What Goes With Shrimp and Grits: 35 Healthy and Delicious Sides

Last updated on September 10th, 2024

If you’re preparing a fancy meal of delicious shrimp and grits, but have no idea what to serve alongside it, then I’ve got you! While this delicious Southern staple is perfect to have on its own, you can transform this into a little feast, by pairing this with your favorite grilled, or roasted vegetables. Take a dive at some of these delicious and healthy sides!

What are Shrimp and Grits?

Not familiar with shrimp and grits? You should try it as soon as you can.

Southern shrimp and grits are a traditional dish in the Lowcountry of coastal Georgia and South Carolina.

Grits are made from boiled cornmeal and have a thick consistency, similar to cream of wheat.

Generally, cooked grits are topped with sautéed and seasoned shrimp.

35 Healthy Sides for Shrimp and Grits

Classic smoky, cheesy shrimp and grits topped with a delicious variety of aromatic herbs and spices, can pair with almost any side dish you can imagine.

With a variety of delicious side options to choose from, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying feast.

The best of the bunch (at least in my opinion!) are below:

Sautéed Greens

Sautéed greens can be served with almost any kind of spicy protein, to help balance the nipping spiciness. They also taste great with seafood, especially shrimp and grits.

These delicious greens can be seasoned with a variety of spices, such as garlic, pepper and onion to add an extra flavorful element to them.

Sautéed greens don’t take long to cook at all, in fact, you can prepare them 10 minutes before serving.

Garlic Roasted Asparagus and Tomatoes

The fresh subtle sweetness of garlic roasted asparagus blends perfectly with the buttery flavor of the creamy shrimp and grits recipe.

This veggie dish may take a while to prepare, so it’s best to cook right before serving so that you can take advantage of the rich smoky flavors.

To make this you’ll need fresh tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, olive oil and salt. For a flavorful enhancement you can include other spices like pepper and basil.

The best part about this dish is that it can be served as an appetizer before the main event!

Fried Okra

With the increased appreciation of Cajun culture-related food, fried okra has since grown in popularity.

This side dish is especially delicious when accompanied with seafood like shrimp and grits.

The best part is, it’s super easy to make. The main ingredients involve cornmeal, or flour for breading, eggs for drenching the okra in, then deep frying.

You can also include additional spices to spice it up a little, think garlic, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

You can also try air frying frozen okra!

Sweet Potato Fries

Another scrumptious side dish to pair with your shrimp and grits, is sweet potato fries.

Sweet potato fries are a good source of protein and taste especially great when served with classic sauces, like ketchup or BBQ sauce.

Whether you bake these in the oven, fry them on a stove, or grill them, they guarantee unique flavors.

Grilled Asparagus

While asparagus may taste bitter on its own, once prepped and flavored to your preference, it can quickly transform into a delicious treat.

And grilled asparagus is no exception. Simply place the stalks on pre-washed skewers, and grill at 400 degrees F. They should be ready to devour in 3-4 minutes.

Green Bean Salad

Green bean salad is a refreshing side dish to pair with shrimp and grits, because it’s both healthy and delicious.

Simply take some washed green beans, add minced garlic, salt, pepper and olive oil, then add some of your favorite herbs, like rosemary, and basil.

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients in a large bowl, pour this over your cooked shrimp, for a wonderful blend of flavors, that’ll delight your taste buds.

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn is the ultimate comfort food. The essence of sweet, savory and richness in one pot. And when paired with creamy shrimp and grits, you’ll have a wonderful change in texture.

• Start by preparing some frozen or fresh corn, butter, salt and pepper. Include additional spices to bring forth aromatic flavors, such as garlic powder, or cayenne pepper.
• Mix your ingredients until thoroughly combined.
• Then pour this into a small baking dish to bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees F.
• Serve immediately!

Roasted Green Beans

Shrimp and grits can be prepared with almost any kind of roasted veggie.

These roasted green beans are no exception.

• To prepare them you’ll need fresh or frozen green beans, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Include spices like garlic powder, or onion powder; anything that may impact the overall flavor of this delicious side dish.
• Toss your green beans in your chosen spices.
• Drizzle with olive oil, before spreading them out on a baking sheet.
• Cook for about 25 minutes at 400 degrees F.

Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The best kind of brussels sprouts are crisp and golden on the outside, while succulent on the inside. Tossed with crispy bacon, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to set this spectacular side dish apart from the rest.

This brilliant vegetable complements any meat based dish you can think of, such as roast chicken, salmon, meatloaf, or roast turkey!

If you weren’t a fan of brussels sprouts before this will certainly change your mind!

Easy Pasta Salad

Brimming with fresh, flavorful ingredients, this simple pasta salad recipe makes the perfect side to have with shrimp and cheesy grits.

The creamy salad begins with a smooth dressing consisting of mayo, lemon, fresh basil and garlic. Serve this cold pasta salad with your favorite meat-based appetizers, think pulled BBQ pork, grilled chicken, burgers, steak, or fried chicken.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk biscuits are normally accompanied by thick gravy. Though these buttery, flaky biscuits are just as good when served alongside shrimp and grits.

