Simple Sides For Fried Fish

Potatoes are the default human comfort food. They’re like that friend who always has your back, no matter what. And they love fried fish almost as much as you do.

Roast them. Cut baby potatoes in half, toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a handful of fresh herbs (thyme is a hero here). Throw them in a hot oven until they’re crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Squeeze a lemon over the whole lot before serving. The tartness cuts through the richness of the fish like a tiny, delicious knife. Seriously—don’t skip the lemon. It’s a crime.

fish fry sides recipe - Shebas Recipes

Baked Beans with a Kick

Okay, hear me out. Baked beans. Yes, the canned kind. But pimp them up, because you’re fancy like that.

Heat them up with a dollop of ketchup, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Maybe even a little diced jalapeño if you’re feeling brave. The sweet, smoky, slightly spicy beans are a total flavor bomb next to crispy, salty fish.

It’s a diner classic for a reason. And no, I don’t care if it’s a side that usually hangs out with a hot dog. Fried fish doesn’t judge.

Simple Green Salad: The Low-Effort Hero

Sometimes you just want something green to pretend you’re healthy. That’s fine. No shame.

Make a super simple salad: mixed greens, a handful of cherry tomatoes (halved, obviously), and a few thin slices of red onion. Drizzle it with a vinaigrette—just whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, a little Dijon mustard, and salt.

The acidity in the dressing will cut through the oiliness of the fish. It’s like a palate reset button. And the best part? It takes exactly three minutes to make. That’s less time than you spent deciding what to eat for dinner.

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Corn on the Cob: Summer on a Plate

If corn is in season, you’d be a fool not to use it. Boil it, grill it, or even microwave it (I won’t tell). Then slather it with butter and a sprinkle of salt.

Want to be extra? Mix some chili powder and lime zest into the butter. It’s addictive. It’s dangerous. You will eat three ears and regret nothing.

Sweet corn and savory fish are a combo that makes you wonder why you ever ate them separately. They’re like that couple that just works.

Hushpuppies: The Southern Darling

Okay, these are technically a side, but they’re also a snack, a blessing, and a tiny golden nugget of joy. Hushpuppies are just deep-fried cornmeal batter, but don’t let that simplicity fool you.

They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and tender inside, and they love fried fish like a long-lost sibling. Serve them with a little honey or hot sauce—or both (live a little).

You can buy them frozen from the store, but homemade are embarrassingly easy. Mix cornmeal, flour, egg, buttermilk, and a bit of chopped onion. Drop spoonfuls into hot oil. Fry until golden. Try not to eat them all before the fish hits the plate. I failed this test. You might too.

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Quick Pickles: The Zing You Didn’t Know You Needed

Pickles aren’t just for burgers. Quick-pickled cucumbers, red onions, or even radishes add a pop of briny, sour magic to your plate.

They’re stupidly simple: slice your veg super thin, toss it in a bowl with vinegar (rice or white), a little sugar, and some salt. Let it sit for ten minutes. That’s it. No canning, no fuss.

The tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the fish like a sour ninja. And they look gorgeous on the plate, which counts for something, right?

Final Thought: Don’t Overthink It

Look, fried fish is the star. These sides are just the supporting cast. You don’t need a four-page menu. You just need something that balances, contrasts, and makes the whole experience feel complete.

Pick one. Pick two. Heck, pick three and call it a feast. The most important thing is that you’re eating something delicious with people (or just yourself—no judgment) who appreciate a good meal.

Now go fry that fish. And don’t forget the lemon. I mean it.