What to Eat With Sushi: 7 Easy Pairings in 2025 

Sushi is a beloved favorite around the world. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Sushi isn’t just about raw fish. It’s a whole style of cooking that’s centered around seasoned rice, rolled or layered with a variety of ingredients. From crisp veggies and creamy avocado to tofu, egg, or, yes, fresh seafood, sushi is really versatile.  

Pairing sushi with the right side dish can turn a simple meal into something extra special. Whether you’re planning a sushi night at home or just want to round out your takeout, a few thoughtful pairings can add balance, texture, and a little fun to your plate.

You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip up the perfect side. All the recipes and ideas in this guide are easy, accessible, and made with simple ingredients you can find at most grocery stores. From warm soups to crunchy salads, there’s something here for every kind of sushi lover.

All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.  

1. Miso Soup With Tofu

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a small pot, bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

2. Stir in the dashi powder (or veggie broth) until dissolved.

3. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a few spoonfuls of the hot broth until smooth, then stir it into the pot.

4. Add the tofu cubes and wakame (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Don’t boil, or the miso’s flavor will flatten.

5. Remove from heat. Stir in chopped green onions just before serving.

Overview 🔍

A classic starter, miso soup adds warmth and umami to any sushi meal. The savory broth and gentle tofu cubes offer a comforting contrast to cool sushi bites, while the seaweed and scallions bring brightness and a hint of the ocean.

You can easily make this soup plant-based by using vegetable broth and checking that your miso is vegan. Want to boost it? Try adding sliced mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. It also doubles as a light lunch on its own when served with rice or noodles.

2. Spicy Edamame Bowl

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Boil or steam the edamame according to package instructions (usually 4-5 minutes). Drain and pat dry.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the sesame oil. Add garlic and sliced chili, cooking for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the edamame pods, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Toss to coat and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until heated through and slightly blistered.

4. Transfer to a bowl and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Overview 🔍

This spicy edamame bowl is bold, nutty, and just a little addictive. It’s the perfect snackable side to balance the clean flavors of sushi. The garlicky oil and chili heat add depth without overpowering, while the edamame offers satisfying texture and protein.

Dial the spice up or down depending on your taste. For a milder version, skip the extra chili flakes or remove the seeds from the sliced chili. You can also add a squeeze of lime for brightness, or swap the garlic for ginger if you prefer. It’s quick, a really easy recipe, and it’s always a hit.

3. Ginger Chicken Gyoza

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onion, and cabbage (if using).

2. Place about 1 teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Wet the edges with water, fold in half, and press to seal, pleating if you like.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Place the dumplings flat-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown.

4. Add ¼ cup water, cover the pan, and steam for 5-6 minutes until the water evaporates and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Uncover and let the bottoms crisp for another 1-2 minutes. Serve with dipping sauce.

Overview 🔍

Ginger chicken gyoza are a savory, satisfying addition to sushi meals. The juicy filling and golden, crispy bottoms add warmth and heartiness, while the ginger brings a punch of freshness that complements sushi’s clean flavors.

You can make these ahead and freeze them before cooking. This makes them perfect for prepping in batches. For a lighter version, steam instead of pan-frying, or use ground turkey or finely chopped mushrooms for a plant-based twist. Serve with soy dipping sauce, or spice it up with a splash of chili oil.

4. Fried Shrimp Tempura

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Pat shrimp dry and make 2-3 shallow cuts along the underside to prevent curling. Gently straighten each shrimp.

2. Lightly dust shrimp with flour to help the batter stick.

3. In a bowl, gently mix flour, cornstarch, egg yolk, and cold sparkling water. Stir just until combined (a few lumps are okay, so don’t overmix).

4. Heat oil in a deep pan to 340-360°F (170-180°C).

5. Dip each shrimp into the batter and carefully lower into the oil. Fry 2-3 at a time for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp.

6. Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Overview 🔍

Fried shrimp tempura adds crunch and contrast to sushi’s soft textures. The light, airy batter lets the shrimp shine, and the tail-on presentation adds a touch of elegance. It’s a classic Japanese side that’s perfect for sharing.

For best results, keep your batter cold and fry in small batches so the oil stays hot. Want to mix it up? Use the same batter for veggies like sweet potato, zucchini, or mushrooms. Gluten-free? Swap the flour for a gluten-free blend and double-check your soy sauce or swap it for tamari.

If you enjoy fish-based dishes, pescatarian meal delivery services can be a convenient way to access fresh seafood recipes without the hassle of grocery shopping. Many of these services offer a range of pescatarian-friendly meals, so you can enjoy dishes like shrimp, fish, and other seafood with minimal prep.

5. Pork Udon Noodles With Bell Pepper

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the udon noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

2. While the noodles cook, heat a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until they begin to soften.

4. Stir in the soy glaze, black bean-chile sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors combine.

5. Add the cooked udon noodles to the pan, tossing them with the sauce and pork mixture until well-coated and heated through.

6. Serve topped with sliced scallions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Overview 🔍

This Japanese-inspired udon noodle dish is savory and slightly spicy. It’s packed with flavor, making it an ideal pairing to complement sushi’s delicate taste. The chewy udon noodles absorb the rich black bean-chile sauce, while the bell peppers add a crunchy, fresh contrast.

Customize it by adding more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, or make it spicier by increasing the red pepper flakes. You can also swap the ground pork for chicken or tofu for a lighter version. This dish also works well as a standalone meal or a hearty side. 

6. Cucumber Salad With Rice Vinegar

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 5 minutes, then gently squeeze out any excess water.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil until sugar is dissolved.

3. Toss the cucumber with the dressing and sesame seeds.

4. Add chili if using, then chill for a few minutes or serve immediately.

Overview 🔍

This crisp cucumber salad is the ultimate cooling side for sushi. Light, tangy, and just a little sweet, it contrasts beautifully with savory rolls and rich sauces. The sesame oil adds nuttiness, while the seeds provide a pleasant crunch.

You can swap in English or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a more delicate texture. Want it spicier? Add thinly sliced chili or a touch of wasabi to the dressing. This salad also keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

7. Chicken & Veg Teriyaki Stir Fry

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

2. While the chicken is cooking, mix together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.

3. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Add the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini to the pan, and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until tender but still crisp.

4. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly, cooking for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles, and sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Overview 🔍

This stir fry is a savory, slightly sweet dish that’s both satisfying and quick to make. The tender chicken and crunchy veggies are coated in a rich, flavorful teriyaki sauce, making it a great complement to lighter sushi options.

For a variation, you can swap the chicken for beef, tofu, or shrimp. Add more veggies like mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and color. It’s also a really flexible dish. You can serve it over white rice, brown rice, or noodles, depending on your preference.

FAQ

What to serve with sushi?

To balance sushi’s delicate flavors, you’ll want to serve sides that are light and refreshing. Miso Soup with Tofu is a great option, offering savory warmth that complements the cool, fresh sushi. You could also serve a crunchy salad, some pickled vegetables, or even some lightly sautéed greens. 

What side dish goes well with sushi?

A side that provides contrast in texture works wonderfully with sushi. Fried Shrimp Tempura is a crispy choice, giving a satisfying crunch to complement the soft sushi. A simple pickled or marinated vegetable dish can also be a great way to add balance and enhance the flavors of the sushi.

Is sushi a side or a main dish?

Sushi is traditionally a main dish, often served as the centerpiece of the meal. To complement it, consider serving lighter sides like a refreshing salad or a small bowl of soup. These sides add variety and texture while letting the sushi remain the star of the show.