What To Serve With Sushi (25 Sides, Sauces & Desserts)

Sushi is a beloved dish that originated in Japan and has become a popular staple all around the world. These hand-rolled bites of vinegared sushi rice paired with raw fish or other ingredients are a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.

But, no sushi meal is complete without some tasty side dishes and dipping sauces to complement it. So, I compiled a list of my favorite sushi accompaniments.

From traditional Japanese dishes like miso soup and tamagoyaki to unique options like blistered shishito peppers and teriyaki tofu, these sides will add even more flavor and texture to your sushi experience. Let’s explore what to serve with your favorite sushi rolls!

1. Wasabi

No sushi night is complete without a side of wasabi. This spicy Japanese condiment is a must-have for any sushi lover. Traditionally, made from the root of the wasabi plant, this paste adds a kick of heat and a unique flavor to your sushi.

Not only does it taste great, but wasabi also serves as a palate cleanser between different types of sushi. It helps to neutralize the flavors, allowing you to fully taste each piece of sushi.

In addition to being a staple at Japanese restaurants, wasabi is also a popular ingredient in sushi recipes and can be found at most sushi parties. So next time you’re enjoying your favorite sushi rolls, don’t forget to include this flavorful condiment as one of your sushi side dishes.

If you can get your hands on some fresh wasabi root, you can make your own. But in most cases, the store-bought wasabi will be just fine.

We love: How to Make Wasabi at Home (by byFood)

2. Sushi dipping sauce

No sushi party is complete without a variety of delicious dipping sauces. From classic soy sauce to creamy miso sauce, these sauces add that something special to your favorite sushi rolls.

With a wide range of sushi dipping sauces to choose from, you can create your own delicious sushi dipping sauces. I love to serve sushi with a sweet and spicy sauce like Thai sweet chili sauce or sweet soy sauce.

Choose your favorite: The Best Dipping Sauces for Sushi Night (by Jen Around the World)

3. Spicy mayo

Spicy mayo is a must-have for any sushi lover. This creamy, spicy condiment is especially great with vegetable tempura rolls! But it’s great with California rolls or any sushi rolls that can use a creamy, spicy kick.

And, making spicy mayo is easy—simply mix mayonnaise with sriracha or hot sauce, and a touch of sesame oil for extra flavor. You can also add other ingredients like garlic, ginger, or soy sauce to customize the taste.

We love: Spicy Mayo (by Gimme Delicious)

4. Japanese cucumber salad

Japanese cucumber salad is a popular Japanese side dish that pairs perfectly with sushi.

This refreshing salad is made with thinly sliced cucumbers, tossed in a tangy sesame dressing, and topped with sesame seeds.

We love: Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono) (by Mildly Meandering)

5. Wakame salad

Wakame salad is a great side dish to serve with sushi. This popular dish is a staple in Japanese cuisine and complements sushi perfectly. It is one of my personal favorites!

Made with wakame seaweed, sesame seeds, and a tangy dressing, this salad brings a burst of fresh and different flavors to your sushi dining experience.

It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lighter side dish to balance out the rich flavors of sushi.

We love: Japanese Seaweed Salad (Wakame) (by Asian Inspired Eats Food Blog)

6. Agedashi tofu

When it comes to sushi, there are endless options for side dishes. But one that stands out is agedashi tofu. This deep-fried tofu dish has a crispy exterior and a soft, delicate inside, making it the perfect complement to your sushi.

To make age dashi tofu, simply deep-fry cornstarch-dusted tofu cubes until golden brown and serve in a medium bowl with a dashi stock-based sauce. For added flavor and texture, top with bonito flakes and green onions.

We love: Agedashi Tofu (Japanese Deep Fried Tofu) (by Sudachi)

7. Tamagoyaki

I love to serve sushi with tamagoyaki. It is my go-to sushi side dish I order at Japanese restaurants.

Tamagoyaki is a type of rolled omelet that is slightly sweet and has a texture similar to custard. It pairs perfectly with sushi, as it has a similar taste and texture to the egg layer often found in sushi rolls.

