What Goes Good With Fish Sticks? Try These 5 Delicious Pairings

For many of us, fish sticks are a childhood classic that never goes out of style. But let’s face it, plain old fish sticks can get pretty boring after a while. That’s why we’re here to help you spice things up!

In this article, we’ll be sharing with you five delicious pairings that will take your fish stick game to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, these pairings are sure to add some variety and excitement to your meals.

From classic sides like french fries and coleslaw to more unique options like roasted vegetables and tangy dips, there’s something for everyone on this list. We’ve even included some vegetarian-friendly options for those who don’t eat fish!

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

So what are you waiting for? Grab some fish sticks from the freezer, read on, and get ready to take your taste buds on a culinary adventure!

Warning: This article may cause excessive salivation and cravings for fish sticks. Proceed at your own risk.

Tartar Sauce

For those who enjoy eating fish, tartar sauce is a classic and tasty condiment that goes well with many seafood options.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons chopped dill pickles
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained and finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves

To prepare the tartar sauce, simply mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as-is, it’s fun to experiment and create your own version of tartar sauce to suit your taste buds. Some variations include:

• Adding a squeeze of hot sauce or sriracha for some heat
• Including finely diced red onion for added texture and flavor
• Swapping out dill pickles for sweet pickles, jalapeños, or even cornichons
• Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option
• Mixing in some horseradish for an extra kick

Serving Suggestions

Tartar sauce is often served alongside fried seafood such as fish sticks, shrimp, calamari, or crab cakes. However, there are plenty of other ways to use this versatile condiment. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a dipping sauce for roasted or grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms
• In place of mayonnaise on sandwiches or burgers for added flavor
• Mixed with boiled potatoes and green beans for an easy potato salad
• Drizzled over roasted or baked fish for an extra burst of flavor
• As a topping for deviled eggs or egg salad

“Tartar sauce is the perfect creamy and tangy condiment to complement the crunchiness of fried fish fingers.” -Delishably.com

Whatever way you choose to enjoy tartar sauce, there’s no denying it adds delicious flavor to any dish!

Lemon Wedges

Best Types of Lemons

When it comes to serving fish sticks, lemon wedges are the perfect addition. But not all lemons are created equal! The best types of lemons for making lemon wedges are Meyer and Eureka lemons.

Meyer lemons have a thin skin and a sweeter taste than traditional lemons, making them great for garnishing dishes without overpowering them with acidity. Eureka lemons, on the other hand, have a thicker skin and more acidic flesh, making them ideal for squeezing over fish sticks to add that tart flavor contrast.

“Meyer and Eureka lemons are both excellent choices for garnishing or squeezing over seafood dishes,” says Chef John at FoodWishes.com.

How to Cut Lemon Wedges

Cutting lemon wedges may seem like a no-brainer task, but there’s actually a proper way to do it to release maximum juice while keeping seeds out of your dish.

To cut lemon wedges, start by trimming off both ends of the lemon so it sits flat on a cutting board. Next, stand the lemon upright and make a slice down the middle almost to the bottom, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Then, make two diagonal cuts from the top of each slit to one of the edges of the lemon, creating two wedge-shaped pieces. Repeat this process on the other side of the lemon, and voila – you’ve got perfectly sliced lemon wedges!

“The key to cutting lemon wedges is to create even slices that allow easy access to the juicy center,” suggests Kristen Lyons, co-founder of organic produce delivery service Farm to Kitchen Collective, in an interview with EatingWell magazine.

Uses for Lemon Wedges

Lemon wedges are a versatile garnish that can be used in various ways when serving fish sticks.

One popular use is to squeeze lemon juice over the fish sticks before eating them. The tartness of the lemon juice complements the crispy and savory flavors of the fish sticks, making for a delicious pairing.

An alternative option is to place a few lemon wedges on the side of the plate as a garnish – not only do they add a pop of bright color, but they also allow individuals to adjust their lemon intake based on their personal taste preference.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using lemon wedges in other ways besides just garnishing seafood dishes. For example, you could mix some freshly squeezed lemon juice with olive oil and herbs to create a marinade for the fish sticks or even make your own homemade tartar sauce by combining lemon zest, mayonnaise, pickles, and capers together.

“Lemon wedges are a great way to elevate any seafood dish,” shares Chef Vivian Howard at The Kitchn website. “Their acidity and brightness work especially well with fried foods like fish sticks.”

Presentation Tips

The presentation of your food can greatly impact how enjoyable it is to eat, and incorporating lemon wedges into your plating strategy is one easy way to enhance both the aesthetic and flavor appeal of your fish sticks.

For example, instead of placing the lemon wedges haphazardly on the side of the plate, try arranging them in an artful design alongside the fish sticks using tongs or tweezers for precision. Or consider cutting the lemon wedge slightly thicker than usual to make a more impactful visual statement.

You could also experiment with adding other complementary elements to the plate, such as fresh herbs or colorful microgreens, to create a cohesive flavor and visual experience.