Just the thought of scooping up some warm and gooey grits with a buttery biscuit should have you salivating.

These biscuits are best served after a light brush of butter, to give them a glossy sheen that melts in your mouth beautifully.

Lettuce Wedge Salad

This crispy wedge salad is super easy to make, and requires minimum prep time.

Make a fantastic dressing with mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, vinegar, Worcestershire, salt and pepper. You can refrigerate this beforehand, so that it’s nice and cold once you’re ready to serve.

Then simply cut the head of a lettuce into 4 parts and drizzle with your tangy dressing, top with tomatoes, hardboiled eggs, and crispy bacon. Yum.

Spinach and Tomato Galettes

Why not serve shrimp and grits with spinach and tomato galettes for brunch?

These scrumptious galettes are crisp and buttery, with a creamy spinach-feta filling. Add sliced tomatoes atop the flaky pastry and you’re in for a delight!

Squash Puppies

If you love hush puppies, you’ll love squash puppies. The addition of chopped squash, creates a sweetened twist to this much-loved side dish.

Enjoy a few of these with your shrimp scampi, and you won’t be disappointed. The contrasting flavors of sweet with savory, will have you immediately fixated.

Serve alongside your favorite dipping sauce, and don’t be afraid, take a bite!

Slow-Cooker Ribs

Transform your shrimp scamp into a surf and turf meal, by whipping up some delicious barbecue ribs to go with it.

These barbecue ribs can be made on a grill or slow cooker. Simply prepare them with your choice of flavorings and spices, then drop them into a slow cooker.

Six hours later, you’ll have a scrumptious palate of glossy barbecue ribs, to serve with your shrimp and grits.

Roasted Bell Peppers

Red, yellow, and orange peppers become sweeter when roasted. To prepare, slice peppers into strips, removing seeds and membranes. Coat with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. This results in tender, slightly smoky peppers that complement shrimp and grits well.

For easier peeling, place roasted peppers in a sealed plastic bag for 10 minutes after cooking. The steam will loosen the skin. For added flavor, try sprinkling with sea salt and fresh herbs like basil or thyme before serving. If you’re short on time, you can use jarred roasted peppers instead. Just drain and pat them dry before adding to your dish. Leftover roasted peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used in salads, sandwiches, or blended into dips.

Sautéed Zucchini

To prepare, slice zucchini into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick. For best results, use small to medium-sized zucchini as they’re less watery and have better flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the zucchini slices and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. To prevent soggy zucchini, avoid overcrowding the pan – cook in batches if necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, cover the pan for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Leftover sautéed zucchini can be refrigerated and reheated or enjoyed cold in salads.

Squash Medley

Slice equal amounts of zucchini and yellow squash into 1/4 inch thick half-moons. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the squash slices and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally. This creates a visually appealing and tasty side dish. For best results, choose firm squash with smooth, unblemished skin. To prevent the squash from becoming mushy, avoid overcooking. You can add other vegetables like sliced onions or bell peppers for more variety and flavor. 

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some chopped fresh oregano or basil in the last minute of cooking. If you prefer a crisp-tender texture, cook for a shorter time, about 5-7 minutes.

Any leftovers can be used in frittatas, quiches, or blended into soups for a creamy texture.

Garlicky Green Beans

Start by trimming the ends off the green beans. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color. This step can be done ahead of time. When ready to serve, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the blanched green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing frequently. This results in crisp-tender beans with a strong garlic flavor. 

Add sliced almonds or pine nuts during the last minute of cooking. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end adds brightness. If you prefer softer beans, cover the skillet and cook for additional 2-3 minutes.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Select ripe, firm cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. Rinse and pat them dry. In a bowl, toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Roast at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. The tomatoes are done when they’re soft and starting to burst.

Try sprinkling with minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting. If you prefer a sweeter taste, drizzle with a little honey before cooking. Be careful when eating as the insides of the tomatoes can be very hot.

Cornbread

This Southern staple complements the main dish with its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture.

Cornbread is easy to make at home using a cast-iron skillet for that traditional touch. Its hearty nature makes it great for soaking up the creamy grits and savory shrimp sauce.

For the best experience, serve the cornbread warm and consider adding a pat of butter on top for extra richness.

Crusty French Bread

French bread might not be the first thing you think of with shrimp and grits, but it works very very well.

Carbs, right?

The crispy crust and soft interior provide a nice contrast to the creamy grits. French bread is excellent for cleaning your plate, helping you enjoy every last bit of the dish. To enhance the flavor, try toasting slices of French bread and lightly rubbing them with a clove of garlic. This adds a subtle flavor that pairs nicely with the shrimp.

Baguette

Speaking of French bread.

Baguettes are another great bread choice. You can slice them thinly to make small toasts for topping with shrimp or cut them into larger pieces for dipping in the sauce.

