When it comes to pairing a perfect side dish with fried fish, the possibilities are endless. The versatility of fish as a protein source – whether pan-fried or deep-fried in a crispy batter – makes it an excellent choice for any meal.
Not only is it cost-effective and packed with nutrients, but it also boasts an unbeatable flavor profile that’s hard to resist. When you’re looking to elevate your fried fish game, the key is finding a side dish that complements its delicate taste without overpowering it.
Curried Mashed Potatoes
Transforming the humble mashed potato into a flavorful sensation, you can choose to keep it simple or add a bold twist. One such option is curried mashed potatoes, which infuse the classic dish with aromatic spices that will leave your taste buds humming. The key to this recipe lies in the use of curry powder, a straightforward addition that yields a vibrant flavor and color without requiring a professional chef’s spice collection. Whether paired with crispy fried fare or a savory steak, these curried mashed potatoes make for an impressive side dish that’s sure to please. A sprinkle of fresh dill adds an extra layer of depth to the flavor, making this a versatile option that’s perfect for any occasion.
Broccoli Salad
Broccoli’s earthy charm gets a delightful boost from the harmonious union of light and vibrant flavors in this refreshing salad. The filling combination complements fried fish perfectly, making for a satisfying pairing that celebrates the synergy between spring vegetables and seafood. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients, experimenting to find your perfect flavor profile.
Quinoa Salad with Mango and Avocado
A culinary fusion of Mexican and Spanish flavors can be achieved by incorporating pan-fried fish as a staple in a side dish. This recipe is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it suitable for any time of day. The combination of black beans, mango, tomato, and avocado creates a filling and flavorful salad that perfectly balances the sweetness of the fish with the savory undertones of the beans. I highly recommend preparing this dish for a summer lunch or dinner. For more side dishes to pair with chili, check out our additional recommendations.
Broccoli Slaw
As soon as I stumbled upon this broccoli slaw recipe, I knew it was destined for greatness. Its light and airy texture makes it an ideal accompaniment to delicate fried fish, allowing its subtle flavors to shine through. One of the best things about this salad is that it can be prepared well in advance – simply refrigerate it and let the ingredients meld together, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Celery Salad with Chives and Pecans
Celery often gets overlooked in salads, but its subtle flavor and satisfying crunch make it a great addition. In fact, this straightforward celery salad is so easy to prepare that you can have it on the table in no time. The freshness and texture of this dish are reminiscent of a high-end restaurant, despite its simplicity. Try pairing it with some flavorful fish for a truly impressive meal.
Potato Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette
While traditional potato salads are often heavy on the mayonnaise, this recipe takes a lighter approach by using Dijon dressing instead. This subtle yet flavorful twist allows the natural taste of the potatoes to shine through, making it a perfect accompaniment to pan-fried or deep-fried fish. When paired together, the warm, mellow notes of the mustard complement the fish beautifully, while the creamy potatoes provide a delightful textural contrast that elevates the dish as a whole.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Pistachios and Pecorino
While brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, I’m here to sing their praises! This vibrant salad showcases the humble vegetable’s natural charm. The tangy pecorino and crunchy pistachios beautifully complement the earthy flavor of the raw sprouts, creating a harmonious balance. When paired with fish, this side dish not only adds a pop of color but also helps to fill out your meal. For more inspiration on delicious accompaniments for ribs, keep reading.
Vegetable Sides for Fried Fish
As you explore this section of our list, discover a world of tantalizing vegetable side dishes that complement your pescatarian main course or pair perfectly with lighter fare. Whether you’re drawn to earthy delights like sprouts or light and crisp green beans, these innovative recipes highlight the unique charms of each chosen vegetable. Allow yourself to be inspired by this diverse collection and find the ultimate accompaniment for your fish dish.
Smashed Brussels Sprouts
A recipe that captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Tik Tok users is one that transforms humble Brussels sprouts into a culinary showstopper. After being impressed by its viral fame, I decided to create my own spin on this dish, perfect for your next fish-focused meal. The result is a crispy and healthy take on Brussels sprouts that caramelize beautifully, packing a flavor punch without the need for additional embellishments. Not only do they taste amazing, but their impressive presentation makes them an ideal choice for dinner parties or intimate gatherings.
Grilled Italian Zucchini
There’s an undeniable synergy between fish and zucchini, much like the harmony found in classic pairings such as peas and carrots. Both ingredients boast a light flavor profile that’s elevated by the smoky essence they develop when grilled or fried. With minimal effort required to bring out their natural goodness, it’s no wonder this combination has become a staple in many cuisines.
