What Goes With Fish Sticks? Try These Delicious Combinations!

When it comes to quick and easy meals, fish sticks are a popular choice for families around the world. They’re crispy, delicious, and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

But have you ever wondered what to serve with your fish sticks to make them even tastier? It’s important to pair your fish sticks with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their natural flavor.

If you’re looking for new ideas on what to serve alongside fish sticks, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite combinations that will make your next meal with fish sticks a hit! From classic choices such as tartar sauce and fries, to more unusual picks like coleslaw and quinoa salad, these suggestions will take your fish stick game to the next level.

“Food is not just fuel, it’s information. It talks to your DNA and tells it what to do.” -Dr. Mark Hyman

No matter what kind of fish sticks you prefer or how you choose to prepare them, there’s something here for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some delicious new ideas for your next fish stick feast!

Classic French Fries and Tartar Sauce

Fish sticks are a classic meal that is easy to make, especially for busy weeknights. They’re delicious on their own but sometimes you need something more to round out your meal. That’s where the perfect side comes in – Classic French Fries with Homemade Tartar Sauce.

Thinly Cut and Crispy

The key to making perfect french fries is to start by cutting your potatoes into thin strips. This not only helps them cook faster and more evenly, but it also allows them to get super crispy. Once cut, be sure to rinse them in cold water to remove any excess starch. Then dry them before frying.

To fry the potatoes, heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Add the potatoes carefully and fry until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes depending on thickness. Remove the fries from the oil using a slotted spoon or spider and place them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Sprinkle salt immediately while they’re still hot and toss them to distribute the seasoning.

Seasoned to Perfection

In addition to salt, you can season your fries with additional spices as well such as garlic powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili flakes or herbs such as thyme or oregano based on personal preference to add an extra depth of flavor.

Homemade Tartar Sauce

No fish stick pairing would be complete without tartar sauce. While store-bought tartar sauce is convenient, homemade tartar sauce tastes fresher and has lots of room for personalization. To make your own tartar sauce, mix together mayonnaise, minced pickles, capers, parsley, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Adjust the amount of each ingredient to your own taste.

Another great thing about homemade tartar sauce is that it can be made in advance, which saves you time on busy nights. Just mix all the ingredients together and keep them in an air-tight container in the fridge until serving time.

Perfect Side for Burgers and Sandwiches

French fries are not just a great side dish for fish sticks; they’re also perfect with other foods like burgers and sandwiches. The crispy texture and savory seasoning make fries a delicious complement to many meals.

“French fries are fantastic with anything. They’re great with burgers and sandwiches.” – Guy Fieri

If you want to take your fry game to the next level, try topping them with cheese or bacon to create loaded fries. Or, switch up the type of potato by using sweet potatoes, parsnips, or zucchini to have fun with different flavors and textures.

French fries and homemade tartar sauce together make the perfect pairing for fish sticks as well as other dishes such as burgers and sandwiches. With thinly cut, crispy fries seasoned with herbs and spices and paired with tangy tartar sauce, this classic combo will always be satisfying.

Garlic Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Aioli

Fresh and Flavorful

When it comes to finding the perfect side dish for fish sticks, roasted vegetables are always a delicious option. Garlic roasted vegetables are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients that complement the mild taste of fish sticks.

The best part about this side dish is how flexible it is – you can use any combination of your favorite seasonal vegetables. Some great options for garlic roasted vegetables include carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, zucchini, cauliflower, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus.

Tossed with Olive Oil and Garlic

To make this recipe even more delicious and healthy, toss your chosen vegetables with some extra-virgin olive oil and garlic before roasting them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until they’re tender and crispy on the outside. This will bring out their natural sweetness and add a savory flavor that complements the lemon aioli perfectly.

“Olive oil has been long heralded for its health benefits, which have been confirmed by decades of study.”

Adding garlic to your roasted vegetables is a simple and effective way to add a depth of flavor to the dish. Garlic contains several compounds that provide numerous health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

Creamy and Tangy Lemon Aioli

The secret sauce that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary is the creamy and tangy lemon aioli dipping sauce! It’s super easy to make and only requires six ingredients: mayonnaise, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parsley.

Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator for at least half an hour. The result is a dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with both the mild taste of fish sticks and the savory flavor of garlic roasted vegetables.

“Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is necessary for healthy skin, bones, and connective tissue.”

Healthy and Delicious

The combination of garlic roasted vegetables and lemon aioli makes for a side dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you. Fish sticks can sometimes be high in sodium and fat, so pairing them with a nutrient-dense side dish helps balance out their nutritional content.

Your body will thank you for fueling it with all the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats found in fresh vegetables and olive oil.

