Crab cakes are a tasty seafood dish loved by many. They’re great on their own, but picking the right side dishes can make your meal even better.
There are lots of options to choose from when deciding what to serve with crab cakes.
The best side dishes for crab cakes add different flavors and textures to your plate. You can pick from veggies, salads, grains, and other foods that go well with the crab’s taste.
Whether you want something light or filling, there’s a side dish that will make your crab cake dinner perfect.
1. Lemon Garlic Aioli
Lemon garlic aioli is a perfect sauce to pair with crab cakes. This creamy and tangy condiment adds a burst of flavor to your dish.
To make it, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon mustard. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Chill the aioli in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together.
When you’re ready to eat, spoon a dollop onto your crab cakes or serve it on the side for dipping.
The zesty lemon and savory garlic complement the delicate crab meat perfectly. It’s a simple yet delicious way to elevate your crab cake meal.
2. Old Bay Seasoned Fries
Old Bay seasoned fries are a perfect match for crab cakes. They bring a taste of the Chesapeake Bay to your plate.
To make them, toss frozen fries with oil and Old Bay seasoning. Bake them in a 400°F oven until golden and crispy.
For extra flavor, sprinkle more Old Bay on the hot fries right after baking.
These fries have a spicy, salty kick that complements the delicate crab flavor.
You can also try making them in an air fryer for a lighter version. Serve them hot alongside your crab cakes for a delicious meal.
3. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a great side dish for crab cakes. Its cool crunch balances the warm, crispy cakes.
You can make a classic creamy slaw or try a lighter vinegar-based version.
Mix shredded cabbage with carrots for color and crunch. Add a tangy dressing of mayo, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. Let it chill before serving to blend the flavors.
For a twist, try adding apple slices or nuts to your slaw. The sweet and tart notes will complement the savory crab cakes nicely.
Serve your coleslaw cold for a refreshing contrast to the hot crab cakes.
4. Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a classic pairing for crab cakes. This tangy condiment adds a zesty kick to complement the rich crab flavor.
You can easily make tartar sauce at home with simple ingredients. Mix mayonnaise with chopped pickles, capers, and herbs like dill or parsley.
For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Serve the tartar sauce on the side or dollop it directly on top of your crab cakes. It’s a versatile sauce that enhances the overall taste of your meal.
5. Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a simple yet elegant side dish for crab cakes. It’s easy to prepare and adds a touch of sophistication to your meal.
To make it, toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a hot oven until tender and lightly browned.
The crisp-tender texture and slightly charred flavor complement the richness of crab cakes perfectly.
For extra flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the asparagus just before serving.
You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for a savory twist. This healthy green vegetable provides a nice contrast to the golden-brown crab cakes on your plate.
6. Mixed Greens Salad
A mixed greens salad is a perfect light side for crab cakes. You can toss together baby spinach, arugula, and lettuce for a fresh base.
Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch. A citrus vinaigrette works great with this salad and complements the crab cakes nicely.
For extra protein, you can top the salad with a few slices of avocado. This simple side brings color to your plate and balances the richness of the crab cakes.
7. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that pairs wonderfully with crab cakes. Its sweet, crunchy texture complements the savory cakes perfectly.
You can prepare corn on the cob in several ways. Boil it for 12-15 minutes in a large pot of water for a simple approach. Or try grilling for a smoky flavor that enhances the corn’s natural sweetness.
For added taste, brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
You can also get creative with seasonings like chili powder or garlic parmesan for a flavor twist.
This versatile side dish is easy to make and sure to please your guests when served alongside crab cakes.
8. Herbed Quinoa Salad
Herbed quinoa salad is a tasty and healthy side for crab cakes. It’s light and refreshing, with plenty of flavor from fresh herbs.
To make it, cook quinoa and let it cool. Mix in chopped herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro. Add some diced cucumber and tomatoes for crunch.
Dress the salad with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
The bright flavors complement the rich crab cakes nicely.
This protein-packed salad is filling but won’t weigh you down. It’s perfect for a summer meal alongside crab cakes.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries make a tasty side dish for crab cakes. They bring a nice sweet flavor that goes well with the savory crab.
You can bake or fry these orange wedges until they’re crispy on the outside. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper for a simple seasoning.
