Protein

• Virtually any type of meat or seafood you enjoy can be paired with crunchy little corn cakes. Top them with spicy grilled shrimp or a heap of shredded barbecue chicken or pork. Instead of serving cornbread with beef chili, ladle the chili onto corn cakes. Because of their similarities to pancakes, these cakes are a perfect match for breakfast meats. "Bon Appetit" suggests making cakes that include cooked breakfast sausage, though using sausage as a topping is also an option. Or try finishing corn cakes with crumbled bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a breakfast you'll want every day.

Vegetables

• Give a plate of corn cakes more texture and color by adding vegetables. Spoon wilted spinach sauteed with olive oil and garlic over the cakes, or cook leeks with garlic until they're soft. Mushrooms cooked with fresh sage or rosemary have a meaty, earthy taste that contrasts with the sweetness of the corn cakes. In warm weather, a mixture of chopped tomatoes and avocado turns the cakes into a refreshing meal. Salsa mixed with black beans and cumin gives corn cakes a touch of spice.

Garnishes

• Let the corn's flavor shine through by topping cakes with simple garnishes. A dollop of sour cream or creme fraiche is a light and bright topper. Add a sprinkle of chives or toasted pecans to the cream for crunch. For an even simpler topping, spread a pat of butter over each cake. Mix honey or a pinch of brown sugar and cinnamon to the butter to bring out the corn's sweetness. A side of garlic aioli or pesto allows you to dip each bite of cake before tasting it.

Unexpected Toppers

• Let your creativity shine when preparing corn cakes. Most recipes are so simple that the resulting cakes can be used as neutral bases for other flavors you enjoy. Try spreading marinara sauce and mozzarella over finished cakes, then broil them until the cheese melts. Alternately, sprinkle cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the cakes and broil them until the cheese browns into a thin, nutty crust. Basic corn cakes lend themselves to dessert too. Top them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.