Best Side Dishes for Cod Fish: 12 Classic Pairings

Transform your cod fish into an unforgettable meal with these 12 delicious side dishes.

There’s nothing better than biting into a filet of rich, flaky, buttery cod fish. Especially when you pair it up with classic sides like coleslaw, french fries, hush puppies, or mac and cheese.

It’s also fantastic on a sandwich with tartar sauce, coleslaw, and American cheese. All sandwiched between two soft and pillowy buns. Yum!

Cod is most commonly coated in batter and deep-fried, so you’ll want to pair it with something refreshing. This is why coleslaw is such a popular side.

As for the texture, you’ll want something crisp or creamy to contrast the tenderness of the cod. When it comes to food pairings, creating a harmony of flavors and textures can make all the difference.

If you’re wondering what to serve at your next fish fry, we’ve got you covered! From classic pairings like hush puppies and coleslaw to more adventurous sides like lemon rice and fried okra, these specially selected sides are sure to impress.

1. Coleslaw

Because something rich needs something refreshing. There’s nothing like crunchy cabbage and carrots coated in a tangy dressing to brighten up your meal!

The combination of hot and cold, crisp and tender, and savory and tangy –  all I can say is, oh my cod! 

2. Zucchini Fritters

If you’ve got a ton of zucchini in the fridge, here’s an idea: fry them in the skillet! Zucchini fritters make a scrumptious and healthy side to fried cod.

They’re so good the kids won’t even realize they’re eating vegetables.

And zucchini fritters are easy to make too. What more can you ask for?

To make: mix zucchini shreds, flour, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined. With a tablespoon, scoop zucchini into a hot skillet with olive oil and fry for 2 minutes on each side.

3. French Fries

Nothing beats the classics. And I don’t think you can get any more classic than good ‘ole fish and chips. But if you’re watching your weight, you may want an alternative.

While you can’t beat the flavor of deep-fried potato strips, baked potato wedges do make an awesome alternative. With this side you still get the crispiness of the classic French fries but minus all that grease.

You can also use an air fryer to make some of your favorite foods – without the extra calories. You can even flavor it with your favorite seasonings to kick it up a notch! 

4. Hush Puppies

I love me some Southern cooking, so I always try to incorporate Southern dishes in my meals. Hushpuppies are one of my favorites because they’re addictive, pair well with almost anything, and incredibly easy to make.

Hushpuppies are deep-fried cornmeal batter, and while it’s such a simple dish, it always hits the spot. Best of all, these golden beauties pair perfectly with cod fish.

5. Lemon Rice

Fried cod isn’t that filling, and unless you serve a ton, you’ll want to pair it with a hearty and starchy dish. And what better side to fill up on than some rice?

Simple steamed rice is a little too bland for fried cod, though, so you’ll want to infuse it with some zesty flavor. With lemon rice, you get a refreshing, tasty side that perfectly complements the rich and flaky cod.

With a little bit of lemon, it elevates your rice to a whole level of goodness. And whether you use Jasmine, Basmati, or white rice, it will pair well with the cod.

6. Asparagus

Now if you find deep-fried cod is too rich, you’ll want something mild and refreshing to balance out the umami-ness of the dish. You can’t go wrong with some asparagus to lighten up your meal.

If you’re not a fan of the veggie’s mild bitterness, roast it in the oven! This cooking method gets rid of its bitterness and brings out its salty and savory flavors. Fantastic. 

If you’re not in the mood to roast, you can also make an asparagus salad!

To make a simple salad: combine arugula, shelled edamame, and shaved asparagus in a bowl. Coat it in a cilantro vinaigrette and garnish it with Parmesan cheese and toasted breadcrumbs.

7. Fried Okra

If you think okra is slimy and disgusting, you probably haven’t tried this dish before. And you should – especially if you’re serving cod. Fried Okra is a Southern classic that tastes amazing and works wonderfully with fried cod.

Plus, this dish is super easy to make. Simply dip your okra in cornmeal batter and deep-fry into golden goodness.

If you’re putting together a seafood platter, combine cod fish, coleslaw, and fried okra for a dinner that is sure to delight.

8. Mac and Cheese

All fried food tastes better with cheese, so it only makes sense to pair fried cod with mac and cheese. It also adds an element of creaminess that pairs perfectly with your seafood feast.

9. Cheese Grits

Here’s something else you can do with cornmeal: make cheese grits! Let’s face it, you can never go wrong with cheese.

Cheese grits bring creamy, cheesy flavors and a wonderful texture that pairs perfectly with fried cod. Together they make a beautiful harmony that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

10. Cornbread

Corn is such a sweet and refreshing grain and vegetable, I love serving it with deep-fried entrees to cut through the richness. 

That’s why cornbread works well with fried cod. Their flavor and texture profiles jive wonderfully. Tender and savory fish plus crumbly and sweet bread? I say yes, so much yes! 

11. Risotto

Give your simple deep-fried cod a luxurious feel by serving it with some elegant risotto! Risotto is nutty, creamy, cheesy, and enhances the mild flavors of the cod.

And don’t worry, unlike popular belief, risotto doesn’t require a lot of effort to make. It’s easier than it looks. But sure to impress!

12. Ratatouille

Ratatouille may sound fancy, but if a rat can make it, so can you! This vegetable stew comprises basic pantry veggies – eggplant, tomato, onions, zucchini, and garlic – so you can make it anytime.

Not only does it taste refreshing, but it also makes such a healthy accompaniment to cod. So go ahead, try it, and make Remy proud!