Fish sticks, also known as fish fingers, offer a convenient solution for a quick and effortless dinner. Their simplicity makes them an excellent choice, particularly when it comes to pleasing children’s palates. While they can be a lifesaver on busy evenings, the concern remains that they may lack excitement. Fortunately, elevating these fish sticks is straightforward, achieved by complementing them with a variety of delectable side dishes.
To take your meal to the next level, here are 15 mouth-watering options to pair with your fish sticks:
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a thrilling alternative to traditional fries, boasting a more complex flavor profile that elevates your meal’s overall appeal. The sweet and nutty taste of these fries is a stark contrast to the familiar flavor of white potatoes. Not only do they pair well with a variety of dishes, including fish sticks, but they also bring a nutritious edge to the table.
For an authentic sweet potato fry experience, we highly suggest trying out this tried-and-true recipe.
The ideal texture – crispy and crunchy on the outside, soft and fluffy within – is perfectly balanced, while the caramelized edges add a delightful depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Caesar Salad
While serving fish sticks with Caesar salad may seem like a mundane combination, it’s actually a match made in heaven. The truth is that Caesar salad is a nutritious and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including fish sticks. Its lightness makes it an excellent option for those looking for a guilt-free accompaniment. This standout recipe is particularly noteworthy for its diverse textures, which add depth to each bite.
The satisfying crunch of the croutons provides a delightful contrast to the fresh lettuce, while the parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy flavor dimension.
Roasted Vegetables
When it comes to cooking vegetables, roasting is often the top choice for many people. The process enhances their natural flavors and textures, resulting in a more enjoyable eating experience. Moreover, roasted veggies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an excellent addition to any meal.
What sets this recipe apart is its versatility – it’s designed to accommodate a wide variety of vegetables, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and textures.
This flexibility means that the dish can be easily customized to suit your tastes and preferences.
Tartar Sauce
The timeless combination of fish with its tangy counterpart is a match made in heaven. The pungent flavor profile that the sauce brings to the table is particularly well-suited for fish sticks, which are perfectly suited for dipping into this tasty condiment. Not only does it add moisture to an otherwise dry meal, but it also requires minimal effort – just 5 minutes of preparation time!
The addition of shallots, dill pickles, and capers lends a fresh and zesty twist to the dish, making it a versatile accompaniment that can be served alongside fish cakes or other seafood delights.
Potato Wedges
While traditional fries are delicious, potato wedges offer a satisfying alternative that’s just as tasty but with a slight nutritional edge. When you’re craving something substantial and filling, these crispy bites fit the bill perfectly – especially when paired with fish sticks for a match made in heaven. The savory flavor of the wedges is elevated by a good drizzle of tomato ketchup, making them an irresistible snack.
With this straightforward recipe, even kitchen newcomers can easily master the art of creating crispy potato wedges that are bursting with flavor thanks to the clever addition of onion and garlic powder. They’re the perfect substitute for fries when you’re in the mood for something a little more wholesome – and who knows, you might just find yourself hooked!
Coleslaw
Coleslaw – a indulgent twist on salad – is a match made in heaven with fish sticks. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness perfectly complement the crispy fish. If you’re looking for a quick and easy coleslaw recipe, look no further. This homemade version is a game-changer, ready to impress in just 10 minutes. Plus, it’s even better when made ahead of time, so feel free to prepare it the night before. What sets this coleslaw apart are its incredible ingredients.
The addition of sour cream not only adds depth but also provides a tangy contrast, while the mustard powder lends a subtle earthiness. With its rich flavor profile and velvety texture, this coleslaw is sure to become a family favorite.
Pilau Rice
When it comes to pairing with fish sticks, we recommend adding some light and fluffy rice to the mix. While salad or veggies provide a nice contrast in texture, rice offers a more filling option that won’t weigh you down like potato-based sides often do. Among our favorite rice dishes is pilau, which boasts a bold flavor profile that elevates it far above store-bought alternatives.
