Shrimp is a tasty and versatile seafood option for many meals. But to make your shrimp dish truly stand out, you need great side dishes.

The right sides can take your shrimp from good to amazing.

This article will give you 15 side dish ideas that pair perfectly with shrimp. You’ll find options for all tastes and cooking skills.

From salads to grains to veggies, these sides will round out your meal and impress your guests.

Get ready to discover some new favorite recipes to serve alongside your shrimp.

1. Garlic Butter Rice

Garlic butter rice makes a tasty side for shrimp dishes. You can make it easily at home.

Start by cooking rice as usual.

While it’s cooking, melt butter in a pan. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

When the rice is done, mix in the garlic butter.

For extra flavor, you can add herbs like parsley or chives. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens it up too.

This rich, savory rice complements the sweetness of shrimp perfectly.

2. Parmesan Asparagus

Parmesan asparagus makes a tasty side dish for shrimp. It’s easy to make and adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

To prepare it, toss trimmed asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until tender-crisp.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the asparagus during the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt and form a savory crust.

This side dish pairs well with many shrimp recipes. The nutty flavor of the Parmesan complements the sweetness of the shrimp nicely.

3. Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa is a perfect side dish for shrimp. It brings a fresh, tropical flavor that complements seafood beautifully.

To make it, mix diced mango and avocado with chopped red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and add salt to taste.

This salsa is versatile. You can serve it as a topping for grilled shrimp or use it as a dip with tortilla chips. It also works well in shrimp tacos or bowls.

For best results, chill the salsa for 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together.

4. Cilantro Lime Quinoa

Cilantro lime quinoa is a tasty and healthy side dish for shrimp. It’s easy to make and full of flavor.

To prepare it, cook quinoa according to package directions. While it’s still warm, mix in chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of olive oil.

This light and zesty side pairs well with cilantro lime shrimp. The similar flavors complement each other nicely.

You can also add extras like diced bell peppers or black beans to make it more filling. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a refreshing meal.

5. Spicy Mango Slaw

Spicy mango slaw adds a tropical twist to your shrimp dinner. This vibrant side dish combines sweet mangoes with crunchy cabbage and carrots.

A zesty dressing made with lime juice, chili flakes, and a touch of honey gives it a kick. The sweetness of the mango balances the heat perfectly.

You can prepare this slaw ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld.

It’s a refreshing and light option that complements grilled or fried shrimp nicely.

Serve it chilled for a cool contrast to hot shrimp dishes. The bright colors and bold flavors make it an eye-catching addition to your plate.

6. Coconut Jasmine Rice

Coconut jasmine rice is a tasty side dish that goes great with shrimp. It’s easy to make and adds a tropical twist to your meal.

To prepare it, cook jasmine rice with coconut milk instead of water. This gives the rice a subtle coconut flavor and creamy texture.

You can add extras like lime zest, chopped cilantro, or toasted coconut flakes for more flavor.

The rice pairs well with grilled or curried shrimp dishes.

Try serving coconut jasmine rice with Thai-style shrimp or Caribbean jerk shrimp for a delicious combo. The rice’s mild sweetness balances spicy shrimp nicely.

7. Herbed Couscous

Herbed couscous makes a tasty and quick side dish for shrimp. You can prepare it in minutes while your shrimp cooks.

Start by boiling water or broth, then stir in the couscous and let it sit covered off the heat.

While it steams, chop fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint. Fluff the couscous with a fork and mix in the herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and lemon juice.

The light, fluffy texture pairs well with shrimp.

You can add extra flavor by cooking the couscous in broth instead of water. Try mixing in some toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.

This versatile side dish complements many shrimp preparations.

8. Lemon Herb Orzo

Lemon herb orzo is a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with shrimp. You can make it easily in one pot.

Cook the orzo in salted water until al dente.

Add fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor. Mix in chopped herbs like parsley or dill. These add a pop of color and freshness.

For extra flavor, stir in some minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add cherry tomatoes or feta cheese if you like.

This dish is light yet satisfying.

Serve your lemon herb orzo warm alongside grilled or sautéed shrimp. It’s a quick and delicious option for busy weeknight meals.

9. Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges are a tasty and nutritious side dish for shrimp. They offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

To make them, cut sweet potatoes into wedges and toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. You can use taco seasoning, salt, and pepper for a Southwestern twist.

Roast the wedges in a 400°F oven or grill them for about 5-10 minutes per side. They’re done when crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Serve your sweet potato wedges hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. They pair wonderfully with grilled or fried shrimp for a delicious meal.

10. Basil Pesto Pasta

Basil pesto pasta is a tasty side dish for shrimp. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Cook your pasta until it’s al dente, then mix in some homemade or store-bought pesto sauce.

For extra flavor, add some garlic and red pepper flakes to the pesto. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes or pine nuts for texture.

