Shrimp salad is a classic summer dish, perfect for picnics, barbecues, and light dinners. It’s light and refreshing, full of flavor, and perfect on its own or in a sandwich.
Whether as a light lunch or part of a larger spread, it’s a refreshing and satisfying option for warm weather.
It is an easy and delicious summer dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. But as delicious as shrimp salad is, it’s even better when paired with the right-side dishes.
So, what to serve with shrimp salad? In this blog post, we’ll share some creative and mouthwatering ideas for what to serve with shrimp salad, whether you’re looking for something light and low-calorie or something rich and indulgent.
What is shrimp salad? What does shrimp salad taste like?
Shrimp salad is a chilled seafood dish usually made with cooked shrimp, mayonnaise, and vegetables such as celery, onions, bell peppers, or cucumbers. It can also include other ingredients like lemon juice or herbs for additional flavor.
Shrimp salad has a creamy texture and a mild flavor that often includes hints of citrus from the added lemon juice or vinegar.
The taste of shrimp salad varies depending on the type of shrimp used and the amount of seasoning added. It typically pairs well with greens such as lettuce or spinach to make a light but filling meal.
what to serve with shrimp salad
1. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are the perfect complement to shrimp salad. They add extra flavor and texture while keeping things light and healthy.
Try grilling some zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, and serve them alongside your shrimp salad.
You can drizzle them with a tip of olive oil and sprinkle them with a tip of salt and pepper for a simple but delicious side dish.
2. Avocado
Avocado is another great pairing for shrimp salad. It brings a rich and creamy flavor to the dish and pairs well with the lightness of the shrimp.
You can slice up some fresh avocado and serve it on the side or mash it up to make a guacamole dip.
3. Melon and Prosciutto Skewers
For a more gourmet touch, try serving shrimp salad with some melon and prosciutto skewers.
The sweet and juicy melon pairs perfectly with the salty and savory prosciutto, and the skewers add a fun and festive touch to the meal. You can also add some fresh basil leaves for added flavor and color.
4. Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish, and it goes surprisingly well with shrimp salad.
The sweetness of the corn complements the saltiness of the shrimp, and the texture adds a nice crunch. You can boil or grill the corn and serve it with some butter and salt.
Discover More: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Corn on the Cob
5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, try serving shrimp salad with some baked sweet potato fries. (Recipe)
Sweet potato fries are healthier than regular fries, and they add a nice sweetness and texture to the meal. You can sprinkle them with some cinnamon and sugar for a sweet and spicy flavor.
6. Quinoa Salad
If you want to add some protein and fiber to your shrimp salad, quinoa salad is an excellent choice.
Cook some quinoa according to the package instructions, then mix it with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, chopped herbs, and a simple lemon vinaigrette.
The result is a light and fresh salad that complements the shrimp salad perfectly.
7. Avocado Mango Salsa
For a tropical twist on your shrimp salad, try making a quick and easy avocado mango salsa.
Dice a ripe mango and a ripe avocado, and mix them with chopped red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. The result is a sweet, tangy, and creamy salsa that goes well with the acidity of the shrimp salad.
8. Garlic Bread
Who doesn’t love garlic bread? It’s a classic comfort food that pairs well with almost anything, including shrimp salad. Slice a loaf of French bread, brush it with garlic butter, and toast it until golden brown.
The combination of crispy bread and the garlicky flavor is a satisfying complement to the freshness of the shrimp salad.
9. Sparkling Water Fruit Punch
To complete your summery and refreshing meal, a sparkling water fruit punch is a perfect beverage.
In a pitcher, mix some sparkling water with your preferred fruits, such as oranges, strawberries, and grapefruit, for that perfect refreshing taste.
As your Shrimp salad provides a savory taste, fruit punch does the opposite but balances the taste.
10. Roasted Potatoes and Onions
Cut potatoes into cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, add sliced onions to the mix, spread on a baking sheet, and roast for about 20 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
11. Lemon Garlic Zucchini Noodles
Spiralize zucchini noodles, and sauté them in a pan with olive oil and garlic until tender-crisp. Finish off the dish with freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten up the flavor of the shrimp salad.
Explore More: What to Serve with Sausage Stuffed Zucchini
12. Sautéed Asparagus
Slice asparagus spears into 1-inch pieces, add to a pan with olive oil, salt and pepper, and sauté for 6-8 minutes until tender.
13. Grilled Peaches and Feta Salad
Grill fresh peaches until lightly charred, and top with feta cheese, sliced scallions, chopped walnuts and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
14. Steamed Broccoli
Steam florets in a steamer basket or pot with a bit of water and a pinch of salt for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
15. Coconut Rice
Make fluffy coconut rice by stirring together cooked long-grain rice, unsweetened coconut milk, and a pinch of salt.
