Shrimp boils are a delicious and fun way to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
Whether you’re throwing a seafood-themed dinner party or just looking for a new way to serve dinner, shrimp boils are a great option.
You need more than just boiled shrimp to make the perfect shrimp boil.
The best way to enhance the flavors of your shrimp boil is to serve it with the right sides, and there’s the question, “what to serve with a shrimp boil?”
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best sides of what to serve with a shrimp boil to complete the meal.
A shrimp boil is a classic Southern dish perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, and potluck parties.
Although the main attraction of a shrimp boil is the succulent shrimp, what you serve alongside it can make or break the meal.
Whether you’re hosting or attending a shrimp boil, you’ll want to bring the perfect side dishes to complement the spicy flavors of the boiled shrimp.
This blog post will discuss delicious sides of what to serve with a shrimp boil that will be a hit with your guests.
1. Ham and Beans
To start this list of what to serve with a shrimp boil is Ham and beans, a classic pairing that goes well with many dishes, especially the classic shrimp boil.
The salty smokiness of ham complements the sweetness of the shrimp and other vegetables, while the creamy texture of beans balances out the meal.
The combination of flavors makes for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Plus, it’s easy to make and can be served with any shrimp boil, from traditional to low-carb or gluten-free recipes.
When making this side dish, start by chopping up some ham. You can use smoked or cured ham, whichever you prefer.
Then, simmer the ham pieces in water with your favorite spices, such as garlic, onion powder, and bay leaves.
Once the ham is cooked through, add your favorite canned or dried beans. Cook the mixture until the beans are tender, and then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Finally, serve alongside your favorite shrimp boil and a side of fresh bread or crackers.
2. Potato Salad
A classic side to any seafood boil is a delicious potato salad. The combination of buttery potatoes, tart pickles, and a creamy dressing makes it the perfect accompaniment to your shrimp boil. You can either make your potato salad or buy it pre-made.
If you’re going for a more traditional option, try using red potatoes and a homemade mayonnaise-based dressing.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could choose a unique combination, such as sweet potatoes and a yogurt-based dressing.
The possibilities are endless regarding what to serve with a shrimp boil, and they can be tailored to suit your tastes.
Regardless of your choice, be sure to top off your potato salad with some diced onions or chives for extra flavor.
This simple side dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser and will have everyone coming back for seconds!
3. Steamed Vegetables
When serving a shrimp boil, steamed vegetables are a great way to add freshness and texture to the meal.
Any vegetable can be steamed, from broccoli and carrots to zucchini and mushrooms, to accompany your shrimp boil.
You can keep it simple and steam the vegetables in a pot on the stove with some garlic and olive oil, or spice things up by adding different herbs and spices.
Steaming the vegetables will give them a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy shrimp.
Not only are steamed vegetables delicious when served with a shrimp boil, but they’re also a great way to add some nutrition to the meal.
Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help promote overall health.
So, if you want to make your shrimp boil a bit healthier, adding steamed veggies is a great way to do it!
With all the flavors and nutrition steamed vegetables bring, they’re sure to be a hit when served alongside your next shrimp boil. This is the third on our list of what to serve with a shrimp boil.
4. Chicken Salad
Talking about what to serve with a shrimp boil, chicken salad is the perfect accompaniment. Not only is it light and flavorful, but it also packs a protein punch to the meal.
You can make a classic chicken salad with mayo and diced chicken or choose a healthier version using Greek yogurt and celery for crunch.
Either way, it’s sure to be a hit at your next shrimp boil. Plus, you can prep it ahead of time, so you must assemble it when ready to serve.
To dress up your chicken salad, consider adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts, dried cranberries, fresh herbs, or even diced apples.
This will give it an extra special touch, and you can customize the ingredients to your liking.
Serve it with a side of crackers or crusty bread, and you’ve got a delicious and easy accompaniment to your shrimp boil.
5. Vegetarian Chili
For vegetarians, a spicy vegetarian chili makes a great accompaniment to a shrimp boil.
Aside from being what to serve with a shrimp boil, it is easy to make it as spicy as you’d like by adding hot peppers and fresh garlic.
Throw in some kidney beans and black beans for extra flavor and texture. Toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, and cilantro make it even more irresistible.
Serve the chili with some warm, crusty bread for a complete meal. Another option is to make a cold, vegan version of the chili.
Start by sautéing some onion and bell pepper in olive oil until softened. Add canned tomatoes, black beans, and corn, and let it simmer until it thickens.
Finish it off with spices like cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Serve it cold as a side dish for your shrimp boil or with chips as an appetizer.
6. Rosemary Bread
Looking for what to serve with a shrimp boil can be difficult, but Rosemary bread is a wonderful side dish.
The herbal flavor of rosemary pairs nicely with the sweetness of shrimp, and the crusty texture of the bread is a perfect complement to the juicy seafood.
