What to Serve With Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are undeniably one of the most indulgent seafood dishes, with their delicate flavor and crispy exterior. Whether you’re making crab cakes for a special dinner, a family gathering, or a simple treat, choosing the right sides, sauces, and drinks can elevate your meal and turn it into an unforgettable culinary experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the best pairings that go hand-in-hand with crab cakes, ensuring your meal is both delicious and well-rounded.
The Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crab Cakes
A perfect crab cake deserves the perfect side dishes. From refreshing salads to comforting starches and savory roasted vegetables, the right sides will balance the rich flavors of your crab cakes and complement them seamlessly.
Light and Refreshing Salad Options
A fresh, crisp salad is the ideal contrast to the rich, savory flavors of crab cakes. These light salads are perfect for balancing the meal and providing a refreshing element.
Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A mixed green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette is a simple, elegant side that pairs well with crab cakes. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the crab, while the freshness of the greens provides a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix) | 4 cups |
| Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Honey | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the greens and toss well before serving.
Arugula Salad with Orange Segments
Arugula, with its peppery bite, pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of orange segments. This vibrant salad adds a burst of flavor and color to your crab cake meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh arugula | 4 cups |
| Orange segments | 1 large orange |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Place arugula on a large plate.
- Top with orange segments.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Classic Coleslaw with Vinegar Dressing
A tangy vinegar-based coleslaw provides a delightful crunch that contrasts the tender crab cakes. The slight tanginess complements the sweetness of the crab, making this a perfect pairing.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cabbage | 4 cups |
| Shredded carrots | 2 cups |
| Apple cider vinegar | 3 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Sugar | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate before serving.
Starchy Side Dishes to Balance Richness
Crab cakes have a rich, delicate flavor, so pairing them with starchy sides helps balance the meal and provides a hearty element.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are creamy and rich, offering a perfect contrast to the crispy crab cakes. The savory garlic flavor also enhances the overall meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 4 large potatoes |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Peel and chop potatoes, then boil them with garlic cloves until tender.
- Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Creamy Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn on the cob is a summertime favorite, and adding a creamy finish makes it the perfect accompaniment to crab cakes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh corn on the cob | 4 ears |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Boil or grill the corn on the cob until tender.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in heavy cream.
- Drizzle the creamy mixture over the corn and garnish with fresh parsley.
Crispy French Fries
For a more casual twist, serve your crab cakes with crispy French fries. The fries offer a crunchy contrast to the soft interior of the crab cakes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 4 medium potatoes |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Cut potatoes into thin strips and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes or fry until crispy and golden.
Buttery Rice Pilaf
A delicate rice pilaf offers a neutral base to balance the richness of crab cakes. The butteriness of the rice complements the crab without overpowering it.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Long-grain rice | 1 cup |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Cook rice according to package instructions, using chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Stir in butter and season with salt and black pepper before serving.
Roasted Vegetables for a Savory Addition
Roasted vegetables add a savory element to the meal that balances the sweetness of the crab cakes.
Roasted Asparagus with Lemon
Asparagus is a great side dish for crab cakes, and roasting it with lemon brings out its nutty flavor, making it the perfect savory addition.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh asparagus | 1 bunch |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon zest | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until tender.
- Top with fresh lemon zest before serving.
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
The savory, slightly sweet flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with crab cakes, offering a contrast in texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Trim and halve Brussels sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.
Delicious Sauces to Pair with Crab Cakes
The right sauce can make or break your crab cake experience. From creamy and tangy to sweet and spicy, here are some of the best sauces to complement your crab cakes.
Creamy and Zesty Sauces
Remoulade Sauce
This creamy, spicy sauce is a classic accompaniment to crab cakes. It adds a tangy kick that elevates the dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Horseradish | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped |
Instructions:
- Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, horseradish, paprika, and parsley.
- Stir until smooth and refrigerate before serving.
Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is another beloved option that adds a tangy, creamy contrast to the savory crab cakes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Pickles | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Mix mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Serve immediately or chill for later use.
Garlic Aioli
This creamy garlic aioli enhances the crab cakes with bold flavor. It’s rich, garlicky, and smooth.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Instructions:
- Mash garlic and combine with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Stir until smooth and serve.
Sweet and Spicy Sauces
Mango Salsa
Mango salsa is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The fruitiness complements the crab’s natural sweetness, while the chili flakes add heat.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mango | 1, diced |
| Red onion | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Cilantro | 2 tbsp, chopped |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp |
| Chili flakes | ¼ tsp |
Instructions:
- Combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chili flakes.
- Stir to combine and serve fresh.
Honey Mustard Sauce
A simple honey mustard sauce adds sweetness and tang, making it an ideal dip for crab cakes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
- Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice together.
- Serve as a dipping sauce for crab cakes.
Conclusion
Crab cakes are a versatile and indulgent dish that can be elevated with the right pairings. From light and refreshing salads to hearty sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, there are countless options to complement the delicate flavors of crab cakes. Whether you choose creamy sauces, tangy dressings, or sweet and spicy options, the right accompaniment can transform your meal into a truly memorable dining experience.
Pairing your crab cakes with refreshing drinks, such as a crisp white wine or a cool iced tea, adds the finishing touch to your perfect meal. With the variety of delicious side dishes, sauces, and beverages available, you have all the tools to create a well-rounded, flavorful feast that satisfies every taste bud.
So, the next time you’re preparing crab cakes, don’t just think of them as a standalone dish think of the entire dining experience. With the right pairings, you can take your crab cake meal to the next level and delight your guests or enjoy a special treat all on your own. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
