Fried fish is a tasty main dish that deserves great sides. You can make your fish dinner even better by picking the right accompaniments.

Good sides add flavor, texture, and balance to fried fish.

The best sides for fried fish include veggies, salads, and starches that complement the crispy fish. You have many options to choose from.

Some sides are light and fresh, while others are rich and filling.

Picking the right mix of sides will make your fried fish meal complete.

1. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried fish. The cool, crisp texture of shredded cabbage provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy fish.

You can easily make coleslaw at home by mixing cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. For a lighter version, try using a vinegar-based dressing instead.

The tangy flavor of coleslaw helps cut through the richness of fried foods. It’s a versatile side that you can customize with add-ins like apple slices or raisins for extra sweetness and crunch.

2. Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried fish. These small, savory cornmeal fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

To make hush puppies, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, onion, buttermilk, and egg. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before frying.

Drop spoonfuls into hot oil and cook until golden brown.

Serve your hush puppies hot alongside your fried fish. They’re great on their own or with dipping sauces like tartar sauce or honey butter.

For extra flavor, try adding corn, jalapeños, or cheese to the batter.

3. Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is a tasty side dish that pairs well with fried fish. You can make it from scratch or use canned cream-style corn for convenience.

To prepare homemade creamed corn, start by sautéing garlic and shallots in a pan. Add corn kernels, cream, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens.

For a Cantonese-inspired version, mix canned cream-style corn with chicken broth and a touch of cornstarch. Add beaten egg for extra richness.

This creamy, slightly sweet side complements the crispy texture of fried fish perfectly.

4. Potato Wedges

Potato wedges are a tasty side for fried fish. They offer a crispy exterior and soft interior that pairs well with the fish’s texture.

To make them, cut potatoes into wedges and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Bake them in the oven until golden brown.

You can also add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Serve the wedges hot alongside your fried fish for a satisfying meal.

Potato wedges are healthier than French fries since they’re usually baked instead of deep-fried. They still give you that potato fix without all the extra oil.

5. Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a classic condiment for fried fish. You can easily make it at home with a few simple ingredients.

Mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, minced onion, and a splash of lemon juice.

Add some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.

Let the sauce chill in the fridge for an hour before serving.

Tartar sauce adds a tangy, creamy contrast to crispy fried fish. Its cool temperature balances the hot fish perfectly.

Serve it on the side or spread it directly on your fish sandwich.

6. Lemon Herb Couscous

Lemon herb couscous is a quick and tasty side dish for fried fish. You can make it in about 10 minutes.

Start by boiling water with a bit of oil and salt. Add the couscous, remove from heat, and cover. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork when done.

Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro. Squeeze lemon juice over the top for bright flavor.

You can also add toasted pine nuts or raisins for extra texture.

This light and zesty couscous pairs well with crispy fried fish. The herbs and lemon complement seafood nicely.

7. Garlic Green Beans

Garlic green beans are a tasty side dish for fried fish. You can make them quickly and easily.

Start by blanching fresh green beans in boiling water. Then sauté them with minced garlic in butter or olive oil.

Add salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

The crisp-tender beans and savory garlic complement the crispy texture of fried fish. This side dish adds color and nutrients to your plate.

8. Cornbread

Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fried fish. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the savory fish, creating a delicious contrast.

You can make cornbread from scratch or use a mix for convenience. Either way, it’s easy to prepare and bakes quickly.

Serve your cornbread warm, slathered with butter for extra richness. The crispy edges and soft center provide a satisfying texture alongside your crispy fried fish.

For a Southern twist, try adding jalapeños or cheese to your cornbread batter. This adds extra flavor and spice to your meal.

9. Baked Sweet Potatoes

Baked sweet potatoes make a tasty side for fried fish. They’re easy to prepare and add a sweet contrast to savory fish.

To make them, wash and prick sweet potatoes with a fork. Bake at 425°F for 45-60 minutes until soft. The natural sugars caramelize, creating a delicious flavor.

Serve the baked sweet potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, try toppings like cinnamon, brown sugar, or maple syrup.

You can also mash the insides and add milk and seasonings for a creamy side dish.

Baked sweet potatoes offer a nutritious option packed with vitamins and fiber to complement your fried fish meal.

10. Caesar Salad

Caesar salad is a tasty side for fried fish. It brings a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm, crunchy fish. The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons add extra flavor and texture.

You can make it even better by adding some grilled or blackened fish on top. Salmon or halibut work well. The fish adds protein and makes the salad more filling.

For a twist, try using fried anchovies instead of the usual kind. They give a salty crunch that goes great with the creamy dressing. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for more cheesy goodness.

11. Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables make a zesty side dish for fried fish. You can buy them ready-made or make your own at home. Common options include pickled cucumbers, carrots, onions, and radishes.

The tangy, vinegary flavor of pickled veggies cuts through the richness of fried fish. This contrast helps balance out your meal. The crunchy texture also adds a nice element to your plate.

Try serving a small bowl of mixed pickled vegetables alongside your fish. You can also use them as a topping or garnish. Their bright colors and sharp taste will liven up your fried fish dinner.

12. Macaroni Cheese

Macaroni cheese is a classic side dish that goes great with fried fish. The creamy, cheesy pasta provides a nice contrast to the crispy fish.

You can make a simple version with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, and butter. For extra flavor, add some garlic powder or mustard to the cheese sauce.

Bake your mac and cheese in the oven for a golden, crusty top. The gooey inside and crunchy outside make it even more satisfying.

This comfort food favorite is sure to please both kids and adults at your fish fry. It’s filling, delicious, and pairs perfectly with most types of fried fish.

13. Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is a light and healthy side dish that pairs well with fried fish. You can easily prepare it by trimming the tough ends and steaming the spears for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Season your steamed asparagus with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

For extra flair, try drizzling a small amount of melted butter or olive oil over the asparagus before serving. This simple side dish adds a nutritious and elegant touch to your fried fish meal.

14. Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini makes a tasty and healthy side for fried fish. Slice zucchini lengthwise into strips and brush with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with nice grill marks. The smoky flavor complements fried fish well.

You can add extra flavor by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on the grilled zucchini. A squeeze of lemon juice also brightens it up.

Grilled zucchini is light and nutritious, balancing out heavier fried fish. It’s quick and easy to prepare while your fish is frying.

15. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a tasty side dish that goes well with fried fish. To make it, start by cooking onions in butter until soft. Then add garlic and rice, stirring to coat the grains.

Pour in broth and add seasonings like bay leaf, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is tender.

This flavorful rice dish complements the crispy texture of fried fish. Its subtle flavors won’t overpower your main course.

You can easily customize rice pilaf by adding vegetables or nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

16. Sauteed Spinach

Sauteed spinach is a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with fried fish. You can make it in just a few minutes while your fish is cooking.

Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until they wilt down.

Stir in minced garlic for extra flavor.

Season your sauteed spinach with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The bright, fresh taste complements fried fish nicely.

This healthy green side adds color and nutrients to your plate. It’s a light option that balances out heavier fried fish.

17. Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa is a tasty and colorful side dish for fried fish. It adds a fresh, tropical flavor to your meal.

To make it, mix diced mango, avocado, red bell pepper, and red onion in a bowl. Add chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

Let the salsa sit at room temperature for an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together.

The sweetness of the mango pairs well with the creamy avocado. The lime juice adds a zesty kick that complements fried fish perfectly.

This salsa is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and healthy fats. It’s a great way to balance out a fried fish dinner.

18. Remoulade Sauce

Remoulade sauce is a tasty dip that goes great with fried fish. It’s a mix of mayonnaise, herbs, and spices that adds a zesty kick to your meal.

You can make remoulade sauce at home easily. Just mix mayo, mustard, garlic, and herbs in a bowl. Add some paprika or hot sauce for extra flavor.

This sauce has roots in French cooking but is now popular in Louisiana. It’s often used on po’ boys and with seafood dishes.

Try making remoulade sauce next time you fry fish. It will give your meal a new twist and impress your guests.

19. Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic side for fried fish. It’s creamy, cool, and balances the crispy texture of the fish.

You can make it with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and chopped vegetables.

Add diced celery and green onions for crunch. Hard-boiled eggs are a tasty addition too.

Season your potato salad with salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard for extra flavor.

For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayo. You can also mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

Potato salad is easy to make ahead and tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.

20. Spicy Mango Slaw

Spicy mango slaw adds a zesty kick to your fried fish meal. This vibrant side dish combines sweet mango with crunchy cabbage and carrots.

To make it, mix shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and diced mango in a large bowl.

For the dressing, whisk together mayo, lime juice, and sriracha sauce.

Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat evenly. Add chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Let the slaw chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. The cool, tangy flavors perfectly complement the richness of fried fish.

21. Garden Peas

Garden peas are a classic side dish for fried fish. These small, round, green vegetables offer a sweet and fresh contrast to the crispy, savory fish.

You can prepare garden peas in various ways.

Boil them for a few minutes until tender, then season with butter, salt, and pepper. For added flavor, try sautéing them with garlic and herbs.

