What To Serve With Frog Legs: 15 Tasty Side Dishes

Frog legs are a delicacy that offer a unique, tender meat, often said to taste like a cross between chicken and fish.

They're frequently enjoyed fried, grilled, or sautéed, and they present an exciting opportunity for pairing with sides that elevate the meal.

So, what should accompany this culinary curiosity? Here are 15 side dishes that pair incredibly well with frog legs.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with frog legs are French onion soup, ratatouille, French fries, crispy green beans, mushroom risotto, coq au vin, beef bourguignon, wedge salad, grilled asparagus, creamed spinach, sweet potato fries, artichoke hearts, garlic bread, Caesar salad, and polenta.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. French Onion Soup

A steaming bowl of French onion soup is a classic choice that works wonderfully with frog legs. The caramelized onions in a rich broth, topped with a layer of melted cheese, offer a comforting counterpoint. The soup's intense flavors work well against the subtleness of the frog legs, creating a well-rounded meal.

2. Ratatouille

Ratatouille, a vegetable medley stewed in a tomato base, brings vibrant colors and flavors to the plate. Comprising eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, its earthy and tangy tones make it a beautiful companion for frog legs. Plus, it keeps the meal light and adds a touch of elegance.

3. French Fries

Simple but always satisfying, French fries provide a crispy, salty contrast to the tender meat of frog legs. Whether you opt for classic thin fries or go for thicker, rustic-style wedges, this is a side dish that never disappoints. Add a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, and you've got a winning combo.

4. Crispy Green Beans

Green beans, breaded and fried until crispy, offer a different take on a green side. Their crunchy texture and natural sweetness provide a great balance to frog legs. Serve them with a side of creamy ranch for dipping, and this side dish becomes an instant hit.

5. Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto brings a creamy, luxurious element to the table. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms complements the unique taste of frog legs, while the creamy Arborio rice adds a comfort food touch. This pairing is especially good if you're serving frog legs in a richer sauce.

6. Coq Au Vin

Want to double up on French cuisine? Coq Au Vin, a chicken dish simmered in red wine with mushrooms and onions, can be a surprising but delightful side. The wine-infused sauce and tender chicken add a contrasting meaty element, making the meal more substantial and varied.

7. Beef Bourguignon

Another French classic, Beef Bourguignon offers a hearty, robust side dish option. With tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich red wine sauce, it's a stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish that can stand up to the unique flavor of frog legs.

8. Wedge Salad

For something on the lighter side, a wedge salad provides crisp, refreshing bites. Iceberg lettuce topped with blue cheese dressing, bacon bits, and a sprinkle of chives offers a palate-cleansing option that balances out the richness of other sides and the frog legs themselves.

9. Grilled Asparagus

A side of grilled asparagus brings a smoky, charred flavor that pairs beautifully with frog legs. With just a simple drizzle of olive oil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon, asparagus adds a fresh, yet complex layer to the meal. It's a lighter choice that still packs a flavor punch.

10. Creamed Spinach

For a creamy side dish that's a little decadent, consider creamed spinach. The rich texture and flavor of the spinach enhance the tender, delicate meat of the frog legs. Plus, the garlic and nutmeg in the cream sauce offer a comforting, homey touch.

11. Sweet Potato Fries

If you're a fan of the classic French fries but want a sweeter twist, sweet potato fries could be your answer. Their natural sweetness and crispy texture can offer a contrast to the savory frog legs. Serve with a side of honey mustard or chipotle mayo for dipping.

12. Artichoke Hearts

Artichoke hearts, whether grilled or marinated, can be an elegant addition to your frog legs dinner. Their nutty, slightly tangy flavor works well with the mild taste of frog legs, making for a gourmet experience without much fuss.

13. Garlic Bread

A slice or two of warm garlic bread can be a heavenly companion to frog legs. The robust garlic flavor, combined with the buttery, crispy crust, serves as a wonderful contrast. Plus, it's excellent for soaking up any sauces you might have on your plate.

14. Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons, offers a mix of textures that complement frog legs beautifully. It's a classic choice that adds a refreshing element to the meal.

15. Polenta

Creamy polenta can serve as a wonderful base for frog legs. Its smooth texture and subtle corn flavor make it a versatile side dish. You can also jazz it up with some Parmesan cheese or herbs to match the seasoning on your frog legs.

More Recipes

What To Serve With Lamb Shanks

What To Serve With Gumbo

What To Serve With Carbonara