Barbecue shrimp is a delicious and versatile dish that can be the highlight of any meal, from casual family dinners to festive outdoor gatherings. While the shrimp itself is packed with flavor, knowing what to serve with barbecue shrimp can elevate your dining experience. Choosing complementary dishes can balance the meal, add variety, and make your BBQ shrimp dinner feel complete. This guide will walk you through a range of side dishes that pair perfectly with barbecue shrimp, including salads, vegetables, starches, and more.
Introduction to Pairing Sides with BBQ Shrimp
Finding the perfect sides for BBQ shrimp involves more than just picking what’s on hand—it’s about creating a well-rounded meal that enhances the flavors of the shrimp. Whether your shrimp is smoky, spicy, or lightly seasoned, understanding what to serve with barbecue shrimp can help you build a meal that complements these flavors beautifully. Popular options include light salads, hearty starches, and grilled vegetables that match the richness of shrimp. For a diverse spread, you might also explore dishes like Caprese Spinach and Arugula Salad, which adds a vibrant and fresh element to your meal.
Choosing sides also depends on the seasoning and style of the shrimp. If your BBQ shrimp has a Mediterranean twist, you’ll want to know what to serve with barbecue shrimp that brings out those flavors, such as a Grilled Corn + Tomato Panzanella. For a Southern-inspired BBQ shrimp, classic sides like collard greens and cornbread are perfect additions to the table. For another seafood pairing idea, consider checking out the Ultimate Smoked Salmon Recipes Guide for more inspiration.
How to Choose the Right Side Dish for BBQ Shrimp
When deciding what to serve with barbecue shrimp, consider the following tips to create a balanced and enjoyable meal:
- Match Flavors and Textures: Pair the bold flavors of BBQ shrimp with sides that complement rather than overpower. For example, a light cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the shrimp.
- Balance the Meal: Include a mix of vegetables, starches, and maybe a light salad to round out the meal. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone and keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
- Consider the Occasion: For a casual family meal, a simple rice dish or roasted vegetables may suffice. For larger gatherings or more formal occasions, you might want to include multiple sides such as a hearty potato salad, grilled vegetables, and fresh bread.
These considerations are essential when thinking about what to serve with barbecue shrimp to ensure your meal is not only delicious but also satisfying for everyone at the table.
Bread and Biscuits
Bread and biscuits are comforting sides that pair wonderfully with BBQ shrimp, offering a simple way to soak up the delicious juices and BBQ sauce. Here are some popular options for what to serve with barbecue shrimp:
- Buttermilk Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is a classic choice that works especially well with Southern-style BBQ shrimp. It’s easy to make and serves as a versatile side that complements the smoky flavors of the shrimp.
- Garlic Bread: A favorite for many, garlic bread adds a savory, buttery element that pairs perfectly with BBQ shrimp. The crisp, warm bread is ideal for dipping into any extra BBQ sauce.
- Old-Fashioned Biscuits: Light, fluffy, and just like grandma used to make, biscuits are a great side to serve with BBQ shrimp. They add a comforting, homestyle touch to the meal.
These bread options not only taste great but are also practical, as they can be prepared ahead of time and kept warm until serving, making them ideal when planning what to serve with barbecue shrimp.
Salads that Complement BBQ Shrimp
Salads bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of BBQ shrimp and can be tailored to suit the flavors of your meal. Here are some ideal salad options when considering what to serve with barbecue shrimp:
- Light Salads: A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette or a basic mixed greens salad can add a refreshing element to your BBQ shrimp meal. These salads are easy to prepare and add a crisp texture that balances the shrimp.
- Hearty Salads: If you’re looking for something more substantial, consider a pasta salad or potato salad. These can be served cold and are often seasoned with herbs, mayonnaise, or mustard, which pairs well with BBQ flavors. A pasta salad with fresh herbs and a lemon dressing can complement the shrimp beautifully without overpowering it.
- Seasonal Options: Seasonal salads like watermelon feta salad or summer panzanella offer a burst of flavor and color. These salads are perfect for outdoor barbecues and add a touch of seasonal variety.
These salad options are versatile and can be easily adjusted with different dressings or added ingredients to better suit your BBQ shrimp. When deciding what to serve with barbecue shrimp, salads can be a refreshing and colorful addition to your table.
Vegetable Sides
Vegetables are essential for adding variety and contrast to your BBQ shrimp dinner. Here are some popular vegetable sides that fit well when choosing what to serve with barbecue shrimp:
- Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini are all excellent choices. The grilling process adds a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ shrimp. Roasted vegetables with olive oil and herbs also work well, providing a warm and comforting side.
- Southern Classics: Slow-cooked collard greens or a broccoli cheese casserole are traditional sides that pair wonderfully with BBQ shrimp, especially when going for a Southern theme. These sides are rich in flavor and bring a comforting touch to the meal. A dish like Slow Cooker Collard Greens adds depth and warmth, making it perfect for colder weather gatherings.
- Fresh Options: Fresh vegetable sides like a tomato and corn salad or roasted carrots with herbs can lighten up the meal and add vibrant colors to your plate. Grilled vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms also offer a meaty texture that pairs well with shrimp.
These vegetable sides not only complement BBQ shrimp but also add necessary color and variety, enhancing the overall meal presentation when deciding what to serve with barbecue shrimp.
