The Best Sides for Fried Fish: 30+ Tasty & Easy Recipes

My mom always made the best sides for fried fish, and I’ve learned that the right pairings can turn a simple meal into something unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a big fish fry or just cooking dinner, choosing the perfect side dishes for fried fish makes all the difference. In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite recipes for side dishes with fried fish—from classic comfort foods to fresh, modern options. Get ready to elevate your meal with these delicious and easy-to-make sides

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Classic Side Dishes for Fried Fish

• Hush Puppies – My mom always made these crispy, deep-fried cornmeal balls whenever we had a fish fry. They’re golden, fluffy, and the perfect bite-sized treat.
• Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy side dish for fried fish that adds a refreshing crunch to balance out the richness.
• French Fries – You can’t go wrong with crispy, golden fries as a classic pairing for fried fish. Simple, salty, and always delicious.
• Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this is one of the best side dishes for a fish fry that everyone loves.

Want more recipes for side dishes with fried fish? Keep reading for even more delicious pairings

Vegetable Side Dishes for Fried Fish

• Collard Greens – My mom’s secret to the best side dishes for fried fish is her slow-cooked collard greens, seasoned to perfection with smoky flavors.
• Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy on the outside, tangy on the inside—these Southern-style bites are a must-have for any fish fry.
• Green Beans – Whether steamed or sautéed with garlic and butter, green beans add a fresh and healthy touch to your plate.
• Baked Beans – Sweet, smoky, and packed with flavor, these beans are a staple side dish for a fish fry.

Looking for even more recipes for side dishes with fried fish? Keep reading for some mouthwatering potato sides

Potato-Based Sides for Fried Fish

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery, and smooth, these are a comforting side dish for fried fish that pairs perfectly with crispy bites.
• Zucchini Potato Bake – My mom’s hearty casserole combines tender zucchini and potatoes for a delicious, cheesy twist on traditional sides for a fish fry.
• Sweet Potatoes – Whether roasted or fried, sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of fried fish.
• Salt and Vinegar Potatoes – Tangy, crispy, and full of flavor, these roasted potatoes add a bold kick to your meal.
• Potato Chips – Light, crunchy, and easy to prepare, homemade or store-bought chips are a fun and satisfying side dish for fried fish.

Still hungry? Let’s explore some fresh and tasty salad options!

Salad Side Dishes for Fried Fish

• Corn and Tomato Salad – Sweet corn and juicy tomatoes come together in this fresh and vibrant side dish for fried fish that’s light yet flavorful.
• Fresh Garden Salad – A crisp mix of greens and colorful veggies, drizzled with a light dressing to balance out the richness of fried fish.
• Pea Salad – My mom always made this creamy, cheesy pea salad, and it remains one of my favorite side dishes for a fish fry.
• Potato Salad – A classic, creamy salad with tender boiled potatoes and a flavorful dressing—perfect for any fish fry.
• Pasta Salad – Chilled pasta tossed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it a refreshing recipe for a side dish with fried fish.

Ready for more? Let’s move on to some irresistible vegetable side dishes!

Additional Vegetable Sides for Fried Fish

• Fried Okra – Crispy, golden, and addictive, these bite-sized pieces are a classic side dish for a fish fry that my mom swears by.
• Roasted Cauliflower – Oven-roasted until tender and caramelized, this flavorful vegetable side dish for fried fish adds a rich depth to your plate.
• Corn on the Cob – Whether grilled or boiled, fresh corn brushed with butter is a must-have side dish for fried fish that never disappoints.
• Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred with a hint of lemon, this fresh and healthy option balances the crispy texture of fried fish.
• Veggies and Dip – Fresh, crunchy vegetables paired with a creamy, flavorful dip make for a light and refreshing side dish for a fish fry.

Want to complete your meal? Let’s move on to desserts and dipping sauces that go perfectly with fried fish

Desserts to Complement Fried Fish

• Peach Cobbler – A warm, comforting dessert featuring sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery, flaky crust. The perfect Southern treat to end your meal on a high note.
• Lemon Bars – Tangy and sweet, these citrusy bars with a buttery shortbread base add a refreshing contrast to the richness of fried fish.
• Strawberry Shortcake – Layers of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream make this light and fruity dessert a classic choice.

Looking for the perfect dipping sauces to complete your fish fry? Keep reading!

Dipping Sauces for Fried Fish

• Tartar Sauce: A classic accompaniment for fried fish, tartar sauce combines creamy mayonnaise with finely chopped dill pickles, fresh dill or parsley, a hint of lemon juice, and a touch of sugar and black pepper. This tangy and rich sauce enhances the flavors of crispy fish.
• Cocktail Sauce: Also known as seafood sauce, this zesty condiment blends ketchup, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, prepared horseradish, minced garlic, and optional hot sauce for an extra kick. It’s a versatile sauce that pairs well with various fried seafood dishes.
• Squeeze of Lemon: Sometimes, simplicity is key. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon over your fried fish adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall flavor.

These sauces not only complement the taste of fried fish but also elevate your dining experience with their unique flavors

Frequently Asked Questions

What side goes with fried fish?
Traditional sides like hush puppies, coleslaw, and French fries are popular choices for pairing with fried fish. These options provide a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that complement the crispiness of the fish.

What is a good side dish for fish?
Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and creamy grits make excellent accompaniments for fish. These dishes offer a light, flavorful contrast to the richness of the fish.

What food is served at a fish fry?
Common dishes served at a fish fry include fried fish, hush puppies, coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. These sides are traditional favorites that round out the meal with a variety of flavors.

What are the good sides of fried chicken?
Similar to fried fish, sides like macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes pair well with fried chicken. These sides complement the crispy texture and savory taste of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal.

Choosing the right sides for a fish fry can enhance your dining experience, bringing out the best flavors in your meal. Whether you prefer classic comfort foods or fresh, healthy options, there’s a side dish here to suit every palate. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes to create the perfect spread for your next fish fry!

Ready to Elevate Your Fish Fry?

These crispy homemade hush puppies are the perfect addition to any seafood feast! Quick to make and bursting with flavor, they’ll have your guests coming back for more. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and get frying! Serve them hot with tartar sauce for the ultimate bite. Click here to save this recipe, and start creating unforgettable meals today!