Crab cakes are a tasty seafood dish loved by many. They’re great on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can make your meal even better.
You can choose from many delicious side dishes to go with crab cakes. Some options are light and fresh, while others are more filling.
This article will look at different sides that work well with crab cakes, giving you ideas for your next meal.
1. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that goes great with crab cakes. The crunchy texture and tangy flavor balance out the rich crab meat perfectly.
To make coleslaw, shred cabbage and carrots. Mix them with a dressing of mayo, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.
You can customize your coleslaw by adding extras like sliced apples or raisins. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the dressing.
Chill the coleslaw before serving to let the flavors blend. The cool, crisp slaw provides a refreshing contrast to warm crab cakes.
2. Garlic Butter Asparagus
Garlic butter asparagus makes a tasty side for crab cakes. You can easily prepare this dish in the oven.
Start by trimming the tough ends off the asparagus spears. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, and pepper over the asparagus. Roast in a hot oven until tender-crisp.
Before serving, top the asparagus with a pat of butter. The garlic butter flavor pairs nicely with crab cakes without overpowering them.
3. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries make a tasty and healthy side for crab cakes. They offer a nice contrast with their sweet flavor and crispy texture.
To make them, cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when golden brown and crispy on the outside.
The natural sweetness of the fries balances the savory crab cakes well. Plus, they’re more nutritious than regular fries.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side dish for crab cakes. It brings a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the savory crab.
To make it, brush corn with butter and sprinkle with salt. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning often.
For extra flavor, try adding spices like chili powder or garlic. You can also squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn after grilling.
The crisp texture of grilled corn contrasts nicely with the soft crab cakes. It’s an easy, tasty side that works well for summer meals.
5. Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is a perfect side for crab cakes. This Italian classic brings fresh flavors to your plate.
You’ll love the combo of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. The ingredients are simple but pack a tasty punch.
Drizzle some olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. The bright colors will make your meal look great too.
This light side won’t overpower your crab cakes. It’s quick to make and needs no cooking. Caprese salad is ideal for warm summer days or anytime you want a refreshing dish.
6. Lemon Herb Risotto
Lemon herb risotto makes a great side dish for crab cakes. Its creamy texture and bright flavors complement the crab nicely.
To make it, you’ll cook Arborio rice slowly with broth, adding lemon juice and zest for tang. Mix in fresh herbs like parsley and chives at the end.
The risotto’s rich, velvety consistency pairs well with the crisp exterior of crab cakes. Its citrusy notes also cut through the richness of the crab.
Try topping the risotto with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. The combination of creamy rice, zesty lemon, and savory crab cakes is sure to please your taste buds.
7. Steamed Broccolini
Steamed broccolini makes a great side dish for crab cakes. This veggie has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that won’t overpower the crab. It’s quick and easy to prepare too.
To steam broccolini, trim the ends and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and lemon juice. The bright green color looks nice next to golden crab cakes on your plate.
Broccolini adds a healthy dose of vitamins and fiber to your meal. Its tender stems and florets provide a nice textural contrast to crispy crab cakes.
8. Cucumber Tomato Salad
A cucumber tomato salad is a refreshing side dish for crab cakes. You can easily make this salad with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
Toss the vegetables in a light vinaigrette dressing. Add some fresh herbs like dill or basil for extra flavor. The crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes provide a nice contrast to the rich crab cakes.
This cool, crunchy salad balances out the warm, savory crab cakes. It’s a light and healthy option that won’t overpower the main dish. Serve it chilled for the best taste and texture.
9. Red Potato Salad
Red potato salad is a tasty side dish for crab cakes. You’ll love how the creamy texture complements the crispy crab cakes.
To make it, boil red potatoes until tender. Mix them with mayonnaise, chopped herbs, and seasonings.
The tangy flavor of the dressing pairs well with the rich crab meat. You can add extras like celery or onions for crunch.
Serve this salad chilled alongside your crab cakes. It’s a classic combo that’s sure to please your guests.
10. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
Sautéed spinach with garlic is a quick and tasty side dish for crab cakes. You can make it in just a few minutes.
Heat some olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then toss in fresh spinach leaves.
Stir the spinach as it wilts down. Season with salt and pepper to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness.
This green veggie side balances out the richness of crab cakes. The garlic flavor complements the seafood nicely.
Sautéed spinach is light yet satisfying. It’s also packed with nutrients like iron and vitamins A and C.
11. Quinoa Pilaf
Quinoa pilaf is a tasty and healthy side for crab cakes. This protein-packed grain dish adds texture and flavor to your meal.
You can mix quinoa with colorful bell peppers, herbs, and spices. Try adding chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro for freshness.
Toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts give a nice crunch. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Quinoa pilaf is easy to make ahead of time. It tastes great warm or at room temperature. This versatile side complements the rich taste of crab cakes well.
12. Avocado Corn Salad
Avocado corn salad is a tasty and refreshing side dish for crab cakes. You’ll love the mix of creamy avocado and sweet corn kernels.
To make it, combine diced avocado, fresh corn, chopped cilantro, and diced red onion in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This salad brings a burst of fresh flavors that complement the rich crab cakes. The creamy texture of avocado balances the crispy exterior of the cakes. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for summer meals.
13. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a colorful French vegetable dish that pairs well with crab cakes. This Mediterranean side adds a burst of flavor and nutrition to your meal.
To make ratatouille, you’ll need eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions. Chop these veggies and cook them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
The mix of textures and tastes in ratatouille complements the crab cakes nicely. Its light, veggie-packed nature balances out the richness of the seafood.
You can serve ratatouille hot or at room temperature. It’s a versatile side that works for both casual and fancy dinners with crab cakes.
Wine Pairings with Crab Cakes
Picking the right wine can make your crab cake meal even better. The best wines match the delicate flavors of crab without overpowering them.
White Wine Recommendations
Chardonnay is a top choice for crab cakes. Its buttery flavor goes well with the rich taste of crab.
Pick a lightly oaked or unoaked Chardonnay to avoid masking the crab’s flavor.
Sauvignon Blanc offers a crisp contrast to crab cakes. Its bright, citrusy notes cut through the richness of the dish. This wine works great with crab cakes that have herbs or spicy seasonings.
Pinot Grigio is another good option. Its light, refreshing taste won’t overpower the crab. The wine’s subtle fruit flavors can enhance the sweetness of the crabmeat.
Sparkling Wines for a Bubbly Experience
Champagne pairs wonderfully with crab cakes. Its bubbles and acidity cleanse your palate between bites. The wine’s toasty notes complement the crispy exterior of the crab cakes.
Prosecco is a more budget-friendly sparkling option. Its light, fruity flavor profile matches well with crab’s sweetness. The bubbles add a fun, festive touch to your meal.
Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, is another great choice. Its crisp acidity and mineral notes can enhance the flavors of your crab cakes. Cava is often less expensive than Champagne but offers similar qualities.
Sauces to Enhance Flavor
Sauces can take your crab cakes to the next level. They add extra flavor and moisture to complement the delicate crab meat.
Classic Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a classic choice for crab cakes. It’s creamy and tangy, with a slight crunch from chopped pickles.
To make tartar sauce at home, mix:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pickles
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Stir all ingredients together in a bowl. Let it chill for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.
You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Add more pickles for extra crunch or lemon juice for more tang.
Spicy Aioli Variations
Aioli is a garlic-flavored mayonnaise that pairs well with crab cakes.
Spicy versions add a kick to the dish.
Try this simple spicy aioli recipe:
- Mix 1 cup mayonnaise with 2 minced garlic cloves
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce (like Sriracha)
- Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon
- Season with salt and pepper
For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can give a spicy, smoky taste.
You can also make a roasted red pepper aioli.
Blend roasted red peppers with the mayo base for a sweet and tangy sauce.