I love crab cakes and have tried many sides to go with them. Finding the right sides can make a big difference. Whether you’re having a dinner party or just want a tasty meal, this guide will show you the best sides for crab cakes.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a variety of side dishes, from fresh summer salads to grilled and roasted vegetables, to create a well-rounded crab cake meal.
- Discover classic sauce pairings that enhance the natural sweetness and delicate flavors.
- Incorporate seasonal produce and quick-prep options for easy weeknight side dishes that still impress.
- Experiment with a range of textures and tastes, from creamy soups to carbohydrate-based accompaniments, to find the perfect crab cake companions.
- Consider both hot and cool weather-friendly side dishes to suit your dining needs throughout the year.
Understanding the Art of Pairing Side Dishes with Crab Cakes
When serving crab cakes, finding the right side dishes is key. They should enhance the crab’s flavors and texture without taking over. Let’s look at how to pair flavors, textures, and seasonal items to make your crab cake meal special.
The Importance of Complementary Flavors
Crab cakes are delicate and can be overpowered by strong side dishes. The best pairings highlight the crab’s sweetness and brininess. Citrus salads or light sauces add a refreshing touch, while creamy sauces like remoulade add richness.
Balancing Textures and Tastes
Choosing side dishes for crab cake pairings means balancing textures and tastes. Fresh, crisp veggies like asparagus or slaw contrast nicely with crab cakes. Creamy sides like mashed potatoes or pasta salad complement the crab cake meal ideas smoothly.
Seasonal Considerations for Side Dishes
The best serving crab cakes use seasonal produce. In summer, try a tomato salad or cucumber gazpacho. As seasons change, roasted veggies, grain salads, or soups add depth to your meal.
By focusing on flavors, textures, and seasons, you can create amazing crab cake pairings. Explore different sides to highlight your crab cakes’ delicious flavors.
Classic Sauce Pairings
Take your crab cake experience to the next level with classic sauce pairings. Choose from creamy tartar sauce or zesty cocktail sauce. These options will perfectly match the sweetness of your crab cakes.
Tartar sauce is a traditional favorite. It’s made with mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and lemon juice. This sauce offers a creamy contrast to the crab cake’s crisp texture. Cocktail sauce, with its horseradish and a hint of heat, adds a vibrant and spicy flavor.
For a Cajun twist, try remoulade sauce. It’s a tangy mix of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. This Louisiana-style sauce enhances the crab cake’s delicate flavors with a rich depth.
Looking for something lighter? Mix sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and fresh dill. This sauce is a refreshing, tangy, and aromatic choice.
“The right sauce can elevate a crab cake from good to exceptional. Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect pairing.”
Whether you choose tartar, cocktail, or remoulade sauce, these pairings will make your crab cakes unforgettable. They’ll add a delightful touch to your plate and satisfy your taste buds.
Fresh Summer Salads as Perfect Accompaniments
Fresh summer salads pair perfectly with your crab cake dinner menu or crab cake meal planning. They offer a light, refreshing contrast to the rich crab cakes. This makes for a delightful dining experience.
Light and Refreshing Options
Try a corn and cherry tomato salad with crumbled feta and a light vinaigrette. Or, go for a watermelon and feta salad with arugula and spinach, topped with balsamic glaze.
Hearty Grain-Based Salads
For a heartier side, consider a black-eyed pea salad with tomatoes, bell peppers, and tangy vinaigrette. A quinoa and grilled vegetable salad is also a great choice.
Fruit-Forward Summer Combinations
- A peach and tomato salad with basil and balsamic dressing is a great contrast to crab cakes.
- A mixed berry salad with lemon-poppy seed vinaigrette is also refreshing and tasty.
Adding these fresh, seasonal salads to your crab cake dinner menu or crab cake meal planning makes for a complete meal. It showcases the best of summer’s flavors.
What to Serve with Crab Cakes: Essential Vegetable Sides
Serving crab cakes right is key to a great meal. The right sides can make the crab cakes even better. Let’s look at some top vegetable sides that go great with crab cakes.
Grilled or roasted asparagus is a classic choice. It’s tender and has a nice earthy taste. Roasted Brussels sprouts with Parmesan cheese are also a hit. They mix nutty, crispy, and creamy flavors well.
For something sweeter, try carrots glazed with brown sugar. They add a sweet touch to the savory crab cakes. Lighter options like steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini and squash add freshness and color.
These vegetable sides will make your crab cake meal even better. Try different ways of cooking and flavors to find your favorite. It’s all about what you like and the occasion.
