8 Best Side Dishes For Shrimp

Shrimp is quick to cook, tasty, and works for a fancy dinner or a simple weeknight meal. But what you serve on the side makes all the difference. Good shrimp sides add freshness, crunch, or a bit of comfort to round out the plate. If you’re tired of plain rice or basic salad, try these 8 best side dishes for shrimp that keep meals fresh and exciting.

1. Garlic Butter Rice

A simple bowl of fluffy rice with a touch of garlic butter never fails. Cook your rice like normal, then melt a knob of butter with minced garlic and stir it in. The warm, garlicky flavor goes perfectly with shrimp scampi or grilled shrimp skewers. Top with chopped parsley for color.

2. Grilled Veggie Skewers

Shrimp cooks fast on the grill, so pair it with veggies that can handle a quick sear too. Thread bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions on skewers. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle a little salt and pepper. Grill next to your shrimp for easy timing and no extra pans.

3. Lemon Herb Couscous

Couscous cooks in just minutes, which makes it a smart side for shrimp. Stir cooked couscous with chopped fresh herbs like parsley and dill. Squeeze in lemon juice and zest for a bright, fresh taste that cuts through rich or spicy shrimp dishes.

4. Classic Coleslaw

A cool, crunchy slaw is a shrimp favorite, especially for fried shrimp or shrimp tacos. Use green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and a light dressing of mayo, vinegar, and a hint of honey or sugar. The creamy crunch balances out tender shrimp bites nicely.

5. Roasted Asparagus

Tender shrimp and crisp asparagus make a light but filling combo. Snap off asparagus ends, drizzle olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper, and roast until they get a bit of char. Add a squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten the plate.

6. Corn And Tomato Salad

Fresh corn kernels and juicy cherry tomatoes tossed together with red onion and basil make a sweet and colorful side. Drizzle olive oil and a splash of vinegar for a quick dressing. This side works great with shrimp grilled, sautéed, or tossed in pasta.

7. Garlic Bread

A basket of warm garlic bread pairs well with buttery shrimp dishes. Use a crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls. Spread with garlic butter, sprinkle chopped herbs, and bake until golden. Perfect for dipping in leftover sauce if you’re having shrimp scampi or shrimp in a rich broth.

8. Zucchini Noodles

If you want to skip heavy carbs, spiralized zucchini noodles are a fun swap. Sauté lightly with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Serve under shrimp for a light pasta vibe without real pasta. Zoodles soak up sauces nicely too.

Tips For Matching Shrimp And Sides

• Keep it light. Shrimp is quick and delicate, so sides shouldn’t overpower it.
• Add citrus. Lemon or lime brightens shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Use fresh herbs. Parsley, dill, cilantro, and basil wake up flavors.
• Balance textures. Pair soft shrimp with crisp veggies or crusty bread.

How To Make It A Meal

A shrimp dinner can be done in 20 minutes if you plan ahead. Pick sides that don’t need lots of prep or long cooking. Grilled shrimp with grilled veggies and a tossed salad is an easy summer dinner. Shrimp scampi with garlic bread and a simple green salad makes a cozy weekend meal.

Shrimp Cooking Reminders

No matter your side, cook shrimp just until they turn pink and curl into a C shape. Overcooked shrimp go rubbery fast. Season well with salt, pepper, garlic, or spices that match your sides.

Good Drinks With Shrimp And Sides

Try a cold white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager with a shrimp dinner. If you don’t drink, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime feels fancy without the fuss.

More Easy Add-Ons

If you want a little extra, put out small bowls of sauces or toppings. Salsa, aioli, or a fresh herb butter can make shrimp and sides feel special. A few lemon wedges on the table are always a good idea.

Why These Sides Work

These 8 best side dishes for shrimp keep meals easy but far from boring. They mix fresh produce, good flavors, and quick prep. Next time you toss shrimp on the grill or in a skillet, skip plain sides and try one or two of these. You’ll get a plate that feels balanced, tasty, and a bit special even on a busy night.