If you’re hosting a shrimp boil, adding a simple yet delicious rosemary bread can help to round out your meal.
To make rosemary bread, you’ll need basic ingredients such as flour, butter, yeast, and rosemary.
The dough should be kneaded until it’s smooth and elastic, then left to rise in a warm spot.
When the dough doubles, you can shape it into rounds or loaves and brush it with butter before baking. Let your rosemary bread cool before serving it alongside your shrimp boil. Enjoy!
7. Avocado Cucumber Salad
To make this side, combine diced avocado, cucumber, feta cheese, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs.
Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy! When serving your shrimp boil, keep in mind that the salad should be served chilled or at room temperature to prevent it from wilting in the heat of the boiling shrimp.
Avocado cucumber salad is great for sides to serve with a shrimp boil. This light and refreshing dish feature the perfect balance of creamy avocado and crunchy cucumbers, tangy lemon juice, salty feta cheese, and a hint of fresh herbs.
The combination of flavors creates an irresistible salad that will please even the pickiest eaters.
Adding freshly chopped tomatoes and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add extra flavor and texture.
With its bright and vibrant colors, Avocado Cucumber Salad is sure to brighten up any meal. This makes it the perfect accompaniment on our list of what to serve with a shrimp boil. Enjoy!
8. Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus is a delicious and easy side dish to serve with a shrimp boil.
Start by blanching the asparagus in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes. Secondly, drain the asparagus and place it in a large bowl.
Mix melted butter, garlic, parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes in a separate small bowl.
Next, toss the asparagus in the butter mixture and then arrange it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in a preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Finally, serve warm alongside your shrimp boil for a delicious flavor combination.
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus is great regarding what to serve with a shrimp boil because it pairs well with the flavors of shrimp and other seafood.
The garlic and Parmesan cheese provide a great salty flavor to contrast with the sweetness of the shrimp, while the red pepper flakes give it an extra kick of heat.
It’s also quick and easy to make, so you can have it ready for your next shrimp boil.
9. Baked Beans
Baked beans are an easy side dish that pairs perfectly if you are looking for what to serve with a shrimp boil.
The smoky, sweet flavors of the baked beans bring out the sweetness of the shrimp and add a layer of flavor to the entire meal. Baked beans can be prepared in advance or made on the same day.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try spicing up your baked beans with hot sauce or a handful of bacon bits.
To make the perfect side dish, start with a can of your favorite beans and combine it with diced onions, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a little bit of brown sugar.
Afterward, stir until all ingredients are combined and bake in an oven-safe pan at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.
This will yield a delicious side dish that your guests will love. Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread, and you have the perfect accompaniment to your shrimp boil!
10. Watermelon Cucumber Salad
This salad is a delicious way to add a cool, crisp contrast to your shrimp boil.
To make it, combine diced watermelon, cucumber, and feta cheese. Top with a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
The combination of flavors is light and refreshing, adding a nice sweetness to the salty shrimp boil.
Add some chopped herbs like basil or mint for even more flavor. This is a great option for a summertime shrimp boil.
This watermelon cucumber salad can be served either as a side dish to the boil or as a refreshing palate cleanser after the meal.
It’s an ideal accompaniment to a spicy shrimp boil, as the melon’s sweetness will help balance out the spiciness.
For an extra dose of crunch, you can also add some croutons or toasted almonds to the salad.
Whatever ingredients you choose, this salad will surely be a hit at your next shrimp boil!
11. Clam Chowder
Clam chowder is the perfect side dish to accompany a shrimp boil. It is thick, creamy, and full of flavor that will complement the salty flavor of the shrimp.
Plus, it is on this list of what to serve with a shrimp boil and is also easy to make and can be prepared in advance.
To prepare, sauté diced onions and celery in butter before adding in potatoes, clams, chicken stock, and cream.
Simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and then season with salt and pepper. Serve warm, and enjoy!
Adding clam chowder to your shrimp boil will provide a hearty side dish that everyone can enjoy.
It is a great way to add extra flavor and texture to your meal and a healthy dose of protein. Be sure to keep this dish simple so you can taste the shrimp’s flavor.
12. Buns
Buns are a great accompaniment to a shrimp boil. A light and fluffy bun can be served alongside the meal, adding a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the boil.
You can use hamburger buns, hotdog buns, or even slider buns. The most popular choice for a shrimp boil is a simple white bread roll. Serve with butter or a dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.
Try ciabatta or focaccia buns for those looking for something a bit more hearty on our list of what to serve with a shrimp boil.
The chewy texture of this bread pairs perfectly with the crunchy shrimp and veggies in the boil.
To keep things interesting, serve different buns on the side to give your guests various options.
As a bonus, you can also fill them with your favorite toppings to make a delicious sandwich.
