Fried green tomatoes are a Southern delicacy, loved for their crispy exterior and tangy flavor. If you’re wondering what do you eat with fried green tomatoes, there are plenty of delicious pairings to explore. From Southern comfort food to healthier, modern dishes, the right sides can elevate fried green tomatoes from a simple snack to a satisfying meal.
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Classic Southern Pairings for Fried Green Tomatoes
When it comes to answering the question, what do you eat with fried green tomatoes, classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits or collard greens are top choices. These traditional sides not only complement the crispy texture and tangy flavor of the tomatoes, but they also capture the heart of Southern cuisine.
1. Shrimp and Grits
One of the most popular answers to what do you eat with fried green tomatoes is shrimp and grits. This classic pairing balances the tangy, crispy bite of fried green tomatoes with the creamy richness of grits, topped with savory shrimp.
To make this dish, you can prepare simple grits with butter, cheese, and cream. Top them with seasoned shrimp sautéed in butter and garlic. Finally, serve the fried green tomatoes on the side for a complete meal.
For more shrimp-related dishes, check out AeriaRecipes’ Shrimp Chips Recipe for a creative seafood pairing idea.
2. Pimento Cheese
Another great option when deciding what do you eat with fried green tomatoes is pimento cheese. The creaminess of this Southern cheese spread pairs beautifully with the crispy fried tomatoes, creating a rich and satisfying contrast.
You can spread pimento cheese on a piece of bread or serve it as a dip alongside the tomatoes. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior of the tomatoes.
Moreover, you can create a fried green tomato sandwich with pimento cheese for a Southern twist on a grilled cheese sandwich.
3. Collard Greens
Another classic Southern side is collard greens. These slow-cooked greens, often prepared with bacon or ham hocks, offer a smoky and savory flavor that pairs well with fried green tomatoes. The slightly bitter taste of collard greens balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
To make collard greens, simmer them with onion, garlic, bacon, and a splash of vinegar. Then, let them cook low and slow until they’re tender. Serve the fried green tomatoes alongside the greens for a wholesome meal.
Modern and Healthy Pairings for Fried Green Tomatoes
While fried green tomatoes are traditionally paired with Southern comfort food, you can also enjoy them with healthier, modern dishes. Here are some creative ideas that lighten up your meal while still complementing the rich flavors of fried green tomatoes.
4. Arugula Salad
A simple, fresh arugula salad can be an excellent companion to fried green tomatoes. The peppery bite of arugula, combined with the tang of a lemon vinaigrette, cuts through the richness of the fried tomatoes, offering a lighter balance.
To make this pairing, toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You can also add toppings like goat cheese or toasted nuts for extra flavor. As a result, you get a healthier and well-rounded meal when served alongside your fried green tomatoes.
5. Grilled Chicken
For a protein-rich, low-carb option, try serving fried green tomatoes with grilled chicken. The juicy, smoky flavor of the grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the crispy, tangy tomatoes. You can marinate the chicken in herbs and olive oil before grilling it to add more flavor.
This pairing works well for those looking for a balanced meal without the heaviness of traditional Southern sides.
For a delicious chicken recipe to pair with your fried green tomatoes, check out AeriaRecipes’ Chicken Fries Recipe.
6. Quinoa Salad
For a health-conscious twist, pair fried green tomatoes with a light and refreshing quinoa salad. Quinoa is a high-protein, gluten-free grain that adds both nutrition and texture to your meal. A quinoa salad with fresh herbs, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing creates a healthy yet delicious contrast to the richness of fried green tomatoes.
The tangy fried tomatoes balance the light and fresh flavors of the quinoa salad, creating a well-rounded and nutrient-packed dish.
Southern Sandwiches with Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are not only great as a side dish; they can also be the star of a sandwich. Here are some delicious sandwich ideas where fried green tomatoes take center stage.
