Crab cakes are a delicious and versatile seafood dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, there are plenty of options to complement the flavors of crab cakes.

1. Salad: A refreshing salad is a great choice to pair with crab cakes. The light and crisp greens provide a contrast to the rich and savory crab cakes. Consider using a mix of fresh lettuce, arugula, and watercress. Top it off with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing like Thousand Island or Greek yogurt.

2. Rice or Quinoa: Another excellent option is to serve crab cakes with a side of rice or quinoa. These grains provide a neutral base that helps to balance out the flavors of the dish. You can cook the rice or quinoa with vegetable or chicken broth to enhance its taste.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy accompaniment to crab cakes. Consider roasting Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The caramelization adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory crab cakes.

4. Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw can be a refreshing and crunchy addition to your meal. The creaminess of the coleslaw complements the richness of the crab cakes. Consider adding shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced onions to create a colorful and flavorful slaw.

When it comes to deciding what to cook with crab cakes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you choose to serve them with a light salad, grains like rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a classic coleslaw, you can’t go wrong. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing and enjoy the delicious flavors that crab cakes have to offer.

Delicious Side Dishes for Crab Cakes

Crab cakes are a delicious and versatile seafood dish that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various side dishes. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, here are some delectable side dishes that complement crab cakes perfectly:

  • 1. Lemon Dill Sauce: A tangy and creamy sauce made with fresh lemon juice, dill, and mayonnaise. The refreshing flavors of this sauce enhance the taste of crab cakes.
  • 2. Coleslaw: A classic side dish that adds a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness. The creaminess of the dressing complements the richness of the crab cakes.
  • 3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini brings out their natural sweetness and adds a savory element to your meal.
  • 4. Corn Salad: A light and refreshing salad that pairs well with crab cakes. Combine fresh corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette.
  • 5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and flavorful, sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular potato fries. They provide a satisfying contrast in texture to crab cakes.
  • 6. Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and a zesty vinaigrette is a great accompaniment to crab cakes.
  • 7. Garlic Butter Rice: Fragrant and buttery rice flavored with garlic pairs well with the savory taste of crab cakes. It adds a comforting element to the meal.
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These side dishes offer a variety of flavors, textures, and levels of freshness that complement the deliciousness of crab cakes. Experiment with different combinations to find your personal favorite!

Fresh Garden Salad

A fresh garden salad is the perfect accompaniment to crab cakes. Its light and refreshing flavors complement the richness of the crab cakes while providing a healthy and nutritious addition to the meal.

To make a fresh garden salad, start by selecting a variety of fresh vegetables. Some great options to include are lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. Slice the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them together in a large bowl.

In addition to the vegetables, you can also add some other ingredients to enhance the flavors of the salad. Consider adding some crumbled feta cheese for a tangy and salty taste, as well as some sliced black olives for a touch of brininess. These additions will elevate the salad and make it even more delicious.

To finish off the salad, make a simple vinaigrette dressing. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, and then drizzle the dressing over the salad. Toss the salad gently to ensure that each bite is coated in the flavorful dressing.

Once the salad is ready, serve it alongside the crab cakes for a complete and satisfying meal. The freshness of the vegetables and the tangy dressing will balance out the richness of the crab cakes, creating a harmonious and delicious combination of flavors.

So next time you make crab cakes, don’t forget to whip up a fresh garden salad to go with them. It’s the perfect way to add some healthy and vibrant elements to your meal, while still keeping it delicious.

Creamy Coleslaw

One delicious side dish to complement your crab cakes is creamy coleslaw. This classic salad is perfect for providing a refreshing and crisp contrast to the rich and flavorful crab cakes. With its creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, coleslaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 small cabbage, shredded
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped onion.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve alongside your delicious crab cakes for a complete and satisfying meal.
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A simple and quick recipe, creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing and tangy element to your meal. It pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior and succulent filling of the crab cakes. This side dish is sure to elevate your dining experience and leave your guests craving for more. Enjoy!

Roasted Potatoes with Herbs

These roasted potatoes with herbs are the perfect side dish to serve with crab cakes. The combination of crispy potatoes and fragrant herbs adds a delicious flavor to any meal. This recipe is easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients Instructions
– Potatoes 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Olive oil 2. Wash and dry the potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
– Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley) 3. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and the fresh herbs in a bowl.
– Salt and pepper 4. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve these delicious roasted potatoes with your crab cakes for a complete and satisfying meal. The potatoes will complement the flavors of the crab cakes and add a touch of freshness. Enjoy!

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with crab cakes. Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that can be easily cooked on the grill, adding a smoky and charred flavor to its natural earthy taste. Here is a simple recipe to make grilled asparagus to accompany your crab cakes:

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch of asparagus
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Wash the asparagus and cut off the tough, woody ends.
  3. In a mixing bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place the asparagus spears directly on the grill grates.
  5. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
  6. Remove from the grill and serve hot.

Grilled asparagus makes a perfect accompaniment to crab cakes, as its fresh and crisp texture adds contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the crab. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the overall taste experience, making it a favorite combination for seafood lovers.

For an extra burst of flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the grilled asparagus or sprinkle it with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. This will add a tangy and cheesy element that complements the sweetness of the crab cakes.

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So, next time you make crab cakes, consider grilling some asparagus to serve alongside. It’s a simple and nutritious side dish that will take your meal to the next level!

Lemon Butter Sauce

One delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with crab cakes is a lemon butter sauce. This tangy and rich sauce adds a burst of flavor to the delicate crab meat.

To make the lemon butter sauce, you will need:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the sauce, follow these steps:

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Let the sauce cool slightly before drizzling it over the crab cakes.

This lemon butter sauce complements the sweetness of the crab meat and adds a bright and buttery taste. It can be served warm or at room temperature.

Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the crab cakes just before serving or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. This sauce is also great with other seafood dishes, such as shrimp or grilled fish.

Q&A

What are some popular side dishes to serve with crab cakes?

Some popular side dishes to serve with crab cakes include coleslaw, potato salad, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and creamy pasta salad.

Can I serve crab cakes as a main course?

Yes, you can serve crab cakes as a main course. They are often enjoyed on their own with a side of dipping sauce, or you can serve them with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup.

Are there any specific sauces that go well with crab cakes?

Yes, there are several sauces that go well with crab cakes. Some popular options include tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, cocktail sauce, aioli, and lemon dill sauce. These sauces add a tangy and creamy element to complement the flavors of the crab cakes.

Can I make a crab cake sandwich?

Yes, you can make a crab cake sandwich by placing a crab cake on a bun or bread of your choice. You can also add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments to enhance the flavors. It’s a delicious option for those who prefer a handheld meal.

What are some alternative cooking methods for crab cakes?

While pan-frying is a common method for cooking crab cakes, you can also bake them in the oven or grill them for a different twist. Baking will result in a lighter and healthier version, while grilling will add a smoky flavor to the crab cakes.