What to Serve with Cod – 25 Best side Dishes

Cod is a mild-flavored, buttery white fish that has become increasingly popular for its versatility. Countless dishes can go with Cod – Whether you’re baking, grilling, or pan-frying.

That’s why you seem confused about what will be the best side dish to serve with Cod; well, I’ve got the same thought when cooking it. 

But I tried so many sides to have with my Cod recipes and listed them here. So you can enjoy it without any doubt. 

The best part of all of these sides– is that they are easy to make, have No need for that huge time, and are simply elegant that can create a great addition to your table.

For a real quick solution, What to Serve with Cod- 

Vegetables, Potatoes, Grains, Teriyaki grilled pineapple salsa, Crockpot Mac and Cheese, Hush Puppies, Cilantro lime cauliflower rice, Sauces, Bread Buns, Pad thai zoodles, Zucchini fritters, Hasselback potatoes, Fries, Edamame mango salad, Okra, Cornbread, Cheesy Southern grits, Risotto, Classic tabbouleh, Potato wedges, Grilled Panzanella Salad, beet-carrot slaw, Greek stuffed tomatoes, Carrots, brussels sprouts, Kale Salad.

Things to remember while choosing side dishes for cod recipes- expert tips

Regarding side dishes for a cod recipe, there are so many delicious options available! With the right accompaniments, cod can be part of a rich, flavorful meal that everyone will love. 

To choose the perfect complementary sides for your cod dish, there are some important tips and tricks to bear in mind. 

First, consider the type of cooking style you’re using to prepare the cod—it will influence both the flavor of the fish and any accompanying dishes. 

Second, be sure to pick side dishes with bold flavors that will contrast nicely with the mild taste of cod. 

Third, think about how long it will take to prep each item and make sure everything is ready at roughly the same time. 

Seasonings should be added fairly late in preparation, so they remain vibrant and add a delightful zest to each bite. 

With these expert tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a delicious cod dinner your family won’t soon forget!

10 best cod recipes you should try

If you’re a cod lover, then you don’t want to miss out on these 10 delicious recipes. 

Start with the classic fried cod. Coat the fish in a homemade batter of cornmeal and spices, then fry it until golden brown – divine! 

Another fan favorite is an Asian-inspired dish of black bean cod, which combines Chinese black beans with garlic and ginger for an umami-packed flavor profile. 

Grill some cod steaks with lemon slices and slivers of garlic; it doesn’t get easier or more flavorful than that. 

And be sure to try braised cod in tomatoes with white wine, herbs, and olives, as well as baked cod Provencal with capers, anchovies, and aromatic vegetables like onion and celery. 

From poached to chowder to smoked fillet sandwiches, there’s no limit to the delicious preparation styles of this popular seafood option!

25 Best side dishes to serve with Cod In Detail – Easy, Quick, and Appetizing

1. I have to say Most Common- Vegetables 

Cod is an extremely mild-tasting fish that pairs well with vegetables. Vegetables are always a great side dish option, as they provide both flavor and nutrition.

Roasted vegetables are especially tasty when paired with cod, as they bring out the sweetness of the fish.

A simply grilled cod with roasted asparagus, zucchini, squash,brussels sprouts, carrots, steamed broccoli, and mushrooms makes an excellent meal. 

Also, try roasting some Jerusalem artichokes or fiddleheads. The nutty flavor will perfectly complement the delicate flavor of cod.

You can also add some flavor to your vegetables by using herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, dill weed, garlic powder, or onion powder. 

As a bonus tip: when adding herbs and spices to your vegetables for cod dishes, use less of the stronger spices like garlic powder or onion powder so that the flavor of the cod does not become overpowered by the seasoning. 

Know More: 12 Best Vegetables go well with Mussels

2. Potatoes 

What goes better with fish than potatoes? They absorb all of the flavors from your cooking process and add a heartiness to your meal that is hard to beat.

Potatoes are filling and offer a great way to balance out your meal. Roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary are an excellent side for your grilled or baked cod dishes. 

3. Grains 

If you’re searching for something a little more substantial than vegetables or potatoes, why not try serving your cod alongside some grains?

Grains like quinoa, couscous, bulgur wheat, farro, Orzo, barley, and Rice provide added texture and nutrition to your meal while complementing the mildness of the cod perfectly. 

-Rice is always an easy option; it’s filling yet still light enough to let the fish take center stage. 

-Quinoa is another great choice; its nutty flavor pairs beautifully with cod.

-Orzo pasta also makes an excellent side dish; just add some fresh vegetables like tomatoes and olives for extra flavor and texture! 

