Barbecue shrimp is a versatile and flavorful dish that can transform any meal into an unforgettable dining experience. Whether served as a centerpiece for a backyard cookout or as part of an elegant dinner, its smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors demand equally exciting accompaniments. Consequently, finding the best sides to eat with barbecue shrimp ensures your meal is well-rounded and satisfying. Exploring what do you eat with barbecue shrimp not only elevates your dining experience but also introduces a harmony of textures, flavors, and colors to your plate. Furthermore, the right side dishes can amplify the shrimp’s rich profile while providing balance and contrast. From beloved Southern classics like cornbread and collard greens to innovative global options like kimchi and Mediterranean couscous, this guide offers a treasure trove of ideas to create the ultimate barbecue shrimp feast.
Why Pair Sides with Barbecue Shrimp?
Barbecue shrimp, known for its bold, tangy, and sometimes spicy flavors, needs sides that enhance its appeal. The importance of pairing sides lies in how they can:
- Balance Flavors: Mild sides can counteract the spiciness of barbecue shrimp, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Add Texture: Crunchy or creamy sides introduce contrast to the tender, succulent shrimp.
- Boost Nutrition: Incorporating vegetables or grains ensures a wholesome and balanced meal.
Furthermore, pairing barbecue shrimp with sides elevates the dining experience by bringing variety and harmony to the table. Whether you are hosting a summer cookout or planning an elegant dinner, the right side dishes can transform your meal into a culinary masterpiece. From light and refreshing salads to hearty grains, each accompaniment has the power to complement the shrimp’s smoky and tangy profile perfectly.
Additionally, the right pairings help cater to diverse palates, ensuring every guest finds something delightful on their plate. Whether you’re serving this dish for a family gathering or a casual evening meal, the versatility of barbecue shrimp makes it a star of any menu. To explore more creative pairings and ideas, take inspiration from this guide on shrimp pairings from Southern Living.
Best Side Dishes for Barbecue Shrimp
Southern Favorites
- Cornbread:
- Sweet and moist cornbread complements the tangy barbecue sauce.
- Serve it warm with a pat of butter for added richness. Additionally, try adding jalapeños or cheddar cheese for a twist.
- Pair cornbread with honey for a sweet contrast to the smoky shrimp.
- Cornbread can also be transformed into croutons for topping salads, thereby adding texture.
- Grits:
- Creamy grits provide a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with shrimp. Furthermore, adding cheese or garlic enhances the flavor.
- For a Southern classic, top grits with barbecue shrimp and a drizzle of sauce. Moreover, garnish with chives or crispy bacon for added texture.
- Grits can be made with chicken stock for enhanced richness, ensuring they remain a comforting side dish.
- Collard Greens:
- Braised greens offer a slightly bitter note that balances the shrimp’s sweetness. In addition, cooking with bacon or smoked turkey adds a traditional twist.
- A splash of vinegar enhances the greens’ natural flavors. Furthermore, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a spicy kick.
- Including diced onions offers additional depth of flavor, rounding out this Southern staple.
Fresh Salads
- Coleslaw:
- A tangy coleslaw made with vinegar or mayo adds crunch and acidity. Notably, red cabbage slaw provides a colorful presentation.
- Add shredded carrots or apples for a touch of sweetness. Moreover, experimenting with a mustard-based dressing offers bold flavor options.
- Include cranberries or sunflower seeds for added texture, creating a salad that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
- Cucumber Salad:
- Light and refreshing, cucumber salad cools the palate. Furthermore, including dill or mint adds a fragrant touch.
- Toss with a yogurt dressing for a creamy variation, while adding thinly sliced red onions offers a hint of sharpness.
- Serving with a sprinkle of feta cheese provides a Mediterranean twist, enhancing its versatility.
- Arugula Salad:
- Peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the barbecue’s richness. Additionally, adding shaved Parmesan and toasted nuts elevates the salad’s appeal.
- Include cherry tomatoes or roasted peppers for extra flavor, thereby making the dish more robust.
- Pair with crusty bread for a more substantial side. Furthermore, topping with grilled peaches or nectarines adds a sweet contrast.
Grains and Starches
- Rice Pilaf:
- A fragrant rice pilaf with herbs and spices is a versatile pairing. Moreover, toasted almonds or raisins add texture and depth.
- For added zest, cooking rice in chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon ensures a flavorful base. Additionally, mixing in sautéed mushrooms or peas offers a hearty addition.
- Creating a spiced version with turmeric or saffron adds flair, ensuring the pilaf remains visually appealing and delicious.
- Quinoa:
- High in protein, quinoa is a nutritious and light option. Mixing with chopped vegetables and lemon zest enhances its freshness.
- Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro provides an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, tossing with pomegranate seeds adds a sweet and tangy pop.
- Including roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes introduces seasonal variety, ensuring the dish feels timely and exciting.
- Sweet Potato Fries:
- Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries complement the smoky shrimp perfectly. Furthermore, sprinkling with cinnamon or paprika adds depth.
- Pair with a spicy aioli or honey mustard dipping sauce to enhance their versatility. Additionally, serving alongside grilled pineapple offers a tropical twist.
