Honey walnut shrimp is a crowd-pleaser, combining sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. The creamy sauce, candied walnuts, and crispy shrimp make it a delicious choice for any meal. However, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the flavors and balance the richness of the shrimp. The right pairing will complement the shrimp without overwhelming its unique taste.
In this article, we’ll explore the best sides, starches, drinks, and desserts that go well with honey walnut shrimp. Whether you want something light, savory, or indulgent, these pairings will help you create a well-balanced meal. For more inspiration, check out this honey walnut shrimp recipe from Damn Delicious.
Why Choosing the Right Side Dish Matters
Since honey walnut shrimp is rich and creamy, pairing it with the right side is crucial. The sweet sauce and candied walnuts can feel heavy, so lighter, refreshing sides can create a balanced plate. On the other hand, heartier sides like noodles or rice can help absorb the sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
To balance the shrimp’s sweetness, choose savory or tangy flavors. A fresh vegetable or rice dish can add texture while letting the shrimp’s flavors shine. For more side ideas, you can explore suggestions from Pairing Plates.
Ideal Sides for Honey Walnut Shrimp
1. Vegetables and Greens
Vegetable sides provide a light and refreshing contrast to honey walnut shrimp. The fresh crunch of vegetables also adds texture, balancing the creamy shrimp.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a perfect match. Its mild bitterness balances the shrimp’s sweetness without overpowering it.
- Bok Choy or Snow Peas: These Asian greens are fresh and crisp. They add a slight sweetness and earthiness, making the meal feel lighter.
- Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Dressing: A light salad with citrus dressing cuts through the creamy sauce. It cleanses the palate and provides a fresh, tangy bite.
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2. Starch-Based Sides
Starches absorb the rich sauce and help create a more filling meal. Rice and noodles are classic pairings that complement the shrimp’s sweetness.
- White or Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice is the most traditional pairing. Jasmine rice adds a floral aroma, enhancing the dish’s flavor without overpowering it.
- Fried Rice: For a heartier option, fried rice brings umami flavors. It pairs perfectly with the sweet shrimp, making the meal more satisfying.
- Lo Mein or Chow Mein Noodles: Noodles tossed in garlic and soy sauce provide a rich, savory contrast. They work well with the creamy texture of the shrimp.
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Sweet and Savory Combinations
The magic of honey walnut shrimp lies in its balance of sweet and savory flavors. You can enhance this balance with side dishes that play on the shrimp’s sweetness.
1. Pineapple Fried Rice
Pineapple fried rice is a perfect side for honey walnut shrimp. The tangy sweetness of pineapple complements the honey glaze. Meanwhile, the rice absorbs the sauce, creating a delicious contrast between sweet and savory.
2. Mango Salad
Mango salad with a lime dressing adds a refreshing, fruity contrast. The sweetness of the mango pairs well with the shrimp. The citrus dressing, in turn, cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce.
For a savory seafood option, try this delicious seafood and pasta recipe.
Classic Asian Sides
For a more traditional meal, classic Asian sides are an excellent choice. Their savory and umami-rich flavors balance the sweetness of the shrimp.
1. Dim Sum and Dumplings
Dim sum, dumplings, or potstickers are small, flavorful bites that provide texture contrast. They are great for balancing the sweet and creamy shrimp.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, these dumplings add umami to your plate. They are a perfect counter to the shrimp’s sweetness.
- Potstickers: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, potstickers offer a satisfying bite. Their savory filling pairs well with the sweet shrimp.
2. Asian Soups
Soups are a great way to add a light element to your meal. They offer savory flavors that complement the richness of honey walnut shrimp.
- Miso Soup: The earthy, umami flavor of miso pairs beautifully with seafood. Its lightness contrasts the shrimp’s creamy sauce.
- Hot and Sour Soup: This soup brings bold, spicy flavors. Its tanginess cuts through the richness of the shrimp, creating a balanced bite.
- Egg Drop Soup: Simple yet savory, egg drop soup provides warmth and comfort. It’s a light, refreshing addition to the meal.
Enhance your shrimp dish with this seafood boil sauce recipe that adds bold, flavorful notes to any seafood meal.
Drinks That Pair Well with Honey Walnut Shrimp
Choosing the right drink is essential for a balanced meal. A good drink complements the flavors of honey walnut shrimp while refreshing the palate between bites.
1. Wine Pairings
Wine can elevate any meal. For honey walnut shrimp, certain wines enhance the sweet and savory balance.
- Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling matches the honey glaze perfectly. Its acidity also cuts through the shrimp’s creamy sauce, providing balance.
- Chardonnay: An unoaked Chardonnay, with its citrus notes, complements seafood well. It enhances the dish without overpowering the flavors.
- Sauvignon Blanc: With citrus and herbaceous notes, Sauvignon Blanc offers a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with the sweet shrimp.
2. Tea and Non-Alcoholic Options
If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, tea is an excellent choice. It cleanses the palate and pairs well with the rich flavors of the shrimp.
- Green Tea: With its slightly bitter, earthy taste, green tea balances the sweetness of the shrimp. It refreshes the palate between bites.
- Jasmine Tea: This fragrant tea offers a floral note that complements the shrimp’s sweetness. It’s light and refreshing, perfect for pairing with rich dishes.
- Iced Tea: Lightly sweetened iced tea is a great way to balance the sweetness of the shrimp. It provides a refreshing break between bites.
Pairing shrimp with ramen? Check out this homemade ramen seafood recipe for inspiration.
Dessert Ideas to Follow Honey Walnut Shrimp
After enjoying a rich main course, a light and refreshing dessert is the perfect way to end your meal. Here are a few dessert options that pair well with honey walnut shrimp.
1. Light, Citrus Desserts
Citrus-based desserts are an excellent way to balance the rich, sweet flavors of the shrimp.
- Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, lemon sorbet is the perfect palate cleanser. Its tangy flavor contrasts with the creamy shrimp, creating a balanced finish.
- Key Lime Pie: The tartness of key lime pie cuts through the richness of the shrimp, providing a refreshing end to the meal.
2. Asian-Inspired Sweets
If you’re looking for something more traditional, Asian-inspired desserts can enhance the meal’s flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: This Thai dessert pairs sweet, sticky rice with fresh mango. The creamy texture and fruity flavors make it a great complement to the shrimp.
- Matcha-Flavored Desserts: Matcha ice cream or cookies add an earthy note. This slight bitterness helps balance the shrimp’s sweetness.
FAQs About Honey Walnut Shrimp Pairings
What Rice Goes with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Jasmine rice or fried rice works well. Jasmine rice’s subtle flavor enhances the shrimp, while fried rice adds umami.
What Vegetable Goes Well with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, and snow peas are great options. Their freshness and crunch balance the shrimp’s rich flavors.
What Noodles Go with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
Lo mein or chow mein noodles are excellent. Their savory flavors complement the shrimp’s creamy sauce.
What Sauce Pairs with Honey Walnut Shrimp?
A citrus soy glaze or ginger sauce adds contrast to the creamy, sweet sauce of honey walnut shrimp.
Conclusion
Honey walnut shrimp is a flavorful, rich dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, from vegetables to noodles. By choosing sides that balance or complement its flavors, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer classic Asian sides or creative pairings, these suggestions will help you build the perfect dining experience.
For more inspiration and recipe ideas, check out this easy honey walnut shrimp recipe from WellPlated.