All Grains are also perfect for soaking up any sauces or marinades used during cooking when serving cod dishes that have been cooked in such a fashion. 

4. Teriyaki Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Serve up a tantalizing meal with teriyaki grilled pineapple salsa served with cod recipes. 

It has sweet and tangy pineapple that is grilled to perfection, adding depth of flavor. Combined with the freshness of the cod, this recipe provides an unforgettable dining experience that is sure to please all palates. 

The flavors in the teriyaki sauce will add complexity and will balance out the sweetness of the pineapple, while the fresh salty cod brings a taste of nature’s bounty. 

Treat yourself or your family to a delicious and satisfying meal with ease—serve teriyaki grilled pineapple salsa with cod recipes!

5. Crockpot Mac and Cheese

If you are considering an easy and mouthwatering seafood recipe for your dinner table, then Crockpot Mac and Cheese with Cod should definitely be on your list of dishes to try. 

Crockpot Mac and Cheese offer all the classic macaroni and cheese goodness that everyone loves, with the addition of tender Atlantic cod fillets. 

It is incredibly simple to prepare this meal in your slow cooker. Still, the added time gives all the flavors ample time to blend together, creating a savory one-pot meal.

Know More: What to Serve with Brazilian Cheese Bread- 20 Best Sides

6. Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are one of my favorite accompaniments to serve with cod. They add a delicious touch of cornbread to the dish and provide a crunchy texture for contrast. 

Unfortunately, hush puppies can sometimes be too heavy or greasy, but done right, they can bring the entire meal together. 

The secret to making them light and flavorful is to mix together the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another before combining them together. 

· This allows for a fluffier finish that enhances, rather than overpowers, your fish. 

I recommend serving your hush puppies up with some tartar sauce for an extra bit of zest!

7. Cilantro lime Cauliflower rice

Adding a delicious and nutritious side dish to your meal is easier than ever with the tasty cilantro lime cauliflower rice recipe. 

Serve this veggie-tastes dish alongside cod for a flavor-packed main course. Prepared in just minutes, cilantro lime cauliflower rice is sure to become a family favorite. 

It’s high in protein and makes an excellent accompaniment to all kinds of dishes, including tacos and burritos. 

Ready to serve in 20 minutes or less, this is an excellent go-to side dish for busy weeknights. 

So don’t wait — get creative with your meals and spice them up with this easy-to-make cilantro lime cauliflower rice recipe!

More- 15 The Perfect Compliments to Cilantro Lime Rice

8. Sauces

Cod is a light and versatile fish that goes well with a wide range of sauces. 

From the classic tartar sauce to a creamy horseradish sauce, there are so many delicious accompaniments that could take your cod recipe to the next level. 

Consider testing with chutneys or pesto, or even reach for some interesting condiments like capers or marinated olives. 

Any of these options can add pleasing textures and flavors to the dish while helping keep it healthy and light—perfect for any time of the year!

Know More: 19 Best Sauce for Trout – A Chef’s Choice

9. Bread Buns

If you haven’t tried serving Bread Buns with cod, I suggest giving it a try. Its unique combination adds a delightful flavor to this traditional fish dish. 

Be sure to prepare the bread buns in accordance with your favorite recipe to make something robust enough to serve as the base for your cod dish. 

For example, some recipes add cheese, onions, spices, and herbs into the mixture. 

10. Pad thai zoodles

Pad Thai Zoodles Made of spiralized zucchini noodles, cod filets, spices, tofu, and a delicious Pad Thai sauce, this meal takes minimal effort and time to make. 

To start off, prepare the zucchini noodles either by spiralizing them yourself or buying them pre-spiralized at the store. 

Marinade the cod filets in soy sauce for about 10 minutes before cooking. When ready, sauté the tofu and cod in a pan with garlic, oil, and other spices. 

Once everything is cooked through, add in the zoodles and Pad Thai sauce until hot and bubbly. Serve the dish piping hot – it’s sure to satisfy all of your comfort food cravings while still being nutritious!

11. Zucchini fritters

Zucchini fritters make the perfect accessory for almost any cod recipe. The best part is, They are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients, including grated zucchini, flour, eggs, and salt, to form tasty little patties. 

After frying them in some oil until golden, you’ll have an incredibly delicious side that pairs perfectly with fish recipes. 

You can also season your batter with some minced garlic or fresh herbs for even more flavor. Zucchini fritters go well with most types of cod dishes, and their savory flavor will add depth to any meal.

More- 11 Delicious sides can Dive you into Fritters

12. Hasselback potatoes seasoned with lemon sauce

Hasselback potato is a combination of flavors that is both simple and delicious — the blending of the tartness and zest in the lemon complements the mild, flaky taste of cod perfectly. 

