Pairing Perfection: What Goes Best with Shrimp?

Introduction

Shrimp is a versatile and flavorful seafood that’s great for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or hosting a fancy event, shrimp is sure to be a hit. But what should you serve with it? What goes best with shrimp?

This article will explore the perfect pairings for shrimp. We’ll look at wines that go well with shrimp, side dishes to serve with it, and creative ways to prepare and serve shrimp. Plus, we’ll provide 10 easy-to-make recipes that you can use to make your own shrimp dish.

A Guide to the Perfect Shrimp Pairings

When it comes to finding the perfect pairings for shrimp, there are a few different options. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular choices.

Wines to Serve with Shrimp

Shrimp pairs well with a variety of white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. For a more robust flavor, try a Chardonnay or Viognier. Rosé is also an excellent choice for pairing with shrimp. If you’re looking for a red wine, opt for something light-bodied like a Pinot Noir.

Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp

Shrimp goes well with a variety of side dishes, from rice to potatoes. You can also serve vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, green beans, spinach, corn, carrots, zucchini, and cauliflower. For a heartier meal, try adding a starch like quinoa or couscous.

Creative Ways to Prepare and Serve Shrimp

Shrimp can be prepared in a number of ways, from grilling to baking to sautéing and boiling. It’s easy to get creative with shrimp, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Grilling

Grilled shrimp is a classic summer dish. Marinate the shrimp in your favorite marinade and then grill it until it’s just cooked through. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Baking

Baked shrimp is another easy way to prepare shrimp. Simply toss the shrimp in a little olive oil and seasonings and bake it in the oven until it’s cooked through. Serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Sauteing

Sautéed shrimp is a quick and easy way to prepare shrimp. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook it until it’s just cooked through. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or your favorite grain.

Boiling

If you want to cook shrimp quickly, boiling is a great option. Boil the shrimp in a pot of salted water until it’s just cooked through. Serve it with a side of your favorite vegetables or grains.

10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Shrimp

Now that you know how to prepare shrimp, let’s look at some delicious side dishes to serve with it. Here are 10 easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please:

Rice

Rice is a classic side dish that pairs well with shrimp. Try making a simple stir-fry with shrimp and your favorite vegetables. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a hearty side dish that go well with shrimp. Roast small potatoes in the oven until they’re golden and crispy. Serve them alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a great vegetable to serve with shrimp. Steam or roast the broccoli until it’s tender, then serve it alongside your shrimp dish. You can also add a little garlic or lemon juice for extra flavor.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that pairs well with shrimp. Roast or steam the asparagus until it’s tender. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Green Beans

Green beans are a delicious vegetable that goes well with shrimp. Steam or sauté the green beans until they’re tender. Serve them alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Spinach

Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable that pairs well with shrimp. Sauté the spinach in a little olive oil until it’s wilted. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Corn

Corn is a sweet and crunchy vegetable that goes well with shrimp. Roast or boil the corn until it’s tender. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Carrots

Carrots are an earthy vegetable that pairs well with shrimp. Roast or steam the carrots until they’re tender. Serve them alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a mild-flavored vegetable that pairs well with shrimp. Sauté or roast the zucchini until it’s tender. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable that goes well with shrimp. Roast or steam the cauliflower until it’s tender. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a complete meal.

5 Easy and Flavorful Sauces to Accompany Shrimp

Sauces are a great way to add flavor to your shrimp dish. Here are five easy and flavorful sauces that you can use to dress up your shrimp:

Cocktail Sauce

Cocktail sauce is a classic accompaniment to shrimp. It’s made with ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a tangy and flavorful kick.

Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a creamy and tangy sauce that goes well with shrimp. It’s made with mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and lemon juice. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a zesty flavor.

Pesto Sauce

Pesto sauce is a delicious and versatile sauce that pairs well with shrimp. It’s made with basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, nuts, and garlic. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a flavorful twist.

Honey Mustard Sauce

Honey mustard sauce is a sweet and tangy sauce that goes well with shrimp. It’s made with honey, mustard, and mayonnaise. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a unique flavor.

Garlic Butter Sauce

Garlic butter sauce is a savory and rich sauce that pairs well with shrimp. It’s made with butter, garlic, and herbs. Serve it alongside your shrimp dish for a decadent flavor.

Conclusion

We’ve explored the perfect pairings for shrimp. From wines to side dishes and sauces, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing what to serve with shrimp. Plus, we’ve provided 10 easy-to-make recipes you can use to make your own shrimp dish. So get creative and experiment with different pairings to find the perfect combination for your next shrimp dish.