The crab cake is a tried and true classic with good reason. Lumps of delectable, tender crab meat combined with bread crumbs and spices and pan fried to golden, crispy perfection? YES, PLEASE.
Normally crab cakes are served with tartar sauce – an old standard that has stood the test of time. However, though that traditional combination is certainly scrumptious, there are plenty of other tantalizing foods that pair very well with crab cakes.
Top 9 Side Dishes to Serve with Crab Cakes
Here we break down the top nine side dishes to serve with crab cakes. Reading this list may bring on some serious hunger pains. You have been warned.
This Tomato Gazpacho from The Mediterranean Dish
The acid from the tomatoes pairs perfectly with crab and the smooth-but-thick texture will go very well with the crunch of the crab cake. Gazpacho is a cold soup, so serve your crab cakes chilled for a perfect summer dinner.
This Mango Salsa from AllRecipes.com
Add some sweetness with a little heat by topping your crab cakes with mango salsa. The juicy, soft texture of the mango compliments the more toothsome, crunchy crab cake. A little bit of jalapeno adds just enough fire to the dish, balancing the richness of the crab.
This Green Salad with Pecans and Goat Cheese from Simply Recipes
For a light meal, pair your crab cakes with this simple green salad mixed with goat cheese and pecans. The pecans have been slightly candied, adding a sweet element to the dish, without overpowering the crab. The goat cheese provides a creamy element.
This Coleslaw from Inspired Taste
Just like tartar sauce, coleslaw is a classic addition to a plate of crab cakes. This particular recipe is heavy on the acid, brightening the crab cakes with notes of citrus. Sprinkle a bit of fresh dill on top and you’re good to go.
These Fresh Bread Rolls from KitchMe
Making fresh bread can be an all-day affair, but these rolls can be prepped and baked in just a couple hours from start to finish. Imagine breaking open a piping hot roll and watching the steam rise as you envelope a piece of crab cake in its soft, pillowlike center… The combination is like heaven on a plate.
This Roasted Asparagus from AllRecipes.com
Get a full serving of veggies in by choosing roasted asparagus as a compliment to your crab cakes. These luscious, salty stems of nutritious asparagus can be tossed in the oven and ready in a jiffy. No fuss, just a tasty, healthy meal.
This Bloody Mary from Food + Wine Magazine
Who said a side dish can’t be a beverage? A nice, peppery, tomato-y, (vodka-y) Bloody Mary is a fantastic accompaniment for crab cakes. Especially when choosing a heartier, denser crab cake recipe, you may find that they don’t really require a side dish…but a side drink? Now that’s more than welcome. Bottoms up!
These Roasted Potatoes from Ina Garten
Simple, straightforward and filling – that’s the name of the game when choosing roasted potatoes as your crab cake side dish. Humbly seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper and parsley, these potatoes won’t overpower your crab cakes, but will offer plenty of starchy goodness to offset the rich, meaty crab.
This Sauteed Corn from New York Times Cooking
Ah, corn. What a versatile food. Here, sautéed in butter with bacon, greens and red pepper flakes, corn shines as a rich, decadent side dish for a perfectly crispy crab cake. As this recipe is a truly indulgent choice, go with mini crab cakes and let them share the limelight with this glorious corn dish.
Crab cakes are absolutely to die for all on their own but paired with an all-star side dish like any of the recipes on this list and you’ve got a world class meal on your hands.
If you don’t know what to make for dinner tonight, it looks like you’ve found your answer. Grab your favorite crab cake recipe and match it with whatever side dish sounds best to you. Happy dining!