We love: Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omelette) 玉子焼き (by Just One Cookbook)

8. Miso soup

Miso soup is a delicious side dish to serve with sushi. It’s a traditional Japanese soup often served in sushi restaurants, and for good reason. The rich and savory flavors of the soup perfectly complement the delicate and subtle taste of sushi.

Miso soup is made from fermented soybean paste (miso paste), giving it a unique umami flavor. It often includes ingredients like tofu, seaweed, and scallions, adding texture and extra flavor to the soup.

We love: Miso Soup (Easy and Authentic Recipe) (by Rasa Malaysia)

9. Tempura vegetables

Tempura vegetables are the perfect side dish to serve with sushi. Serve them with a traditional Japanese tsuyu dipping sauce or spicy mayo.

They have a satisfying crunch that balances out the soft texture of sushi. Try serving them with a refreshing cold cucumber salad or some dried seaweed for a taste of traditional Japanese sides.

For a healthier option, you can also try making air fryer tempura vegetables or oven-baked tempura vegetables.

We love: Vegetable Tempura (by House of Nash Eats)

10. Gyoza

Gyoza, also known as Japanese dumplings, make a great side dish for any sushi night.

These delicious and versatile dumplings come in many different types, from traditional pork to vegetarian tofu recipes.

Gyoza is usually steamed and then pan-fried for a crispy bottom. Serve alongside your favorite sushi rolls and a simple dipping sauce for a great combination of flavors and textures.

We love: Gyoza Recipe (Japanese Dumplings) (by Momsdish)

11. Gari (Japanese pickled ginger)

When it comes to sushi, gari or Japanese pickled ginger is a must-have accompaniment.

This sweet and tangy condiment is made from thin slices of young ginger pickled in a vinegar solution.

Not only does gari add a pop of color and flavor to your sushi night, but it also helps cleanse the palate between bites. You can serve store-bought gari in small bowls, or try homemade Japanese pickled ginger. It’s easier than you think!

We love: Pickled Ginger “Gari” (by Chopstick Chronicles)

12. Japanese pickles

When it comes to authentic Japanese cuisine, it’s all about balance and variety. That’s why Japanese pickles make a perfect side dish to serve with sushi.

These pickles, also known as tsukemono, come in various types and flavors, from sweet and tangy to salty and spicy. They add a burst of flavor and texture to your sushi meal, and can even help cleanse your palate between different types of sushi.

Learn more: Tsukemono: A Guide to Japanese Pickles (by Just One Cookbook)

13. Teriyaki tofu

Teriyaki tofu is one of the best sides to serve with sushi.

A warm bowl of yummy tofu bites, marinated in a delicious teriyaki sauce, adds an umami flavor to your sushi dining experience.

Trust me, you won’t be able to resist taking bite-sized pieces of teriyaki tofu between each sushi roll.

We love: 30-Minute Teriyaki Tofu (by From My Bowl)

14. Blistered shishito peppers

Blistered shishito peppers are a delicious and unexpected side dish to serve alongside sushi. These Asian-inspired peppers are full of flavor.

Toss the blistered peppers in a garlic soy sauce for the perfect complement to any type of sushi, whether it’s a traditional roll or a more modern fusion dish.

We love: Blistered Shishito Peppers with Soy Garlic Sauce (by Girl With The Iron Cast®️)

15. Edamame

Edamame is a classic and popular side dish to serve with sushi. These little green soybean pods are an affordable filler for your Japanese meal.

Serve them either hot or cold. Plus, you can pre-cook them for a quick and easy addition to your sushi party spread.

We love: EASY Garlic Edamame Recipe (10 minutes only!) (by Joyous Apron)

16. Japanese sesame spinach salad

Sushi night just got even better with a bowl of Japanese sesame spinach salad. This easy salad recipe is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite sushi rolls.

The savory flavor of the sesame dressing pairs perfectly with the umami flavors of sushi, making it one of the best side dishes to serve with sticky rice and your favorite rolls.

For a complete Japanese-inspired meal, serve leftover sesame spinach salad alongside some spicy edamame, hibachi chicken wings, and a bowl of sticky rice. Your taste buds will thank you!

We love: Japanese Sesame Spinach Salad (Horenso Gomaae) ほうれん草の胡麻和え (by Okonomi Kitchen)

17. Kani salad

Kani salad is not actually a traditional Japanese dish. It was created in the United States and has become a popular side dish to enjoy alongside sushi.