This particular pilau recipe is particularly impressive, thanks to its generous use of turmeric and cinnamon, which imbue the dish with a tangy, earthy quality that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home, making it a great option for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Baked Beans
When the craving for comfort food strikes, there’s no denying that a hearty combination like baked beans and fish sticks can hit the spot. The textures and flavors work in harmony to create a meal that kids will surely devour. Moreover, the juiciness of the beans provides a welcome contrast to the crispy fish sticks.
While it’s possible to rely on store-bought canned baked beans, the benefits of homemade far outweigh any extra time or effort required.
With a little patience and some simple preparation, you can create a scrumptious side dish that elevates your meal game.
One key element in this recipe is the addition of paprika, which adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with store-bought options. The presence of garlic and onion also enhances the richness of the tomato sauce, making for a truly satisfying experience.
Mac And Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a satisfying side dish that can easily become the main attraction. With only a light layer of breadcrumbs, it’s essential to pair it with a hearty entree, like fish sticks. As such, this comfort food classic proves an excellent accompaniment. The rich flavors come courtesy of two distinct types of cheese – cheddar and mozzarella – making it a must-try for any cheese enthusiast.
Moreover, the creamy pasta is beautifully complemented by the crunchy breadcrumb topping, creating a delightful textural contrast.
Greek Salad
A Greek salad makes a fantastic match with fish sticks. To create an authentic Greek salad, you can use the recipe provided above as a guide. This salad is packed with a variety of delicious vegetables, including cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, all coated in a revitalizing red wine vinegar dressing. Feta cheese adds a creamy texture to the dish. If you’re seeking a healthy side dish that’s anything but ordinary, this Greek salad is an excellent choice for elevating your mealtimes.
Vegetable Skewers
Grilling is another effective way to cook vegetables, offering a more thrilling experience than boiling. Those who appreciate the flavor of grilled veggies will surely enjoy these vegetable skewers. This recipe’s versatility makes it suitable for a variety of dishes, and its quick 30-minute preparation time makes it an ideal pairing with other speedy meals like fish sticks.
What’s more, this recipe comes with a selection of herbs and spices that enhance the taste of the skewers, featuring options like tarragon, basil, and cumin. The best part? You can experiment with various vegetables to find your favorites.
Mushroom Risotto
While it may seem like a sophisticated and indulgent gourmet side dish, the truth is that mushroom risotto is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The rich flavor profile of this creamy delight makes it an excellent accompaniment to fish, including even humble fish sticks. At its core, the recipe features a bold mushroom flavor that’s sure to thrill anyone who loves this vegetable.
Aromatic notes from parsley and pungent undertones from garlic add depth and tanginess to the dish, while parmesan cheese introduces a subtle savory element. Finally, the judicious use of white wine lends a hint of sophistication and luxury to the overall taste experience.
Sauteed Cauliflower
While cauliflower may not initially evoke excitement as a side dish, its versatility is undeniable. When sautéed, this humble vegetable transforms into a flavorful delight. The cooking process amplifies its natural taste, making it an attractive option for those seeking healthy and delectable meals.
In addition to its impressive flavor profile, cauliflower is also an excellent source of fiber and choline, rendering it a nutritious choice.
With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, this sautéed cauliflower recipe is both quick and convenient. Furthermore, its mild flavor lends itself seamlessly to pairing with a wide range of dishes, including fish sticks. The harmonious blend of thyme, kosher salt, garlic, and black pepper further elevates the dish’s appeal.
Roasted Zucchini
Zucchinis, with their distinct flavor profile, make excellent side dishes. One of our favorite preparations is roasting them, which yields a deliciously flavorful and tender result in just 15 minutes. The addition of parmesan cheese takes these roasted zucchini to the next level, making them a perfect choice for anyone who loves cheese.
Final Thoughts
When serving fish sticks, why not elevate the meal by pairing it with one of these unbeatable side dishes? The possibilities are endless. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or a more satisfying accompaniment to your meal, there’s a perfect match waiting for you.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.