What Goes with Crab Cakes Irresistible Side Dishes and Pairings you Need to Try

What Goes with Crab Cakes Irresistible Side Dishes and Pairings you Need to Try

 

 

What goes with crab cakes isn’t just a food question—it’s a vibe. Crab cakes carry this delicate balance of crispy edges and tender seafood inside, and the right pairing makes them shine. I’ve learned that meals are never just about the main dish; they’re about the company it keeps. You can throw down a simple plate with one side and call it a day, or you can build an experience that people will talk about long after the plates are cleared. The fun part? There’s no single “perfect” match. Like most things in life, it’s about mixing textures, flavors, and little moments that feel right. So, let’s dig in and explore what actually belongs next to those golden crab cakes.

 

Best sauces that go with crab cakes

 

Crab cakes love sauces. They’re flavorful enough to stand alone, but the right sauce acts like a spotlight, showing off everything you want people to notice. A tangy tartar sauce is always the classic pick. The sharpness of pickles and lemon cuts through the richness, making each bite feel fresh. Then there’s remoulade, that spicy, creamy, Louisiana favorite that’s equal parts bold and addictive. If you’re feeling fancy, a lemon aioli or even a garlic butter drizzle works magic too.

 

To be fair, sauces give you a chance to change the whole mood of your crab cake meal. Go with cocktail sauce if you want that zesty punch, or try a mango salsa if you’re leaning tropical. It’s the difference between a coastal dinner party vibe and a backyard cookout. You see, that’s the power of pairing: sauces can shift the entire energy of a dish.

 

Interestingly enough, some chefs even experiment with spicy chili sauces or herb-packed green sauces like chimichurri. That’s what I love about crab cakes—they’re versatile. Once you’ve got that golden crisp cake, the sauce you choose becomes the personality of the plate.

 

 

Classic side dishes for crab cakes

 

Some sides are timeless for a reason. Coleslaw, for example, is practically a soulmate for crab cakes. The crunch, the creamy tang, and that slight sweetness balance seafood beautifully. French fries or sweet potato fries also bring that crispy contrast. Honestly, if you want something comforting and familiar, these classics are the way to go.

 

Potato salad is another old-school favorite. Think creamy dressing, tender potatoes, maybe even a touch of mustard—it’s hearty without being heavy. Mashed potatoes, especially when infused with roasted garlic, work wonders too. A warm starch with a fluffy texture plays perfectly against the crispness of crab cakes.

 

On the other hand, corn on the cob or cornbread has a Southern charm that makes crab cakes feel like home cooking. These sides don’t just taste good; they add a sense of tradition to the meal. When you want comfort food that feels rooted and familiar, these classics never fail.

 

Fresh salads to pair with crab cakes

 

If you’re after lightness, salads are your best friend. A simple garden salad with fresh greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette makes crab cakes feel bright and lively. Arugula with shaved parmesan and lemon is another sharp, peppery option that gives your plate a little edge.

 

Seafood and fruit play well together, so don’t sleep on fruit-based salads. A watermelon and feta mix, for instance, has that salty-sweet combo that sings next to crab cakes. Or try a mango and avocado salad, which leans tropical and creamy in all the right ways.

 

Then again, grain-based salads like quinoa with roasted veggies can create a fuller, more satisfying meal. It’s not just a side; it becomes part of the main event. Salads allow you to keep things light but still layered with flavor, making them perfect companions for crab cakes.

 

Vegetable sides that complement crab cakes

 

Vegetables bring balance. Roasted asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil feels fresh and clean, while sautéed spinach with garlic gives a warm, earthy counterpoint. Roasted Brussels sprouts, caramelized and slightly sweet, create that crunchy, savory contrast that makes crab cakes shine.

 

Broccoli and green beans are easy wins, especially when tossed with lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan. Their crisp bite cuts through the richness, making the meal feel complete without weighing you down. You can steam them for simplicity or roast them for added depth.

 

Oh, and speaking of seasonal favorites, think about summer zucchini or winter squash. They add variety to your plate and allow you to eat with the seasons, keeping crab cakes relevant year-round. Vegetables not only add nutrition but also give color and texture that make the dish pop.

 

Seafood-friendly starches and grains

 

Sometimes, what crab cakes need is a hearty base. Rice pilaf, with its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, creates a grounding balance. Wild rice with herbs works especially well, offering a rustic vibe that contrasts seafood’s delicacy.

 

Quinoa is another go-to, packed with protein and a slightly nutty taste that pairs beautifully. Couscous, whether plain or tossed with herbs and lemon, brings a light, airy balance to heavier crab cakes. You can keep it simple or dress it up with roasted vegetables.

 

Pasta salads also sneak into this category. A lemony orzo salad with dill and cucumbers, for example, can carry the same refreshing energy as a fresh breeze. Starches like these aren’t just fillers—they build the foundation for a satisfying crab cake meal.

 

Refreshing beverages with crab cakes

 

Pairing drinks with crab cakes is an underrated art. A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, highlights the seafood without overpowering it. If you’re into beer, a crisp lager or pilsner keeps things light and refreshing.

 

Lemonade or iced tea is a classic non-alcoholic pick, especially on hot summer days. The tart and sweet balance of lemonade works wonders with crab cakes. Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime can also keep things simple but elevated.