• Garlic Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Aioli – Fresh and Flavorful
• Tossed with Olive Oil and Garlic
• Creamy and Tangy Lemon Aioli
• Healthy and Delicious

Creamy Coleslaw and Sweet Chili Sauce

If you are looking for a mouthwatering side dish to go with your fish sticks, look no further than creamy coleslaw and sweet chili sauce. This flavor combination is perfect to balance out the crispy and salty texture of the fish sticks.

Crisp and Crunchy Coleslaw

The key to making an unforgettable coleslaw lies in the crispness of the vegetables used. For this recipe, we recommend using green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots as the base. Thinly slice the cabbages and grate the carrots into thin strips using a mandoline slicer or cheese grater. Add sliced scallions and chopped cilantro leaves for extra freshness.

For added crunchiness, toast some sunflower seeds or almonds and toss them into the salad just before serving. Alternatively, deep-fried wonton strips can take the crunchy texture up a notch.

Homemade Creamy Dressing

A delicious dressing is what separates good coleslaw from great coleslaw. Why settle for store-bought when it’s so easy to make your own? In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. The resulting dressing is rich, tangy, and slightly sweet – perfect for binding all the ingredients together.

“A homemade, flavorful coleslaw dressing can be a game-changer.” – Sally Vargas, Simply Recipes

Sweet and Spicy Chili Sauce

While coleslaw provides a cooling effect, our sweet and spicy chili sauce packs heat alongside sweetness that makes any kind of fried food taste amazing. The sauce is a combination of sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar that will make your taste buds tingle with delight.

If you prefer a milder version, cut down the amount of sriracha or replace it altogether with ketchup for more sweetness. Some toasted sesame seeds on top can complement this dipping sauce very well.

Perfect for BBQs and Picnics

This coleslaw and sweet chili sauce combo is just fantastic when served at any outdoor summer event such as BBQs and picnics. The refreshing coleslaw not only pairs wonderfully well with fish sticks but also burgers, hot dogs, and pulled pork. The sauce can be served either as a dip for finger food or drizzled over BBQ meats to give them an extra boost of flavor.

“A good coleslaw should accompany a summertime cookout like a cold beer.” – Justin Fox Burks and Amy Lawrence, The Chubby Vegetarian Cookbook

• Crispy vegetables like green cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, scallions, and cilantro can add freshness to the dish.
• A homemade dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, and spices will significantly improve the overall taste and texture of coleslaw.
• Sweet and spicy chili sauce consisting of sriracha, honey, and soy sauce is an excellent finishing touch to complete the meal.
• The coleslaw and chili sauce go well with BBQ and picnic menus as they provide cooling relief and playful heat that everyone enjoys.

Grilled Pineapple and Mango Salsa

If you’re wondering “what goes with fish sticks?” for your next meal or gathering, look no further than grilled pineapple and mango salsa. This sweet and tangy topping is the perfect addition to any seafood dish, adding a burst of tropical flavor that complements the crispy texture of fish sticks.

Sweet and Juicy Pineapple

The star of this salsa is undoubtedly the sweet and juicy pineapple. Grilling it brings out its natural sweetness even more, creating a caramelized exterior that pairs perfectly with seafood. Pineapple is not only delicious, but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C and manganese. According to Healthline, these antioxidants help boost immunity and reduce inflammation in the body.

Fresh and Flavorful Mango Salsa

In addition to pineapple, fresh and flavorful mango is another key ingredient in this salsa. Its bright orange flesh adds vibrant colors to the dish and provides a refreshing contrast to the fried nature of the fish sticks. Mangoes are rich in fiber and contain over 20 different vitamins and minerals including vitamins A and C, folate, and potassium according to Medical News Today. These nutrients promote heart health, supports digestion, and benefit overall well-being.

Grilled for Extra Flavor

As mentioned earlier, grilling the pineapple enhances the fruit’s natural sweetness while giving it an extra layer of smoky flavor that works wonders against the salty taste of fish sticks. By doing so, the pineapple takes on a unique texture that makes this salsa stand out from traditional recipes which usually include raw ingredients. The grilling process also helps soften up thick pieces and turns denser cuts into tender bites.

Perfect for Tacos and Grilled Meats

The versatility of this salsa is another reason you should consider serving it as a side dish when dining with friends and family. Pair it with tacos or grilled meats like chicken or steak, and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite! According to Food Network, mango pineapple salsa can be spiced up with various ingredients such as jalapeños, onions, or cilantro making it customizable to personal tastes.

