What To Serve With Fish Cakes For Dinner

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! So, you’ve whipped up a batch of glorious, golden fish cakes. Bravo! They’re looking fantastic, smelling divine, and you’re thinking, "Okay, what magical accompaniments are going to make this dinner sing?" Fear not, my friend, because I'm here to be your culinary co-pilot. We’re going to dive into the wonderful world of what to serve with fish cakes, and trust me, it's going to be a delicious journey.

Fish cakes, in my humble opinion, are the unsung heroes of weeknight dinners. They’re versatile, relatively quick to make, and can be as fancy or as simple as you like. But the real magic happens when you pair them with the right sides. Think of them as the lead singer, and the sides as the killer backup band – essential for the full concert experience!

Now, before we get to the nitty-gritty of what to dish up, let’s just take a moment to appreciate the fish cake itself. Is it crispy on the outside? Fluffy on the inside? Packed with flavour? If the answer is a resounding "YES!", then we're already halfway there. If not, well, there’s always next time, and at least we’ll have some tasty sides to distract from any minor… ahem… imperfections. 😉

The Classics: Always a Good Idea!

Let's start with the tried-and-true. You can't go wrong with these dependable pairings. They’re popular for a reason, folks – they just work.

Mashed Potatoes: The Comfy Blanket

Ah, mashed potatoes. Is there anything more comforting? When you’ve got crispy fish cakes, a cloud of creamy mashed potatoes is like a warm, fluffy hug for your taste buds. Seriously, it’s the ultimate comfort food duo.

You can go simple with just butter and milk, or get a little adventurous. Ever tried adding a pinch of garlic powder to your mash? Or some chives for a fresh zing? Even a dollop of sour cream can elevate your mash to "gourmet" status, without you breaking a sweat. And if you’re feeling really fancy, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top is never a bad call. Just imagine: the crunch of the fish cake, the yielding softness of the mash… chef’s kiss!

And don't forget the gravy! A rich, savoury gravy poured over both the fish cakes and the mash? Pure bliss. It’s the flavour glue that holds the whole meal together. Make it from scratch if you have the time, or a good quality store-bought one will do the trick in a pinch. No judgment here – we’re all about making life delicious and easy!

Peas: The Little Green Gems

Peas might seem a bit… well, basic. But hear me out! A bowl of sweet, tender peas is a fantastic counterpoint to the richness of fish cakes. They add a burst of freshness and a lovely sweetness that cuts through the savoury notes.

You can serve them simply steamed, just how they are, with a knob of butter melting into them. Or, for a bit more flair, try mushy peas. Yes, mushy peas! They’re traditionally served with fish and chips, and they absolutely belong with fish cakes too. They’re creamy, flavourful, and have a rustic charm that’s utterly irresistible. A little bit of mint in your mushy peas can be a game-changer, adding a surprising yet delightful twist.

Think of peas as the cheerful sidekick. They’re not demanding, they’re not complicated, but they bring so much to the table (literally!).

Getting a Little More Adventurous: Beyond the Basics

Alright, if you're feeling a bit more daring, or you just want to impress your dinner guests (or yourself!), let's explore some options that add a bit more pizzazz.

Salads: The Crisp Companions

A good salad can be the perfect refreshing counterpoint to warm, savoury fish cakes. It adds a vibrant splash of colour and a welcome crunch.

Coleslaw: The Creamy Dream

Oh, coleslaw. The ultimate salad sidekick for so many dishes, and fish cakes are no exception. A creamy, tangy coleslaw provides a lovely contrast in both texture and flavour. The slight acidity in the dressing can really cut through the richness of the fish cake.

You can go for a classic creamy version, or a vinaigrette-based slaw for something lighter and brighter. Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a little bit of onion are the usual suspects. But don’t be afraid to add a touch of sweetness with a hint of honey or maple syrup in the dressing. And for an extra special touch? Try adding some finely chopped apple or even a few sultanas. It adds a delightful sweetness and a chewy texture that’s just divine.

Remember, coleslaw is best when it’s had a little time to chill and let the flavours meld. So, if you can make it a bit ahead of time, you're onto a winner. Just don’t let it sit around for too long, or it can get a bit sad and watery. Nobody likes sad, watery coleslaw. Unless it’s a very specific kind of soup, which this isn’t. 😉

Simple Green Salad: The Fresh Face

Sometimes, you just need something simple and fresh. A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is a wonderful way to go. Think crisp lettuce, maybe some cucumber for extra crunch, and a few cherry tomatoes for a burst of juicy sweetness.

The key here is the dressing. A zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette or a simple balsamic glaze can really lift the whole dish. Avoid anything too heavy or creamy, as you want to complement, not compete with, the fish cakes. Imagine a light, bright salad next to your golden fish cakes – it’s a beautiful and balanced plate.

And if you want to get fancy with your greens, try adding some rocket (arugula) for a peppery kick, or some spinach for extra nutrients and a lovely mild flavour. A scattering of toasted seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, can add a delightful textural element too.

Vegetables: The Colourful Crew

Let’s not forget our veggie friends! They add colour, flavour, and a healthy dose of goodness to your plate.

Roasted Vegetables: The Sweet & Savoury Stars

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely caramelised edge. This is a fantastic option if you want something a little more substantial than a simple salad.

Think about root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and maybe some rosemary or thyme. Roast them until they’re tender and slightly crispy. The sweetness of roasted carrots and parsnips is a perfect partner to the savoury fish. And sweet potato? Oh, sweet potato is practically made for this! Its natural sweetness and creamy texture are a match made in heaven.

