Are you looking for the perfect side dish for seafood boil? In this post, we’ll be exploring some mouthwatering options that will elevate your seafood boil to the next level. From classic favorites like corn on the cob and potatoes to more unique options like coleslaw and jambalaya, we’ve got you covered.
A classic side dish for a seafood boil is corn on the cob and potatoes. Another great side dish to complement a seafood boil is a simple green salad, which can be dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or lemon juice.
Some people also like to serve melted butter or garlic butter with their seafood boil, which can be used as a dipping sauce for seafood and vegetables. Additionally, you could also serve a variety of sauces such as remoulade, aioli, or cocktail sauce for your guests to choose from.
Best side dishes to serve with seafood boil
When it comes to pairing side dishes with a seafood boil, there are a few options that are particularly well-suited to complement the flavors of the seafood and other ingredients in the boil.
1. One classic side dish that pairs well with a seafood boil is corn on the cob. The sweet and buttery flavor of the corn complements the delicate flavor of the seafood, and the texture of the corn adds an enjoyable crunch to the meal.
2. Another popular side dish for seafood boil is potatoes, either boiled or roasted. They can add a nice starchy element to the meal and can soak up any sauce or broth that is present in the boil.
3. Coleslaw is another popular side dish for seafood boil. The cool, crisp, and tangy flavor of coleslaw can offer a nice contrast to the richness of the seafood, and the crunch of the cabbage and other vegetables can also provide a nice texture contrast.
4. Hush puppies are also a traditional side dish that can be served with a seafood boil. This fried cornmeal balls are often seasoned with onions and sometimes jalapeño and green peppers, adding a nice crunch and a little bit of heat to the meal.
5. Bread rolls can also be served as a side dish to soak up any excess sauce or broth. They can also be buttered and toasted to add some extra flavor and texture to the meal.
6. Green salad is another great side dish, which can be dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or lemon juice. This can add a nice freshness and balance to the meal.
Additionally, it’s always great to offer a variety of sauces such as remoulade, aioli, or cocktail sauce for your guests to choose from, and also melted butter or garlic butter for dipping, which can provide extra flavor and depth to the seafood and vegetables.
Classic side dishes for a seafood boil
Some classic side dishes for a seafood boil include:
- Corn on the cob: The sweet and buttery flavor of the corn complements the delicate flavor of the seafood, and the texture of the corn adds an enjoyable crunch to the meal.
- Potatoes: Boiled or roasted potatoes can add a nice starchy element to the meal and can soak up any sauce or broth that is present in the boil.
- Coleslaw: The cool, crisp, and tangy flavor of coleslaw can offer a nice contrast to the richness of the seafood, and the crunch of the cabbage and other vegetables can also provide a nice texture contrast.
- Hush Puppies: These fried cornmeal balls are often seasoned with onions and sometimes jalapeño and green peppers, adding a nice crunch and a little bit of heat to the meal.
- Bread rolls: These can be served as a side dish to soak up any excess sauce or broth and can also be buttered and toasted to add some extra flavor and texture to the meal.
Simple side dishes to complement a seafood boil
Simple side dishes that complement a seafood boil include:
- Lemon wedges: These can be used to squeeze over the seafood and vegetables for added acidity and freshness.
- Melted butter or garlic butter: These can be used as a dipping sauce for seafood and vegetables and add extra flavor and richness to the meal.
- Green beans or asparagus: These can be steamed or grilled and seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon juice; they add a nice freshness and balance to the meal and also provide a good source of vitamins and minerals.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables: Such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes are great options, and they add a nice smoky flavor and are a good source of vitamins and minerals.
- Rice or quinoa: These can be cooked plain or seasoned with herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil; they can add a nice starchy element to the meal and can soak up any sauce or broth that is present in the boil.
How to make corn on the cob for a seafood boil
Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs well with a seafood boil. The sweet and buttery flavor of the corn complements the delicate flavor of the seafood, and the texture of the corn adds an enjoyable crunch to the meal. Here’s a simple recipe for making corn on the cob to serve with your seafood boil.
Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add enough salt to make the water taste like seawater.
- Add the ears of corn to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the corn is tender.
- Remove the corn from the pot and let it cool slightly.
- Season the corn with salt and pepper to taste, and brush with butter or oil if desired.
- Serve the corn on the cob with your seafood boil and enjoy!
Note: you could also grill your corn on the cob if you like. To do this, simply brush the ears of corn with oil or butter and season with salt and pepper. Grill the corn over medium heat, occasionally turning, until it’s tender and slightly charred.