“Presentation is all about attention to detail,” says Chef Kevin Belton at New Orleans School of Cooking. “Using lemon wedges in creative ways can add an extra pop of color and texture to your fish stick dish.”

Coleslaw

Classic Coleslaw Recipe

If you’re looking for a classic coleslaw recipe to pair with fish sticks, this simple recipe should do the trick. Start by mixing together shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving.

“Cabbage is strongly associated with good health and immunity.” -Dr. Gary Stoner

Healthy Coleslaw Variations

If you’re looking to make your coleslaw healthier, try swapping out some of the ingredients for more nutritious options. Instead of using regular mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt or avocado as a base. Add in some chopped kale or spinach for extra greens, and throw in some diced apples or dried cranberries for natural sweetness. You can also skip the sugar in the dressing and opt for honey or maple syrup instead.

“Eating healthy food fills your body with energy and nutrients, which gives it the ability to fight off diseases.” -Julie Cove

Spicy Coleslaw Ideas

If you want to kick up the heat on your coleslaw, consider adding some spicy elements to the mix. Try mixing in some sliced jalapeños, Sriracha hot sauce, or red pepper flakes into the dressing. You can also swap out the traditional cabbage for some spicy slaw made with thinly sliced radishes, red onions, and poblano peppers. Just be sure to balance out the spice with a little sweetness or creaminess to cool things down.

“Spices are very good for health and have many medicinal properties.” -Dr. Suman Bijlani

Sweet Potato Fries

Fish sticks are a classic comfort food that many of us enjoy, but if you’re looking to upgrade your meal, sweet potato fries are the perfect side dish. They pair well with fish sticks, providing a delicious and nutritious addition to your plate.

Baking vs Frying

The cooking method for sweet potato fries can make all the difference in their taste and texture. Baking is a healthier option than frying since it uses less oil and reduces calories. To bake sweet potato fries, preheat the oven to 425°F. Cut the potatoes into long, thin strips, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place them on a lined baking sheet with space between each fry. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.

If you prefer the deep-fried flavor and texture, frying is an option as well. Preheat the oil in a large pot to 375°F. Place the potatoes in the hot oil and fry for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to drain them well before serving.

Seasoning Suggestions

The beauty of sweet potato fries is how versatile they are when it comes to seasoning. Here are some seasoning suggestions that will add extra flavor to your favorite fries:

• Cinnamon and sugar
• Garlic powder and paprika
• Rosemary and thyme
• Cajun spice mix
• Chili powder and lime juice

Dipping Sauces

Pair your sweet potato fries with a homemade dipping sauce to take their flavors up a notch. Here are some dipping sauce ideas:

• Maple mustard
• Honey garlic mayo
• Balsamic ketchup
• Chipotle aioli
• Tzatziki

Serving Tips

When it comes to serving sweet potato fries, presentation is key. Here are some tips for a beautiful and delicious plate:

• Place the fries in a tall cup or ramekin to elevate them above the plate.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil on top of the fries for added color and flavor.
• Pair your fries with a side salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

“Sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index than regular potatoes, which can help prevent insulin resistance.” -Dr. Joseph Mercola

Sweet potato fries make a fantastic addition to any fish stick meal. They’re not only delicious but also nutritious, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Baked or fried, seasoned or plain, they will always upgrade your comfort food game. So next time you’re craving a classic dish, remember to add some sweet potato fries to pair with your fish sticks for an unforgettable meal.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

If you’re wondering what goes good with fish sticks, garlic butter green beans are an excellent choice. Not only do they complement the mild flavor of the fish, but they also add a bit of color and texture to your plate. Here’s how to make this easy side dish.

Preparation Tips

To start, trim the ends off of 1 pound of fresh green beans. Rinse them thoroughly in cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the green beans to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender-crisp.

• When selecting green beans, look for ones that are bright green and firm to the touch. Avoid any that are wilted or discolored.
• If you prefer your green beans softer, increase the cooking time by a few minutes or blanch them in boiling water for a minute before sautéing them.
• If you don’t have fresh green beans on hand, frozen ones work just as well. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

Extra Ingredients to Add

If you want to jazz up your garlic butter green beans even further, try adding some of these extra ingredients:

• Sliced almonds or chopped walnuts for crunch
• Crispy bacon bits for smokiness
• Feta cheese crumbles for tanginess
• Thinly sliced red onions for sweetness
• Lemon zest or juice for brightness
• Diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for color

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations! Just be sure not to overwhelm the delicate flavor of the fish sticks.

Serving Suggestions

In addition to fish sticks, garlic butter green beans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with many other main courses. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled chicken breasts or thighs seasoned with lemon pepper
• Baked salmon fillets topped with dill butter
• Pan-seared pork chops with apple-cider reduction sauce
• Sautéed shrimp scampi over linguine pasta
• Veggie burgers topped with avocado and tomato slices

“Eat food, not too much, mostly plants.” – Michael Pollan

No matter what you choose to serve them with, garlic butter green beans are an easy and flavorful way to add some vegetables to your meal. Give them a try next time you’re wondering what goes good with fish sticks!

Frequently Asked Questions