45 Must-Try Sides to Elevate Your Fish Fry Game

Fish fry nights are more fun with the right sides to complement that crispy goodness! From classic coleslaw to tasty potato wedges, this collection of 45 side dishes has everything you need to elevate your fish fry experience. Let’s get those taste buds dancing!

Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

Garlic butter roasted potatoes are a perfect side dish for any fish fry. The image shows golden-brown, perfectly roasted potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces. They look crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a delightful addition to your meal.

These potatoes are seasoned with garlic and herbs, which add a wonderful aroma and flavor. The combination of butter and garlic creates a rich taste that pairs beautifully with fried fish. Plus, they are easy to prepare!

To make garlic butter roasted potatoes, start with baby potatoes. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Toss them with melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and your favorite herbs. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast until golden and crispy.

These potatoes not only complement the fish but also add a comforting touch to your meal. They are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Zesty Tartar Sauce with Pickles

A bowl of zesty tartar sauce with pickles surrounded by crispy fried fish and lemon slices.

This zesty tartar sauce is the perfect companion for your fish fry. The creamy base is enhanced with tangy pickles, adding a delightful crunch and flavor. It’s a simple yet tasty addition that elevates the entire meal.

To make this sauce, you’ll need mayonnaise, diced pickles, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of herbs. Just mix everything together, and you’re good to go! The freshness of the pickles really shines through, making each bite of fish even more enjoyable.

Serve it alongside your crispy fried fish, and watch everyone come back for more. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with the savory flavors of the fish. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.

Baked Beans with Bacon

A bowl of baked beans topped with bacon on a wooden table.

Baked beans with bacon are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fish fry. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes them a favorite at gatherings and barbecues.

The image shows a hearty bowl of baked beans, rich in color and topped with crispy bacon bits. This dish is not just tasty; it’s also comforting and satisfying.

To make this dish, you’ll need canned baked beans, bacon, and a few seasonings. Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then mix it into the beans along with some brown sugar and mustard for added flavor. Bake until bubbly, and you’ll have a side that everyone will love!

These baked beans are not only easy to prepare, but they also bring a delightful warmth to any meal. Serve them alongside your favorite fish, and you’ll have a winning combination.

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

A bowl of creamy macaroni and cheese topped with breadcrumbs, with some macaroni pieces scattered around.

Creamy macaroni and cheese is a classic side that pairs perfectly with fish fry. The rich, cheesy flavor complements the crispy texture of fried fish. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it a great addition to any meal.

The image shows a bowl filled with macaroni, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. The pasta is coated in a creamy cheese sauce, making it look inviting and delicious. The bright yellow color of the cheese adds a cheerful touch to the plate.

To make this dish, you’ll need elbow macaroni, cheese (like cheddar), milk, butter, and breadcrumbs for topping. Cook the pasta until al dente, then mix it with melted cheese and milk for that creamy texture. Top it with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown.

This macaroni and cheese recipe is simple and quick, making it a go-to side for any fish fry. It’s comforting and satisfying, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Fresh Garden Salad with Vinaigrette

A fresh garden salad with tomatoes, olives, and cheese on a plate.

This fresh garden salad is the perfect side for your fish fry. It’s colorful and packed with flavor. The mix of greens, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese makes it a delightful addition to any meal.

Start with a base of crisp lettuce. Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Toss in some olives for a briny kick. Crumbled feta cheese adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the veggies.

For the vinaigrette, mix olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy. This simple dressing enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

Serving this salad alongside your fish fry not only adds a refreshing contrast but also brings a healthy element to your plate. Enjoy the balance of flavors and textures!

Crispy Coleslaw with a Tangy Dressing

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with carrots, cabbage, and a tangy dressing, garnished with green onions.

This crispy coleslaw is a perfect side for your fish fry. The colorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers adds a fresh crunch that complements the fried fish beautifully.

The tangy dressing, made with a blend of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a hint of sugar, brings everything together. It’s light yet flavorful, making it a great addition to your meal.

To make this coleslaw, start by shredding green and purple cabbage, then julienne some carrots and bell peppers. Toss them all in a bowl. For the dressing, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a bit of sugar, salt, and pepper. Combine the dressing with the veggies and let it chill for a bit. This will enhance the flavors.

Serve it chilled alongside your crispy fish. It’s a simple, tasty way to elevate your meal!

Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade

A plate of fried green tomatoes with a small bowl of remoulade sauce and fresh herbs.

Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern dish that brings a delightful crunch to any meal. These golden-brown rounds are made from unripe tomatoes, sliced and coated in a crispy batter. They are often served with a creamy remoulade sauce that adds a zesty kick.

The image shows a plate filled with perfectly fried green tomatoes, each one looking crispy and inviting. The remoulade, served in a small bowl, is smooth and creamy, ready to complement the tomatoes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness.

To make fried green tomatoes, you’ll need green tomatoes, cornmeal, flour, eggs, and seasonings. Slice the tomatoes, dip them in a mixture of eggs, then coat them in a blend of cornmeal and flour. Fry until golden brown and serve hot with the remoulade.

This dish pairs wonderfully with fish fry, making it a perfect side. The combination of textures and flavors will surely impress your guests!

Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

Grilled corn on the cob topped with herb butter on a wooden plate

Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fish fry. The image shows beautifully grilled corn, golden and juicy, topped with creamy herb butter. This simple yet delightful dish adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

To make this tasty treat, you’ll need fresh corn, butter, and your favorite herbs. Start by grilling the corn until it’s slightly charred. While it’s still hot, slather on the herb butter, allowing it to melt into the warm kernels. The combination of sweet corn and savory butter is hard to resist!

This side dish is not just easy to prepare; it also brings a vibrant color to your plate. Serve it alongside your fish fry for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Savory Hush Puppies with Honey Butter

A plate of golden hush puppies drizzled with honey butter, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Hush puppies are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fish fry. These golden, crispy balls are made from cornmeal and are often enjoyed for their delightful crunch and soft interior. The image showcases a plate piled high with these tasty treats, drizzled with honey butter for an extra touch of sweetness.

To make these hush puppies, you’ll need simple ingredients like cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and buttermilk. Mixing these together creates a batter that’s easy to work with. Once you drop spoonfuls into hot oil, they puff up beautifully, turning a lovely golden brown.

Serving them with honey butter adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavor. Just mix softened butter with honey until smooth, and you have a delicious dip that enhances the hush puppies. They make a great addition to any fish fry, bringing a comforting, homemade touch to your meal.

Cucumber Salad with Dill

A bowl of cucumber salad with dill, featuring sliced cucumbers and fresh herbs.

This cucumber salad with dill is a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with fish fry. The vibrant green cucumbers are sliced and mixed with fresh dill, creating a light and zesty dish.

The combination of crunchy cucumbers and aromatic dill adds a burst of flavor to your meal. It’s simple to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. You’ll need cucumbers, fresh dill, a bit of salt, and some lemon juice or vinegar for that extra zing.

To make it, slice the cucumbers and toss them with chopped dill, salt, and your choice of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it chilled for the best taste!

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Dip

A plate of crispy sweet potato fries served with a spicy dip.

Sweet potato fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular fries. Their vibrant orange color makes them visually appealing, and they bring a unique flavor to any meal. These crispy delights are not just a side dish; they can steal the show!

Pairing them with a spicy dip adds an exciting kick. The creamy texture of the dip complements the crunchiness of the fries perfectly. You can easily whip up a dip using ingredients like mayonnaise, hot sauce, and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing.

To make sweet potato fries, start by cutting sweet potatoes into thin strips. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices. Bake until crispy, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to enjoy!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

A dish of roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon pieces on top.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon make a fantastic side dish for any fish fry. The combination of crispy, caramelized sprouts and savory bacon creates a delightful flavor profile that pairs perfectly with fried fish.

To make this dish, start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast until golden brown. In the last few minutes of cooking, add chopped bacon to the pan. This allows the bacon to crisp up and infuse the sprouts with its smoky flavor.

Once everything is cooked, serve the Brussels sprouts hot. They add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor that complements the fish beautifully. Plus, they are easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Grilled asparagus with lemon zest on a plate

Grilled asparagus is a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with fish fry. The bright green spears bring a fresh crunch to your meal. When grilled, they develop a smoky flavor that complements the rich taste of fried fish.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh asparagus, olive oil, salt, and lemon zest. Start by trimming the ends of the asparagus and tossing them in olive oil and salt. Grill them until they are tender and slightly charred. Just before serving, sprinkle some lemon zest on top for a burst of citrus flavor.

This simple preparation highlights the natural taste of the asparagus while adding a zesty kick. It’s a great way to balance out the heaviness of fried foods. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate, making your meal not only tasty but visually appealing too!

Classic Potato Salad with Eggs

A bowl of classic potato salad with diced potatoes and hard-boiled eggs, garnished with herbs.

Classic potato salad with eggs is a staple at many gatherings, especially fish fries. This dish combines tender potatoes with creamy dressing, making it a perfect side. The image shows a bowl filled with diced potatoes, likely mixed with herbs and spices, giving it a fresh look.

The addition of hard-boiled eggs adds richness and protein, making the salad more satisfying. The yellow yolks peek through, hinting at the creamy texture that awaits. This salad is not just tasty; it’s also colorful, thanks to the herbs sprinkled throughout.

To make this classic dish, you’ll need potatoes, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then chop them into cubes. Hard-boil the eggs, peel, and chop them as well. Mix everything together with the mayo and mustard, and season to taste. Chill before serving for the best flavor.

This potato salad pairs wonderfully with crispy fish, adding a creamy contrast to the meal. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, making it a favorite for many.

Crispy Onion Rings with Ranch Dressing

A stack of crispy onion rings served with ranch dressing

Crispy onion rings are a classic side that pairs perfectly with fish fry. Their golden-brown color and crunchy texture make them irresistible. When stacked high on a plate, they create a mouthwatering sight that invites everyone to dig in.

The rings are often made from fresh onions, sliced and dipped in a seasoned batter before being fried to perfection. This method gives them that satisfying crunch that complements the softness of fried fish.

Serving these onion rings with ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy flavor that enhances the overall experience. The cool ranch contrasts nicely with the hot, crispy rings, making each bite a delightful treat.

For a fun twist, consider adding spices to the batter or trying different dipping sauces. This way, you can customize your onion rings to suit your taste. They are not just a side; they can be a star on your plate!

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