16. Roasted Mushrooms
Cut mushrooms into thick slices, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings, spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until golden.
17. Grilled Fish
A simple and flavorful fish dish, grilled fish paired with a shrimp salad, is sure to be a hit!
18. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a simple Middle Eastern salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes and onions mixed with lemon juice and olive oil dressing. It adds the perfect flavor to any seafood meal.
19. Potato Salad
Potato Salad Classic potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs particularly well with shrimp salads due to its creamy texture and savory flavors.
What soup goes with shrimp salad?
Soup is a great pairing option for shrimp salad lovers. Here are 5 of the best soup choices to complement this dish:
1. Gazpacho
Gazpacho is a chilled Spanish soup that is the perfect contrast to a warm shrimp salad.
With its tangy, slightly spicy flavor and crisp vegetables, it cools you down on a hot summer day while adding an explosion of texture and flavor to the meal.
2. Clam Chowder
A hearty bowl of New England-style clam chowder is a classic option that never disappoints.
The creamy, savory broth with chunks of tender potatoes and tender clam meat perfectly balances the lightness of the shrimp salad.
3. Thai Coconut Soup
Thai Coconut Soup is a sweet and spicy soup that has a rich, velvety texture that pairs well with shrimp salad.
With its creamy coconut milk base and bold aromatics such as lemongrass and galangal, it is the perfect complement to the bright flavors of the shrimp salad.
4. Lobster Bisque
Creamy, rich and indulgent, lobster bisque is a luxurious choice that will elevate any meal.
The velvety base and the chunks of succulent lobster meat bring an oceanic flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and succulent shrimp.
Find Out More: Creative Ideas for Home Cooks to Serve with Lobster Bisque
5. Mushroom Soup
If you are looking for a vegetarian option, mushroom soup is the way to go. The earthy, comforting flavor of this soup balances the lightness of the shrimp salad perfectly.
With its umami-rich broth and delicate slices of mushrooms, it provides a deeply satisfying umami flavor.
These soups are not only delicious, but they also provide a nutritional boost to your meal.
From the vitamin-rich vegetables in gazpacho to the omega-3 fatty acids in clam chowder, these soups will nourish your body while fulfilling your cravings.
So, next time you’re planning a shrimp salad, consider adding one of these soups to your menu for a meal that is not only tasty but also nutritious.
What are the best flavors to go with shrimp salad?
Shrimp salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors. When it comes to choosing the best flavors to go with shrimp salad, there are several options that can elevate the dish to new heights.
One of the classic flavor pairings for shrimp salad is lemon. The bright, tangy acidity of lemon not only enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp but also cuts through any richness from the dressing or toppings.
Other citrus fruits, such as lime or grapefruit, can also work well in shrimp salad, providing a similar burst of acidity.
Another popular flavor to add to shrimp salad is avocado. The creamy texture and mild flavor of avocado complement the delicate flavor of shrimp and provide a healthy dose of healthy fats.
Other creamy ingredients, such as Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, can also be used to add richness to the salad.
For those who like a little heat, adding some spicy flavors to shrimp salad can be a great way to liven up the dish. Jalapeno peppers, chili flakes, or hot sauce can all provide a spicy kick that balances well with the sweetness of the shrimp.
Fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can also add a bright, herbaceous note that complements the shrimp.
Ultimately, the best flavors to go with shrimp salad are a matter of personal taste. Experiment with different flavor combinations until you find the perfect one for your taste buds.
With so many delicious options to choose from, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a refreshing and flavorful shrimp salad.
Learn More: Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Fried Shrimp
How do you jazz up shrimp salad?
You can jazz up shrimp salad by adding a variety of ingredients to the mix. Try adding chopped vegetables such as celery, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers for crunch. For added flavor and color, add some crumbled bacon or cooked sausage pieces.
You can also incorporate sweet elements such as raisins or apples for sweetness, plus nuts or seeds for extra crunch. A creamy dressing such as ranch or honey mustard will help bring all the flavors together. Enjoy!
How do you display shrimp salad on a platter?
If you want to present shrimp salad on a platter, there are a few key steps you should follow to ensure that it looks as appetizing as possible.
First and foremost, you’ll want to choose a platter that is appropriate for the amount of shrimp salad you have prepared.
If you have a large amount of salad, you’ll want a bigger platter so that you can spread the salad out and make it look less crowded.
Next, you should consider the presentation of the salad itself. If you have whole shrimp in the salad, you may want to arrange them in a symmetrical pattern on the platter.
