25+ Best Sides for Fried Fish

Fried fish is an easy dinner to make for the family that can go well with a ton of different sides.

You can fry nearly any type of fish. In the South, fried catfish is a hugely popular dish and catfish has a unique flavor. However, you can also fry whitefish and other types of fish. When it comes to the best sides for fried fish, you can serve nearly anything

Whether you want something healthy or you’re looking for something satiating, these sides for fish will please any palate.

Mac,And,Cheese

Fried fish has long been a popular dish, enjoyed by people around the world. It holds a special place in many cultures, with traditions and techniques passed down through generations. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, fried fish is undoubtedly delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience to new heights.

Choosing the ideal side dishes to complement fried fish may seem challenging, but there are countless options available to create a well-balanced, satisfying meal. Sides can not only enhance the flavor profile of the dish but also add contrasting textures that further highlight the fish’s delectable qualities. From refreshing salads to mouthwatering starches, these accompaniments are worth exploring.

An important aspect to consider when selecting sides is the type of fish being served. Some fried fish, such as catfish or tilapia, have a milder taste and can be paired with bolder, more flavorful sides. Meanwhile, more robust fish like salmon or cod may benefit from lighter, subtler accompaniments. This ensures that the flavors on the plate work harmoniously and create a memorable dish that both fish enthusiasts and newcomers alike can appreciate.

What Sides are Good with Fish?

There are a ton of side dishes for fried fish that you’ll be able to cook up for the family in a short amount of time.

Even better, is that these seafood side dishes taste just as good as any other sides you might make for your meal.

Feel comfort by making a side of classic french fries or try some more seafood-oriented sides like hush puppies.

If you’re wondering what goes with fried fish, consider something lighter like coleslaw or roasted cauliflower.

You can’t go wrong serving this list of side dishes for fish on your next cookout.

You’ll find out the best ways to serve these sides as well as some good tips on how to make them even easier to make.

What Vegetables go well with Fish?

If you want something healthy but don’t know what to serve with fish, you can make practically any veggie and it will go well.

Broccoli, zucchini, carrots, or a fresh salad will all pair perfectly when you’re cooking up some fresh fish.

Healthier Fish Sides

Source: recipetineats.com

1. ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

There’s nothing easier and more classic than roasted cauliflower.

You can play around with different spices, but adding in some lemon juice will brighten it up even more.

Roast the cauliflower until it’s nice and brown to make sure that each bite has flavor.

It’s simple and doesn’t take any time to prepare at all. That’s especially true if you buy yourself some pre-cut cauliflower.

Just put it in a pan with some olive oil and salt and wait for it to roast in the oven.

Source: melaniecooks.com

2. STEAMED BROCCOLI

Steamed broccoli is one of the best sides you can make with your fish fillet because it’s packed full of nutrients.

It doesn’t have to be served hot, but having some warm broccoli next to your fish will give it a great taste.

You can serve steamed broccoli as is or put butter on top for even more flavor.

Source: ambitiouskitchen.com

3. PEACH SALSA

Salsa is a great addition to fish, especially when you throw in some peaches.

Peach salsa is unique because it has a hint of sweetness, but you can spice it up with jalapenos or serranos if you want more heat.

This salsa is also great because it’s totally customizable; throw in some cucumber to make it even fresher for your next potluck.

Source: spendwithpennies.com

4. CORN AND TOMATO SALAD

When you need a light and refreshing salad, try this corn and tomato salad.

It’s very colorful and tastes even better than it looks. The fresh herbs really make the flavors pop.

If you really want the flavors to meld together, throw in a little garlic and onion and let everything sit for about 30 minutes before serving.

EASY SIDE DISHES

Source: iamafoodblog.com

5. MAC N CHEESE

Nothing will satisfy your taste buds as much as this cheesy mac and cheese recipe.

It’s quick and easy to make and it’ll be something that everyone will enjoy.

You can even add some bacon to make it more savory.

The best part about mac n cheese is its versatility. You can make it kid-friendly by adding in cheddar or mixing up some gruyere for more richness.

No matter what you do, you’re going to end up with a side that tastes great when served with fish.

Source: frompastatopaleo.com

6. EASY GREEN PEAS WITH MINT VINAIGRETTE

It doesn’t matter whether you use fresh or frozen peas, this recipe is super easy to make.

Just use a blender for the sauce and you’ll have your sides ready in minutes.

The mint vinaigrette is great if you want something that has a little extra flavor but also pairs well with the peas.

Source: layersofhappiness.com

7. BAKED BEANS

Looking for a hearty side to pair with your fried fish?

This baked beans recipe has everything you need for the perfect side dish.

It’s sweet and tangy, just like any good baked beans recipe should be.

This is one of those recipes where you can change the seasonings to your liking so that it tastes just right for your palate.

Source: dinneratthezoo.com

8. FRIED CORN WITH BACON

Corn is light and refreshing so when you pair it with some savory bacon, the flavors blend perfectly.

Throw in some herbs to make the flavors all come together seamlessly and it’s ready to serve for your fried fish dish.

Source: shaneandsimple.com

9. COLESLAW

Coleslaw is the perfect side for fish because it balances the heavy batter flavor with the light and crisp cabbage.

Add in your favorite mayo and mustard and you’ll have a tangy side that’s great to serve during the summer grilling season.

You can also add in some green onion and celery if you want to try out a new recipe or just keep it simple.

If you’re looking for some more flavor, try using lime or lemon juice instead of vinegar.

The best part about coleslaw is that it’s so easy to make. No matter how busy things get in the kitchen, you can have some coleslaw ready before your fish gets made.

Source: thespruceeats.com

10. MICROWAVE MASHED POTATOES

Mashed potatoes can take some time, but when you need a quick side, you can make some mashed potatoes in the microwave.

