BBQ shrimp, renowned for its smoky, spicy flavors and tender texture, is a popular choice for outdoor gatherings and casual dinners. To complement the bold flavors of BBQ shrimp, a variety of sides, sauces, and beverages can elevate your meal to the next level. This comprehensive guide explores the best accompaniments to serve with BBQ shrimp, helping you create a memorable dining experience.
Classic Sides
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a timeless side that pairs exceptionally well with BBQ shrimp. Their savory, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce and hearty texture offer a satisfying contrast to the smoky, spicy shrimp. The richness of baked beans complements the shrimp without overwhelming its delicate flavors.
Cornbread
Cornbread, with its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture, makes an excellent accompaniment to BBQ shrimp. The contrast between the moist, buttery cornbread and the smoky shrimp enhances the overall dining experience. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for an added touch of comfort.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ shrimp. The crisp cabbage, dressed in a tangy, creamy sauce, adds a crunchy texture and a hint of brightness that balances the smoky shrimp. Opt for a vinegar-based slaw for a lighter alternative or a creamy version for added richness.
Macaroni and Cheese
Creamy macaroni and cheese is a decadent side dish that pairs wonderfully with BBQ shrimp. The cheesy, comforting appeal of this dish complements the bold, smoky flavors of the shrimp, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Consider adding a touch of spice to the mac and cheese to echo the flavors of the BBQ shrimp.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side that works well with BBQ shrimp. Its creamy potatoes, crunchy celery, and tangy dressing provide a satisfying balance to the shrimp's spiciness. Whether you prefer a traditional version with mayonnaise or a lighter option with a vinegar-based dressing, potato salad is a versatile choice.
Grains and Starches
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes offer a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with BBQ shrimp. The creamy, buttery texture and the subtle garlic flavor enhance the smoky shrimp without overshadowing it. This classic pairing adds a hearty element to your meal.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob, whether grilled or steamed, is a simple and delicious option to serve alongside BBQ shrimp. Its natural sweetness complements the smoky flavors of the shrimp, while its crisp texture adds a pleasant contrast. Brush the corn with a bit of butter and a sprinkle of salt for extra flavor.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf, with its sautéed vegetables and herbs, offers a light and flavorful accompaniment to BBQ shrimp. The fluffy texture and savory flavors of the rice pilaf add depth to the meal while providing a neutral base that allows the shrimp's smoky spices to shine.
Vegetable Sides
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant make a smoky and savory side dish that complements BBQ shrimp perfectly. The charred flavors of the vegetables enhance the richness of the shrimp, creating a harmonious and balanced plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese add a flavorful and crunchy element to your BBQ shrimp meal. Their nutty flavor and caramelized edges provide a delicious contrast to the shrimp's smoky, spicy profile.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers, filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices, offer a hearty and satisfying side dish for BBQ shrimp. The robust flavors and substantial filling of the peppers complement the shrimp's smoky profile, making for a well-rounded meal.
Sauces and Condiments
BBQ Sauce
A tangy and smoky BBQ sauce is a must-have condiment for BBQ shrimp. Whether homemade or store-bought, BBQ sauce enhances the shrimp's flavor and adds a delightful kick. Opt for a sauce with a balance of sweetness and tanginess to complement the shrimp's spiciness.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Honey mustard sauce, with its sweet and tangy flavors, provides a delicious dipping option for BBQ shrimp. Its creamy texture pairs well with the smoky shrimp, offering a contrasting flavor profile that enhances the overall dining experience.
Chipotle Aioli
Chipotle aioli, a spicy and creamy sauce made with chipotle peppers and mayonnaise, adds a bold kick to BBQ shrimp. The smoky flavors of the aioli complement the shrimp, while its creamy texture provides a rich contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
Salads
Tomato Basil Salad
Tomato basil salad, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and a balsamic glaze, is a classic and refreshing accompaniment to BBQ shrimp. The bright, fresh flavors of the salad provide a light and vibrant contrast to the rich and smoky shrimp.
Green Bean Salad
Green bean salad, with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing, offers a refreshing and crisp side dish for BBQ shrimp. The salad's bright flavors and crunchy texture balance the shrimp's smokiness, adding a light and flavorful element to the meal.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad, featuring roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette dressing, provides a nutritious and light option to pair with BBQ shrimp. The quinoa's fluffy texture and the salad's citrusy flavors offer a refreshing contrast to the smoky shrimp.
Desserts
Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler, with its buttery crust and sweet peach filling, is a comforting and delightful dessert choice to end your BBQ shrimp meal. The fruity flavors of the cobbler provide a pleasant and refreshing finish to the smoky, savory shrimp.
Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie, with its tangy citrus filling and graham cracker crust, offers a refreshing and zesty dessert option after BBQ shrimp. The creamy texture and tart flavors of the pie cleanse the palate and provide a light, satisfying end to the meal.
Chocolate Brownies
Chocolate brownies, with their rich cocoa flavor and fudgy texture, are a decadent and indulgent dessert choice for BBQ shrimp. Their sweet and intense chocolate flavor provides a satisfying and memorable conclusion to your meal.
Beverages
Beer
A cold beer, such as a lager or pale ale, is an excellent choice to complement BBQ shrimp. The crispness and carbonation of the beer cleanse the palate between bites, while its light flavor profile enhances the smoky and spicy notes of the shrimp.
Iced Tea
Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, offers a refreshing and cooling beverage option for BBQ shrimp. Its mild flavor and chilled temperature provide a pleasant contrast to the warmth and spiciness of the shrimp.
Sangria
Sangria, with its fruity flavors and hint of sweetness, is a festive and refreshing pairing for BBQ shrimp. The vibrant and zesty qualities of sangria enhance the dining experience, offering a delightful complement to the smoky shrimp.
Conclusion
BBQ shrimp is a versatile and flavorful dish that pairs well with a wide range of sides, sauces, and beverages. Whether you prefer classic accompaniments like coleslaw and cornbread or more adventurous options like chipotle aioli and quinoa salad, there are countless possibilities to enhance your BBQ shrimp experience. Experiment with these suggestions to find your favorite combinations and enjoy the smoky, spicy flavors of BBQ shrimp to their fullest.