Alternatively, if your salad has been chopped up into smaller pieces, you can simply spread it out evenly across the platter.
Once you have arranged the salad to your liking, you may want to garnish it with some additional ingredients to add some extra color and flavor.
Some good options for garnishes include chopped tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a sprinkling of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.
Finally, consider adding a dressing or sauce to the shrimp salad to enhance its flavor even further.
A simple vinaigrette or creamy dressing can be drizzled over the top of the salad just before serving to give it an extra burst of flavor.
Overall, displaying shrimp salad on a platter can be a great way to impress your guests and showcase your culinary skills.
By following these simple tips, you can create a stunning and delicious dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Wrap Up
Shrimp salad is a delicious and versatile dish, and there are so many creative ways to pair it with other foods and flavors.
Whether you’re looking for something light and healthy or something rich and indulgent, these side dishes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
So next time you make shrimp salad, try pairing it with one of these delicious complements and see how much more delicious the meal can be.
FAQs
How much shrimp salad per person?
Depending on the size of your party, a single person can typically enjoy around one cup of shrimp salad.
To give you an idea, one cup is equivalent to roughly 240 milliliters and between 100-150 grams in weight. Of course, this amount may vary depending on how generous you’re feeling.
The key ingredients of shrimp salad are usually cooked shrimp, mayonnaise or a creamy base, celery, onions, and other vegetables like peppers or carrots.
This makes it a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as a light snack or as part of a larger meal.
What goes with cold shrimp?
Cold shrimp is often served with a variety of accompaniments. Popular choices include tangy cocktail sauce, crunchy coleslaw, and garlicky aioli.
For a bit of Asian flair, serve your cold shrimp with spicy soy sauce or sweet-and-sour plum sauce. Another delicious option is to serve your cold shrimp on top of Caesar salad or in a light summer pasta salad.
If you’re looking for something more substantial, you could also pair it with grilled vegetables and warm crusty bread.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to pairing cold shrimp with sides that will tantalize everyone’s taste buds.
What to serve with shrimp avocado salad?
Shrimp avocado salad is a light and refreshing meal that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. For an even lighter meal, try adding in some crunchy croutons or lightly-dressed greens, such as a baby spinach salad.
Alternatively, for a heartier meal, serve the shrimp avocado salad alongside roasted potatoes or warm quinoa.
To add a bit more flavor to the dish, consider topping it off with some freshly-grated Parmesan cheese or diced tomatoes.
Another great accompaniment is grilled vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers.
Finally, to make it a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta to soak up all the delicious juices from the salad dressing!
What to serve with shrimp salad rolls?
Shrimp salad rolls pair wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If you prefer something bubbly, you could also opt for a cold sparkling wine like Prosecco.
Lightly-flavored beers like lagers or pale ales can also be paired well with shrimp salad rolls.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider accompanying the seafood dish with a side of fresh fruit salsa or guacamole.
If you want to keep it traditional, serve the shrimp salad rolls with some crusty bread and butter. To round out the meal, steamed veggies make a great accompaniment to balance out the flavors in this dish.
What to serve with a shrimp salad sandwich?
A shrimp salad sandwich makes for a light and refreshing meal. To really bring out the flavor of the sandwich, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
A glass of cold beer, such as an IPA or Belgian wheat ale, would also pair nicely.
For sides, opt for some lightly dressed greens like baby kale with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or try a classic coleslaw with red cabbage and carrots.
To finish off the meal, consider adding some sweet potato chips sprinkled with sea salt or a chilled fruit salad.
Shrimp salad sandwiches are also great for entertaining. To make it more special, try adding a colorful array of vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and red bell peppers.
For an extra fancy touch, add some avocado slices or grilled artichoke hearts. If you want to keep the meal light, serve it with a simple side like herbed roasted potatoes or quinoa tabbouleh.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving it with soup or pasta salad.
Finish the meal off with a refreshing lemon sorbet or ice cream sundae for dessert that your guests are sure to love.
The beauty of the shrimp salad sandwich is its versatility, so feel free to mix and match ingredients and be creative with your presentation. Have fun experimenting, and enjoy!
What to serve with shrimp pasta salad?
Shrimp pasta salad can be served with a variety of sides depending on the occasion and taste.
For a light lunch or dinner, you could serve it alongside steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
For something heartier, you could serve it with garlic bread and a roasted vegetable medley.
Other side dishes that pair well with shrimp pasta salad include grilled corn-on-the-cob, roasted potatoes, and crusty French bread slices.
If you’d like to add some color to the plate, consider serving the dish with chunks of colorful bell peppers or a few slices of cherry tomatoes.
Lastly, make sure to top it off with freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra dose of flavor!