As an ardent enthusiast of this zucchini side dish, I’m thrilled to share its ease of preparation. All that’s needed is a trusty grill or cast-iron griddle to impart those coveted char lines on the springtime vegetable. Notably, this side dish also pairs beautifully with pasta, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Cheesy Garlic Broccoli
If the thought of getting kids excited about broccoli has got you stumped, fear not! A simple yet flavorful twist on this often-maligned veggie can have them asking for it every night. The addition of melted cheese and savory garlic to a baked version of broccoli is sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters. And, as an added bonus, this side dish pairs perfectly with a fish main course, allowing the delicate flavors of the seafood to shine while still providing a satisfying contrast from the richness of the cheese and garlic.
Roasted Potatoes and Broccoli
There’s an undeniable synergy between fish and potatoes, elevating the humblest of dishes to new heights. The harmonious union of these two ingredients is perhaps best exemplified in the classic combination of fish and chips. This adaptation of roasted potatoes cleverly offsets the richness of the potato with a splash of greenery, courtesy of the broccoli that’s scattered throughout. As the seasons change, this dish effortlessly transitions from winter to spring, its simplicity belied by its depth of flavor. Pair it with your preferred type of fish for a satisfying and comforting weeknight meal.
Skillet Green Beans
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, it’s only natural that our culinary focus shifts too. One of the most iconic symbols of the season is undoubtedly the humble green bean, bursting with freshness and vitality. When paired with a delicate piece of fish, this side dish becomes a match made in heaven.What’s more, preparing these green beans is an effortless affair, requiring minimal equipment – simply a skillet and some aromatic garlic. With just five minutes of attention before serving your main course, you’ll have a delicious accompaniment to round out the meal. And if you’re looking for more recipe inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of lasagna side dishes for further culinary exploration.
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
In contrast to traditional honey-glazed carrot recipes that require frying in a pan, this simplified recipe can be prepared in just fifteen minutes or less while still delivering exceptional flavor. The use of sweet baby carrots adds a pop of color to any plate, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes. When paired with fish, the sweetness is heightened and a buttery note is added, creating a delightful combination perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Air Fryer Cauliflower
When it comes to pairing with fish, potatoes are a classic choice. However, if you’re looking for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor and texture, air-fried cauliflower is an excellent alternative. This versatile vegetable offers a delightful crunch similar to potato chips, but without the starch. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 15 minutes of your time and minimal effort.
Not only do these bite-sized florets taste great on their own, but they also lend themselves perfectly to experimentation with various toppings. Why not try adding a sprinkle of sharp pecorino cheese to complement the fish, or some crispy bacon for an added smoky flavor?
Mediterranean Roast Vegetables
The Mediterranean’s reputation for serving delectable fish is well-deserved. To elevate this culinary tradition, I’ve created a recipe that pairs perfectly with a flavorful fish fillet: Mediterranean roast vegetables. The dish bursts with juicy roasted tomatoes, making it almost too beautiful to eat. But trust me, the taste is as vibrant as the presentation.
This recipe is ideal for hosting large gatherings, as it’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed by all without requiring excessive kitchen time. Plus, its versatility makes it a great companion to many other dishes, like BBQ chicken. Simply check out some additional side dish options for a well-rounded meal.
Lemon Mint Sugar Snap Peas
As we near the end of our vegetarian fish side offerings, let’s take a moment to appreciate the essence of spring in a dish that truly embodies the season’s vibrant spirit. The snap peas, infused with the brightness of citrus and a subtle richness from butter, are a masterclass in capturing the warmth and energy of the sun-kissed months. When paired with pan-fried fish, these peas create a harmonious balance, allowing the delicate flavors of both to shine through. The lemon’s tanginess cuts through the natural sweetness of each component, resulting in a delightful contrast that will leave you wanting more.
Good Side Dishes for Fish
When it comes to fish, we’ve already explored healthy side dish options and vegetable pairings that complement its delicate flavor. But what about the side dishes that truly tantalize your taste buds? The ones that make your mouth water at the mere sight of them? To create such showstoppers, the key lies in bold flavors and striking visuals. Each of the delectable side dishes on this list masterfully balances these two elements, ensuring a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Blue Cheese
Imagine a reinvented roast potato that shuns traditional mashing for a crispy, earthy twist. This innovative take pairs blue cheese’s rich flavor with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes, resulting in a light, crunchy, and indulgent treat. The best part? These smashed potatoes require minimal effort, with most of the cooking time spent allowing them to roast to perfection in the oven, leaving you with a hands-off, stress-free culinary experience.
