Seafood dishes are packed with flavor and nutrition, and the right side dish can elevate your dining experience even further. Whether you’re enjoying a delicate white fish, a rich salmon, or succulent shellfish, choosing complementary sides can enhance the flavors of your seafood while adding variety and texture to your meal. Here’s a guide to selecting the perfect sides for various types of seafood.

Fish like cod, flounder, and sole are known for their mild flavors and tender texture, making them perfect for pairing with light, fresh sides. Salads, steamed vegetables, or lightly seasoned rice are great choices. A classic side like a citrus salad with arugula, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness to the meal without overpowering the fish. Steamed asparagus or zucchini noodles also offer a refreshing balance, enhancing the fish’s subtle taste.

For richer, oilier fish like salmon, mackerel, or trout, you’ll want sides with more robust flavors that complement their natural richness. Roasted vegetables, grains, and herby sauces are ideal here. Roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes provide a caramelized contrast to the fish’s deep flavors, while a quinoa salad with cranberries, almonds, and a splash of lemon offers both texture and a touch of acidity. For an added touch, a dollop of dill yogurt sauce or lemon garlic aioli can provide a creamy contrast that enhances the meal.

Shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster have a sweet, tender profile that works well with both light and savory sides. Classics like garlic butter noodles or creamy risotto bring warmth and a satisfying texture, making them perfect for pairing with buttery lobster or crab legs. For a lighter option, try corn on the cob or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Another excellent pairing is a couscous salad with herbs, tomatoes, and cucumber, which adds a Mediterranean flair to your shellfish dishes.

Fried seafood like fish and chips or crispy calamari deserves sides that add variety in both flavor and texture. French fries are the traditional favorite, but for a twist, try sweet potato fries or even zucchini fritters. These sides add a sweet, savory crunch to balance the crispy seafood. For a touch of freshness, coleslaw with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness, while tartar sauce or lemon wedges bring a bright, zesty element.

Grilled seafood, such as shrimp skewers or grilled swordfish, pairs wonderfully with wholesome, nutritious sides. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini offer a smoky flavor that complements grilled fish. Brown rice pilaf or a simple arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and balsamic glaze keeps the meal light and well-rounded. For a heartier twist, wild rice with mushrooms or a Mediterranean-style chickpea salad can add protein, fiber, and a satisfying texture to the meal.

If you’re serving up spicy Cajun or blackened seafood, look for sides that cool down and balance the heat. Creamed corn or cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the spices, while coleslaw with a hint of sweetness can be the perfect complement. A side of coconut rice or mango salsa can also bring a tropical twist, adding sweetness to counter the spice.

No matter what type of seafood you’re enjoying, there are endless ways to elevate your meal with the perfect side dish. Whether you prefer light salads, hearty grains, or crispy fried sides, the key is to balance textures and flavors. Next time you’re at Virginia Fish & Grill or preparing seafood at home, try one of these side ideas to make your meal unforgettable!