Baguettes have a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the main dish, making them a safe choice for any palate. They’re also widely available at most bakeries and grocery stores, making them an easy addition to your meal.

Arugula and Citrus Salad

To make this salad, start with a base of fresh arugula leaves. Then, add segments of orange grapefruit, or both for variety. Include some thinly sliced red onions for extra flavor. The dressing is simple: mix lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. Toss everything together just before serving. To easily segment citrus fruits, cut off the top and bottom, then slice away the peel and pith. Cut between the membranes to release the segments.

It’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

For a cool, crisp side dish, try a cucumber and red onion salad. Slice cucumbers thinly – English or Persian cucumbers work well. Add thinly sliced red onions and sprinkle with fresh dill for extra flavor. The dressing is a simple mixture of white wine vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of sugar. Mix gently and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

If you find raw onions too strong, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This will mellow their flavor.

You can prepare it earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge until dinner time.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are easy to make and can absorb the flavors of the shrimp sauce.

To make them, start by peeling and cutting potatoes into equal-sized chunks. Boil until tender, then drain. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth. For extra flavor, try adding roasted garlic. Simply roast a whole head of garlic in the oven, then squeeze the soft cloves into your potatoes before mashing.

Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are simple to prepare. To make perfect baked potatoes, start by scrubbing them clean and pricking them with a fork. Rub with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about an hour, or until soft inside.

Serve with butter, sour cream, chives, or even some of the shrimp mixture. You can prepare baked potatoes in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

Wild Rice

To cook wild rice, start by rinsing it thoroughly. Use a 3:1 ratio of liquid to rice, and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the grains split open. Fluff with a fork before serving. Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water can add extra flavor. A bay leaf in the cooking liquid is also a nice touch.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a flavorful alternative to plain rice. It’s great for soaking up the sauce from the shrimp.

To make it, start by sautéing diced onion and garlic in butter or oil. Add rice and stir to coat with oil. Then add broth (use a 2:1 ratio to rice) and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until rice is tender. Try adding herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. A splash of white wine can also enhance the taste.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn sweetness is a favorie – it complements the savory shrimp, while its texture contrasts nicely with the creamy grits.

To prepare, start by peeling back the husks and removing the silk. Fold the husks back in place and soak the corn in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning. Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.

After grilling, brush with butter and sprinkle with salt. For a flavor boost, try rolling the grilled corn in a mixture of mayo, chili powder, and grated cheese.

Pickled Onions

Pickled onions are actually easy to make.

For a quick recipe, start by slicing a red onion thinly. In a bowl, mix 1 cup vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the onion slices to the mixture and let sit for at least an hour before serving.

You can use different types of vinegar for varied flavors. Try apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweet taste, or white wine vinegar for a milder flavor.

Fermented Options

Fermented sides like sauerkraut and kimchi can also complement shrimp and grits well. They offer complex flavors and potential health benefits due to their probiotic content. Sauerkraut provides a tangy, slightly sour taste and can be store-bought or homemade.

If making sauerkraut at home, it typically takes 3-4 weeks to ferment properly. Kimchi offers a spicy, garlicky flavor and is available in many grocery stores.

If making kimchi at home, it usually ferments in 1-5 days, depending on the recipe and desired taste.

Lemon Butter Sauce

Lemon butter sauce is easy to make and adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the dish well. To prepare it, melt butter in a pan, add fresh lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Some cooks like to add a touch of garlic or fresh herbs like parsley. This sauce is best served warm, drizzled over the shrimp just before eating.

Cajun Remoulade

Cajun remoulade is mayonnaise-based, mixed with herbs, spices, and often includes ingredients like mustard, paprika, and hot sauce.

To make it at home, mix mayonnaise with Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a splash of hot sauce. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Spicy Aioli

Spicy aioli is essentially a garlic mayonnaise with added spice.

To make it, blend mayonnaise with minced garlic, lemon juice, and your choice of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat level to your liking. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to Make Shrimp and Grits

This scrumptious recipe is not as hard to make as you might think!

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 slices of chopped bacon
• 1 tbsp creole seasoning
• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 clove of mined garlic
• 1 stalk of celery thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 cup thinly sliced scallions

How to Make

1. Add chicken broth, salt and pepper to a large pot, and bring it to a boil, before adding the grits and butter. Stir and cook for 22 minutes, or until the liquid has disappeared.
2. Add bacon to a skillet and cook until crisp, then remove and add the shrimp and creole seasoning to the pan, cooking for 2 minutes on each side.
3. Remove the cooked shrimp and add garlic, celery and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute before adding the cooked shrimp and bacon back to the pan, and stir to combine.
4. Serve the shrimp mixture over the grits and garnish with chopped parsley and scallions.

Yummy Shrimp and Grits Sides to Try!

You can certainly serve shrimp and grits with a variety of side dishes. Who knows, you might enjoy it with a pairing you never thought to try before!

FAQ’s