What To Have With Crab Cakes

So you've got a plate of golden, crispy crab cakes sitting in front of you, and you're thinking: "This is already perfect — but what do I eat around it?" Brace yourself, friend, because crab cakes alone are like a great first date — wonderful, but you need a little follow-up to really make the night unforgettable.

The Classic Sides That Never Miss

First up: coleslaw. Is there a more natural partner for crab cakes? The tangy crunch of coleslaw cutting through that rich, buttery goodness is basically a love story written in mayonnaise and cabbage.

Next, consider a simple green salad. To be clear, this isn't the "oh no, I'm on a diet" salad — this is a light, zippy number with a lemon vinaigrette that makes your crab cakes shine like they're walking a red carpet.

And don't sleep on potato salad. Especially if it's loaded with mustard and celery, because apparently potatoes and crab were besties in a past life. Some pairings are just scientifically proven — okay, not really, but they should be.

Sauces: The True MVPs

The single greatest thing you can put next to a crab cake is remoulade sauce. And before anyone says "mayo is boring," pause — remoulade is mayo having a midlife crisis, transformed by Cajun spices, pickle relish, and hot sauce into something absolutely ridiculous.

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Want something with a little heat? Go for a hot sauce — Frank's RedHot or Cholula, take your pick. One drop and your taste buds will feel like they just got promoted.

And for those who like things simple: a wedge of lemon. You'd be amazed what fresh citrus juice can do to an already amazing crab cake. Literally squeeze it and thank me later — I demand no royalty.

The Bigger Picture: Full-On Meals

Crab cakes make an incredible light lunch when paired with a cup of tomato soup. Weird combo? Not at all — it's comfort food wearing a fancy outfit.

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If you're going all out for dinner, try crab cakes with roasted asparagus. The earthy, slightly charred asparagus creates everything from the "this feels healthy" excuse to an actual bold and savory bite-level complement your crab cakes deserve.

One fun little fact: crab cakes are historically a Maryland creation, dating back to the 19th century. And in true Mid-Atlantic fashion, they've been perfecting side dishes to match ever since — which means you don't have to overthink it.

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Drinks to Washing It All Down

Pair your meal with a sunset-colored cold crisp beer or chilled white wine because neither will fight with the richness of made-from-scratch crab cake coatinging procedure of perfection — instead, they'll make it even better.

And if you're drinking coffee instead? No judgment here — human beings are allowed to do whatever the heck they want, including coffee pairing.

The Bottom Line

There's really no wrong answer when it comes to what to have with crab cakes. Whether it's remoulade, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or something unexpected — trust your instincts and enjoy every bite. Life's too short to eat crab cakes alone in silence — okay, maybe not alone in silence; that part's still allowed.