Are you planning a delightful seafood feast but find yourself wondering, “What should I serve with crabs?” Look no further! Whether you’re a crab-cracking novice or a seasoned seafood enthusiast, finding the perfect accompaniments can take your dining experience to new heights.
While crabs are undeniably the star of the show, selecting the right side dishes can enhance their flavors and create a well-rounded meal.
From classic options like buttery corn on the cob and crispy French fries to more adventurous choices like tangy coleslaw and zesty garlic butter pasta, this post will guide you through an array of delectable options that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your guests impressed.
So grab your bibs, crack those shells, and get ready for some mouth-watering inspiration on what should be served with crabs!
What is the perfect partner for crabs?
Corn on the cob! Everyone would agree that corn on the cob is an unbeatable choice to pair with crabs. The sweet and tender kernels perfectly complement the succulent flavors of crab meat. Plus, when you take a juicy bite of corn, its natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the oceanic taste of fresh crabs.
But let’s not forget about another fabulous contender: garlic butter potatoes. Picture this – soft and creamy baby potatoes drizzled with melted garlic-infused butter. Each forkful gives you a burst of garlicky goodness that harmonizes beautifully with the delicate sweetness and rich umami flavors in crab meat.
The combination is so divine that every bite will transport your taste buds into sheer bliss.
Whether you opt for sweet corn or savory garlic butter potatoes as your side dish for crabs, either choice will enhance your dining experience immensely. It’s really all about personal preference and exploring different flavor profiles to find what resonates best with your palate.
What to serve with crabs
Discover the perfect crab complements with these mouth-watering recipes!
Grilled Vegetables
This might seem like an unusual combination, but grilled vegetables paired with crabs are actually a match made in culinary heaven. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the sweetness of the crabs, creating a well-rounded and delectable meal.
When grilling vegetables alongside crabs, you can experiment with different flavors to elevate the dish even further. Grilled vegetables act as the perfect accompaniment to refresh your palate while savoring those succulent crabs. They provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste that enhances the overall dining experience.
Balsamic Roasted Vegetables
With just a few basic ingredients, you can create this dish that is bursting with flavor. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic vinegar perfectly complements the natural flavors of the vegetables, creating a taste sensation that will have you coming back for more.
Plus, roasting retains much of the nutritional value of the vegetables, making it an excellent choice for those who want to incorporate more healthy options into their diet.
What sets balsamic roasted vegetables apart from other methods is the depth they add to each ingredient. As they roast in the oven, the natural sugars in both the balsamic vinegar and veggies caramelize, intensifying their flavor profiles.
This creates an irresistible combination – crisp on the outside yet soft when you take that first bite with bursts of sweetness throughout.
Corn on the Cob
Did you know that corn on the cob is simply corn, plucked from its stalk and cooked in its own natural packaging? Often enjoyed as a side dish or grilled to perfection, this versatile food deserves closer attention. Beyond its taste and presentation, corn on the cob offers numerous health benefits. It is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy for our bodies.
Additionally, it contains essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and folate that help support healthy brain function and red blood cell production. What’s more intriguing is that corn on the cob offers a surprising amount of dietary fiber which aids digestion and helps maintain gut health.
Avocado and Tomato Salad
Avocado and tomato Salad is a delightful combination of creamy avocados and juicy tomatoes, making it a refreshing dish for any occasion. It’s a simple recipe that highlights the natural flavors of these two ingredients and pairs perfectly with any crab recipe.
The creaminess of the ripe avocado complements the tanginess of the red and juicy tomato slices, creating an explosion of taste in every bite.
The colors in this salad are truly vibrant – deep green avocados against bright red tomatoes – making it visually appealing and appealing to your taste buds simultaneously.
To elevate flavors further, you can add some extra ingredients like cilantro or basil for an herbaceous touch, red onion for added crunch, or even throw in some feta cheese to enhance the creaminess even more.
Whatever additions you make, Avocado and Tomato Salad promises to be a refreshing treat for everyone who tries it!
Clarified Butter
You will surely unlock a whole new level of taste when using clarified butter with crabs. The purity of the clarified butter allows the natural sweetness of crab meat to shine through without any overpowering flavors. It coats each succulent morsel evenly, adding a glossy sheen while enhancing its inherent flavors.
Whether you’re dipping your steamed crab legs into melted clarified butter or using it as a base for crab cakes or stir-fried soft-shell crabs, this culinary combo creates an indulgent experience that will leave you wanting more.
