mix in lemon juice, zest, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley and dill. Add a pat of butter for richness.
The bright citrus notes cut through the richness of the crab cakes. The herbs add color and freshness to the plate.
This side dish is quick and easy to prepare. It takes about 20 minutes total, mostly hands-off while the rice cooks.
2. Garlic Butter Asparagus
Garlic butter asparagus makes a tasty side for crab cakes. It’s quick and easy to prepare.
Toss asparagus spears with melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.
Roast the asparagus in a hot oven until tender-crisp. The tips will get slightly crispy.
The garlic butter coating adds rich flavor that complements crab cakes well. The asparagus provides a nice contrast in texture.
This veggie side is light enough to let the crab cakes shine. It’s also packed with nutrients.
3. Coleslaw with Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing
This tangy coleslaw pairs perfectly with crab cakes. To make it, shred green and red cabbage, carrots, and slice some green onions.
Mix apple cider vinegar, olive oil, mustard, and honey for the dressing. Pour it over the veggies and toss well.
For extra crunch and flavor, add sliced almonds and diced apple. You can also include cilantro or parsley if you like.
This no-mayo coleslaw is lighter and more refreshing than traditional versions. It stays crisp in the fridge for a few days, making it great for leftovers.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze make a tasty side for crab cakes. Start by trimming and halving the sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. They should be tender and browned.
While the sprouts cook, make the glaze. Simmer balsamic vinegar in a pan until reduced by half. Add honey and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Drizzle the glaze over the roasted sprouts before serving. The sweet and tangy glaze complements the crispy, caramelized vegetable perfectly.
5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for crab cakes. They offer a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy exterior of the crab cakes.
To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Drain and mash them with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt.
For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. You can also mix in some roasted garlic for added flavor.
Serve a generous scoop of these velvety mashed potatoes alongside your crab cakes for a satisfying meal.
6. Classic Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad pairs perfectly with crab cakes. Its crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich crab meat.
The tangy dressing cuts through the richness of the crab cakes. It’s made with lemon juice, garlic, and anchovy paste for bold flavor.
Crunchy croutons add texture, while Parmesan cheese brings a salty bite. You can customize the salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp.
For a lighter option, try a Caesar salad with a yogurt-based dressing. This keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
7. Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter
Corn on the cob is a perfect match for crab cakes. Its sweet crunch balances the savory cakes nicely.
To make herb butter, mix softened butter with chopped herbs like parsley, chives, and basil. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Grill or boil your corn until tender. Slather on the herb butter while the corn is still hot. The butter will melt into all the kernels.
This side dish is easy to make and lets you use fresh summer produce. Your guests will love the burst of flavor from the herbs.
8. Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
Grilled zucchini with Parmesan is a tasty side dish that pairs well with crab cakes. To make it, slice zucchini lengthwise into strips about 1/2 inch thick.
Brush the zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Grill the zucchini slices over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. They should be tender and have nice grill marks.
After grilling, top the zucchini with grated Parmesan cheese. The heat will melt the cheese slightly. For a finishing touch, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
9. Quinoa Salad with Feta Cheese
Quinoa salad with feta cheese is a tasty and nutritious side for crab cakes. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines fluffy quinoa with fresh vegetables and tangy feta.
To make it, cook quinoa according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly. Mix in chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.
Add crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives for extra flavor. Toss with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano or parsley.
This refreshing salad complements the richness of crab cakes perfectly. It’s light, zesty, and packed with protein and fiber.
10. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries make a great side for crab cakes. They add a touch of sweetness and a crispy texture to your meal. You can easily make them at home by cutting sweet potatoes into thin strips.
Toss the fries with a bit of oil and your favorite spices. Paprika, garlic powder, and salt work well. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake until crispy on the outside and soft inside.
These fries are healthier than traditional fried potatoes. They’re packed with vitamins and fiber. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs nicely with the savory crab cakes.
11. Spinach Strawberry Salad
Spinach strawberry salad is a refreshing side dish for crab cakes. You’ll love the mix of sweet and savory flavors. Fresh spinach leaves form the base of this salad.