This Japanese-inspired salad features imitation crab meat (crab sticks), crunchy cucumbers, and creamy mayonnaise, seasoned with rice vinegar and a hint of hot sauce for a savory flavor. It pairs perfectly with any type of sushi, including spicy tuna and California rolls.

It’s so easy to make at home with ingredients from your local grocery store.

We love: Spicy Kani Salad Recipe (Crab and Cucumber) (by Valentina’s Corner)

18. Chicken karaage

Chicken karaage is the perfect side dish to serve with sushi. These crispy and flavorful Japanese fried chicken bites are a great way to start off your sushi meal.

The crispy texture makes it a great finger food to munch on between sushi rolls.

For a more filling meal, serve the chicken karaage with udon noodles or a side of spinach leaves dressed in sesame oil. And don’t forget a light and refreshing dipping sauce!

We love: CRISPY Chicken Karaage – Japanese Fried Chicken (by Tiffy Cooks)

19. Beef udon noodle stir-fry

Beef udon noodle stir-fry is a filling meal that seamlessly follows a sushi platter.

Not only is it an easy recipe, but it also adds a delicious and savory element to your sushi meal. If you’re having a sushi party, this delicious stir-fry is a great way to ensure everyone has something to fill them up—especially those hesitant to eat the raw fish.

We love: Beef Udon Stir Fry (by Khin’s Kitchen)

20. Bok choy stir fry

When it comes to serving sushi, I love a light and flavorful side dish that complements traditional Japanese food. Bok choy stir fry is the perfect option for me.

This versatile side dish is made with simple ingredients such as bok choy, garlic, ginger, and chopped green onions, with a flavorful Asian dressing. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.

We love: Bok Choy Stir-Fry with Garlic & Ginger (by Aline Made)

21. Shrimp tempura

Who can resist a bowl of crispy shrimp tempura?

Serve it with homemade yum yum sauce, spicy mayo, or a classic sweet chili sauce to dip the crispy tempura battered shrimp between bites of flavorful sushi rolls.

We love: Shrimp Tempura (by Two Sleeves)

22. Green tea

Green tea is a traditional and popular beverage in Japan, making it the perfect drink to serve with sushi.

The light and refreshing flavors of green tea perfectly complement the strong taste of sushi, creating an unforgettable meal.

Learn: How to brew green tea (by Viston Tea)

23. Plum wine

Plum wine is a delicious drink to serve with sushi. Its sweet and fruity flavor pairs perfectly with the fresh sushi and adds a unique Japanese touch to your meal.

Did you know, you can actually make homemade plum wine? If this is your thing, give it a go! Or just grab a bottle of of plum wine at any Asian grocery store.

We love: Plum Wine (Umeshu) or Japanese Liqueur Recipe (by Cooking with Nart)

24. Matcha ice cream

What would a sushi dinner party be without a fitting dessert to end the night?

This green tea ice cream has a refreshing and delicate flavor that won’t leave you feeling weighed down after inevitably eating too much sushi!

We love: Matcha Ice Cream (by Roti n Rice)

25. Easy mochi

Another light, almost snack-like, Japanese dessert option, is mochi. I adore mochi! And honestly, I’ll eat it any time of day. But it’s especially great after a delicious round of sushi rolls.

To make easy mochi, you’ll need glutinous rice flour, water, sugar, and your choice of flavoring (like strawberry or matcha) or filling (such as cream cheese, red bean paste, or even ice cream).

Flavored mochi is super easy to make, you can even use the microwave! And it’s a sure way to impress everyone at the table.

We love: How to Make Healthy Strawberry Mochi (Made in the Microwave) (by All Purpose Veggies)

Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that can be enjoyed as a delicious appetizer but is also often served as the main dish. Whether you prefer salmon sashimi, spicy crab rolls, or California rolls, I list my favorite Japanese-inspired dishes to complement your meal.

Try some tempura shrimp or veggies, Japanese pickles, wakame salad, and tamagoyaki for my favorite sushi dinner spread.

Let me know which one of these best sushi sides you try!