Barbecue shrimp is a staple in Southern cuisine and a go-to dish for those who love seafood. This delicious dish is easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. However, deciding what to serve with barbeque shrimp can be a daunting task, leaving you wondering what side dishes and drinks would best complement the rich flavors of the shrimp.
Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to pairing barbeque shrimp with the perfect foods and drinks. Whether you prefer classic Southern sides like cornbread and collard greens or something more adventurous like fruity cocktails, this article will guide you through some tasty and creative ideas for what to serve with your next plate of barbeque shrimp.
Top 5 Side Dishes to Pair with Barbeque Shrimp
Barbecue shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. Pairing it with the right sides can take it up a notch and make it a complete meal. Here are the top 5 side dishes to serve with barbecue shrimp:
1. Corn on the cob – Grilled corn on the cob pairs well with barbecue shrimp and is a classic side dish for summer barbeques. This sweet and savory combination is sure to please your taste buds.
2. Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw balances the spicy flavors of the shrimp and adds a refreshing crunch to the dish. You can make it with cabbage, carrots, and your favorite dressing.
3. Garlic bread – A nice slice of buttery garlic bread is a great way to soak up the savory juices of the shrimp. It also adds a crispy texture to the meal.
4. Potato salad – This classic side dish has a creamy and tangy dressing that complements the smoky flavors of the shrimp. You can add your favorite veggies and herbs to make it more flavorful.
5. Grilled vegetables – Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers are a healthy complement to the shrimp. They add a burst of color and texture to the plate.
Perfect Drink Pairings for Barbeque Shrimp Cookouts
Barbeque shrimp is a delicious and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of different drinks, from light and refreshing to bold and full-bodied. One perfect drink pairing for barbeque shrimp cookouts is a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines pair well with the tangy and spicy flavors of the shrimp, while also providing a refreshing and cool balance to the heat.
Another great drink pairing for barbeque shrimp is a light and refreshing beer, such as a Pilsner or Hefeweizen. These types of beers are easy to drink and have a clean finish, which complements the bold and spicy flavors of the barbeque shrimp. Additionally, a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea can also be a great option for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages with their barbeque shrimp. Ultimately, the perfect drink pairing for your barbeque shrimp cookout will depend on your personal preferences and tastes.
Vegetarian Options to Serve Alongside Barbeque Shrimp
If you have vegetarians joining your barbecue shrimp feast, there are plenty of options to consider. Grilled vegetables make a great side dish and complement the bold flavor of the shrimp perfectly. You can grill up bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, asparagus or any veggies you like and season them with herbs, olive oil, and salt and pepper for a healthy and delicious dish. Additionally, serving a fresh coleslaw or a mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
Another fantastic vegetarian option to serve with barbecue shrimp are grilled or roasted portobello mushrooms. These meaty mushrooms have a great texture and absorb flavors beautifully, making them perfect for marinating. You can serve them alongside the shrimp on skewers, or slice them and toss them in a salad. Alternatively, you could also make a vegetarian burger with a portobello mushroom as the patty. Whether you opt for grilled vegetables or mushrooms, or a fresh salad, these options will add a healthy balance to your barbeque shrimp spread.
How to Season and Prepare the Best Barbeque Shrimp
When it comes to seasoning and preparing the best barbeque shrimp, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, be sure to start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a bright, clean smell. You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Next, prepare your marinade or seasoning. Depending on your preferences, you can use a variety of ingredients to add flavor to your shrimp. Some popular options include garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and hot sauce. Mix your ingredients together in a bowl, then add your shrimp and toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour if you have the time.
When it’s time to cook your shrimp, there are a few different methods you can use. Some people prefer to grill their shrimp on skewers, while others like to pan-fry them in a bit of butter or oil. To avoid overcooking, be sure to keep a close eye on your shrimp and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Serve your barbeque shrimp hot with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!
Creative Barbeque Shrimp Dip Recipes to Share With Friends
When it comes to barbeque shrimp, why not try something different than the usual sides like rice or vegetables? How about some creative barbeque shrimp dip recipes to share with friends?
One delicious option is a creamy avocado and shrimp dip. Simply puree some avocado with sour cream, lime juice, and garlic, then fold in some cooked and chopped barbeque shrimp. It’s a tangy and refreshing dip that works well with chips or crudites. Another crowd-pleaser is a spicy buffalo shrimp dip. Mix cream cheese with buffalo sauce, crumbled blue cheese, and cooked and shredded barbeque shrimp. Serve with celery sticks or tortilla chips for a seriously addictive snack. Get creative with your barbeque shrimp and dips and you’re sure to impress your friends and family at your next cookout.
Tips for Hosting a Successful Barbeque Shrimp Cookout
Hosting a successful barbeque shrimp cookout involves more than just a grill and some seafood. The first tip is to plan ahead and make a checklist of everything you need to buy and prepare. This includes shrimp, seasonings, marinades, vegetables, drinks, and utensils. It’s also important to consider the number of guests you’re expecting and prepare enough food accordingly.
Secondly, set up a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for your guests. Make sure there are enough seating arrangements, tableware, and decorations. You can also add some music or games to keep everyone entertained. Remember to keep the grill area clean and safe by having a fire extinguisher handy. Lastly, always keep in mind your guests’ dietary restrictions and allergies. Offer some vegetarian or gluten-free options and label the dishes as needed. By following these tips, you can ensure that your barbeque shrimp cookout is a success and your guests have a great time.
Pairing Shrimp Types with Different Barbeque Sauces for a Flavorful Meal Experience
Pairing the right shrimp type with the appropriate barbecue sauce is fundamental to creating a delicious meal experience. Different shrimp varieties and barbecue sauces have their unique flavor profiles, and marrying the two can either create a harmonious balance or an unappetizing clash. For instance, jumbo shrimp works well with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce, while smaller shrimps pair excellently with sweeter sauces.
When choosing a barbecue sauce for your shrimp, it’s essential to consider the intensity of the sauce’s flavors. A mild barbecue sauce may work well with delicate shrimp varieties such as rock shrimp, while a bold, smoky sauce complements meatier shrimp, such as tiger shrimp. To fully enjoy a flavor-packed meal, experiment with different shrimp types and barbecue sauces and explore how they interact with various ingredients such as citrus, sugar, and chili. With careful consideration, the possibilities are endless, and the result is a delicious barbecue shrimp dish that will titillate your taste buds.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, barbeque shrimp is a delicious southern dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. From grilled vegetables to creamy mac and cheese, the options for what to serve alongside the shrimp are endless and can be tailored to fit the preferences of any individual or group.
No matter what you choose to pair with your barbeque shrimp, there is no denying that this dish is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to leave guests wanting more. So whether you opt for classic southern favorites like cornbread and coleslaw or take a more creative approach with unexpected dishes like grilled pineapple or quinoa salad, you are sure to impress and satisfy with this southern staple.