How to make delicious garlic butter for a seafood boil
Garlic butter is a simple and delicious sauce that can be used as a dipping sauce for seafood and vegetables, adding extra flavor and richness to the meal. Here’s a recipe for making garlic butter to serve with your seafood boil.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and roll it into a log shape. Twist the ends to seal it.
- Refrigerate the butter log for at least an hour to firm it up.
- Once the butter is firm, slice it into rounds and place them on top of the seafood or vegetables.
- If you have any leftover butter, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Another option is to melt the butter in a saucepan, add the minced garlic, and parsley and let it infuse for about a minute. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. This method is a bit quicker and can be done just before serving.
Either way, you make it, the garlic butter adds a delicious garlicky and herbaceous flavor to the seafood and vegetables, making them even more delicious.
How to make cole slaw for a seafood boil
Cole slaw is a simple and refreshing side dish that pairs well with a seafood boil. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and sliced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How to make hushpuppies for a seafood boil
Hushpuppies are a classic Southern side dish that is often served with seafood boils. They are deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, chopped onion, and beaten egg.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
- Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop small balls of batter into the hot oil.
- Fry the hushpuppies for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the hushpuppies from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve them warm, sprinkled with a little salt.
How to make red potatoes for a seafood boil
Red potatoes are a great addition to a seafood boil, as they are sturdy enough to hold up to the boiling process and have a delicate, buttery flavor. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds of red potatoes, washed and cut into quarters
- Salt
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the potatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter and minced garlic (if using) and toss the potatoes until they are coated.
- If you prefer olive oil instead of butter, add olive oil and toss the potatoes until they are coated.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) before serving.
You can enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked red potatoes with your seafood boil.
How to make cornbread for a seafood boil
Cornbread is a delicious and classic side dish that pairs well with a seafood boil. It’s a simple, warm, and buttery bread that is made with cornmeal, flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then cut it into squares and serve warm.
How to make a seafood boil seasoning
A seafood boil seasoning is a blend of spices that can be used to flavor the water in which seafood is boiled. It adds a lot of flavor and taste to the seafood and makes it more delicious. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients.
- Store the seasoning in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
- When ready to use, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the seasoning and stir well.
- Add the seafood of your choice to the pot and boil for the recommended time.
You can experiment with the seasoning and adjust the amount of each spice to suit your taste. Keep in mind that Old Bay seasoning is quite strong, so you may want to start with less and add more as needed.
How to make macaroni and cheese for a seafood boil
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs well with a seafood boil. It is creamy, cheesy, and delicious. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk, constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish and bake in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Enjoy your perfect macaroni and cheese with your seafood boil.
How to make a seafood boil sauce
A seafood boil sauce is a flavorful and tangy sauce that is often served with seafood boils. It’s made with butter, lemon juice, hot sauce, and spices. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the lemon juice, hot sauce, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Serve the sauce as a dip for the seafood or as a drizzle over the seafood.
You can adjust the amount of lemon juice, hot sauce, and spices to suit your taste. Keep in mind that Old Bay seasoning is quite strong, so you may want to start with less and add more as needed.
How to make a seafood boil salad
A seafood boil salad is a refreshing and light side dish that pairs well with a seafood boil. It’s typically made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion and topped with a vinaigrette dressing. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve the salad chilled and garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
You can experiment with the salad ingredients and add or substitute them with your favorite vegetables. You can also change the vinaigrette with your own preference, such as lemon juice and dijon mustard.
How to make green beans for a seafood boil
Green beans are a great addition to a seafood boil as they are easy to prepare and have a fresh, crisp taste. Here is a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the green beans and return them to the pot.
- Add the minced garlic and olive oil, and toss the green beans until they are coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the green beans warm.
You can also add other seasonings to the green beans, such as lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or herbs like thyme or basil.
How to make a side dish for a low-carb seafood boil
There are many low-carb side dishes that can complement a seafood boil; here is one example:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and toss with chopped parsley or cilantro (if using).
- Serve the cauliflower warm.
Cauliflower is a low-carb and low-calorie vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways, it has a mild flavor that can be enhanced with different seasonings. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy cauliflower as a side dish to a seafood boil.
Other low-carb options that can be enjoyed as side dishes with seafood boil include grilled or roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or a cauliflower rice dish.
Conclusion
There are many delicious side dishes that can complement a seafood boil. From classic options such as cole slaw and hushpuppies to low-carb options like cauliflower or a simple green salad, there is something for everyone.
Some popular choices include macaroni and cheese, cornbread, green beans, and seafood boil salad. Each of these side dishes adds a unique flavor and texture to the meal, making it a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Whether you’re looking for something classic or something new, there are plenty of options when it comes to side dish for seafood boil.