Crab cakes are a tasty seafood dish loved by many. They’re often served as a main course, but what you pair them with can make or break your meal.

The right side dishes can enhance the flavors and textures of your crab cakes.

You have many options for side dishes that go well with crab cakes. From fresh salads to roasted veggies, there are choices to suit different tastes.

This article will look at 12 sides that pair nicely with crab cakes. These picks will help you create a balanced and yummy meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes are a perfect side dish for crab cakes. The creamy texture and rich flavor complement the delicate taste of crab beautifully.

To make them, boil peeled potatoes until tender. Mash them with butter, milk, and roasted garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste.

You can customize your mashed potatoes by mixing in herbs like chives or parsley. For extra indulgence, top them with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Serve a scoop of these garlicky potatoes alongside your crab cakes for a satisfying meal.

2. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with crab cakes. Its crisp texture and tangy flavor complement the richness of the crab meat.

You can make a simple coleslaw by mixing shredded cabbage with carrots and a creamy dressing. For extra crunch, add some diced apples or chopped nuts.

To keep it light, try a vinegar-based dressing instead of mayo. This lets the fresh vegetable flavors shine through.

You can also experiment with different types of cabbage, like red or Napa, for variety.

3. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus makes a great side for crab cakes. Its smoky flavor complements the seafood nicely.

To prepare, toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill them over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. The spears should be tender and lightly charred.

For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled asparagus before serving.

You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a savory touch that pairs well with the crab cakes.

Grilled asparagus is a healthy, low-calorie option that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

4. Herbed Rice Pilaf

Herbed rice pilaf makes a tasty companion for crab cakes. This fragrant side dish adds a nice contrast to the seafood.

To make it, cook rice with broth instead of water. Add herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives for extra flavor. You can also mix in some toasted almonds or pine nuts for crunch.

Serve the rice pilaf warm alongside your crab cakes. The fluffy texture and savory herbs complement the crab nicely. For a complete meal, add a green vegetable like asparagus or green beans.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts make a great side dish for crab cakes. They add a savory flavor that balances the rich, buttery taste of the crab.

To prepare them, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.

For extra flavor, drizzle some balsamic vinegar over the sprouts before serving. The tart vinegar complements both the sprouts and crab cakes nicely.

This veggie side is easy to make and adds color to your plate. It’s also a healthier option that pairs well with the indulgent crab cakes.

6. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with crab cakes. The crisp romaine lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich crab meat.

The creamy Caesar dressing adds a tangy, garlicky flavor that complements the seafood. Crunchy croutons give the salad extra texture.

You can add grilled chicken to make it a heartier side dish. The protein from the chicken balances out the meal.

For a twist, try using kale instead of romaine. This adds more nutrients and a different texture to your Caesar salad.

7. Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty and colorful side dish for crab cakes. They offer a nice balance of sweet and savory flavors.

To make them, cut sweet potatoes into thin wedges. Toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Bake until crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Sweet potato fries add a pop of orange to your plate. Their natural sweetness complements the savory crab cakes well.

You can serve them with dipping sauces like chipotle mayo or honey mustard for extra flavor. Sweet potato fries are also a bit healthier than regular fries.

8. Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a perfect match for crab cakes. This sweet and crunchy side dish adds a fun, summery touch to your meal.

Grilling corn brings out its natural flavors and gives it a nice char. You can keep it simple with butter, salt, and pepper for seasoning.

For a twist, try sprinkling chili powder or garlic parmesan on your corn. These flavors work well with the savory crab cakes.

Corn on the cob is easy to prepare and can be cooked while you’re making the crab cakes. It’s a versatile side that everyone at the table will enjoy.

9. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy side for crab cakes. This grain-like seed is packed with protein and fiber, making it filling and nutritious.

To make a quinoa salad, cook the quinoa and let it cool. Mix in diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions for crunch and color.

Add some fresh herbs like parsley or mint for extra flavor. Dress the salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette to keep it light and refreshing.