Grilled and Roasted Vegetable Options
Grilled and roasted vegetables are great with crab cakes. They bring out the natural flavors of the produce. This makes a nice contrast to the rich taste of the crab cake plate.
Mediterranean-Style Grilled Vegetables
Choose colorful grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions. Season them with Mediterranean herbs and olive oil. The smoky taste and tender-crisp texture go well with crab cakes.
Seasonal Roasted Vegetable Medleys
Roast a mix of veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes. Use olive oil, salt, and pepper. The oven brings out their natural sweetness and caramelized edges.
Quick Air Fryer Vegetable Sides
For a quick side, try air fryer veggies. Options like crispy okra, sweet potato fries, or Brussels sprouts are great with crab cakes. They add a satisfying crunch and a bit of indulgence.
Choosing any grilled or roasted vegetable will make your crab cake plate both tasty and beautiful. It will impress your guests and please their palates.
Corn-Based Side Dishes That Complement Crab Cakes
Adding corn-based side dishes to your crab cake meal can really elevate it. These sides not only match the crab cakes’ taste but also bring a nice texture contrast.
Roasted corn on the cob is a timeless choice. It’s made by wrapping corn in foil and roasting it. This method keeps the corn sweet and moist, making it a perfect match for crab cakes. For something more filling, try a creamy corn chowder. It’s made with fresh summer corn and a bit of cream or broth.
Succotash is another great option. It’s a mix of corn, lima beans, and other veggies. This colorful dish not only goes well with crab cakes but also adds a fresh touch to your meal.
| Side Dish | Preparation | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Corn on the Cob | Wrap corn in foil and roast until tender | The sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted corn balance the savory crab cakes |
| Corn Chowder | Sauté corn, onions, and potatoes in broth; finish with cream | The creamy, comforting chowder complements the delicate crab cakes |
| Succotash | Sauté corn, lima beans, and seasonal vegetables | The vibrant, nutrient-dense succotash adds a colorful, fresh contrast to the crab cakes |
Adding these corn-based sides to your crab cake meal is a smart move. Whether you choose roasted corn, a cozy chowder, or the lively succotash, they all enhance the dish. These options will make your crab cakes stand out even more.
Light and Refreshing Slaw Variations
When you serve crab cakes, pair them with a light slaw. These side dishes are crunchy and flavorful. They balance the rich crab cakes, making your meal complete.
Asian-Inspired Slaws
Try an Asian-inspired slaw for a unique twist. You could mix broccoli slaw with ramen noodles, sliced almonds, and a tangy dressing. Or, go for a colorful slaw with cabbage, carrots, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey.
Traditional Coleslaw Options
A classic coleslaw is always a good choice. It’s made with shredded cabbage and carrots in a creamy dressing. You can add Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, or apple cider vinegar to make it your own.
Creative Slaw Combinations
Get creative with slaws. A pineapple-pepper slaw adds a tropical flavor. Or, try a slaw with crisp apple slices and sesame oil dressing for a crunchy twist. These options will impress your guests.
Adding light and refreshing slaws to your crab cake meal makes it balanced. These side dishes add texture, acidity, and beauty to your dish. They let your crab cakes be the star.
Sophisticated Soup Pairings for Crab Cakes
Choosing the right soup to go with crab cakes can make your meal special. Crab cakes are light and tasty, making them great with many soups. These soups add a touch of elegance to your meal.
Chilled cucumber and grape gazpacho is a great choice. It’s cool and refreshing, balancing the crab cakes’ richness. Roasted red pepper soup is also excellent, with its bright color and sweet taste. It complements the crab cakes nicely.
For a richer option, try corn and crab chowder. It’s creamy and sweet, matching the crab’s flavor perfectly. You can serve these soups hot or cold, depending on the season. This way, you can enjoy your crab cake meal just how you like it.
Pairing your crab cakes with these soups makes your meal unforgettable. It’s a way to enjoy the best of both worlds in your dining experience.
“The right soup pairing can elevate the entire dining experience when serving crab cakes.”
Grain and Rice Side Dish Options
When planning a crab cake meal, grain and rice sides are great. They add variety to your crab cakes. Try a lime cilantro rice for a zesty kick. Or, a lemony orzo salad with fresh herbs for a nice texture.
For a light side, quinoa or couscous salads with veggies and tangy dressing are perfect. They’re nutritious and don’t take away from your crab cakes. These sides are a tasty base for your crab cake meal planning.