“The grill is the perfect location for getting together with friends and family over food. The joyful atmosphere that prevails at barbecues and block parties – not to mention the delicious aromas – makes an outdoor gathering worth savoring.”- Guy Fieri

If you want to take fish sticks to the next level and impress your guests, try grilling pineapple and preparing a fresh mango salsa to accompany them. This tropical garnish adds layers of texture, color, and sweet-tangy flavor plus provides numerous health benefits. Whether served alongside your favorite seafood or used to spice up daily meals, this dish surely won’t disappoint!

Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing

If you’re looking for a healthy and filling side dish to serve with fish sticks, try this delicious quinoa salad with avocado and lime dressing. It’s easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and has a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the salty taste of the fish sticks.

Healthy and Nutritious

Quinoa is a nutrient-rich grain that is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. It’s also low in calories and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for those who are watching their weight or have dietary restrictions.

The avocado in this recipe adds even more nutrition benefits, as it’s high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help lower cholesterol levels, decrease inflammation, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Fluffy and Flavorful Quinoa

The key to making fluffy and flavorful quinoa is to rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitter outer coating. Then, cook it in boiling water with a pinch of salt until the grains are tender but still slightly firm to the bite.

“I love incorporating whole grains like quinoa into my meals because they provide sustained energy and keep me feeling full longer.” -Gina Homolka

In this recipe, we add diced red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and toasted pine nuts to the cooked quinoa to give it extra flavor and texture. The sweet, nutty taste of the pine nuts, combined with the earthy aroma of the parsley, creates a delicious balance of flavors that makes this quinoa salad stand out from the rest.

Creamy and Tangy Avocado Dressing

The avocado dressing in this recipe is what takes the dish to the next level. It’s creamy, tangy, and the perfect complement to the quinoa salad.

To make the dressing, simply blend ripe avocado with fresh lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. The lime juice adds a bright citrus flavor that cuts through the richness of the avocado, while the garlic and olive oil add depth of flavor.

“Avocados are an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.” -Mayo Clinic

Refreshingly Light and Citrusy

This quinoa salad with avocado and lime dressing is the perfect side dish to serve alongside fish sticks. It’s light, refreshing, and has a citrusy zing that pairs well with the salty and fried taste of the fish sticks.

You can also serve this salad as a standalone meal or as a healthy lunch option for work or school. Simply pack it in a portable container and enjoy it on-the-go!

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt
• ½ small red onion, diced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ⅓ cup pine nuts, toasted
• For the dressing:
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cheesy Baked Potato Wedges and Sriracha Mayo

Crispy and Cheesy Potato Wedges

When it comes to finding a perfect side dish for fish sticks, potato wedges are an excellent option. And if you love cheese, then cheesy baked potato wedges can add that extra oomph to your meal. The crispy exterior with fluffy interiors of potato wedges with melted cheese on top is sure to impress everyone.

To make the perfect cheesy potato wedges, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Clean and rinse four large potatoes, cut them into wedge-shaped pieces, and toss them in olive oil until coated. Mix salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl and season the potato wedges well. Place them on a baking sheet, spaced apart so they don’t touch and roast for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

While the potato wedges are roasting, grate some cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into fine shreds. Take out the roasted potato wedges from the oven, sprinkle grated cheese over the top, and return them to the oven to bake for another five minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions and serve hot.

Baked to Perfection

The key to making the perfect potato wedges is to ensure that they’re baked correctly. Not only should they be crispy on the outside but also have a moist and soft interior. To achieve this result, there are a few tips you need to pay attention to.

• Use Russet potatoes as they’re starchy and hold their shape well when fried or roasted.
• Soak the potato wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them get crispy.
• Pat dry the soaked potatoes before tossing them in olive oil and seasoning. Excess moisture on the surface can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy wedges.
• Bake or roast at a high temperature (425°F/218°C) to create a crisp exterior while allowing the interior to cook properly.

Spicy and Creamy Sriracha Mayo

Now that you have your perfectly baked cheesy potato wedges, it’s time to pair them with a delicious dipping sauce. Mayonnaise is a classic dip for potatoes. And if you want to add some heat, then sriracha mayo can elevate the flavors instantly.

To make the spicy and creamy dipping sauce, combine a cup of mayonnaise with two tablespoons of sriracha hot sauce, one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, a teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings according to your liking. Refrigerate for an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Perfect for Game Day Snacking

If you’re a fan of hosting game day parties or just looking for an excellent snack for movie nights, these cheesy baked potato wedges with sriracha mayo are perfect. They’ve got everything you need for snacking – crispy, salty, cheesy, and spicy! Make a large batch as they disappear fast!

“Food is not just eating energy. It’s an experience.” – Guy Fieri

So grab some fish sticks, whip up this amazing side dish, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal packed with flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions