Who doesn't love a good bagel? They're chewy, versatile, and just downright delicious.
We often find ourselves staring at a bagel wondering what to slather on next.
Cream cheese? Sure, that's classic.
But let's mix it up and think outside the tub!
From sweet peanut butter and banana combos to savory pesto and tomato delights, there's a whole world of options to improve our bagel game.
On lazy weekend mornings or busy week days, we've experimented with all sorts of sides. We're excited to share our top picks that will turn a simple bagel into something special.
Grab your toasted goodness, and let's get tasty!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Blackened Fish
Here are some side dishes that go well with the bold flavors of blackened fish. From classic options to more unique choices, there's something for everyone on this list.
1 - Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a classic side dish that goes well with blackened fish. The slightly nutty flavor of the rice not only goes with the bold spices in the fish but also enhances the overall dining experience, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Additionally, rice pilaf is easy to prepare and offers versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or even nuts for added texture and flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
2 - Grilled Vegetables
Grilling vegetables is a great way to add some smoky flavors to your meal while keeping it healthy. We recommend grilling zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper before throwing them on the grill for some extra flavor.
The sweetness of the grilled vegetables balances out the spiciness of blackened fish, creating a delicious harmony of flavors. Plus, it's a great way to get your daily dose of veggies!
3 - Corn and Avocado Salad
For a refreshing and creamy side dish, try corn and avocado salad. The creaminess of avocado goes well with the bold flavors of blackened fish, while the sweet crunchiness of corn adds some texture to each bite.
Mix in some diced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro for added freshness and tanginess. We like to drizzle some lime juice and olive oil as dressing for an extra kick.
4 - Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that goes well with blackened fish. The crunchy texture and tangy dressing of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the fish.
You can make your own coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrot, and mayonnaise or pick up some pre-made coleslaw from the store for a quick and easy option.
5 - Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are another great accompaniment to blackened fish. The sweetness and crunchiness of sweet potato fries go with the bold flavors of the fish, making it a deliciously satisfying combination.
Bake or air-fry your sweet potato fries for a healthier option, and don't forget to season them with some spices like paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
6 - Quinoa Salad
For a healthier side dish, try quinoa salad. This grain is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your meal.
Mix in some diced vegetables like red bell pepper, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes for added crunch and freshness. Drizzle some lemon juice and olive oil as dressing for a zesty kick.
7 - Baked Beans
Baked beans are a classic side dish that goes well with any kind of fish, including blackened fish. The sweetness and creaminess of baked beans go well with the spiciness of the fish, creating a balance of flavors in every bite.
Top it off with some crispy bacon bits for added texture and smokiness.
8 - Pesto Pasta
Pesto pasta is a deliciously creamy and flavorful side dish that goes well with blackened fish. The herbaceousness and nuttiness of pesto add depth to the meal, while the tender pasta goes with the bold spices in the fish.
You can make your own pesto or use store-bought pesto for a quick and easy option. Add some cherry tomatoes or grilled vegetables for added freshness and texture.
9 - Fried Plantains
For a Caribbean twist, try fried plantains as a side dish for your blackened fish. The sweetness of the fried plantains balances out the spiciness of the fish, creating a delicious contrast in flavors.
Thinly slice ripe plantains and fry them until golden brown for a crispy yet tender side dish. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or paprika for added flavor.
10 - Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that goes well with any type of fish, including blackened fish. The garlicky and buttery flavors of the bread go with the spicy fish, adding some depth to the meal.
Make your own garlic bread by toasting sliced bread with garlic, butter, and herbs or pick up some pre-made garlic bread from the store for a quick and easy option.
11 - Greek Salad
For a light and refreshing side dish, try Greek salad. The tanginess of feta cheese and kalamata olives goes well with the spiciness of blackened fish, while the crunchiness of cucumbers and bell peppers adds some texture to each bite.
You can make your own Greek salad dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic or use store-bought dressing for a quick and easy option.
12 - Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that pairs well with blackened fish. The creaminess and cheesiness of mac and cheese balance out the bold flavors of the fish, creating a satisfying combination of flavors.
You can make your own mac and cheese from scratch or use boxed mac and cheese for a quick and easy option. Add some crispy bacon bits or diced jalapenos for an extra kick.
13 - Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes are another classic side dish that complements blackened fish perfectly. The creaminess of mashed potatoes balances out the spiciness of the fish, while the garlic adds some extra flavor.
Make your own mashed potatoes with boiled and mashed potatoes, garlic, butter, and milk or use pre-made mashed potatoes for a quicker option. Add some chopped herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and color.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
