Perfect Side Dishes for Crab Cakes

The art of pairing the perfect side dishes with crab cakes enhances the overall dining experience. Two standout options are Guacamole and a Citrusy Cole Slaw. Both are not only delicious but also bring a unique twist to complement the rich and savory flavor of crab cakes.

Ingredients for Classic Guacamole

Perfect side for:
Crab cakes, especially when paired with a bit of jalape?o for a kick.

To create the best guacamole, you'll need the following ingredients:

2 ripe avocados 1-2 limes (freshly juiced) 1 large jalape?o, seeded and finely chopped 1 red onion, finely chopped Cilantro, roughly chopped Salt and pepper, to taste

Start by cutting the avocados in half, removing the pits, and scooping the contents into a bowl. Mash the avocados thoroughly, then mix in the chopped onion, cilantro, and jalape?o. Squeeze in the limes and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together briskly, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

How to Prepare Citrusy Cole Slaw

Perfect side for:
Crab cakes that provide a citrusy slaw with a fresh, herbaceous finish.

This slaw combines the crispness of cabbage with a tangy dressing, enhanced by key ingredients:

Red and yellow cabbage, thinly sliced 1 carrot, julienned Cilantro, chopped Orange juice concentrate (thawed) Lime juice (freshly squeezed) Agave nectar Olive oil Green onions, finely chopped Salt and pepper, to taste

To prepare the slaw, first soak the red cabbage in cold water for 15 to 20 minutes to remove the purple liquid. This step prevents the color from bleeding into the mixture. Once soaked, drain and spin the red cabbage to remove excess water. Repeat the process with the green cabbage.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the thawed orange juice concentrate, lime juice, agave nectar, salt, and pepper. Gradually incorporate the olive oil until the dressing is well emulsified. Then, toss the prepared cabbage and carrot mixture with the dressing until well coated. Lastly, fold in the chopped cilantro and green onions for an added burst of freshness.

Additional Side Dishes and Beverages

Other popular side dishes and beverages that pair wonderfully with crab cakes include:

Beer: A crisp beer helps cleanse the palate and complements the richness of crab cakes. French Fries: Crispy, salty French fries are a classic accompaniment to crab cakes, adding a satisfying crunch. Hush Puppies: Traditional to Southern cuisine, these fried corn balls are perfect for dipping into a side dish. Corn: Whether on or off the cob, corn serves as a light and refreshing complement to the robust flavor of crab cakes. Deviled Eggs: A simple yet elegant side that adds a touch of luxury to your meal. Creme de Menthe and Vodka Cocktail: After enjoying a rich meal of steamed crabs and crab cakes, a refreshing creme de menthe and vodka cocktail can help cleanse the palate.

Dedicate some time to crafting these perfect sides for your crab cakes. From creamy and chunky guacamole to fresh and zesty citrusy cole slaw, there's a delicate harmony waiting to be discovered. Enjoy your meal!