Prepping the potatoes is easy enough, too — cut them partially lengthwise in even slices, season with spices like garlic, sea salt, or pepper, paste some butter between each cut, and bake until golden brown. 

With this delightful side dish on the menu, everyone will be sure to enjoy their next cod meal.

13. Fries

Fries are a great way to enhance a cod dish. Not only do they offer the ideal amount of crunch and saltiness, but they also provide some delicious flavor when paired with fish. 

Said to be the go-to snack around the world, adding fries to any cod plate is sure to delight your taste buds. 

In order to achieve that crispy golden-brown exterior and soft interior, try cutting your potatoes into long slices and seasoning them before baking them in the oven. 

With just a little bit of time, you can turn an ordinary meal into a hearty and savory entrée or snack.

14. Edamame mango salad

Edamame mango salad deliciously pairs up with cod, adding a unique flavor and texture. 

Its combination of soybeans, mangos, red onions, and cilantro, along with a zesty lime dressing, creates a perfect balance of sweet yet tart. 

It also complements the light and flaky texture of the cod for an all-around enjoyable experience. This simple yet mouthwatering salad can easily become one of your favorite dishes to pair with cod on any occasion.

15. Okra

Okra is a nutritious vegetable often forgotten when served alongside fish. However, it pairs perfectly with cod because of its mild flavor and subtle sweetness. 

Okra can be lightly sautéed in oil or seasoned butter or baked until fragrant and golden as a delicious accompaniment to cod. 

Boiling okra in vegetable broth or coconut milk yields an extra flavorful side dish perfectly balanced with slightly salty cod. 

It is a wonderful source of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients – giving your meal added health benefits without compromising on taste or texture. 

It’s definitely worth serving up this winning combination for your next dinner!

16. Cornbread

Cornbread is a simple but effective side dish to pair with cod. Its lightly sweet taste offers a nice contrast to the subtle flavor of cod, while its texture adds a perfect complement to the crispiness of any fried cod recipe. 

Cornbread is filled with nutritional benefits and provides some healthy carbohydrates to ensure your meal is balanced and satisfying. 

It’s an especially great dish to make if you’re craving something comforting and traditionally Southern. Plus, it’s inexpensive and easy to make, too – no wonder cornbread has become a long-standing favorite for cod dishes!

17. Cheesy Southern grits

Cheesy Southern grits is another dish that goes perfectly with cod. It’s easy to make, requiring only butter, milk, salt and pepper, water, cornmeal, and cheese – usually cheddar or Parmesan (but feel free to get creative!). 

For the best flavor and texture, bring the water and milk to a boil before stirring in the cornmeal. Once boiling again, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes while stirring. When the grits are dense and creamy, stir in the butter and cheese before serving. 

This serves as an appetizing accompaniment to cod – whether poached, blackened, baked, or grilled – thanks to its unique combination of silky texture topped off with creamy flavor.

18. Risotto

Creamy Risotto with cod is a beloved combination for its unique richness of flavor and texture. Risotto is made with creamy Arborio rice and traditionally cooked in a broth until tender, creamy, and comforting. 

It tastes even better when paired with lightly cooked cod, which has a delicate, flaky texture that blends perfectly with the silky rice. 

The result is an unforgettable dining experience that will be remembered long after dinner is finished! 

Whether you choose to serve it as a main entrée or a side dish, Creamy Risotto with Cod is sure to impress your dinner guests when served hot from the kitchen.

19. Classic tabbouleh

This Middle Eastern dish is the ideal path to add taste and nutrition to your meal. Packed with parsley, tomatoes, and mint, this hearty side will satisfy your taste buds while providing plenty of vitamins and minerals. 

When paired with the cod recipes available, it is sure to be a total hit in any culinary experience. Serve it at your next gathering for a truly unique take on classic cuisine!

20. Potato wedges

Potato wedges are simple comfort food that is not only easy to prepare but also brings with it the warmth of nostalgia and home cooking. 

Potato wedges are best when cooked in the oven or air fryer with some olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper before being finished off with smoky paprika for an added flavor boost. 

Know More: What to Serve With Potato Wedges- 21 Best Sides

Serve these up with a crispy pan-seared cod, and get ready for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone begging for more.

Hey… don’t stop here… There is more for you.

21. Grilled Panzanella Salad

Grilled Panzanella Salad is a savory combination of grilled croutons, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, basil, and spices. It is a delectable way to enrich the delicate flavor of cod. 

The smokiness of the croutons elevates this salad to a delectable level, while the mix of vegetables keeps it colorful and fresh-tasting. 