This salad complements the richness of crab cakes perfectly. It’s also easy to prepare ahead of time, saving you stress when serving your meal.

10. Steamed Green Beans

Steamed green beans make a great side for crab cakes. They’re quick to cook and keep their bright color and crunch.

You can season them simply with salt and pepper. Or try adding lemon juice and garlic for extra flavor.

Green beans offer a healthy balance to rich crab cakes. They’re low in calories but high in vitamins and fiber.

For the best taste, choose fresh beans that are firm and bright green. Trim the ends before steaming.

11. Lemon Butter Broccoli

Lemon butter broccoli is a tasty and easy side dish for crab cakes. Start by steaming fresh broccoli florets until tender-crisp.

In a pan, melt butter and add fresh lemon juice and zest. Pour this lemony butter sauce over the broccoli.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. The bright citrus flavor complements the rich crab cakes nicely.

This veggie side adds color to your plate and provides a healthy dose of vitamins. It’s a light option that won’t overpower the main dish.

12. Tomato and Avocado Salad

A tomato and avocado salad is a perfect match for crab cakes. It’s light, fresh, and adds a burst of color to your plate.

To make this salad, slice ripe tomatoes and creamy avocados. Mix them gently in a bowl. Add some thinly sliced red onion for a bit of crunch.

For the dressing, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the salad and toss lightly. You can add some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra flavor.

This salad balances the richness of crab cakes with its bright, tangy taste. It’s easy to make and looks great on the table.

Nutritional Benefits of Pairing Sides with Crab Cakes

Pairing the right sides with crab cakes can boost your meal’s nutrition and taste. Good side dishes add vitamins, fiber, and other key nutrients while making your plate more colorful and satisfying.

Enhancing Healthful Properties

Crab cakes are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding veggie sides can make your meal even better for you.

Grilled zucchini gives you vitamins A and C. Roasted carrots add beta-carotene, which helps your eyes. Leafy greens like spinach or kale bring iron and calcium to the table.

Try a mix of colors on your plate. Red bell peppers have lots of vitamin C. Purple cabbage adds antioxidants. These veggies not only look nice but also give you different nutrients.

Whole grains can round out your meal. Brown rice or quinoa add fiber and B vitamins. They help you feel full and give you long-lasting energy.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The right sides can make crab cakes taste even better. Lemon wedges add a bright, fresh taste that brings out the crab’s flavor.

A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the crab cakes.

Crunchy veggies like snap peas or cucumber slices give a nice contrast to the soft crab cakes. They add a refreshing element to each bite. Roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory crab.

For a creamy touch, try a small dollop of Greek yogurt. It’s healthier than mayo and adds protein. You can mix in herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor.

How to Choose Complementary Sides for Crab Cakes

Picking the right sides can make your crab cake meal even better. The key is to find flavors that go well with crab without overshadowing it.

Considering Seafood’s Natural Richness

Crab cakes are rich and full of flavor. You want sides that balance this richness.

Light, fresh options work well. Try a crisp green salad with a tangy dressing. Lemon-dressed coleslaw adds crunch and acidity.

Avoid heavy, creamy sides. They can make the meal feel too heavy. Instead, go for grilled or roasted veggies. Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers are great choices. They add color and nutrition to your plate.

For a starch, pick something simple. A small serving of rice pilaf or roasted potatoes works nicely. These won’t compete with the crab cakes but will round out your meal.

Incorporating Seasonal Ingredients

Using what’s in season makes your sides tastier and cheaper.

In summer, serve a bright corn and cucumber salad. It’s sweet, crunchy, and refreshing.

Fresh tomatoes are another summer star. Slice them and add some basil for a simple side.

Fall brings options like roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts. These add warmth to your plate.

In winter, try a citrus salad. Oranges and grapefruits pair well with crab and add vitamin C.

Spring offers tender greens and asparagus.

A simple mix of spring lettuce with a light vinaigrette is perfect.

Grilled asparagus spears make an elegant side that’s easy to prepare.