Fried green tomatoes are a Southern staple that has grown in popularity due to their unique tangy flavor and crispy texture. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as part of a main course. But what really makes a meal complete is choosing the perfect accompaniments for these fried treats. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the best main dishes, side dishes, sauces, and beverages that pair well with fried green tomatoes to help you create a truly satisfying dinner.
Not only will you find delicious ideas here, but we’ll also provide helpful links to related recipes from Lyna Recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.
Why Pairing Matters: The Unique Flavor of Fried Green Tomatoes
Before we dive into the pairings, it’s important to understand the special nature of fried green tomatoes. Made from unripe tomatoes, this dish offers a tart and slightly acidic flavor that’s different from fully ripened tomatoes. When coated in seasoned cornmeal or breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, fried green tomatoes boast a crunchy exterior with a juicy, tangy interior. The unique texture and flavor profile mean that these tomatoes need the right complementary dishes to make the perfect meal.
The best pairings bring out the tanginess of the tomatoes while offering contrasting or complementary flavors. Whether you’re aiming for a light and fresh meal or something hearty and comforting, the right side dishes and main courses will elevate your fried green tomatoes from a simple Southern dish to a star of the table.
Main Dishes to Serve With Fried Green Tomatoes
Finding the right main dish to complement fried green tomatoes is key to balancing your meal. Here are some of the best main course options, ranging from hearty Southern favorites to lighter, more modern fare.
1. Southern Fried Chicken
No Southern meal feels complete without fried chicken, and it’s one of the most popular dishes to pair with fried green tomatoes. The crunchy fried chicken skin mirrors the crispy coating of the tomatoes, while the juicy, tender chicken provides a perfect contrast to the tangy flavor of the tomatoes.
For an authentic Southern experience, consider serving buttery biscuits alongside fried chicken and fried green tomatoes. This classic combination adds richness and heartiness to the meal.
2. Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is another Southern favorite that pairs beautifully with fried green tomatoes. The creamy, cheesy texture of the grits contrasts with the crunch of the tomatoes, while the shrimp adds a savory, slightly sweet flavor. This combination works especially well if you add a little Cajun seasoning to the shrimp for a touch of spice.
For more inspiration on preparing shrimp, check out this Shrimp Recipe Guide from Lyna Recipes. It offers tips on how to cook shrimp to perfection.
3. Pork Chops
Pork chops are another meaty, satisfying option to pair with fried green tomatoes. Grilled, pan-seared, or oven-baked pork chops all work well with the tomatoes’ tangy flavor. The richness of the pork helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded dish.
To make this pairing even more flavorful, consider glazing the pork chops with honey or serving them with apple sauce, which complements both the meat and the tomatoes.
4. Blackened Fish
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, blackened fish is a great option. Catfish or tilapia, seasoned with Cajun or Creole spices, can provide a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that pairs well with the tangy, crisp tomatoes. Blackened fish offers a health-conscious option without sacrificing flavor, making it an excellent main dish.
For more on Southern-style blackened fish, see Blackened Fish Recipe Ideas.
5. Lobster Mac and Cheese
For a decadent and indulgent meal, try pairing fried green tomatoes with lobster mac and cheese. The creamy, cheesy sauce of the mac and cheese complements the tangy tomatoes, while the lobster adds a rich, luxurious touch to the dish. This is a pairing best reserved for special occasions when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself.
For more delicious mac and cheese ideas, explore Comfort Food Favorites.
Vegetarian Main Courses That Pair Well With Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes aren’t just for meat-lovers. They also pair beautifully with a variety of vegetarian main courses. Here are some satisfying vegetarian dishes that go perfectly with fried green tomatoes.
1. Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are an excellent vegetarian main course to serve alongside fried green tomatoes. You can fill the peppers with rice, quinoa, black beans, or cheese, creating a hearty dish that complements the tangy flavor of the tomatoes. The soft, baked texture of the peppers contrasts nicely with the crispy coating on the fried tomatoes.
For a twist, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to your stuffed peppers for a little extra flavor. The slight spiciness will work well with the acidity of the tomatoes.
2. Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is another rich and comforting vegetarian dish that pairs wonderfully with fried green tomatoes. The layers of eggplant, tomato sauce, and melted cheese provide a savory, indulgent contrast to the tangy tomatoes. Plus, both dishes share a similar preparation method—coated and fried—making them natural companions on the plate.
For a lighter version of this dish, consider baking the eggplant rather than frying it.
3. Leek and Potato Soup
A warm bowl of leek and potato soup is a fantastic complement to fried green tomatoes, especially during cooler months. The smooth, creamy texture of the soup provides a contrast to the crispy tomatoes, while the mild flavor of the leeks and potatoes allows the tangy tomatoes to take center stage.