7. Fried Green Tomato BLT
Take your classic BLT to the next level by replacing the traditional tomato slice with a crispy fried green tomato. The tangy flavor of the fried tomato enhances the sandwich and adds an extra crunch that pairs well with the smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and creamy mayonnaise.
To assemble this Southern BLT, toast your bread, fry your bacon until crispy, and layer it with fried green tomatoes, lettuce, and mayo. It’s a Southern take on a beloved classic.
8. Pimento Cheese and Fried Green Tomato Grilled Cheese
Another sandwich idea is the pimento cheese and fried green tomato grilled cheese. Pimento cheese, a Southern staple, pairs beautifully with fried green tomatoes in a grilled sandwich.
To make it, spread pimento cheese on slices of bread, add fried green tomatoes, and grill the sandwich until golden and crispy. The creamy cheese combined with the tangy tomatoes makes for a decadent and delicious meal.
Breakfast and Brunch Pairings for Fried Green Tomatoes
If you’re serving fried green tomatoes for breakfast or brunch, there are plenty of great dishes that pair well with them.
9. Scrambled Eggs and Bacon
For a traditional Southern breakfast, serve fried green tomatoes alongside scrambled eggs and bacon. The richness of the eggs and the savory, salty flavor of the bacon balance the tangy, crispy tomatoes perfectly. It’s a hearty breakfast that will satisfy any appetite.
For more breakfast ideas, consider making a Mini Pancake Breakfast as an accompaniment, like the recipe featured on AeriaRecipes’ Mini Pancake Recipe.
10. Biscuits and Gravy
Pair fried green tomatoes with biscuits and gravy for a true Southern brunch feast. The soft, buttery biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy create a rich and flavorful base that complements the tangy, crispy tomatoes. It’s a filling and indulgent meal that’s perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
11. Eggs Benedict with Fried Green Tomatoes
For a Southern twist on Eggs Benedict, replace the traditional English muffin and tomato slice with fried green tomatoes. The crispy, tangy tomatoes paired with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce create a delightful variation of this classic brunch dish.
Dessert Pairings for Fried Green Tomatoes
Believe it or not, you can even serve dessert with fried green tomatoes. Their tangy flavor pairs surprisingly well with sweet, creamy treats.
12. Fried Apple Pies
For a classic Southern dessert, pair your fried green tomatoes with fried apple pies. These hand pies, filled with spiced apple filling, are crispy and sweet, offering a perfect contrast to the savory tomatoes.
For more dessert inspiration, explore AeriaRecipes’ Fried Apple Pies Recipe.
13. Banana Pudding
Another Southern classic, banana pudding, pairs well with fried green tomatoes. The creamy, sweet pudding and vanilla wafers offer a smooth contrast to the crispy tomatoes, making it a great way to round off a meal.
You can find a banana pudding recipe on AeriaRecipes’ Banana Pudding Recipe.
More Creative Pairings for Fried Green Tomatoes
To truly experiment with flavor, here are more modern and unique ways to pair fried green tomatoes:
14. Avocado Toast with Fried Green Tomatoes
For a modern brunch twist, top your avocado toast with crispy fried green tomatoes. The creaminess of the avocado pairs well with the tanginess of the tomatoes, while the bread adds crunch. Additionally, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elevated, Instagram-worthy dish.
15. Caprese Salad with a Twist
Swap out traditional tomatoes in a Caprese salad with fried green tomatoes. Layer fried green tomato slices with fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This twist on the classic Italian salad gives it a Southern flair while maintaining the freshness of a traditional Caprese.
Conclusion
Fried green tomatoes are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with a wide range of foods. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Southern pairings, a modern healthy twist, or even a creative dessert, the options are endless. From shrimp and grits to a quinoa salad, fried green tomatoes are the perfect accompaniment to many dishes.
To explore more recipes and ideas that pair well with fried green tomatoes, visit AeriaRecipes. There, you’ll find a treasure trove of Southern classics and modern favorites that will inspire your next meal.