Crab cakes are a delicious delicacy that many people enjoy eating. They are flavorful enough to be served on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniment can elevate their taste even further. Whether you prefer a light side dish or something more substantial, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to pairing crab cakes with a tasty side.
Choosing the right accompaniment to crab cakes is essential to balance out their rich flavor. Some of the classic sides include coleslaw, fries, and mashed potatoes, but there are many other creative pairings that you may have never considered before. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top options for serving crab cakes with the perfect sides to make your meal an unforgettable experience.
Traditional Accompaniments: Time-Tested Pairings
Crab cakes are a popular seafood delicacy enjoyed by many across the world. These sweet, succulent and crispy creations are definitely a treat to the taste buds. However, it’s the perfect sides that complement the dish, making it a complete seafood indulgence. Traditional accompaniments, time-tested pairings, are often the best choice for crab cakes.
The classic serving of crab cakes typically includes lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, and remoulade sauce. These sauces help add flavor and freshness to the crab cakes, allowing each bite to become more enjoyable. Furthermore, tartar sauce, in particular, is a great accompaniment that complements the crab cakes’ flavor with its rich and tangy taste. So, if you are ever in doubt or looking for a no-fail complement, traditional accompaniments such as sauces and lemon wedges are the way to go.
Moving Beyond Tarter Sauce: Creative Condiments to Try
Crab cakes are a beloved dish that offers a perfect combination of crunchy exterior and tender, succulent meat on the inside. While tartar sauce is the go-to accompaniment for most seafood dishes, there is more to life than this classic condiment. If you want to take your crab cakes to the next level, it’s time to explore more creative condiment options.
One of the best creative condiments to try with crab cakes is remoulade sauce. This tangy and creamy sauce is packed with flavors, including mustard, capers, herbs, and pickles. It adds a delicious kick to crab cakes and other seafood dishes. Another great option is aioli, which is a garlic-based mayonnaise that goes perfectly with crab cakes. For those who prefer a spicy kick, try a chipotle mayo, which comes with a smoky and spicy flavor that enhances the taste of the crab cakes.
Wine Pairings for Crab Cakes: Elevate Your Dining Experience
Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish that pairs well with various wine options. Choosing the right wine can elevate your dining experience and enhance the flavors of the dish.
For white wine lovers, Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice to pair with crab cakes. It has bright citrus notes that bring out the freshness of the crab meat. Chardonnay is another white wine option that pairs well with crab cakes, especially those with creamy sauces. The buttery notes in the wine complement the richness of the dish. For red wine enthusiasts, Pinot Noir is a light-bodied option that brings out the delicate flavors of the crab meat without overpowering it. Overall, when selecting a wine to pair with crab cakes, it’s essential to consider the sauce and seasoning used in the dish to enhance its flavors.
Healthy and Fresh: Salad Options for Crab Cake Lovers
If you are looking for a healthy and fresh accompaniment to your crab cakes, look no further than a salad. Not only does a salad provide a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the crab cake, but it is also an excellent way to add some nutritious vegetables to your meal.
Some great salad options for crab cake lovers include mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado, or a classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. You can also try a Mediterranean-style salad with roasted red peppers, chickpeas, and feta cheese, or a tangy coleslaw made with red cabbage, carrots, and apple cider vinegar. Whatever salad you choose, make sure to dress it with a light vinaigrette or citrus-based dressing to complement the delicate flavors of the crab cake.
Hearty Sides: Best Side Dishes to Serve with Crab Cakes
When it comes to serving crab cakes, there are plenty of side dishes that can make for a delicious and well-rounded meal. For those who prefer heartier options, there are several side dishes that pair perfectly with crab cakes. These may include roasted vegetables such as asparagus, brussels sprouts, and carrots. Roasting can create an earthy and complex flavor profile that complements the lightness of the crab cake.
Potatoes are another popular option, and their versatility allows for many different preparations. Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even a potato salad can all be tasty accompaniments to crab cakes. Additionally, a fresh green salad with a zesty lemon or tangy vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the crab. Ultimately, choosing the right side dish can elevate any crab cake meal and turn it into a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Crab Cakes Beyond Brunch: Discovering New Mealtime Possibilities
Crab cakes are often associated with brunch or appetizers, but they can be a delicious main course for any meal. There are many creative ways to incorporate crab cakes into lunch or dinner menus.
For a quick and easy meal, serve crab cakes on a bun with avocado, lettuce, and a spicy remoulade sauce. For a more sophisticated dinner option, pair crab cakes with roasted vegetables and a citrus butter sauce. Another great option is to serve crab cakes with a fresh summer salad or a creamy risotto. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious crab cake dishes that can be enjoyed any time of day.
A Global Twist: Exploring International Flavors that Complement Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a popular dish that originated in the United States. However, with the integration of different cultures and global cuisine in recent years, people are starting to explore different international flavors that can complement this classic dish.
Some options for adding an international twist to your crab cakes could include incorporating Asian flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, or adding some Middle Eastern flair with spice blends like za’atar and sumac. Alternatively, you could try adding some Latin American flavors to your crab cakes with ingredients like cilantro, lime, and chili peppers. With so many global flavors to choose from, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating a unique and delicious accompaniment to your crab cakes.
Final Words
Crab cakes are a popular seafood dish that can be served in many creative ways. The key to a good accompaniment is to balance the texture and flavour of the crab cakes. Pairing the dish with coleslaw, a tangy sauce, or even a refreshing salad will surely delight the taste buds.
Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a hint of sweetness, there is no shortage of options when it comes to pairing crab cakes. So next time you’re planning a seafood feast or ordering from your favourite restaurant, consider trying one of the many delicious accompaniments available. You won’t be disappointed!