What Goes with Shrimp Cocktail: 33+ Perfect Side Dishes
Are you wondering what goes with shrimp cocktail? I’ve got you covered! From crispy crackers to fresh salads, I’ll show you the best side dishes that make shrimp cocktail even better.
These delicious side dishes will turn your appetizer into a complete meal. Whether you’re planning a party or just want to jazz up your dinner, these pairings are perfect.
I’ve tested these combinations myself, and your guests will love them too!
What is Shrimp Cocktail?
Shrimp cocktail is a tasty appetizer that people love! Mexican shrimp cocktail version adds extra spice with hot sauce. The tender shrimp and tangy sauce make it perfect for parties. You need good side dishes to make it even better!
What Goes with Shrimp Cocktail?
Let me show you amazing sides for your shrimp cocktail! I’ve grouped them into salads, bread, vegetables, unique sides, hearty options, and appetizers. Each one brings something special to your table. You’ll find something perfect here!
Salads That Complement Shrimp Cocktail
Fresh salads make shrimp cocktail even better! They add color and crunch to your plate. Here are my favorite salad pairings that I’ve tried:
- Classic Potato Salad: I love how creamy potato salad balances the tangy shrimp cocktail sauce. The soft potatoes and crunchy celery create amazing textures. It’s filling and refreshing at the same time!
- Macaroni Salad: This cool and creamy pasta salad is perfect with shrimp. The mayo-based dressing complements the cocktail sauce. Your guests will keep coming back for more!
- Avocado Salad: The buttery avocado chunks with lime juice are amazing with shrimp. I add red onions and cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. It’s fresh and fancy!
- Green Bean Salad: Crispy green beans with almonds add great crunch. The light vinaigrette dressing works well with seafood. It’s healthy and tasty!
- Tomato Cucumber Corn Salad: This colorful mix brings summer vibes to your plate. The sweet corn and juicy tomatoes are perfect with shrimp. It’s so refreshing!
- Chickpea Salad: The protein-packed chickpeas make this filling. I add bell peppers and herbs for extra flavor. It’s great for bigger appetites!
- Watermelon and Feta Salad: Sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese create magic together. The mint leaves make it super fresh. It’s unexpected but delicious!
Looking for more salad ideas? Check out our salad guide list!
Bread and Crackers for Shrimp Cocktail
Want something crunchy with your shrimp cocktail? These breads and crackers are perfect for scooping up sauce or creating tasty combinations. Let me share my favorite picks!
- Zesty Ritz Crackers: I love how these buttery crackers add zip to shrimp cocktail! The light, flaky texture makes them perfect for nibbling. When I serve these at parties, they disappear fast. The slight saltiness brings out the sweetness of the shrimp perfectly.
- Ranch Oyster Crackers: These tiny crackers pack big flavor! I season them with ranch mix for extra punch. They’re great for scooping up cocktail sauce. Your guests will love munching on these between bites of shrimp.
- Prawn Crackers: These light-as-air Asian crackers bring fun crunch to your plate! They puff up beautifully and have a subtle seafood taste. I find they make the perfect themed pairing with shrimp cocktail.
- Saltine Crackers: Sometimes simple is best! These classic crackers let the shrimp flavor shine. They’re perfect for making mini shrimp bites. Plus, they’re great for soaking up any extra cocktail sauce.
- Cornbread: Warm, sweet cornbread adds Southern comfort to your appetizer spread. I love serving it slightly warm with shrimp cocktail. The honey notes complement the seafood wonderfully.
- Cheese Bread: This savory bread brings creamy, rich flavors to your plate. The melted cheese pairs surprisingly well with cold shrimp. I often serve it slightly toasted for the best texture.
- Cloud Bread: Looking for a low-carb option? This light, airy bread is perfect! It’s soft and fluffy like a cloud. The mild flavor lets the shrimp cocktail stay the star.
Want more bread pairing ideas? Check out what to serve with focaccia!
Vegetable Sides for Shrimp Cocktail
Looking for healthy sides for shrimp cocktail? These veggie options add color and nutrients to your plate. They’re fresh and light!
- Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: These cheesy spears are always a hit at my parties! The roasted flavor works magic with shrimp cocktail. I love how the crispy parmesan adds extra zip. It’s fancy but so simple!
- Celery Sticks: Fresh celery brings amazing crunch to your shrimp platter! I love how the clean, crisp taste works with cocktail sauce. Plus, it’s super healthy and easy to prepare. The natural saltiness pairs perfectly with sweet shrimp.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness to every bite! I drizzle mine with lime juice to keep them fresh. The buttery texture makes such a nice contrast with the firm shrimp. Your guests will love this combo!
