7 Best Seafood Side Dishes to Perfectly Complement Your Platter

When it comes to seafood, it's always a great experience to enjoy it with some fantastic side dishes that complement the flavors of the platter. Whether you are indulging in shrimp scampi, grilled fish, or a classic fried fish plate, the right side dish can elevate the taste of the whole meal. Here are the 7 best seafood side dishes to perfectly complement your platter.

1. Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic seafood side dish that goes well with any kind of seafood platter. The crisp texture and tangy flavor of coleslaw help balance out the richness of the seafood, and its coldness contrasts the hot seafood platter.

2. Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are an excellent side dish for seafood platters, especially if you're trying to go for a healthier meal. You can grill any vegetables, such as asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. The smoky flavor of the grilled vegetables pairs well with seafood, and the various textures and colors make the dish more aesthetically pleasing.

3. Garlic Rice

Garlic rice is a classic side dish that can elevate any seafood platter. The garlic flavor can complement any seafood dish, and the rice can help absorb any excess oil or sauce from the seafood. Moreover, garlic rice is a great alternative to French fries or mashed potatoes, which tend to be more filling and carby.

4. Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish that goes well with seafood, especially fried fish. Hush puppies are made of cornmeal and are deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The sweetness and crunchiness of hush puppies can complement the savory flavors of the seafood platter.

5. Steamed Vegetables

If you are looking for another healthy side dish option, steamed vegetables are a great choice. You can steam any vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Steaming can help preserve the nutrients of the vegetables and avoid adding unwanted calories. Moreover, steamed vegetables can help balance out the flavor of any rich seafood platter.

6. Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that can enhance the flavors of any seafood platter. Tartar sauce is made of mayonnaise, chopped pickles, and other herbs and spices. The creaminess and tanginess of the sauce can complement any fried or grilled seafood dish.

7. Potato Salad

Last but not least, potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with seafood platters. The creaminess and sweetness of potato salad can balance out the saltiness of the seafood. You can opt for a classic potato salad recipe with mayonnaise and mustard, or experiment with different potato salad variations, such as vinegar-based or loaded potato salad.

In conclusion, seafood side dishes can enhance the flavor and aesthetic appeal of any seafood platter. Whether you choose to go for classic options or experiment with new recipes, the right side dish can transform a good seafood meal into an unforgettable one.