You can also include broccoli or cauliflower florets. They get deliciously tender and slightly browned in the oven. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spice blends too. A pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth of flavour. Just imagine a medley of colourful, roasted vegetables alongside your golden fish cakes. It's a feast for the eyes and the stomach!

And if you're feeling a bit adventurous, try adding some red onion wedges. They caramelise beautifully and add a sweet, pungent note that's really moreish. Just make sure you cut them into fairly large pieces so they don’t burn. We want sweet, not charcoal!

Steamed or Sautéed Greens: The Quick & Easy Heroes

For a super quick and healthy option, steamed or sautéed greens are your best bet. Think broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or even spinach.

Steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon juice is simple, fresh, and delicious. Sautéed green beans with a little garlic can add a lovely flavour punch. And spinach, wilted down with a touch of garlic and perhaps a tiny splash of soy sauce? Simply divine. These are great because they cook in minutes, meaning you can get them on the table just as fast as your fish cakes.

Don’t overcook them though! You want them to be vibrant green and still have a bit of a bite. Mushy greens are a bit of a culinary tragedy, wouldn't you agree? We’re aiming for al dente, not all done.

Sauces and Dips: The Flavour Boosters

Sometimes, the magic is in the sauce! A good sauce or dip can take your fish cakes from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Tartar Sauce: The Quintessential Partner

Let’s be honest, tartar sauce and fish are practically soulmates. It’s the classic for a reason. The creamy, tangy, and slightly briny flavours of tartar sauce are the perfect complement to the richness of fish cakes.

You can buy a good quality tartar sauce, or if you're feeling up to it, making your own is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding. Basically, it’s mayonnaise, chopped pickles or capers, a little bit of onion or shallot, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The variations are endless! Add some fresh dill, a pinch of mustard, or even some finely chopped hard-boiled egg. It's a simple recipe that packs a big flavour punch.

Just a little dollop of this creamy goodness on the side, or even a generous smear on top of your fish cake, and you’re in for a treat. It’s the little black dress of sauces – always appropriate, always stylish.

Lemon & Herb Aioli: The Zesty Twist

If you want to step up your sauce game, a lemon and herb aioli is a fantastic choice. It's essentially a garlicky mayonnaise infused with fresh lemon and herbs.

The garlic provides a lovely kick, the lemon adds brightness, and whatever herbs you choose (parsley, chives, dill, tarragon – the world is your oyster!) will add layers of flavour. It’s like a more sophisticated, grown-up version of tartar sauce. It’s particularly good if your fish cakes are made with a more delicate fish, as the flavours are bright without being overpowering.

Serve it on the side for dipping, or drizzle it over the top of your fish cakes. It’s a real crowd-pleaser and adds a touch of elegance to any meal.

Sweet Chilli Sauce: The Spicy Kiss

For those who like a little bit of heat, sweet chilli sauce is a winner. The balance of sweet and spicy is incredibly addictive and works surprisingly well with fish cakes.

The sweetness tames the heat, and the chilli adds a pleasant tingle that awakens your palate. It's a simple, no-fuss sauce that can add a whole new dimension to your fish cake experience. Dip your golden, crispy fish cakes into a little bowl of sweet chilli sauce and prepare for a flavour explosion. It’s like a little party in your mouth!

If you want to make your own, it's as easy as combining chilli flakes, sugar, vinegar, and a little bit of garlic. But honestly, a good store-bought version is perfectly fine and incredibly convenient.

Grains and Starches: The Filling Friends

Sometimes, you need something a little more substantial to round out the meal.

Rice: The Versatile Voyager

Rice is a global superstar when it comes to side dishes, and it’s a great companion for fish cakes too. It’s a blank canvas that soaks up all the delicious flavours on your plate.

Simple steamed white rice is always a good choice. But if you want to add a bit more interest, consider brown rice for a nuttier flavour and extra fibre. Or, for a really special touch, try a fragrant pilaf. Cooked with a little bit of vegetable broth and some herbs, it can add a wonderful depth of flavour.

Even a simple fried rice can work, especially if you’ve got leftover vegetables. Just be careful not to make it too heavy, or it might overshadow your lovely fish cakes. We want it to be a supportive player, not the main act.

Quinoa: The Healthy Hype

Quinoa has had its moment in the healthy-eating spotlight, and for good reason. It’s packed with protein and has a lovely, slightly nutty flavour.

Cooked quinoa can be served as a side, similar to rice. Or, you can jazz it up by mixing in some chopped herbs, lemon zest, or even some toasted nuts for added crunch. A quinoa salad with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette would also be a refreshing and healthy option.

It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something a little lighter than mashed potatoes but still satisfying. Plus, you can tell yourself you’re being super healthy, which always makes food taste better, right? 😉

The Grand Finale: Putting It All Together

So there you have it! A veritable smorgasbord of delicious ideas to serve with your delightful fish cakes. Whether you’re going for a classic, comforting meal or something a little more adventurous, there’s something here for everyone.

Remember, the best accompaniment to your fish cakes is whatever brings you joy and makes your taste buds happy. Don't be afraid to mix and match, experiment, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!

The next time you find yourself with a plate of perfectly cooked fish cakes, you'll have a whole arsenal of delicious sides at your fingertips. So go forth, create culinary magic, and enjoy every single bite. Happy eating, my friends!