What Foods Go Good With Fish? The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Pairings

Fish is a versatile and healthy protein source, but finding the right accompaniments can elevate your meal from good to extraordinary. If you’re wondering “What Foods Go Good With Fish,” you’re in the right place! This guide explores a variety of side dishes and flavor combinations that complement different types of fish preparations, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Seafood side dishes

Side Dishes for Baked, Broiled, or Grilled Fish

Lighter fish preparations, like baked cod, broiled flounder, or grilled salmon, pair well with delicate and flavorful sides that won’t overpower the fish’s natural taste. Consider these options:

• Steamed Asparagus: A classic and healthy choice, asparagus offers a subtle grassy flavor that complements most fish.
• Grilled Vegetables with Dipping Sauce: A medley of bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini provides a vibrant mix of textures and flavors. A light dipping sauce, such as a lemon-herb vinaigrette, adds a touch of brightness.
• Roasted Potatoes with Olive Oil and Rosemary: Simple yet satisfying, roasted potatoes offer a comforting and earthy counterpoint to fish.
• Creamy Risotto: A creamy risotto, whether plain or infused with herbs or vegetables, creates a luxurious and flavorful base for fish.
• Fresh Green Beans and Mashed Potatoes: This classic combination provides a balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing choice.
• Tartar Sauce or Parmesan Cheese: A dollop of tartar sauce adds a tangy and creamy element, while a sprinkle of parmesan cheese provides a salty and umami boost.

For a more adventurous pairing, try this Tilapia with Quinoa, Feta, and Cucumber recipe:

Tilapia with Quinoa, Feta, and Cucumber

This dish combines lean protein sources with fresh, vibrant flavors for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless tilapia filets, divided into 8 pieces
• 3/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup English cucumber (6 ounces), diced small
• 1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh dill
• 1/3 cup feta (1 1/2 ounces), crumbled
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions.
2. Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season tilapia filets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Cook filets for about 2 minutes per side, or until opaque.
4. Combine diced cucumber, chopped dill, remaining olive oil, and fresh lemon juice with the cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve the quinoa mixture topped with cooked tilapia.

Best Side Dishes for Seafood with Strong Flavors

When serving seafood with bolder flavors, such as swordfish or tuna, you’ll need side dishes that can stand up to the intensity. Consider these options:

• Cucumber Salad with Kale, Arugula, and Lemon Vinaigrette: The acidity of the lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the fish, while the greens provide a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Wrapped with Bacon: The smoky bacon adds a savory and complementary flavor to the Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced and satisfying side dish.
• Lobster Mac and Cheese: A decadent and indulgent option, lobster mac and cheese is perfect for special occasions. The creamy cheese sauce and rich lobster meat complement the fish’s flavor.
• Fish Tacos with Lime, Corn, Poblano Peppers, and Chorizo: This vibrant and flavorful dish offers a spicy and zesty counterpoint to the fish.
• Grilled Fish with Whipped Sweet Potatoes and Cauliflower Rice: The sweetness of the sweet potatoes and the lightness of the cauliflower rice create a well-rounded and healthy meal.

For a quick and flavorful pasta dish, try this Garlic & Herb Linguine recipe:

Garlic & Herb Linguine

This simple pasta is the perfect blank canvas to showcase cooked crab, shrimp, or scallops.

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces dried linguine
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, or to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook linguine according to package directions.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
3. Drizzle the mixture over the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Season with salt.
4. Top with sauteed or broiled scallops, shrimp, or crab.

Adding Grilled Tomato Caprese Salad can also create a great taste to your fish menu.

Grilled Tomato Caprese Salad

This simple salad is the perfect summer side dish. Add Mediterranean flavor to your favorite seafood and fish recipes on a sunny day.

You’ll Need:

• 500g cherry tomatoes/vine tomatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• salt and pepper to taste

For the Basil Dressing:

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 garlic clove minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1-2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• salt and pepper to taste

For the Caprese salad:

• 150g Fior di latte/Buffalo Mozzarella
• 1/2 fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. Pre-heat an outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the tomatoes until they start to burn and char. Remove from the heat and allow to cool in a dish while you make the dressing.
4. To make the dressing, combine all the ingredients in a blender or food processor. You can use a hand-held blender too or chop everything by hand and blend until smooth.
5. To assemble, tear the mozzarella and place it on a large plate. Top with the grilled tomatoes, drizzling their resting juices over the cheese and tomatoes. Drizzle the basil dressing over the salad and add fresh basil leaves, then serve.

Complementing Calabash Seafood

Calabash seafood, known for its crispy, fried goodness, requires sides that offer a balance of textures and flavors. These options are classic pairings:

• Hush Puppies: These savory cornmeal fritters are a must-have with fried fish.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn on the cob provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the seafood.
• Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy coleslaw cuts through the greasiness of the fried fish, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
• French Fries or Hash Browns: Crispy and salty potatoes are a classic pairing with fried seafood.

To complete your Calabash feast, try this simple 4 Ingredient Coleslaw recipe:

4 Ingredient Coleslaw

This creamy coleslaw is incredibly easy to make and pairs perfectly with fried seafood.

Ingredients:

• 1 14 oz package of shredded coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tbsp honey or sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
• Pinch of celery seed (optional)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a bowl.
2. Pour over the coleslaw mix in a large bowl and toss to coat evenly.
3. Serve chilled.

For another perfect side for any baked fish, try this Lemon Rice Pilaf recipe:

Lemon Rice Pilaf

This zesty lemon-infused rice brightens the flavor of any baked fish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine or long grain white rice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 1 cup thinly sliced onions
• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery and onions; cook until tender.
3. Add rice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper; toss lightly.
4. Cook until heated through.

By understanding which “foods go good with fish”, you can craft well-rounded and satisfying meals that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of seafood. Whether you prefer a light and healthy pairing or a more indulgent combination, there’s a perfect side dish to complement your favorite fish.