Fried green tomatoes are more than just a Southern delicacy — they’re a celebration of culinary heritage, resourcefulness, and simple ingredients turned into something spectacular.
These tangy, crispy slices of unripe tomato, breaded in cornmeal and pan-fried to golden perfection, offer a crunchy, tart, and savory flavor that has captivated hearts far beyond the Mason-Dixon Line.
Whether you’re preparing a Southern-inspired brunch, looking for a standout appetizer, or building a full meal around this dish, you must be wondering – what goes with fried green tomatoes?
This guide explores classic pairings, innovative accompaniments, beverages, and even sauces to elevate your fried green tomato experience from tasty to unforgettable.
What To Serve With Fired Green Tomatoes
Table of Contents
Now here’s what you can serve with fried green tomatoes:
1. Shrimp and Grits
Few dishes scream “Southern comfort” quite like shrimp and grits. Pairing this creamy, buttery staple with fried green tomatoes adds a crisp texture and a welcome acidity that cuts through the richness of the grits.
You can serve the tomatoes as a garnish, or as a side to the main plate. Bonus points for topping the shrimp and grits with a slice of fried green tomato and a dollop of remoulade.
2. Pimento Cheese
Pimento cheese — the “caviar of the South” — is a creamy, tangy spread made with cheddar, mayonnaise, and pimentos.
Spread it between two slices of fried green tomatoes to make a savory mini sandwich, or serve them side-by-side on a platter for snacking. The contrast of hot, crispy tomato and cool, creamy cheese is sublime.
3. Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky, buttery, homemade buttermilk biscuits are a natural partner for fried green tomatoes. You can serve the tomatoes alongside the biscuits, or make an open-faced biscuit sandwich with a tomato slice, a poached egg, and a drizzle of hot sauce or hollandaise. It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy Southern breakfast.
4. Collard Greens
Collard greens slow-simmered with smoked ham hocks, vinegar, and onions provide a hearty, earthy contrast to fried green tomatoes.
Their slightly bitter, smoky flavor balances the bright tang of the tomatoes. For a soul food plate, serve both alongside cornbread and macaroni and cheese.
5. Avocado or Tomato Stack Salad
For a more modern twist, try a stacked salad of alternating layers: fried green tomato slices, fresh avocado, heirloom tomatoes, and mozzarella or goat cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant, satisfying appetizer or light lunch.
6. Crab Cakes
The delicate sweetness of crab cakes complements the tangy snap of fried green tomatoes beautifully.
Serve both with a citrus aioli or a Cajun remoulade. This combo works well as a starter at a seafood dinner or as part of a tapas-style spread.
7. Po’ Boys and Sliders
In New Orleans and other parts of the Gulf Coast, you might find fried green tomatoes tucked into sandwiches. Use them in a shrimp po’ boy, a BLT variation, or as the “patty” in vegetarian sliders with spicy mayo and pickled onions.
8. Arugula Salad
The peppery bite of arugula is a refreshing foil for the rich fried tomatoes. Toss the greens with lemon vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, and candied pecans, then serve the tomatoes on top or on the side. This makes a light and elegant lunch, particularly in the warmer months.
Fried green tomatoes are fantastic on their own, but a dipping sauce or drizzle can elevate them to the next level. Here are a few beloved sauces to consider:
9. Remoulade
This creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce is the most traditional topping for fried green tomatoes. It’s typically made with mayonnaise, mustard, garlic, paprika, hot sauce, and pickles or capers. You’ll find it served alongside in most Southern restaurants.
10. Ranch or Buttermilk Dressing
For a milder but equally creamy option, a good ranch or homemade buttermilk dressing balances the tartness of the tomatoes and the heat of any spices in the breading.
11. Aioli (Garlic or Chipotle)
Want a little gourmet flair? A garlicky aioli or a smoky chipotle version adds depth and a bit of luxury. Use sparingly — just a small dollop can go a long way.
12. Hot Honey
This increasingly popular condiment blends sweetness and heat in one irresistible drizzle. It’s a bold but welcome contrast to the tart tomato flavor and savory crust.
Beverages can play a major role in rounding out your fried green tomato experience. Here are a few options based on the occasion and style of your meal:
13. Sweet Tea
No Southern meal is complete without a tall glass of iced sweet tea. The sugary, refreshing drink balances the acidity of the tomatoes and cools down the palate if you’re using spicy sauces.
14. Bourbon-Based Cocktails
Try a mint julep, a bourbon lemonade, or an Old Fashioned if you’re turning your meal into a festive affair. Bourbon’s caramel and spice notes pair well with the fried crust and tart center of the tomatoes.
15. White Wine
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling works wonderfully with fried green tomatoes. Both offer acidity and freshness to match the tang of the green tomatoes without overwhelming their flavor.
16. Sparkling Water with Citrus
If you’re keeping things non-alcoholic or light, sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime is ideal. It’s simple, refreshing, and helps cut the richness of fried foods.
Full Meal Ideas With Fried Green Tomatoes
To help you visualize how fried green tomatoes can fit into a full meal, here are three complete menu ideas:
Southern Brunch Plate
Fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese
Buttermilk biscuits
Poached eggs with hollandaise
Mixed greens with vinaigrette
Sweet tea or mimosa
Low Country Seafood Dinner
Fried green tomatoes with remoulade
Shrimp and grits
Steamed collard greens
Cornbread or hush puppies
Bourbon lemonade or dry Riesling
Vegetarian Garden Lunch
Fried green tomato and mozzarella stack salad
Arugula with pecans and lemon dressing
Grilled corn on the cob
Sparkling water with citrus
Fresh peach cobbler for dessert
Tips for Making the Best Fried Green Tomatoes
Here are a few quick tips to ensure your tomatoes shine:
- Choose firm green tomatoes or stored ones that are not yet ripened. They should be slightly tart and dense.
- Use a cornmeal dredge with flour and seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne are great additions).
- Fry in hot oil (350°F–375°F) for a crisp golden crust. Too low and they’ll absorb oil; too high and they’ll burn.
- Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crispy.
Wrapping Up
Fried green tomatoes are as versatile as they are beloved. Whether you’re keeping it classic with collard greens and biscuits, or going gourmet with crab cakes and aioli, there are endless ways to pair this Southern icon with complementary dishes. The key is to balance flavors — tangy and rich, crispy and creamy, acidic and sweet.
So next time you find yourself with a batch of green tomatoes, remember: they’re not just for frying — they’re for sharing, pairing, and savoring with all the fixings that make Southern food so unforgettable.
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