What to Serve with Fish Sticks: 20+ Easy Side Dishes
Looking for the perfect sides to serve with fish sticks? I’ve got you covered!
These crispy seafood bites provide me as a busy parent with quick solutions for easy dinner preparation.
Fish sticks become a family favorite dinner when accompanied by the right side dishes.
The following guide presents my favorite side dishes starting from traditional fries to colorful vegetable options. They will elevate your fish stick dinner experience.
These delicious side dishes will eliminate any doubt about what to serve with fish sticks in your meals.
What Are Fish Sticks?
These golden-crusted strips of fish, are a popular finger food among kids and adults. Made from white fish like cod or pollock, they’re coated in crispy breadcrumbs and quick-frozen. I love keeping them in my freezer for those hectic weeknight dinners.
What to Serve with Fish Sticks?
You can enjoy plenty of sides with your fish ticks plate. Let’s find everything from crispy fries to fresh salads, hearty sides to light vegetables and some amazing dips that’ll make your fish sticks shine.
Dipping Sauces
No fish stick dinner is complete without some amazing dips! These sauces take your meal from good to absolutely fantastic.
- Tartar Sauce: Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced with pickles and herbs. This classic fish companion brings zesty flavor to every bite. I make mine with extra dill pickles because that’s how my family likes it best.
- Garlic Aioli: Rich, creamy, and packed with roasted garlic flavor that elevates simple fish sticks. I love adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Creamy mayo gets a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds. It’s become our family’s favorite dipping sauce.
- Creamy Honey Mustard: Sweet meets tangy in this golden sauce that kids and adults both love. The smooth, creamy texture makes it perfect for dipping.
- Homemade Ketchup: Skip the bottle and try this fresh version packed with tomato goodness. Once you try homemade, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought.
Classic Comfort Side Dishes
These timeless favorites never fail to please. I’ve found that these comfort foods are perfect for turning simple fish sticks into a cozy, satisfying meal that brings back childhood memories.
Homemade French Fries
The ultimate crispy companion that never disappoints. I love how the golden-brown exterior gives way to a fluffy potato inside.
My kids always light up when they see these on their plates alongside fish sticks. A sprinkle of salt, and you’re good to go!
Tater Tots
These crispy potato bites are pure joy on a plate. Pop them in the oven while cooking your fish sticks, and you’ll have perfectly crispy tots ready at the same time.
They’re like little nuggets of happiness that everyone fights over at my dinner table.
Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with the crispy fish. The smooth, velvety texture creates an amazing contrast.
My secret? Adding a handful of extra sharp cheddar on top before baking for that perfect crusty top.
Garlic Bread
Warm, buttery, and aromatic, this simple side adds an irresistible touch to your meal.
The garlicky aroma fills the kitchen as it toasts, and those crispy edges are absolutely divine. Perfect for soaking up any sauce on your plate!
Healthy Vegetable Sides
Adding some colorful veggies to your plate isn’t just healthy – it’s delicious! These simple sides add nutrition and bright flavors that complement fish sticks perfectly.
Steamed Broccoli
These little green trees soak up sauces like champions.
A quick steam, a pat of butter, and a pinch of salt transform them into the perfect healthy side.
My family loves how the florets catch every drop of tartar sauce.
Glazed Carrots
Sweet and tender coins of carrots coated in a buttery honey glaze that melts in your mouth.
I love how the natural sweetness comes out when they’re cooked just right. My kids think they’re eating candy, but it’s just vegetables in disguise!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These aren’t your grandmother’s Brussels sprouts! A hot oven turns them golden and sweet, with crispy outer leaves.
A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt make them absolutely irresistible.
Grilled Asparagus
These tender spears add elegance to your fish stick dinner.
A quick toss in olive oil and a few minutes on the grill bring out their natural sweetness. The slightly charred tips are my favorite part!
Steamed Green Beans
Fresh and crisp, these bright beans add a pop of color and nutrition.