Tangy Cocktail Sauce
Tangy cocktail sauce is an absolute game-changer when it comes to enjoying crabs. This zesty, flavor-packed condiment is a must-try for seafood lovers seeking an extra kick of taste. With its unique blend of ingredients, including ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, this vibrant sauce adds a tangy and spicy touch that perfectly complements the sweet and succulent meat of crabs.
As you dip your freshly steamed or boiled crab claws into this tantalizing sauce, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors. The rich complexity of tangy cocktail sauce cuts through the richness and brininess of crab meat like no other condiment can. Be ready to experience a culinary adventure as you savor the marriage between seafood delicacy and tangy magic!
Garlic Butter Potatoes
Flavorful garlic, creamy butter, and tender potatoes, garlic butter potatoes are truly a mouthwatering dish that tantalizes both the taste buds and the senses. These potatoes offer a unique twist to traditional mashed or roasted potatoes, making them perfect for any occasion.
You can also add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme that can introduce earthy undertones to enhance the overall flavor profile. Likewise, drizzling lemon juice over cooked potatoes provides a tangy twist that complements the richness of the garlic-infused butter beautifully.
The versatility and simplicity of this dish make it an excellent side for grilled meats and seafood, especially crabs, or as a standalone indulgence for those seeking comfort food with flair.
Cheddar Chive Biscuits
One of the best things about cheddar chive biscuits is that they are incredibly easy to make from scratch. With just a handful of pantry staples like flour, butter, baking powder, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, you can whip up these delectable treats in no time at all.
These savory treats are packed with the distinct flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and fragrant chives, creating a mouthwatering combination that perfectly pairs with crabs. The biscuits have a golden-brown crust on the outside and a soft, flaky texture on the inside, making them ridiculously delicious.
Lemon Rice Pilaf
The secret behind the incredible flavors of lemon rice pilaf lies in how each ingredient complements one another perfectly. The acidity from lemon juice not only brightens up the overall flavor profile but also enhances the tenderness and natural sweetness of crab meat.
By infusing rice with fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, every grain becomes infused with aromatic goodness. The result? A flavorful explosion in every bite that keeps you coming back for more!
It can be served as a main course or as a side dish to complement other seafood dishes. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or dill enhances the aroma and adds an extra layer of freshness to this already vibrant dish.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving an exotic meal at home, lemon rice pilaf with crabs is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your palates.
Fresh Garden Salad
Made from a variety of crisp, colorful vegetables and leafy greens, fresh garden salad is an easy way to incorporate a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber into your meal. What sets this salad apart is the incredible burst of flavors that come from using fresh, seasonal produce. You can toss in any vegetable you like or experiment with different flavor combinations to suit your taste buds.
From crunchy cucumbers and juicy tomatoes to tangy radishes and creamy avocados, the possibilities are endless. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper will enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms offer a delightful combination of earthy flavors and creamy textures that can elevate any meal. These versatile fungi are often sautéed in a rich garlic-infused butter sauce, enhancing their natural umami taste. The aroma alone is enough to stimulate the senses and make your mouth water.
Not only do garlic butter mushrooms provide a burst of flavor, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Mushrooms are low in calories yet rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants. They are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, making them a smart choice for those looking to incorporate healthier ingredients into their dishes.
Caesar Salad
One of the great things about Caesar salad with crabs is that it adds an element of indulgence without being overly heavy. Whether you opt for lump crab meat or go all out with jumbo lump crab meat, each bite will be bursting with oceanic goodness. Furthermore, serving this side with your crabs with Caesar salad brings not only exquisite taste but also an element of excitement to your dining experience.
Grilled Corn
Grilled corn plus crabs is a match made in seafood heaven. The combination of the tender, juicy corn kernels, and succulent crab meat creates a medley of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. The sweetness of the corn complements the delicate brininess of the crab, resulting in a harmonious union that leaves you craving for more.
One way to elevate this delectable duo is to brush the grilled corn with a zesty lime butter sauce before serving. The tanginess of the lime enhances the natural flavors of both the corn and crab, adding a refreshing twist to each bite. The smoky char from grilling imparts an extra depth of flavor, making every mouthful truly irresistible.
For those who crave for some heat, sprinkling chili powder or cayenne pepper over your grilled corn can give it an exciting kick. This spicy element provides a delightful contrast to the sweet umami taste of crab meat. Each fiery bite will have you reaching for your glass of ice-cold beverage while savoring this unique fusion of flavors.
Hawaiian Coleslaw
What sets the Hawaiian coleslaw apart is its vibrant combination of tropical flavors and textures, making it a perfect side dish for any summer gathering, luau, or seafood party. Unlike traditional coleslaw, Hawaiian Coleslaw incorporates ingredients such as pineapple chunks, cabbage, carrots, and sesame seeds which add a refreshing sweetness and crunch to every bite.