For extra flavor, try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder. Serve the fries hot alongside your crab cakes for a delicious meal.
Sweet potato fries offer more nutrients than regular fries. They contain vitamins A and C, which are good for your health.
10. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple makes a tasty side for crab cakes. The sweet and tangy fruit balances the savory cakes nicely.
To make it, slice a fresh pineapple into rings. Brush them with a bit of oil and sprinkle on some cinnamon.
Grill the pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side until you see nice grill marks. The heat caramelizes the sugars, bringing out more sweetness.
Serve the warm pineapple slices next to your crab cakes. The juicy fruit adds a tropical touch to your meal. It’s an easy but impressive side that looks great on the plate.
11. Garlic Butter Rice
Garlic butter rice is a tasty side dish for crab cakes. It’s easy to make and adds flavor to your meal.
Start by cooking white rice according to package directions. While it’s still hot, mix in butter and minced garlic.
You can add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor. The garlic and butter complement the crab cakes nicely.
This rice dish is filling and soaks up any sauce from the crab cakes. It’s a simple way to round out your dinner plate.
12. Cajun Remoulade Sauce
Cajun remoulade sauce is a perfect match for crab cakes. This zesty condiment adds a spicy kick to your meal.
The sauce blends mayonnaise, mustard, and hot sauce with Cajun spices. Garlic, green onions, and celery give it extra flavor and crunch.
You can adjust the heat level by changing the amount of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning. For a milder version, use less horseradish or switch to grainy mustard.
Remoulade sauce isn’t just for crab cakes. You can use it as a dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches too.
Pairing Crab Cakes with Beverages
The right drink can elevate your crab cake meal. From crisp wines to refreshing beers and tasty non-alcoholic options, there’s a perfect pairing for every taste.
Wine Pairings
White wines work best with crab cakes. Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. These wines have bright flavors that match well with crab’s delicate taste.
For a richer option, pick a buttery Chardonnay. It goes nicely with creamy crab cakes.
If you like bubbles, go for a sparkling wine or Champagne. The fizz cuts through the richness of the crab cakes.
Rosé is another good choice. Its light, fruity notes complement seafood well.
Beer Suggestions
Light beers are ideal with crab cakes. A crisp pilsner or lager won’t overpower the crab’s flavor.
For more taste, try a wheat beer. Its slight sweetness pairs well with crab meat.
If you enjoy hoppy beers, pick a pale ale. The bitter notes can balance out rich crab cakes.
Belgian-style beers also work well. Their complex flavors match the depth of crab cakes.
Avoid very dark or heavy beers. They might be too strong for delicate crab flavors.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Iced tea is a classic choice. Its slight bitterness complements crab cakes nicely.
Lemonade offers a tart contrast to rich crab. Try adding mint for extra freshness.
Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is light and refreshing.
For a fancier option, mix up a virgin mojito. The mint and lime flavors go well with seafood.
Ginger ale can be a good pick too. Its sweet-spicy taste pairs nicely with crab.
Don’t forget about fresh fruit juices. Apple or pear juice can add a sweet balance to your meal.
Enhancing Presentation of Crab Cakes
Make your crab cakes visually appealing with creative plating and garnishes. The right presentation can elevate the dining experience and impress your guests.
Garnishing Tips
Add color and flavor with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives sprinkled on top of your crab cakes. A slice of lemon on the side provides a bright pop of color and allows guests to add a squeeze of citrus if desired.
Try a small dollop of aioli or remoulade sauce on each crab cake for an elegant touch. Microgreens make a delicate and fancy garnish that adds visual interest.
For a fun twist, place a tiny crab-shaped cracker or a small edible flower next to each cake. This playful element can spark conversation and delight diners.
Serving Platters and Dishes
Choose serving dishes that complement your crab cakes. White plates create a clean backdrop that lets the golden-brown cakes stand out.
For a rustic look, try wooden boards or slate platters.
Arrange crab cakes in odd numbers, like groups of three or five, for a pleasing visual effect. Leave some space between each cake to avoid overcrowding.
Use small, individual dishes for a more upscale presentation. Shallow bowls or small plates work well for single servings.
For buffets or family-style meals, large platters allow for easy self-service.