A quick steam keeps them tender-crisp, and a touch of butter makes them shine. They’re perfect for dipping in any sauce left on your plate.
Sauteed Peas
Sweet little green gems that brighten up any plate. A quick sauté with butter and a pinch of salt is all they need.
Sometimes I add a touch of mint for extra freshness that works surprisingly well with fish sticks.
Savory and Crispy Sides
When you’re craving something with extra crunch, these crispy sides will take your fish stick dinner to the next level. Each option adds a delightful texture that complements the crispy coating of fish sticks.
Onion Rings
Sweet onions wrapped in golden-brown batter create the perfect crunchy bite. I love the satisfying crackle when you bite into these rings.
They’re even better when dipped in tartar sauce alongside your fish sticks. My family always fights over the last few pieces!
Hush Puppies
These Southern cornmeal delights bring warmth and comfort to any fish dinner.
The crispy outside gives way to a tender, slightly sweet interior that’ll make you reach for more.
I found these at a seaside restaurant and now they’re a must-have at home.
Mozzarella Sticks
Melty cheese wrapped in a crispy coating makes everything better! The stretchy cheese pull when you take a bite is pure magic.
These are my kids’ favorite treat, and they’re perfect for dipping in marinara sauce between bites of fish sticks.
Zucchini Fries
A healthier twist on regular fries that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The crispy coating and tender zucchini inside create an amazing contrast.
I love how these sneak extra vegetables onto the plate while still feeling like a treat.
Light and Refreshing Salads
Balance out your meal with these fresh and vibrant salads. They add color, crunch, and a light touch to complement your fish sticks perfectly.
Coleslaw
Crisp cabbage and carrots in creamy dressing bring a cool, tangy crunch to your plate.
The creamy texture perfectly balances the crispy fish sticks. My secret ingredient is a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar for extra zing.
Cucumber Dill Salad
Cool, crisp cucumber slices tossed with fresh dill and a light vinaigrette create the perfect refreshing bite.
This simple salad brings a touch of elegance to your fish stick dinner. The fresh herbs make everything taste garden-fresh.
Simple Green Salad
Fresh lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumber create a rainbow on your plate. A light vinaigrette ties everything together perfectly.
You can add whatever veggies you have on hand – I love throwing in some crunchy bell peppers.
Fresh Fruit Salad
Sweet, juicy fruits add a surprising and delightful contrast to savory fish sticks. Mix seasonal fruits for the best flavor.
I love combining crisp apples, juicy oranges, and sweet grapes. The natural sweetness is refreshing and satisfying.
Hearty and Filling Dishes
Sometimes you need something substantial to make your meal complete. These filling sides will satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Baked Beans
Savory navy beans with cut bacon slow-cooked to perfection make any meal feel like a backyard barbecue.
The rich sauce creates the perfect contrast to crispy fish sticks. My grandmother’s recipe adds a touch of maple syrup for extra warmth.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery clouds of potato comfort make everything better. I love adding a little garlic and sour cream for extra flavor.
The smooth texture is perfect with crispy fish sticks, and they’re great for soaking up any sauce.
Herb Buttered Corn on the Cob
Sweet, juicy kernels slathered in melting butter and herbs bring summer vibes to your plate.
There’s something so satisfying about biting into fresh corn. I love grilling mine when the weather permits – it adds an amazing smoky flavor.
Cheesy Grits
Creamy, cheesy comfort in every spoonful makes this Southern classic irresistible.
The smooth, rich texture creates a perfect base for crispy fish sticks.
Adding sharp cheddar gives them an extra punch of flavor that everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
You’ve now got a whole arsenal of delicious sides to serve with your fish sticks! Mix and match these options to create your perfect meal.
Some days you might crave the comfort of mac and cheese, while others call for light and crispy vegetables.
Don’t be afraid to try new combinations – that’s how you’ll discover your family’s favorites.
Remember, the best side dishes are the ones that make you excited to sit down for dinner, so have fun exploring these options!