Frozen peas work well and are easy to cook. Simply heat them up and they’re ready to serve. Fresh peas from the pod are delicious too, but require more prep time.

Garden peas not only taste great with fried fish, but they also add a pop of color to your plate. Their bright green hue makes your meal more visually appealing.

22. Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa is a refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with fried fish. Its sweet and tangy flavors complement the savory fish beautifully.

To make pineapple salsa, you’ll need fresh pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

Chop the pineapple into small cubes and mix it with finely diced red onion and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and add a bit of salt to taste.

Stir everything together and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

This bright and zesty salsa adds a tropical touch to your fried fish meal. It’s easy to make and brings a burst of flavor to your plate.

23. Baked Beans

Baked beans are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with fried fish. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for a quicker option.

These beans offer a mix of sweet and savory flavors that complement the crispy fish. They’re hearty and filling, adding substance to your meal.

To make baked beans, you’ll need navy beans, molasses, brown sugar, and bacon. Cook them slowly to develop rich flavors. Add spices like mustard or garlic for extra taste.

Serve your baked beans hot alongside your fried fish. They’re great for soaking up any leftover breading or sauce from the fish.

24. Garlic Butter Mushrooms

Garlic butter mushrooms are a tasty side dish that pairs well with fried fish. You can make them quickly in a skillet on the stovetop.

Start by cleaning and slicing your mushrooms. Heat butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.

Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

These savory mushrooms complement the crispy texture of fried fish perfectly. Their rich, garlicky flavor adds depth to your meal without overpowering the main dish.

25. Fried Okra

Fried okra is a tasty Southern side dish that pairs well with fried fish. This crispy vegetable offers a nice contrast to the main course.

To make fried okra, slice fresh okra into small rounds. Coat the pieces in cornmeal or a mixture of flour and cornmeal.

Fry them in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. The result is a crunchy, savory side that complements the flavor of your fried fish.

Fried okra has a mild taste that won’t overpower the fish. It’s also easy to eat with your fingers, making it perfect for casual meals.

Try serving fried okra alongside your next fish fry for a classic Southern touch.

Nutritional Value of Popular Side Dishes

Side dishes for fried fish can vary in their nutritional content. Some offer more health benefits than others. Let’s look at the calories, nutrients, and ingredients in common sides.

Comparing Calories and Macronutrients

French fries are a popular side but pack about 365 calories per medium serving. They’re high in carbs and fat. A small baked potato has only 130 calories and more fiber.

Coleslaw can range from 150-250 calories per cup. The mayo-based kind has more fat. Vinegar-based versions are lower in calories.

Hush puppies have about 230 calories for 3 pieces. They’re mostly carbs from corn meal.

Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans are very low-calorie. A cup has only 30-40 calories. They’re high in vitamins and fiber.

Health Benefits of Common Ingredients

Leafy greens like collards are full of vitamins A, C, and K. They also have calcium and iron. These nutrients help your bones and immune system.

Sweet potatoes give you beta-carotene for eye health. They also have fiber to help digestion.

Whole grains in dishes like brown rice provide B vitamins. These help your body make energy from food.

Legumes such as beans offer protein and fiber. They can help you feel full and keep blood sugar steady.

Citrus fruits in sides like lemon wedges give you vitamin C. This helps your body absorb iron from fish.

Pairing Flavors with Fried Fish

Picking the right flavors to go with fried fish can make your meal much better. Balancing tastes and using spices will help you create a dish you’ll love.

Balancing Savory and Sweet

Fried fish has a rich, savory taste. You can balance this with some sweet flavors.

Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to cut through the oiliness. A mango salsa or pineapple chutney can add a fruity sweetness that works well with the fish.

Sweet and tangy coleslaw is another good choice. It adds crunch and freshness to your meal. You might also like tartar sauce, which mixes sweet pickles with creamy mayo.

For a twist, try pairing your fish with honey-glazed carrots or sweet potato fries. These sides add a touch of sweetness without overpowering the main dish.

Using Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices can really boost the flavor of your fried fish meal. Dill is a classic choice that pairs well with most fish.

Sprinkle some fresh dill over your fish or mix it into a sauce.

Parsley adds a fresh, clean taste. You can use it in a simple lemon-parsley butter to drizzle over your fish.

Cilantro works great if you’re going for a Mexican-inspired meal.

For spices, try paprika or Old Bay seasoning in your fish batter. These add warmth and depth to the flavor.

Garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the taste without overpowering the fish.

Mix some cayenne pepper into your breading for a spicy kick. Or serve your fish with a side of spicy remoulade sauce for dipping.