We're talking Bang Bang Shrimp (a crispy, creamy, sweet-spicy shrimp appetizer popularized by Bonefish Grill) today and, doesn't that just sound like a party on a plate?
We've rounded up a dozen and one options that make our tastebuds do a little jig. Grab a fork and dive into this trawling of scrumptious pairings.
We'll tell you which sides made the cut and why they deserve a spot at your table. It's all about taking our meal game up a notch with flavors that stick to our palate.
So come on, let's see what's clickin' next to Bang Bang Shrimp!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Bang Bang Shrimp
Here are thirteen of the best side dishes to make with Bang Bang Shrimp. Some may surprise you while others are tried and true.
Dig in!
1 - Coconut Rice
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It's not just rice - for other hearty grains try wild rice side ideas.
We love its light, fluffy texture. It pairs with spicy dishes like an old friend.
Add a sprinkle of lime zest for zing. Coconut rice is easy, just replace water with coconut milk (use a 1:1 ratio for best texture).
Keep it simple, keep it tasty.
We all enjoy that hint of tropical flavor. It's a subtle way to mix things up without trying too hard.
2 - Thai Cucumber Salad
Thai cucumber salad, it's like a chill spa day for your mouth. Crunchy cukes, tangy dressing.
Simple, fresh, pleasant.
Top tip: toast the sesame seeds. They add a killer toasty vibe (sesame's nutty aroma deepens the flavor).
And don't skip the peanuts; total flavor bomb.
We enjoy the sweet and sour dance in each bite. It's a flavor rollercoaster.
This salad gives Thai vibes, no passport needed - see Thai curry side pairings for more complementary dishes.
Some how, it makes even ordinary meals feel fancy. A salad adventure awaits; totally worth it.
Enjoy the low-key spice.
3 - Sesame Garlic Green Beans
Green beans, fast friends of any meal - compare with garlic butter shrimp side suggestions for similar pairings.
Our personal fave is sautéing them with sesame oil and garlic (toasted sesame oil brings nutty, toasty notes).
A squeeze of lemon wakes them up. We like 'em al dente.
They fit into any dish like a comfy shoe. One great tip is to blanch them first.
Keeps them bright.
Top with sesame seeds for that extra oomph. We enjoy trying different touches.
4 - Cilantro Lime Quinoa
Quinoa with a twist. We mix it up with cilantro and lime.
This makes it zingy.
Simple, healthy, green.
Quinoa cooks fast (quinoa is a protein-rich pseudocereal). Keep it fluffy. Don't overcook.
Lime and cilantro make it fresh. Add it while hot. We like the aroma.
Try adding sweet corn or beans. More flavor, more fun.
It's a blend of taste and health. Both work wonders together.
That's our take on quinoa.
Perfect for tacos or bowls - also see cilantro lime chicken side ideas for similar flavors.
5 - Spicy Mango Salsa
Spicy Mango Salsa, it's like a fiesta on a plate. Made with ripe mango chunks (Mangifera indica), this salsa is a colorful mix of sweet, tangy, and a little heat.
We toss in diced jalapeños for a kick. Red onions and cilantro join the party, bringing freshness and spice balance.
Pair this with Bang Bang Shrimp, and it's a match made in flavor heaven - try mango salsa chicken side options for related pairings.
Get creative, adjust the spice to your liking. Don't shy away from adding a splash of lime juice.
6 - Garlic Butter Naan
Garlic Butter Naan, the warm and irresistible flatbread (a leavened Indian flatbread). It's soft, chewy with a garlicky twist.
We spread melted butter mixed with minced garlic.
Pop the naan in a hot oven. It crisps up just right.
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Some use it to scoop up curries, while others pile it with toppings.
We experiment with flavors, trying chili flakes too. It's a versatile side-simple yet flavorful.
7 - Avocado Corn Salad
Avocado and corn, a classic combo. It's fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor.
We chop ripe avocados (Hass works great) and sweet corn for a nice mix.
Lime juice and cilantro add zest. Toss gently; keep avocados chunky.
Jalapeños add optional heat for those who like a kick. A sprinkle of salt enhances the taste.
This salad shines with simplicity and flair. It's quick to prepare and tasty with so many meals.
The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crunchy corn.
8 - Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Chili Flakes
Brussels sprouts with a spicy twist! We roast them to bring out that natural sweetness (roast at 425°F until browned, about 20-25 minutes).
Chili flakes add that fiery kick we all crave.
For more crunch, try tossing some in sesame seeds. Make sure they're browned, not burned.
We like them slightly crispy. Stuck on the classic?
This is how we switch it up. We toss them with olive oil, simple seasoning.
Adds to the flavor. No overthinking!
Just a great combo that's quick and easy.
Got leftovers? They're still yummy cold.
9 - Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are straight-up delicious and crispy. They're like regular fries' cool cousin.
We bake them for that light and crunchy texture (bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes). A sprinkle of paprika and garlic makes them pop.
We add some lime for brightness. Dip these fries in spicy mayo; it's a useful.
Try a bit of salt for balance.
Don't overdo the oil; it keeps them crisp. Finish with some chives; they add a nice bite.
Just enjoy these anytime.
10 - Pineapple Fried Rice
Pineapple Fried Rice mixes up sweet and savory. We grill pineapples.
The caramelized sugar is top notch. Add cooked rice, peas, and carrots.
Toss with some soy sauce.
We sprinkle fresh cilantro for freshness. It's quick.
Simple prep and big flavor. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor.
Prefer white rice? Cool with us.
We try both. We keep our options open.
Sometimes we throw in cashews. Great crunch.
Adds protein too. Our tip: make sure the rice is cold (day-old rice fries up better).
11 - Grilled Bok Choy
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Grilled bok choy, a veggie with serious flair. We grill it until each leaf softens, with charred edges.
Add a dash of soy sauce (light soy preserves brightness) and garlic for flavor.
Quick cook time keeps the freshness. Bok choy's light crunch pairs with Bang Bang Shrimp.
We like it simple. Toss with sesame oil for extra depth.
Bok choy is super versatile. More texture when grilled.
We often pair with spicy dishes. Try it-easy and tasty.
12 - Chilled Rice Noodles
Chilled Rice Noodles, a cool delight (rice noodles are made from rice flour). We prep noodles and chill them cold.
We keep it fresh with veggies-think julienne carrots or cucumber. Toss in a light soy or vinegar dressing.
Keeps everything zesty. Add peanuts or sesame seeds for texture.
A squeeze of lemon boosts the tang.
Experimenting is key. We swap sauces like ginger or hoisin.
Flavor swaps make it fresh. Try pairing with leftovers or BBQ.
A simple and unique side.
13 - Asian Slaw with Ginger Dressing
We toss fresh cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers. Crunchy, colorful, full of life.
Ginger dressing adds a zing (fresh ginger's peppery, citrusy heat), balancing sweetness and spice.
We like it bold.
Mix it up with sesame seeds for crunch. Red chili gives it a mild kick.
Make sure veggies are thinly sliced. Freshness pops with the ginger.
Try with grilled meats or alone.
Simple yet diverse. Enjoy the snappy textures.
We top with scallions, just 'cause we can.
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.