It’s simple to make and it tastes just as good as any other type of side dish.

You can add in some salt and pepper or even garlic for a little extra flavor.

If you’re looking to get creative with your mashed potatoes, you might want to try adding some cheese for extra richness.

Make sure to stir it up occasionally so that you don’t end up with any lumps.

Source: kitchenfunwithmy3sons.com

11. HUSH PUPPIES

There are few sides better with fish than hush puppies.

It’s a simple recipe and it’s really easy to make, but you can also jazz them up with some shrimp or even just butter on top.

Make sure the hush puppies are crispy outside and soft inside so that they pair well with your fish.

You can even buy a bag of frozen hush puppies to make your life easier than having to make them all from scratch.

FRIED CATFISH SIDES

Source: mylatinatable.com

12. ONION RINGS

This is another classic side you can mix into your rotation when it’s time for some fried fish.

Who can deny fried food with fried food? If you already have the fryer out, then this is the perfect time to make some onion rings.

Add some seasonings to your batter to really make the flavor pop.

Make some homemade sauce so that you can dip these delicious onion rings when they are ready to serve.

Source: aliyahsrecipesandtips.com

13. CRISPY POTATO WEDGES

If you’re tired of serving up french fries with your fried fish, you should try this recipe instead.

It’s a simple dish where you coat up some potato wedges in olive oil and then bake them in the oven.

You can add rosemary or thyme for more flavor, but they will taste just fine without any extra seasoning.

When it’s finished, these potatoes will have a nice crisp crust with a soft middle.

Serve them up with some great homemade sauce to make them irresistible.

Source: therecipecritic.com

14. AIR FRYER FRENCH FRIES

There’s no easier way to make french fries than by making them in the air fryer.

All you need to do is cut up a few potatoes and put them in the fryer basket.

When they come out, sprinkle on some salt for seasoning and you’re all set.

You can also dress these fries up with spices of your choice to give them even more flavor.

Source: thestayathomechef.com

15. SALT AND VINEGAR POTATO CHIPS

Sure, you can buy salt and vinegar chips at the store but try making them at home.

They have the same crispness as any other bag of chips, but they have more flavor.

The great thing about making these potatoes at home is that you can adjust the seasoning to your liking to get just the right amount of vinegar or salt.

VEGETABLE SIDE DISHES

Source: melskitchencafe.com

16. SIMPLE SKILLET GREEN BEANS

Green beans are an easy vegetable to cook up and they are a great side for fried fish.

You can fry them up in the pan so they have some crispy bits, but you don’t want to overcook them or they will lose all of their flavors.

All you need is some olive oil along with salt and pepper for seasoning.

Source: foodiepost.com

17. SOUS VIDE ZUCCHINI

Zucchini can be tricky to make and that’s why using sous vide makes it so much easier.

You just put the zucchini in a bag with some oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices.

When you’re finished, simply sear up the zucchini to get that nice char and serve it up alongside your fried fish.

This is a really healthy side that you can make a ton of to use for other meals throughout the week.

They don’t take a ton of work to make and they are extremely good for you and the family to add to your meals.

Source: momsdish.com

18. AIR FRYER ASPARAGUS

Asparagus doesn’t have to take a long time in the oven to make, you can just make it in the air fryer.

They’ll come out nice and crispy with a little bit of seasoning sprinkled on top.

Serve these up as a side with any type of breaded fish or even alongside some steak for a change of pace.

SIDE SAUCES FOR FISH

Source: copykat.com

19. ARBY’S HORSEY SAUCE

Horseradish has a great flavor that can really make your fish shine.

Not many people make this sauce at home because the ingredients are not the easiest to find, but you can use a pre-made horseradish sauce recipe if you cannot get your hands on the real thing.

This classic Arby’s sauce can be made right at home and takes practically no time to complete.

You can even store it in your fridge for up to 3 days, so don’t be afraid to make a little extra.

Source: thehungrybluebird.com

20. TARTAR SAUCE

You don’t need to go to the store in order to make some killer tartar sauce.

It’s basically like making mayonnaise, but you make it with pickles to keep the flavor interesting.

Add some lemon juice for acidity and then serve this sauce up with fried fish or any other type of breaded food for that matter.

Source: razzledazzlelife.com

21. SEAFOOD SAUCE

When you need a sauce that packs in the flavor, this recipe will take your fish to the next level.

You have a ton of spices and flavors in this sauce so it’s easy to see why it pairs so well with a fresh fish that is light.

Making this sauce at home is perfect because you can mix up the ingredients to match your taste buds.

Even if you make a little extra it’s even better because then you’ll have some leftovers for the next meal you make.

Source: recipefairy.com

22. WINGSTOP RANCH SAUCE

Ranch is another sauce you can make right at home with this recipe.

Some people enjoy tartar sauce, but ranch actually goes great with fried fish.

You can use this sauce as a dressing to give your breaded food even more flavor.

It’s one of the best sauces you can use for any type of breading, so it should be part of your recipe collection.

Just make sure you make a ton because this sauce can go pretty quickly.

Mac,And,Cheese

Our BEST 25+ Sides for Fried Fish (+Roasted Cauliflower)

These recipes are sure to please. So, gather your family and friends and enjoy. Let us know your thoughts!
5 from 8 votes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 221 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cauliflower head cut into bite-sized florets
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2.5 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon parsley
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 3 Tablespoons Panko crumbs
  • 2 Tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Toss cauliflower with the other ingredients.
  • Bake in 425°F oven for 25 minutes.

Notes

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Nutrition

Calories: 221kcal
Keyword roasted cauliflower, sides for fried fish
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