- Broccoli Slaw: This crunchy slaw brings fresh flavor and great texture! The tangy dressing complements the cocktail sauce perfectly. It’s a healthier take on traditional coleslaw that everyone enjoys.
- Garlic Zucchini Parmesan: Tender zucchini slices with garlic and cheese make an amazing side! The Italian flavors work surprisingly well with shrimp. I love serving this warm while the shrimp stays cold.
- Grilled Mushrooms: These juicy mushrooms add such rich flavor to your spread! I season them simply with herbs and butter. They’re perfect for guests who want something hearty with their shrimp.
Unique Sides That Go with Shrimp Cocktail
Want to wow your guests with something different? These creative sides bring exciting flavors to your shrimp cocktail spread. Each one adds a special touch!
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips bring Mexican flair to shrimp cocktail! The salty crunch works great with cocktail sauce. Some people love dipping them in Mexican shrimp cocktails. These chips make perfect scoopers for any sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Zucchini: These cheesy zucchini slices are a game-changer! I love how the garlic adds zip while parmesan brings richness. The tender crisp texture works perfectly with shrimp. Your guests will ask for the recipe!
- Creamy Coleslaw: This isn’t your average coleslaw! I make mine with a tangy dressing that complements the cocktail sauce. The crunchy cabbage and carrots add great texture. It’s refreshing and creamy!
- Asparagus Soup: This smooth, velvety soup is amazing with a shrimp cocktail! I serve it in small cups for elegant sipping. The green color looks beautiful next to the pink shrimp. It’s fancy but simple!
- Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins: These spicy-sweet muffins bring Southern charm to your table! The kick from jalapenos works great with seafood. I love serving them warm with butter. They’re always a crowd favorite!
- Creamed Corn: This rich, sweet side dish is pure comfort food! The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the firm shrimp. I add a touch of black pepper for extra zip. It’s surprisingly perfect!
Looking for more unique sides? Check out our side dishes for teriyaki salmon!
Hearty Sides That Pair with Shrimp Cocktail
Need something more filling? These substantial sides turn your appetizer into a complete meal. They’re perfect for bigger appetites!
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are packed with flavor! I stuff them with herbs and cheese for maximum taste. They’re warm and satisfying next to cold shrimp. Everyone loves these little flavor bombs!
- Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of creamy potato goodness complement shrimp perfectly! The rich sauce and tender potatoes make it extra special. I add extra cheese on top for golden brown perfection.
- Chicken Spaghetti: This comforting pasta dish makes your appetizer a meal! The creamy sauce works surprisingly well with cocktail sauce. I love how it fills up hungry guests.
- Chicken Broccoli Casserole: Warm, cheesy, and loaded with veggies – what’s not to love? The broccoli adds nutrition while the chicken makes it filling. It’s perfect for dinner parties!
- Chili Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes have amazing seasoning! I serve them warm with a cool shrimp cocktail. The temperature contrast makes every bite interesting. They’re simple but impressive!
- Polenta with Marinara Sauce: Creamy polenta brings Italian flair to your spread! The marinara sauce adds a bright flavor that works with cocktail sauce. It’s unexpected but delicious!
Need more hearty sides? See our side dishes for beef wellington!
Appetizers as Sides to Serve with Shrimp Cocktail
Want more appetizers to create an amazing spread? These tasty bites work perfectly alongside shrimp cocktail. They’ll make your party extra special!
- Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy outside, melty inside – these are always a hit! The creamy cheese gives a nice break between shrimp bites. I serve them with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Jiffy Cornbread Hush Puppies: These golden bites bring Southern charm to your table! I love how crispy they are outside and fluffy inside. The sweet corn flavor works great with seafood. They’re perfect for dipping in cocktail sauce!
- Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This warm, creamy dip is perfect with shrimp cocktail! The cheesy goodness and tender vegetables add variety to your spread. Everyone loves dunking crackers in this!
- Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes and garlic on toasted bread bring Italian flair! The bright flavors complement the seafood beautifully. I love the texture contrast with the shrimp.
- Deviled Eggs: These creamy bites are classic party food! The tangy filling works surprisingly well with shrimp cocktail. They’re easy to make and always disappear fast.
Looking to elevate your appetizers? Check out our easy dipping sauce recipes!
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what goes with shrimp cocktail! From fresh salads to warm bread, there’s something for every taste. Mix and match these sides to create your perfect spread.
Remember, the best combinations are ones you enjoy! Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together, these sides will make your shrimp cocktail shine.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new pairings. Your guests will love exploring all these delicious options!