 

On the other hand, cocktails like mojitos or gin and tonics offer a vibrant, herbal freshness that pairs surprisingly well. Beverages do more than quench thirst; they amplify flavors and set the mood for the entire dining experience.

 

Best bread and rolls with crab cakes

 

Sometimes, a piece of bread is all you need to round out the plate. Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up sauces, while crusty baguettes add a rustic crunch. Brioche buns can even turn your crab cakes into sandwiches, giving you an entirely new way to enjoy them.

 

Garlic bread, though simple, brings a savory punch that doesn’t compete but complements. Cornbread is another Southern favorite that adds a touch of sweetness and heartiness to the meal. Each bread option brings its own personality to the table.

 

You see, bread isn’t just an afterthought. It’s the bridge between the main dish and everything else. Whether you go soft, crusty, or sweet, the right bread helps tie your crab cake dinner together.

 

Creative modern pairings for crab cakes

 

Food evolves, and so do pairings. These days, people love bringing unexpected flavors into the mix. Kimchi slaw, for example, adds spice and crunch, giving crab cakes an edgy twist. Or think avocado toast topped with a crab cake—it’s trendy, Instagram-worthy, and delicious.

 

Asian-inspired sides like sesame noodles or cucumber salad bring global flavor. You might even experiment with tacos, sliding crab cakes into a tortilla with slaw and spicy mayo. Suddenly, you’re not just eating crab cakes—you’re reimagining them.

 

Fusion is about having fun. You don’t need to stick to tradition if you’re feeling adventurous. With crab cakes, the canvas is wide open, and creative sides keep things fresh and exciting.

 

Regional variations of crab cake pairings

 

Different regions bring different flavors to the crab cake table. In Maryland, where crab cakes reign supreme, you’ll often see them with Old Bay-seasoned fries or coleslaw. Down South, hush puppies and collard greens are popular partners.

 

New England might pair crab cakes with chowder or buttered rolls. On the West Coast, you’ll see lighter, fresher options like avocado salads or grilled vegetables. Each place takes crab cakes and bends them into its own food culture.

 

These regional twists remind us that food is never one-size-fits-all. Crab cakes may be universal, but what goes with them depends on where you are and the traditions you embrace.

 

Tips for building a full crab cake dinner

 

Building a full crab cake dinner is about balance. Start with a sauce that gives character, add a starch to ground the plate, and then layer in something fresh like a salad or vegetables. That mix of textures and flavors makes the meal feel intentional.

 

Portion sizes also matter. Crab cakes are rich, so lighter sides like lemony greens or roasted veggies keep things from getting heavy. On the other hand, if you want comfort food, don’t be afraid to lean into creamy potatoes or buttery rolls.

 

At the end of the day, trust your instincts. Think about the setting—are you hosting a summer cookout, a cozy winter dinner, or a casual family meal? Each scenario changes the best pairing. Build your crab cake dinner like you’d build a playlist: with balance, flow, and a few hits that everyone loves.

 

Conclusion

 

When it comes to what goes with crab cakes, the options are endless—and that’s the beauty of it. From tangy sauces and fresh salads to comforting starches and refreshing drinks, every pairing tells a different story. The right side dish transforms crab cakes from a simple seafood bite into a memorable meal. Whether you stick to the classics or experiment with modern twists, the key is finding balance and flavor harmony. Now I’d love to hear from you—what’s your go-to pairing with crab cakes? Share your ideas in the comments, or spread this guide with someone who loves seafood as much as you do!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is the best side dish to serve with crab cakes?

 

The best side dish depends on the vibe you want. Classic options like coleslaw, French fries, or potato salad are always crowd-pleasers. For something lighter, fresh salads or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

 

What sauces go well with crab cakes?

 

Tartar sauce is the traditional choice, but remoulade, aioli, cocktail sauce, or even a fruity mango salsa can take crab cakes to the next level. The sauce adds character and balances the rich seafood flavor.

 

Can you serve crab cakes as a main course?

 

Yes, crab cakes make an excellent main dish. Pair them with a starch like rice pilaf or mashed potatoes, add a vegetable or salad, and you’ve got a complete, well-rounded meal.

 

What vegetables go with crab cakes?

 

Asparagus, green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, spinach, and broccoli all complement crab cakes. Their freshness and crisp bite balance out the richness of the seafood.

 

What drinks pair best with crab cakes?

 

White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay are popular picks. For beer lovers, a light lager or pilsner works great. Non-alcoholic choices like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with lime also pair beautifully.

 

Are crab cakes better with bread or without?

 

It depends on how you’re serving them. As a plated dinner, bread isn’t necessary. But if you want a casual twist, brioche buns or crusty rolls can turn crab cakes into sandwiches.

 

What are some creative pairings for crab cakes?

 

Modern pairings include kimchi slaw, avocado toast topped with crab cakes, or even crab cake tacos with spicy mayo. These creative sides add a fun twist to the traditional dish.

 

What are regional differences in crab cake pairings?

 

In Maryland, crab cakes often come with Old Bay-seasoned fries or coleslaw. In the South, hush puppies and collard greens are favorites. On the West Coast, lighter options like avocado salad or grilled veggies are common.