Pineapple Salsa
The harmonious union between pineapple and fish is undeniable. The sweetness of the tropical fruit perfectly complements the delicate taste of the fish, while their contrasting textures create a satisfying culinary experience. To elevate this pairing to new heights, incorporate the pineapple into a salsa. This addition not only adds visual appeal with its vibrant colors but also balances out the sweetness, preventing it from becoming overwhelming. For more inspiration on Mexican side dishes that share similar flavor profiles, explore our collection.
Hasselback Potatoes with Herbs
Imagine a Hasselback potato as a gourmet take on traditional potato chips. By carefully scoring deep lines into each baked spud, the entire potato is allowed to crisp up beautifully in the oven. This technique also creates hidden pockets for herbs, butter, and other seasonings to infuse into the potato’s creamy interior. The more surface area available, the more flavors can be absorbed, making every bite a delight. Potatoes are incredibly versatile, making them a popular choice as a side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of fish options.
Mushroom and Spinach Rice
When it comes to side dishes, I’m always looking for ways to mix things up and get creative with what’s leftover in my fridge. One of my favorite discoveries is a rice-based recipe that combines earthy flavors with a hint of freshness. By cooking mushrooms alongside the rice, you create a rich and savory experience. As the mushrooms release their juices into the dish, it adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses. And let’s not forget about the spinach – wilted or not, it adds a burst of color and a touch of earthy goodness to each bite.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Embrace the rich flavors of Southern cuisine by attempting this delectable fried cabbage and bacon recipe. Its crowd-pleasing appeal makes it an ideal choice for neighborhood gatherings, particularly when served alongside a mouthwatering fish dish. Cabbage’s impressive ability to absorb flavors is what elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. As the sweet and smoky essence of the bacon infuses with the tender cabbage, each bite becomes a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Orzo Pasta Salad
When it comes to pasta shapes, orzo holds a special place in my culinary heart. One of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to let the true stars of the dish – the vegetables – take center stage. The pasta itself becomes a delightful accompaniment, rather than the main attraction.Take this pasta salad, for example. When paired with crispy fried fish, it’s as if summertime has been distilled onto the plate. And the beauty of orzo-based salads lies in their versatility – feel free to get creative and add your favorite vegetables to create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.
Potato Goat Cheese Cakes
Let’s turn the tables, shall we? Ditch the traditional fish cakes with fried potatoes and instead try potato cakes with crispy fried fish. The goat cheese potato cakes are truly a game-changer for your next dinner date or gathering. Each bite is a perfect harmony of earthy sweetness and satisfying crunch. To balance out the flavors, add a drizzle of European balsamic glaze, which subtly tames the richness and creates a delightful side dish that’s sure to impress.
Sauces for Fried Fish
The significance of sauces in enhancing the flavor of a dish cannot be overstated. A good sauce can elevate an already enjoyable meal to new heights, making it truly exceptional. This is particularly true when cooking fish, whether pan-frying or deep-frying, as a rich and flavorful sauce serves as the perfect accompaniment.Fortunately, we have three unique recipes that cater to different taste preferences, each designed to bring out the best in your favorite fish dish. By exploring these options, you can find the perfect side dish to complement your meal and treat your palate to a delightful culinary experience.
Homemade Tartar
When it comes to dipping sauces, there’s one classic that stands out from the rest – a flavorful mayonnaise-based condiment that’s elevated by its homemade charm. The end result is far more complex than its simple ingredients would suggest. By whipping up a large batch and storing it in an airtight container in your fridge, you’ll be able to indulge in this tasty treat whenever the mood strikes. Once you experience the rich flavor of this homemade sauce, you’ll find yourself reaching for it as a finishing touch for every dish that crosses your plate.
Cajun Remoulade
In the heart of Louisiana, a culinary treasure awaits – the bold and spicy remoulade. This quintessential Southern sauce boasts an unapologetic flair for the dramatic, marrying rich flavors with a fiery kick. The Cajun version takes this essence to new heights, incorporating earthy mustard and cayenne pepper to create a creamy condiment that’s as daring as it is delicious.
Cilantro Chutney
Cilantro chutney, with its Indian roots, brings a burst of freshness to the table. This vibrant condiment is a staple in Indian cuisine, often used to temper the heat of spicy dishes. Its versatility makes it an excellent accompaniment to fish, elevating the flavor profile and adding a pop of color to your plate.As a thoughtful host, you can share this tasty treat with friends and family by bottling it up and serving it alongside your next fish dish. The presentation alone is sure to impress – simply label the jar and voila! You’ve got a charming addition to any gathering.