Just a drizzle of oil and your favorite vinegar or other seasonings will finish off this salad perfectly so you can enjoy an appetizing meal that celebrates the bounty of summer vegetables.

22. A Perfect mixture of Crunchy beet and Carrot Slaw 

Try out This tasty combination is an excellent complement to the delicate flavor of cod. The sweetness of the beets and carrots provides contrast to the mild taste of cod fillets, creating a unique balance that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds.

Not only do beets and carrots provide great flavor, but they are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber – all things you want in a healthful evening meal. 

Inviting a few friends over for dinner? Try this delicious dish for your main course, accompanied by the perfect mix of crunchy beet and carrot slaw – it’s sure to have them coming back for more!

23. Bring some Greeky Vibes with Greek stuffed tomatoes

Introducing Greek vibes to your dinner table is easy with the irresistible combination of stuffed tomatoes and cod as the main meal. 

Stuffed tomatoes are visually attractive and also offer a mouth-watering taste. Filled with onion, garlic, herbs, olive oil, and cheese of your choice, they create an explosion of flavor with every bite. 

Meanwhile, cod sautéed in lemon juice has fewer calories but oozes great taste; it pairs perfectly with the deliciousness of the stuffed tomatoes. 

Both dishes are staples of traditional Greek cuisine that offer an exclusive cultural experience – so why not complete your evening by getting some Greek music to accompany your meal? Invite friends over, pour yourself a glass of ouzo, and get ready for a delicious night in!

24. Whole Roasted Carrots

Adding whole roasted carrots to your favorite cod recipes is a great way to add a pop of color and delicious taste. 

Roasting vegetables brings out the natural sweetness, making them a perfect accompaniment to fish. When you roast carrots, you can choose between adding spices or just letting the natural flavor shine through. 

If you decide to spruce them up with seasonings, the possibilities are endless – try some citrusy lemon pepper or a herbed Parmesan butter! 

Serve these Whole Roasted Carrots alongside your fresh cod recipes, and watch as they disappear!

25. Cheesy garlic brussels sprouts infused with Creamy parmesan 

Serving your cod recipe with cheesy garlic brussels sprouts infused with creamy parmesan is the perfect way to elevate your dinner. 

The salty goodness of the Parmesan brings out the flavor of your cod dish. In contrast, the roasted Brussels Sprouts bring a delicious garlicky crunch and rich texture. 

It adds an interesting contrast to any seafood meal, sure to be a crowd-pleaser for anyone at the dinner table. Try this amazing combination of flavors and textures today!

25. Bowl of Kale Salad and Smoky sweet potatoes

Last but not least, A bowl of smoky sweet potato kale salad.

The combination of bold smokiness in the potatoes, the nutritional benefits of kale, and the sweet and savory flavors create a delicious dish that will please any appetite. 

This side dish packs an abundance of flavor into one serving, allowing for a meal that is healthy yet filling. 

Not to mention all of the vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that are found in this combination. 

One bite of this quick and easy side dish will tease your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Do you really need side dishes to pair up with cod?

When enjoying cod, side dishes are often seen as essential accompaniments. In many homes, good meals are defined by the traditional sides served alongside them. 

While these enhanced meals never cease to delight, there’s something to be said for a simple cod dish paired with minimal sides. 

Cod can stand its own on a plate and plays very easily with a variety of flavors. A squeeze of lemon here, some herbs there – you don’t need much else to enhance the light and delicate taste of this favorite seafood entrée. 

Investigating exclusive ways to enjoy cod without complicated side dishes is a fun adventure that allows your palate to discover something truly special.

What are the best flavors to go with cod?

Cod is an extremely delicious yet mild-tasting fish that pairs brilliantly with a range of flavors. 

For subtle tastes and lighter notes, citrus ingredients like fresh lemon or lime juice complement cod perfectly. 

You can also opt for pairing cod with classic seasonings like garlic or even spices such as paprika; they give the fish a little zing without overpowering its flavor. 

Another great favorite is adding herbs into the mix, like parsley, chives, and dill; these flavors will help to heighten the taste of the cod. 

Know More: What to Serve with Trout- 40 Perfect Side Dishes for Trout

What is the best way to serve cod on any occasion?

Cod is a sustainable and versatile fish that can be served on any occasion. Baked Herb Crusted Cod is a savory dish that brings out the complex flavors of the fish without an overpowering taste. 

To make this dish, combine olive oil and spices in a small bowl for the crust. Coat each side of the cod fillets with the mixture, then bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. 

Serve warm with your favorite sides for an impressive meal regardless of the occasion.

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