I could tuck into a plate of tender, golden crab cakes any night of the week, but honestly, the real magic is in the sides. That’s why I’ve gathered 15 incredible dishes that turn a simple crab cake dinner into something truly special. Think smoky charred veggies, cool creamy soups, zippy salads, and buttery bread rolls—all ready to make your meal sing.
1. Colorful Slaw
Who says slaw has to be boring? I like to go beyond the usual cabbage and carrots and bring some real pizzazz to the bowl.
I grab a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix, toss in sunflower seeds for crunch, and coat everything in a creamy dressing with a splash of white vinegar. A tiny bit of sugar adds a subtle sweetness that makes the whole thing pop. The flavors are a perfect match for crab cakes, and those vivid colors make every plate look irresistibly appetizing.
2. Asparagus and Tomatoes
For a healthy, vibrant side, asparagus and tomatoes pair beautifully with crab cakes. If you’re feeling a little spicy, toss in some sliced green jalapeños for a nice kick. It’s simple, fresh, and always delicious.
3. Corn Salad
Crab cakes already feel like a sunny summer day, and a bright, crunchy corn salad just seals the deal. Honestly, crab cakes plus corn equals pure warm-weather bliss.
Toss together corn kernels, fragrant basil, scallions, and a zippy salt-and-vinegar dressing, and suddenly you have this sweet, tangy bowl of goodness playing off those flaky, tender crab cakes. It’s practically divine. And while we’re on the topic of corn, a succotash salad with those vibrant lima beans is another favorite—it rounds out the whole dinner so nicely.
4. Chickpea Salad
This salad brings color and crunch in the best way. Chickpeas, fresh parsley, and celery mingle in a tangy lemon herb dressing that’s equal parts zippy and satisfying. It’s crunchy, refreshing, filling, and nutritious—everything I could ever want next to a crispy crab cake.
5. Grilled Avocados
Avocados and crab cakes share that rich, creamy nature, so they’re practically made for each other. But let me tell you, a little time on the griddle changes everything.
That subtle char makes them taste downright heavenly. Place peeled, pitted halves on a hot griddle for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side, then flip and give them another minute. You can serve them straight up, or slice them into a salad with lettuce, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and fresh coriander for something truly special.
6. Roasted Veggies
While grilling gives you that bold smokiness, roasting coaxes out every bit of natural sweetness and leaves the edges all caramelized and jammy. Roasted veggies wrap your crab cakes in a rustic yet elegant hug, like something from a cozy little bistro.
I just toss mine with basil and fresh parsley, slide the pan into a hot oven, and a few minutes later, magic. It’s so easy.
7. Green Salad
Sometimes the simplest things win. A crisp green salad with peppery arugula and radish, or maybe some mustard greens tossed in a lively vinaigrette, is always a fantastic choice.
It’s light, refreshing, and packed with all the good stuff—plus it comes together in a flash. My kind of side dish.
8. Herbed Potatoes
Potatoes are a no-brainer with crab cakes—soft, tasty, and just hearty enough. Roasting them takes that goodness to another level.
I go for firm varieties like Yukon Gold or Russets because they turn irresistibly crunchy on the outside. Scrub them well so you can leave the skins on for extra texture, then chop into little chunks.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, shower them with your favorite herbs (I love turmeric, oregano, parsley, and cilantro), and don’t forget a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Into a 300°F oven for about 20 minutes, and you’ve got golden, herby bites that are ridiculously good.
9. Corn Chowder
While we’re on soups, let me introduce you to corn chowder. It’s thick, creamy, and walks that sweet-savory line just like crab cakes do. The gentle sweetness of the chowder snuggles right up to the cakes, making every spoonful feel like a cozy, comforting match.
10. Grilled Veggies
I can’t think of a better partner for those sweet, savory crab cakes than a pile of vegetables kissed by the flames. That gentle char and whisper of smoke just work.
I’m talking corn, eggplant, squash, asparagus, onions—all beautifully burnished and gorgeous on the plate. It’s a side that makes your table look as good as it tastes, and I am here for it.
11. Gazpacho
Soup and fried foods are best friends, and a chilled gazpacho is no exception. This silky, smooth soup is a little sweet and a little tart, creating the perfect contrast to the rich, crunchy crab cakes.
Making it is so simple: soak some day-old bread in water, then blend it up with tomatoes, onions, garlic, celery, cucumber, bell pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro, mint, and a pinch of salt, sugar, and pepper. But here’s a playful twist I adore—blend in some ripe mango. That mango gazpacho is incredibly good alongside crab cakes.
12. Remoulade
A great dipping sauce makes everything better, and remoulade is the undisputed champion for crab cakes. So what is it?
This French condiment has a creamy mayo or aioli base, like a cousin to tartar sauce but with a gorgeous yellow hue. Often it’s kissed with curry, paprika, capers, horseradish, or anchovies.
Originally meant for meats, it’s now the go-to for fish cakes. To whip up your own, stir together mayo, ketchup, mustard, shredded horseradish, capers, parsley, onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice. I like to add a pinch of Cajun seasoning and pepper for a little extra personality—totally optional, but so yummy.
13. Mango Salsa
Mango salsa is a total game changer. It stars that glorious summer fruit, and while I’ll happily scoop it up with chips, it’s mind-blowing with crab cakes.
Dipping those tender, savory bites into a sweet-tart salsa just hits different. I love that you can keep it nice and simple, or turn up the heat with jalapeño for a spicy tropical kick. Either way, it’s irresistible.
14. Cocktails
When it comes to drinks, a Bloody Mary is your crab cake’s best friend. That savory blend of tomatoes, peppers, and vodka sings with the richness of the crab.
For something lighter and more summery, a mojito or a crisp gimlet brings that bright citrus sparkle to the table. Cheers!
15. Bread Rolls
Crab cakes are basically burger patties, so why not serve them on soft, fresh bread rolls? You can pick some up from your favorite bakery, but baking them at home is way more fun. The smell alone will have everyone hovering in the kitchen.