Learn how to prepare your leeks perfectly with this Guide to Cleaning and Cutting Leeks from Lyna Recipes.
4. Caprese Salad With Balsamic Glaze
For a lighter, fresher pairing, consider serving fried green tomatoes with a Caprese salad. The simple combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze brings a touch of sweetness and freshness to the plate, balancing the crisp fried green tomatoes with creamy and herbal flavors.
The addition of balsamic glaze adds acidity that complements the tanginess of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
Side Dishes That Go Well With Fried Green Tomatoes
No meal is complete without side dishes that enhance the main course. Fried green tomatoes pair well with both traditional Southern sides and more modern, lighter options. Here are a few great ideas:
1. Cheese Grits
Creamy and cheesy, grits are a Southern classic that pairs exceptionally well with fried green tomatoes. The rich, creamy texture of the grits complements the crispy tomatoes, providing a comforting contrast to the meal.
You can try different variations of grits, such as adding garlic, bacon, or even some jalapeños for a spicy kick. For a simple and delicious recipe, visit Lyna Recipes’ Cheese Grits Recipe.
2. Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas are another Southern staple that go wonderfully with fried green tomatoes. They offer a mild, earthy flavor that complements the tangy acidity of the tomatoes. You can season them with herbs, onions, garlic, and a little bit of bacon for extra flavor.
Need help with seasoning black-eyed peas? Check out this Guide to Black-Eyed Peas Seasoning.
3. Collard Greens
Collard greens are a traditional Southern side dish that pairs well with fried green tomatoes. Their slightly bitter flavor and tender texture provide a contrast to the crispy, tangy tomatoes. The richness of collard greens, especially when cooked with ham or bacon, balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
4. Fried Okra
If you’re looking for another fried side, fried okra makes an excellent pairing with fried green tomatoes. The crispy texture of the okra mirrors the crunchiness of the tomatoes, while the okra’s subtle flavor allows the tangy tomatoes to shine.
Sauces to Serve with Fried Green Tomatoes
Sauces are a key element in elevating your fried green tomato dish, adding creaminess, spice, or sweetness to the plate. Here are some sauces that complement fried green tomatoes perfectly:
1. Remoulade Sauce
Remoulade sauce is a classic accompaniment to fried green tomatoes. This creamy, slightly tangy sauce is made with a base of mayonnaise, mustard, and spices. The zesty flavor of the remoulade adds depth to the tangy tomatoes and enhances the overall dish.
2. Aioli
Garlic aioli is another excellent choice for fried green tomatoes. The creamy, rich flavor of the aioli balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while the garlic adds a savory punch to the dish. You can make a simple garlic aioli or experiment with flavors like lemon or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
3. Blackberry Vinaigrette
For a sweet and fruity option, try serving fried green tomatoes with blackberry vinaigrette. The sweetness of the blackberries provides a beautiful contrast to the tart tomatoes, and the vinaigrette’s acidity complements the dish.
For more sauce ideas, check out Lyna Recipes’ Sauce Guide.
Beverages to Serve With Fried Green Tomatoes
Choosing the right beverage can enhance the flavors of fried green tomatoes and round out your meal. Here are a few drink suggestions:
1. Sweet Tea
A traditional Southern drink, sweet tea is a perfect pairing for fried green tomatoes. The sweetness of the tea provides a refreshing contrast to the tangy, savory flavors of the tomatoes.
2. Crisp White Wine
For a more sophisticated option, serve fried green tomatoes with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The light, citrusy notes of the wine pair beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes, adding a refreshing balance to the meal.
3. Lemonade
Another Southern favorite, lemonade adds a zesty, sweet-tart flavor that complements the fried green tomatoes. This is a perfect choice for a casual summer meal or outdoor barbecue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What protein pairs best with fried green tomatoes?
Southern fried chicken, shrimp, pork chops, and blackened fish are all excellent protein choices to pair with fried green tomatoes. For a vegetarian option, dishes like eggplant parmesan or stuffed peppers also work well.
What sauce works well with fried green tomatoes?
Popular sauces include remoulade, garlic aioli, and blackberry vinaigrette. These sauces provide a creamy or fruity contrast to the crispy, tangy tomatoes.
Can fried green tomatoes be served as a side dish?
Yes, fried green tomatoes can be served as a side dish, an appetizer, or even as part of the main course, depending on how you plan your meal.
Are fried green tomatoes healthy?
Fried green tomatoes are typically fried in oil, which adds fat and calories. However, you can make healthier versions by baking or air-frying them.