If you want a creamier dish, stir in a bit of heavy cream.

This pasta pairs well with grilled or sautéed shrimp. The bright, herby flavors of the pesto complement the seafood nicely.

It’s a simple yet delicious side that’s sure to impress.

11. Chili Lime Corn Salad

Chili lime corn salad is a tasty and refreshing side dish for shrimp. You can make it with grilled or roasted corn kernels for extra flavor.

Mix the corn with diced bell peppers, red onions, and cilantro. Add a zesty dressing of lime juice, chili powder, and a touch of olive oil.

This salad brings a nice crunch and a burst of flavor to complement your shrimp. The chili adds a mild kick, while the lime keeps things bright and tangy.

You can serve it cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners with shrimp.

12. Quinoa Tabbouleh

Quinoa tabbouleh is a fresh and light side dish that pairs well with shrimp. This twist on traditional tabbouleh swaps bulgur wheat for protein-packed quinoa.

To make it, cook quinoa and let it cool. Mix in chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and plenty of fresh parsley and mint.

Add a zesty dressing of lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can include finely minced garlic.

This nutritious side dish offers a great mix of textures and flavors. The quinoa provides a nutty base, while the vegetables and herbs add crunch and brightness.

13. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a tasty and healthy side dish that pairs well with shrimp. It’s easy to prepare and cook on the grill alongside your shrimp.

To make grilled zucchini, slice it into rounds or lengthwise strips. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. You can add other seasonings like garlic powder or Italian herbs for extra flavor.

Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with nice grill marks. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the shrimp nicely.

Grilled zucchini adds color, nutrition, and a veggie component to your shrimp meal. It’s low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals.

14. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf

Cauliflower rice pilaf is a tasty, low-carb side dish for shrimp. You can make it in just 15 minutes using one pot.

To prepare, sauté minced garlic and chopped onion in butter. Add riced cauliflower and cook until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley or thyme.

This versatile dish pairs well with various shrimp recipes. Try it with garlic butter shrimp or Old Bay seasoned shrimp for a flavorful meal.

For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or top with toasted nuts. You can also stir in grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.

15. Pineapple Fried Rice

Pineapple fried rice is a tasty side dish that pairs well with shrimp. It combines sweet and savory flavors in one colorful bowl.

To make it, you’ll need cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and a mix of veggies like peas and carrots. Soy sauce and curry powder add depth to the dish.

You can cook the rice in a large skillet or wok. Stir-fry the vegetables first, then add the rice and pineapple. Mix everything together until it’s heated through.

This dish is quick to make and uses simple ingredients. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and add some tropical flair to your meal.

Pairing Flavors with Shrimp

Shrimp has a mild, sweet taste that pairs well with many flavors. The key is to balance and enhance the natural flavors of shrimp without overpowering them.

Balancing Sweet and Savory

Shrimp’s natural sweetness works great with both sweet and savory flavors. Try pairing it with:

• Citrus fruits like lemon, lime, or orange
• Tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple
• Garlic and butter for a classic combo
• Soy sauce or teriyaki for an umami kick

You can also mix sweet and savory elements in one dish. For example, a honey-garlic glaze or a mango salsa can add depth to your shrimp dish.

Grilled shrimp skewers with a pineapple-soy marinade offer a tasty balance of flavors. The sweetness of the fruit complements the salty soy sauce and brings out the best in the shrimp.

Using Herbs and Spices

The right herbs and spices can take your shrimp dish to the next level. Here are some top picks:

• Fresh herbs: Cilantro, parsley, dill, or basil
• Dried spices: Paprika, cumin, chili powder, or Old Bay seasoning
• Aromatics: Ginger, lemongrass, or garlic

Cajun-style shrimp uses a blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and oregano. This spice mix adds heat and depth without masking the shrimp’s flavor.

For a Mediterranean twist, try oregano, thyme, and rosemary. These herbs give shrimp a fresh, earthy taste that pairs well with lemon and olive oil.

Remember to start with small amounts of spices. You can always add more, but you can’t take them away once they’re in the dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes

Side dishes paired with shrimp can boost your meal’s nutritional value.

Many options provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Vegetable-based sides like salads and roasted veggies are low in calories but high in nutrients.

You’ll get vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants from colorful produce.

Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa offer B vitamins, iron, and fiber.

These help you feel full and support digestive health.

Legume-based sides such as black beans provide protein and fiber.

They’re also rich in folate and magnesium.

Here’s a quick look at some nutritious side dish options:

Side Dish	Key Nutrients
Green salad	Vitamins A, C, K; Folate
Roasted vegetables	Fiber; Antioxidants
Brown rice	B vitamins; Fiber; Iron
Black beans	Protein; Fiber; Folate

By choosing nutrient-dense sides, you can create a balanced meal that complements your shrimp perfectly.

Remember to vary your choices for a wide range of health benefits.