- Trying smoked paprika or chipotle powder provides a smoky edge, ensuring the fries remain a crowd favorite.
International Pairings
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote):
- Grilled corn coated with mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds a bold flavor. Additionally, squeezing lime over the top ensures a tangy finish.
- Add chopped cilantro for a fresh, aromatic touch, further enhancing the dish’s complexity.
- Pair with black bean salad for a complete Mexican-inspired spread, ensuring the meal feels cohesive. Furthermore, sprinkling with cotija cheese provides authentic flavor.
- Mediterranean Couscous:
- Fluffy couscous with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese pairs beautifully. Additionally, drizzling with olive oil and lemon ensures vibrant flavors.
- Include roasted vegetables for a hearty, colorful dish. Moreover, adding chickpeas offers extra protein and a nutty flavor.
- Serving with tzatziki sauce provides a cooling complement, ensuring the dish feels balanced and refreshing.
- Korean Kimchi:
- The spicy, tangy flavors of kimchi enhance the barbecue shrimp’s bold profile. Additionally, serving as a side or mixing into fried rice ensures versatility.
- Pair with steamed white rice or Korean potato salad for a complete meal. Furthermore, including pickled radishes offers an additional tangy crunch.
- Trying a kimchi pancake ensures a creative, flavorful pairing that’s sure to impress.
- Indian Naan Bread:
- Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for soaking up barbecue sauce. Furthermore, brushing with garlic butter adds extra flavor.
- Serve alongside a cucumber raita to cool the palate, ensuring balance. Moreover, adding a lentil curry or dal provides a hearty, flavorful addition.
- Including mango chutney ensures a sweet and tangy accompaniment, rounding out this international pairing.
Drinks to Serve with Barbecue Shrimp
- White Wine:
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the shrimp’s smoky notes. Additionally, opting for a Riesling or Moscato enhances sweeter barbecue sauces.
- A sparkling wine adds a festive touch to the meal. Furthermore, trying a Pinot Grigio ensures a lighter, citrusy option.
- Beer:
- Light lagers or wheat beers balance the dish without overpowering it. Additionally, for spicier shrimp, a hoppy IPA provides a refreshing contrast.
- Pairing with a citrus-infused beer adds brightness, ensuring the flavors remain dynamic. Furthermore, a dark stout or porter brings a rich contrast to smoky shrimp.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea:
- Refreshing and slightly sweet, these non-alcoholic options pair effortlessly. Furthermore, adding fresh mint or berries ensures a unique twist.
- Trying a spiked version with bourbon or vodka offers an adult option. Additionally, making a sparkling version with soda water ensures added effervescence.
- Cocktails:
- Margaritas or mojitos bring a citrusy brightness to the meal. Furthermore, a smoky mezcal cocktail pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Experimenting with a cucumber or basil gimlet provides a refreshing twist. Additionally, a classic Bloody Mary with shrimp garnish offers a creative pairing.
For more on pairing beverages, visit this wine and food pairing guide by WineMaker Mag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pairs with barbecue shrimp?
Barbecue shrimp pairs beautifully with a wide array of sides that enhance its smoky and tangy profile. Southern sides like cornbread and grits bring comforting flavors to the table, while fresh salads like cucumber salad or arugula provide a refreshing balance. For a global twist, consider pairing barbecue shrimp with spicy kimchi, Mediterranean couscous, or buttery naan bread. Each pairing adds its unique texture and taste, creating a meal that feels complete and satisfying. Whether you opt for classic or creative sides, the key is to choose flavors that complement the shrimp’s bold and zesty barbecue sauce.
What are good side dishes for shrimp?
Good side dishes for shrimp include a mix of hearty, refreshing, and flavor-packed options. Rice pilaf and quinoa are excellent grain choices, offering a neutral base that soaks up the shrimp’s juices. Sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast with their crispy texture and natural sweetness. Vegetables like grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or a tangy coleslaw add a fresh and crunchy element to the meal. For a more indulgent pairing, creamy mashed potatoes or mac and cheese can make the dish feel extra comforting. These options ensure a balanced and delicious shrimp feast.
How do you eat New Orleans barbecue shrimp?
New Orleans barbecue shrimp is a rich and flavorful dish traditionally served with French bread for dipping into the buttery, spicy sauce. To enjoy it authentically, use the bread to soak up the sauce, savoring every bite. Pair the shrimp with creamy grits or a crisp green salad for added balance. For a hearty option, serve the shrimp over rice or alongside roasted vegetables. The combination of flavors—buttery, garlicky, and spicy—makes New Orleans barbecue shrimp a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Don’t forget a napkin; this dish is delightfully messy and worth every bite!
What to serve with Korean barbecue shrimp?
Korean barbecue shrimp pairs wonderfully with traditional Korean sides like steamed white rice, kimchi, and japchae (sweet potato noodles). The spicy, umami flavors of the shrimp are balanced by the tanginess of pickled radishes or the nuttiness of sesame spinach. For a more creative spread, consider serving it with a scallion pancake or a simple cucumber salad dressed with soy sauce and sesame oil. These sides not only complement the shrimp’s bold flavors but also add texture and variety to the meal, making it a feast full of vibrant and harmonious tastes.