Grain-Based Salad Suggestions
- Lemon Orzo Salad with Fresh Herbs
- Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables and Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Couscous Salad with Cucumber, Tomatoes, and Feta
Rice Dish Ideas
- Lime Cilantro Rice
- Garlic and Herb Rice Pilaf
- Saffron-Infused Basmati Rice
These sides bring a nice balance of flavors and textures to your crab cake plate. They make for a harmonious and enjoyable meal.
Creative Potato-Based Accompaniments
Potato-based sides are perfect with crab cakes. They offer comfort and variety. From roasted to salads, they match the crab cakes’ rich flavors well.
Roasted Potato Variations
Roasted potatoes pair well with crab cakes. Toss potato cubes with Parmesan, garlic, and herbs for flavor. Or, roast small potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple delight.
Lighter Potato Salad Options
Try a lemon-dill potato salad with green beans and radishes for a refreshing twist. The tangy dressing and crunchy veggies contrast nicely with crab cakes. Use fingerling potatoes in a vinaigrette salad with herbs and Dijon mustard for another option.
Sweet Potato Alternatives
Sweet potatoes are a healthy, tasty choice. Air fryer sweet potato fries are crispy and flavorful. Roast sweet potato wedges with maple syrup and cinnamon for sweetness.
Potato dishes add flavor and texture to your crab cake meal. Choose from roasted, salads, or sweet potatoes. These sides will make your crab cake meal even better.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Side Dishes
When it comes to serving up delicious crab cake meals, quick and easy side dishes are key. The crab cakes are the main attraction, so you want sides that are fast to make. Luckily, there are many tasty and simple options to complete your crab cake meal ideas.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great choice. It offers a crisp contrast to the rich Seafood Cakes. For a quicker option, steam veggies like broccoli or green beans. Add butter, herbs, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for flavor.
Microwavable pouches of quinoa or rice can also be jazzed up. Mix in lemon zest, garlic, and parsley for a tasty side.
If you prefer something heartier, a tomato and cucumber salad is perfect. It pairs well with Seafood Cakes. You can add chickpeas or feta cheese for extra flavor.
The goal is to have side dishes that are quick to make. This way, you can enjoy a delicious crab cake meal on busy weeknights. With a bit of creativity, you’ll find the perfect sides for your Seafood Cakes in no time.
Conclusion: Creating the Perfect Crab Cake Meal
Making the perfect crab cake meal is like a work of art. It’s all about mixing flavors, textures, and health benefits. When planning your crab cake dinner, think about adding a fresh salad or slaw, a tasty veggie side, and a sauce like Sriracha mayo or remoulade. Using seasonal ingredients and listening to what you like can turn a simple dish into a memorable meal.
Andrew Zimmern’s Baltimore-Style Crab Cakes are a great place to start. They were named one of the Top 40 recipes by Food & Wine Magazine in 2018. These crab cakes are special because they use less filler and mix Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, lemon, and Dijon mustard. They’re moist inside and crunchy outside when pan-fried just right.
Whether it’s for a dinner party or a quiet night in, the secret to a great crab cake meal is balance. Make sure your side dishes complement the crab cakes. With the right sides, your crab cake dinner will be a feast for your taste buds and your hunger for a complete meal.
FAQ
What are some classic sauces to serve with crab cakes?
Classic sauces for crab cakes include homemade tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and remoulade. Tartar sauce is creamy and tangy. Cocktail sauce has a zesty kick from horseradish. Louisiana-style remoulade is a tangy, mayo-based sauce that goes well with seafood.
What type of salads pair well with crab cakes?
Fresh summer salads are perfect with crab cakes. Try a corn and cherry tomato salad with feta cheese, or a watermelon and feta salad with arugula and spinach. For something heartier, a black-eyed pea salad with heirloom tomatoes and roasted bell peppers is great.
What are some essential vegetable sides for crab cakes?
Essential vegetable sides for Seafood Cakes include grilled or roasted asparagus, and roasted Brussels sprouts with cheese. Brown sugar-glazed carrots are also a good choice. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or a zucchini and summer squash medley works well.
What are some creative potato-based accompaniments for crab cakes ?
Potato-based sides are comforting with Seafood Cakes. Try Parmesan and herb-roasted potatoes, or a lemon-dill potato salad with green beans and radishes. Air fryer sweet potato fries are also a tasty choice.
What are some quick and easy side dishes for weeknight crab cake meals?
Quick and easy side dishes for weeknight crab cake meals include a simple green salad with vinaigrette. Steamed vegetables with butter and herbs are also easy. A quick tomato and cucumber salad is another option. You can also dress up microwaveable rice or quinoa with herbs and lemon zest.