Starches to Serve with BBQ Shrimp
Starches provide a filling component that complements the shrimp, making the meal feel more complete. Here are some top starch options to consider for what to serve with barbecue shrimp:
- Rice Dishes: Rice is a classic side for BBQ shrimp. Options like coconut rice or jasmine rice with herbs are light yet flavorful. You can also try a more robust rice dish like jambalaya or paella for a unique twist. A simple lemon rice with fresh herbs can add a bright contrast to the rich BBQ flavors.
- Potatoes: Whether it’s mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or baked potato wedges, potatoes are always a hit. For a BBQ theme, grilled potato salad skewers with zucchini can add a creative and flavorful touch. A dish like garlic mashed potatoes can offer a comforting element that pairs well with the bold taste of BBQ shrimp.
- Pasta Sides: Pasta salads are excellent for BBQ shrimp as they can be served cold and prepared in advance. Lemon orzo with herbs or a creamy macaroni salad are both great choices that blend well with the BBQ shrimp flavors. You can also make a pasta salad with roasted peppers and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
These starches are not only filling but also versatile, allowing you to adapt them with different seasonings and ingredients based on what to serve with barbecue shrimp.
Corn Dishes
Corn is a staple at barbecues and pairs naturally with shrimp. Here are some corn-based sides that go well with BBQ shrimp:
- Classic Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob with butter and a sprinkle of salt is simple yet satisfying. The sweet and smoky flavors of the corn enhance the taste of BBQ shrimp.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Also known as Esquites, this dish combines grilled corn, mayonnaise, cheese, and spices for a bold, flavorful side that’s perfect for pairing with spicy BBQ shrimp. The creamy texture of the salad balances the spice and adds a layer of richness.
- Grilled Corn with Butter and Herbs: This side is straightforward but delicious. Grilled corn topped with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley adds a fresh element to the meal. For an extra kick, you can sprinkle some chili powder or lime zest over the corn.
Corn dishes are great for adding a touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch, making them a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with BBQ shrimp, especially when you’re considering what to serve with barbecue shrimp.
Salsas and Sauces to Pair with BBQ Shrimp
Salsas and sauces can add an extra layer of flavor and are easy to customize. Here are some options:
- Fresh Salsas: Mango salsa, pineapple salsa, or avocado pico de gallo are excellent choices. They add a sweet, tangy element that complements the smokiness of BBQ shrimp. Fresh salsas can also be easily adjusted with different fruits and spices to match your personal taste.
- Spicy Sauces: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try a chili crisp sauce or a spicy aioli. These sauces add a kick that pairs well with the rich flavors of BBQ shrimp. A Sriracha mayo or a jalapeño cilantro dip can bring an exciting twist to your shrimp dish.
- Creamy Dips: Garlic aioli, kimchi mayo, or a simple ranch dip can offer a creamy contrast that balances the flavors of the shrimp. These dips can be served on the side for dipping or drizzled over the shrimp for added flavor.
These salsas and sauces not only enhance the shrimp but also provide an interactive element for guests, allowing them to customize their plates when deciding what to serve with barbecue shrimp.
Creative Pairings and Extra Tips
To truly elevate your BBQ shrimp meal, consider some creative pairings and presentation tips:
- Combining Multiple Sides: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different sides for a fuller meal experience. A combination of salads, a starch, and a vegetable ensures that your meal is balanced and offers something for everyone. For a creative twist, serve the shrimp alongside Chicken Philly Cheesesteak for a surf-and-turf experience.
- BBQ Shrimp Tacos: For a fun twist, serve your BBQ shrimp in tacos with a variety of toppings such as slaw, salsas, and avocado. This adds a playful element to your meal and is great for casual gatherings. Add a bit of shredded cheese or a squeeze of lime to bring all the flavors together.
- Seafood Skewers: Combine your BBQ shrimp with other seafood like scallops or fish on skewers. This not only adds variety but also creates a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for entertaining. Consider pairing with Salmon Cakes Recipe for a cohesive seafood theme.
When presenting your sides, use large platters and bowls that allow guests to help themselves. This creates a relaxed atmosphere and encourages everyone to try a little of everything. Presentation matters, so consider using colorful garnishes and fresh herbs to make your dishes stand out.
FAQs
- What are the best sides for BBQ shrimp?
- The best sides for BBQ shrimp include grilled vegetables, cornbread, light salads, rice, and classic sides like coleslaw or potato salad.
- Can you serve BBQ shrimp with pasta?
- Yes, pasta dishes like lemon orzo or creamy macaroni salad pair well with BBQ shrimp, offering a filling yet light complement to the main dish.
- What is a good vegetable to pair with BBQ shrimp?
- Good vegetables to serve with BBQ shrimp include grilled asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and roasted carrots.
- Are there any traditional Southern sides for BBQ shrimp?
- Traditional Southern sides include collard greens, cornbread, biscuits, and potato salad, all of which pair wonderfully with BBQ shrimp.
- How do you keep BBQ shrimp warm while serving sides?
- To keep BBQ shrimp warm, cover them with foil and place them in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. You can also serve them in a warming tray if available.
Conclusion
Choosing what to serve with barbecue shrimp can transform your meal from simple to spectacular. By considering the flavors and textures of your sides, you can create a balanced and enjoyable dining experience. From fresh salads and grilled vegetables to hearty starches and creative pairings, there’s a world of options to explore. Mix and match based on your preferences and the occasion, and don’t be afraid to try new combinations to keep your meals exciting. With these ideas in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect sides to complement your BBQ shrimp and make your next meal a hit!