13. Crisp Apple Salad
Crisp apple salad is an ideal accompaniment to any shrimp boil. It’s a light, refreshing, delicious side dish that can be prepared quickly and easily.
The combination of sweet apples and crunchy greens makes this salad a great complement to the bold flavors of the boiled shrimp.
Start by chopping up your favorite crisp apples and adding them to a bowl with fresh baby spinach leaves.
Then, mix in some chopped celery, red onion, and toasted almonds for a bit of added crunch.
Finally, drizzle the salad with your favorite vinaigrette or homemade dressing for the perfect finishing touch.
This light and flavorful salad will surely be a hit at your next shrimp boil!
14. Caesar Salad
The list of the sumptuous dishes of what to serve with a shrimp boil is incomplete without the Caesar salad.
You can’t go wrong with a Caesar salad for a classic side to complement the flavor of your shrimp boil.
This classic salad is easy to prepare and goes great with the juicy, flavorful shrimp.
You can make it traditional or add toppings like croutons, bacon, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
For a lighter salad, use a creamy, yogurt-based dressing instead of the classic Caesar dressing.
For a punch of color and nutrition, consider adding fresh cherry tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, or any other vegetables of your choice.
No matter how you choose to serve it, the Caesar salad’s crunchy texture and zesty flavor will be a great addition to your shrimp boil.
It is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will help to make your meal even more delicious!
15. Corn On the Cob
Corn on the cob is an essential side dish to any shrimp boil. Not only is it delicious and flavorful, but it also provides a great balance to the seafood flavor. The salty and savory taste of corn on the cob adds dimension to the meal.
The bright yellow hue adds great color contrast to the shrimp, making it even more visually appealing.
Corn on the cob is a traditional accompaniment to any shrimp boil and should be included on your menu.
You have many options when serving corn on the cob with a shrimp boil. You can steam, roast, or grill it on the barbecue.
Add butter, garlic, herbs, or spices to your corn to give your meal a unique flavor.
Be sure to serve the corn with a butter knife for easy spreading and cutting into bite-sized pieces.
You can easily add corn to your shrimp boil with a few simple steps and make it an unforgettable meal.
If you have problems deciding what to serve with a shrimp boil, try corn on a cob; you won’t be disappointed!
16. Mashed Potatoes
Still, on this list of what to serve with a shrimp boil is Mashed potatoes, a delicious and classic accompaniment.
The potatoes’ starchiness helps balance the flavor of the shrimp and other ingredients in the boil.
Mashed potatoes are also a great way to add some texture to the dish, as they will soak up all the flavor from the other ingredients.
They can be prepared ahead of time and are easy to make in large batches, making them a great choice for larger crowds.
Additionally, mashed potatoes can be spiced with herbs, spices, and other ingredients to give them an extra kick of flavor.
It is important to use a good-quality potato variety when making mashed potatoes for a shrimp boil.
Red potatoes are particularly well suited for this dish, as they hold their shape and texture better than other potatoes.
Make sure to mash the potatoes thoroughly, so they are creamy and free of lumps.
If you want your mashed potatoes to have a bit of a kick, try adding some garlic or herbs such as rosemary or thyme.
Finally, top off your mashed potatoes with melted butter or olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.
17. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with shrimp boils.
The cheesy, creamy goodness of the mac and cheese complements the spiciness of the shrimp and other ingredients in the boil.
Mac and cheese also provide a balance of flavor, making this dish a hit at any gathering.
To make the most of your shrimp boil, serve some homemade mac and cheese for your guests.
It’s sure to be a hit! Choose your favorite recipe or make it from scratch when making mac and cheese for a shrimp boil.
Use plenty of cheese for a rich, flavorful dish, and add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots for added nutrition.
For an extra kick, top off the mac and cheese with spicy hot sauce or add fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano.
Serve the mac and cheese in a large bowl so everyone can share and enjoy this delicious side dish with their shrimp boil.
18. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic side dish for any seafood boil, and shrimp boils are no exception!
Deviled eggs are easy to prepare ahead of time and can be served either cold or warm. They are a delicious way to add creamy richness to your shrimp boil.
The key to the perfect deviled egg is to season it with paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, and some freshly chopped parsley.
For added flavor, you can add diced pickles, bacon bits, capers, olives, and green onions.
To make your deviled eggs special, you can top them with a sprinkle of caviar or crumbled crab meat. This will give your guests a luxurious accompaniment to their shrimp boil feast.
Serve these deviled eggs alongside your shrimp boil with some crusty French bread or hot cornbread muffins.
Your guests will thank you for such a delicious addition to their meal! This ends our list of what to serve with a shrimp boil!
Conclusion
A shrimp boil is a classic dish perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a formal gathering.
It’s easy to make and always delicious, but to really make it shine, you’ll need to find the right sides to pair it with.
We explored some of the best options for what to serve with a shrimp boil so you can wow your guests with a complete and delicious meal.