This complement is an enticing blend of contrasts – sweet yet tangy, creamy yet crunchy – making it an absolute delight for your taste buds. So next time you’re looking for an exciting side dish to pair your crabs with, or simply want to transport yourself to paradise with every bite, don’t hesitate to give this tropical twist on coleslaw a try!
Greek Potato Wedges
The marriage between Greek potato wedges and succulent crab not only pleases your taste buds but also celebrates two culinary traditions. The crispy potato wedges, seasoned with Greek herbs and spices, perfectly complement the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat.
The richness of the crab meat is balanced by the tangy and herb-infused potato slices, making each bite a burst of harmoniously blended tastes. It embraces Greece’s love for robust flavors and seafood-centric dishes while showcasing how beautifully different cuisines can harmonize on one plate.
Steamed Artichokes
In addition to being incredibly delicious, this enticing duo offers numerous health benefits. Artichokes are low in calories and packed with fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer durations.
They are also loaded with antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium. Crabs add lean protein to your meal while providing omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health and brain function.
Steamed artichokes paired with crabs make for a delectable and exciting combination that will take your taste buds on a flavorful journey. The tender, succulent flesh of the artichokes perfectly complements the sweet and delicate meat of the crabs. This brings together two distinct textures in one dish, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Carolina Coleslaw
A beloved side dish in the southern region of the United States, Carolina coleslaw is the perfect companion for crabs. The slight tanginess from the vinegar-based dressing in the coleslaw cuts through the richness of the crab meat, providing a burst of flavor with every bite.
Moreover, the crispy cabbage and carrots in coleslaw add a delightful texture contrast to the soft and tender crab meat.
Against those vibrant orange hues of cooked crabs, coleslaw’s bright green color contrasts beautifully on your plate; it creates an eye-catching presentation that will surely have you reaching for your camera before digging in.
Mashed Potatoes
When you take a bite, you’ll discover that indulging in mashed potatoes and crabs creates an entirely new experience that is greater than the sum of its parts. The comforting familiarity of mashed potatoes combines flawlessly with the oceanic essence brought by crabs, resulting in an unexpectedly delicious concoction.
Whether you choose to enjoy mashed potatoes with steamed crabs or opt for mashed potato-stuffed crab cakes, there are endless possibilities to explore. You can experiment with different seasonings and spices to enhance both elements, creating unique variations tailored to your preferences.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a beloved staple in Southern cuisine, known for its delightful combination of sweetness and texture. When paired with the delicate flavors of crabs, it creates a mouthwatering contrast that elevates both dishes to new heights.
Whether you enjoy it as a side dish with seafood soups or incorporate it into stuffing recipes, there’s no denying that cornbread makes an excellent companion for crabs.
Creamy Pasta Salad
When it comes to creamy pasta salad, there are endless possibilities for customization. You can play around with different types of pasta such as bowtie, penne, or rotini, each providing its own unique texture and holding the dressing deliciously. Toss in some vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, or crisp cucumbers for an extra burst of freshness.
The addition of fresh herbs like basil or dill adds a lovely aromatic touch that elevates the overall flavor profile.
The beauty lies not only in the complementary flavors but also in the contrasting textures. Imagine biting into tender crab meat amidst a sea of creamy pasta coated in a luscious dressing – it’s an explosion of sensations on your palate! Whether you’re enjoying this delectable dish at a picnic by the beach or as part of a backyard barbecue, creamy pasta salad, and crabs are bound to satisfy your cravings and leave you yearning for more.
Crispy French Fries
In addition to their complementary flavors, there’s another reason why this combination never fails to impress: nostalgia. For many seafood enthusiasts, eating crabs with crispy french fries brings back memories of carefree summer days spent by beachside shacks or bustling boardwalks devouring these comfort foods.
The simple pleasure of dipping a crispy fry into melted butter before taking a mouthful of crabmeat evokes feelings of joy and contentment that can only be found in good food shared among friends and loved ones.
There are numerous delicious options to serve alongside crabs that can enhance the overall dining experience. From classic sides like corn on the cob and coleslaw to more adventurous choices such as grilled vegetables or creamy pasta, the possibilities are endless.
Additionally, don’t forget to provide various dipping sauces, such as melted butter or tangy cocktail sauce, to complement the succulent taste of the crabs. Experiment with different combinations and flavors to find your perfect pairing.
So next time you’re planning a crab feast, consider these suggestions and elevate your meal to a whole new level of satisfaction. Your guests will surely be impressed by the variety and creativity of your crab accompaniments.