Sliced strawberries add a burst of sweetness. You can toss in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick. Add some sliced almonds or pecans for crunch.
A light vinaigrette dressing ties it all together. Try a balsamic or poppy seed dressing. This colorful salad brings a nice balance to rich crab cakes.
12. Avocado Mango Salsa
Avocado mango salsa adds a burst of tropical flavor to your crab cakes. It’s fresh, creamy, and tangy all at once.
To make it, dice ripe mangoes and avocados. Mix them with chopped red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
This salsa brings a nice contrast to the crispy, savory crab cakes. The sweetness of the mango balances the rich crab meat. The creamy avocado adds a smooth texture.
You can prepare the salsa while your crab cakes are cooking. Serve it on top or on the side of your cakes for a colorful, tasty meal.
Understanding Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a beloved seafood dish with a rich history and unique preparation. They blend fresh crab meat with various ingredients to create flavorful patties.
Origin and History
Crab cakes have roots in the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States. Native Americans first made them using blue crabs from the bay. In the 1930s, restaurants in Baltimore started serving crab cakes as we know them today.
The dish quickly gained popularity along the East Coast. It became a staple in Maryland cuisine. Over time, crab cakes spread across the country and became a common menu item in seafood restaurants.
Different regions developed their own styles. Some prefer a breaded exterior, while others focus on letting the crab flavor shine through.
Ingredients and Preparation
The main ingredient in crab cakes is, of course, crab meat. Chefs often use lump crab meat for its large, tender pieces. Other common ingredients include:
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Old Bay seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce
To make crab cakes, you mix these ingredients with the crab meat. Then, form the mixture into patties. You can fry, bake, or broil the cakes until they’re golden brown.
The key is to use just enough filler to hold the cakes together. Too much can overpower the delicate crab flavor. Many chefs aim for a ratio of 75% crab meat to 25% other ingredients.
Serving suggestions often include a squeeze of lemon and tartar sauce on the side.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Crab cakes have a delicate flavor and texture that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Choosing sides and sauces that complement rather than overpower is key to creating a well-balanced meal.
Complementary Sauces
A good sauce can take your crab cakes to the next level. Try a tangy remoulade sauce made with mayo, capers, and Dijon mustard. It adds zest without masking the crab’s flavor.
For a lighter option, whip up a lemon-dill aioli. The bright citrus notes highlight the sweetness of the crab meat.
Mango salsa offers a tropical twist. The fruity sweetness pairs nicely with the savory crab cakes. Mix diced mango with red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh topping.
Choosing the Right Sides
Pick sides that contrast with the richness of crab cakes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds crunch and freshness.
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts provide earthy flavors and different textures. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
For a starchy side, try roasted baby potatoes. Their crispy exteriors and fluffy insides complement the texture of crab cakes nicely. Season them with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
Corn on the cob is a classic pairing. Its sweetness balances the salty notes in crab cakes. Grill or boil the corn and serve with butter and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning.
Enhancing the Dining Experience
Crab cakes shine when paired with the right presentation and drinks. A few simple touches can turn a casual meal into a memorable dining event.
Presentation Tips
Place your crab cakes on a clean white plate for a classic look. Add a small dollop of sauce next to each cake. A lemon wedge adds color and lets guests adjust the flavor.
Try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This adds a pop of green and freshness.
For a fancy touch, use a large scallop shell as a serving dish. This nods to the seafood theme.
Arrange side dishes in small portions around the crab cakes. This creates a pleasing visual balance on the plate.
Pairing with Beverages
White wine is a top choice with crab cakes. Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc work well. Their crisp flavors cut through the richness of the crab.
For beer lovers, try a light lager or wheat beer. These won’t overpower the delicate crab flavor.
Iced tea is a refreshing non-alcoholic option. Add a slice of lemon for extra zest.
For a fancy twist, serve a citrus-based cocktail. A lemon drop martini or gin and tonic can complement the seafood nicely.
Remember to chill your drinks well. Cold beverages taste best with hot crab cakes.