What Goes Well with Salmon? 10 Delicious Side Dishes to Elevate Your Meal

Introduction

Salmon is one of the most popular fish dishes out there, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, and selenium. Plus, it’s easy to cook, versatile, and full of flavor. But what sides go well with salmon? In this article, we explore 10 delicious side dishes that will elevate your meal and make it memorable. We’ll also look at a few creative options and offer tips for choosing the best sides for your salmon dish.

10 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Salmon

When it comes to pairing side dishes with salmon, the possibilities are endless. Here are 10 delicious options to get you started:

1. Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes are an easy and delicious way to add some crunch and flavor to your salmon dish. Simply toss cubed potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast in the oven until golden brown and crispy. You can also add onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.

2. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf makes a great accompaniment to salmon. Cook long-grain white or brown rice in chicken or vegetable broth for maximum flavor. Then stir in some diced onion, celery, and carrots for added texture and nutrition. Top it off with fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, for a bright and fragrant finish.

3. Sauteed Spinach

Sauteed spinach is a great way to get your daily dose of greens. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add a few cloves of minced garlic. Then add a large handful of spinach leaves and sauté until just wilted. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and serve alongside your salmon dish.

4. Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a great source of plant-based protein and makes an excellent side dish for salmon. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool. Then mix in diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette and serve chilled or at room temperature.

5. Mashed Cauliflower

Mashed cauliflower is a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Steam or boil cauliflower florets until tender. Then mash with butter, cream cheese, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve as a creamy side dish to your salmon.

6. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they make a tasty side dish for salmon. Cut sweet potatoes into strips, toss with olive oil and seasonings, and bake in the oven until golden brown and crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a flavorful and satisfying treat.

7. Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is a quick and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. Toss asparagus spears with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Grill over medium-high heat until lightly charred and tender. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a burst of flavor.

8. Baked Zucchini Fritters

These zucchini fritters are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your veggies. Simply grate zucchini and combine with eggs, flour, Parmesan cheese, and your favorite herbs. Form into patties and bake in the oven until golden. Serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a delicious and healthy side dish.

9. Corn-Tomato Salad

This corn-tomato salad is bursting with flavor and color. Start by cooking some corn kernels and diced red onion in a skillet until lightly browned. Then mix with halved cherry tomatoes and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Spread onto a baking sheet and roast in the oven until tender and golden brown. Serve with a sprinkle of lemon juice and Parmesan cheese for an easy and delicious side dish.

A Guide to the Best Veggies and Grains to Pair with Salmon

Vegetables and grains are a great way to round out any salmon dish. Here’s a guide to the best veggies and grains to pair with salmon:

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, and spinach are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They add color, texture, and flavor to any salmon dish. Try sautéing them with olive oil and garlic or roasting them in the oven for a delicious side dish.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and beets are a great way to add heartiness and flavor to a salmon dish. Roast them in the oven for a crispy and tasty side or mash them up for a creamy and comforting accompaniment.

Grains

Grains like quinoa, wild rice, and couscous are a great source of plant-based protein and make a great side dish for salmon. Try mixing them with vegetables, herbs, and spices for a flavorful and filling dish.

7 Creative Sides to Complement Salmon for a Memorable Meal

If you’re looking for something a bit more creative, try these seven unique side dishes to complement your salmon dish:

1. Roasted Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Salad

This roasted red pepper and goat cheese salad is a great way to add color and flavor to your meal. Roast red peppers in the oven until tender and slightly charred. Then combine with arugula, goat cheese, and a simple vinaigrette for a delicious and nutritious side dish.

2. Green Bean & Cherry Tomato Salad

This green bean and cherry tomato salad is light and refreshing. Blanch green beans in boiling water until crisp-tender. Then combine with halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing. Serve chilled for a light and healthy side dish.

3. Butternut Squash & Cranberry Salad

This butternut squash and cranberry salad is a great way to get your fall flavors. Roast cubes of butternut squash in the oven until tender. Then mix with dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and a simple honey-lemon dressing. Serve warm or cold for a tasty and seasonal side dish.

4. Roasted Broccoli & Cheddar Soup

This roasted broccoli and cheddar soup is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. Roast broccoli in the oven until golden brown and tender. Then blend together with chicken broth, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Serve hot for a creamy and comforting dish.

5. Farro & Mushroom Pilaf

Farro and mushrooms make a great side dish for salmon. Cook farro according to package instructions and set aside. Then sauté mushrooms in a skillet with garlic and thyme. Combine with cooked farro and top with toasted pine nuts for a flavorful and filling side dish.

6. Roasted Beet & Feta Salad

This roasted beet and feta salad is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. Roast beets in the oven until tender. Then combine with feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and a simple vinaigrette. Serve chilled for a light and flavorful side dish.

7. Barley & Herb Salad

Barley and herbs make a great side dish for salmon. Cook pearl barley according to package instructions and let cool. Then mix with fresh herbs, diced tomatoes, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a light and flavorful side dish.

4 Ideas for Carb-Friendly Sides to Enjoy with Salmon

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try these four carb-friendly side dishes to pair with your salmon:

1. Garlic-Lemon Couscous

Couscous is a great source of complex carbohydrates and makes a great side dish for salmon. Cook couscous according to package instructions and let cool. Then mix with garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a light and flavorful side dish.

2. Roasted Pumpkin & Sage Risotto

This roasted pumpkin and sage risotto is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies. Roast cubed pumpkin in the oven until tender. Then cook Arborio rice in chicken broth and stir in roasted pumpkin, fresh sage, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a creamy and comforting side dish.

3. Wild Rice & Lentil Pilaf

Wild rice and lentils make a great side dish for salmon. Cook wild rice and lentils according to package instructions and combine in a bowl. Then mix in diced carrots, celery, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Polenta & Sun-Dried Tomato Casserole

This polenta and sun-dried tomato casserole is a great way to add flavor and texture to your meal. Cook polenta according to package instructions and let cool. Then combine with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Spread into a baking dish and bake in the oven until golden and bubbly.

Roasted Veggies: The Perfect Side to Any Salmon Dish

Roasted vegetables are a great way to add flavor and nutrients to any salmon dish. Here’s a guide to roasting veggies for the perfect side dish:

Roasting Method

The key to perfectly roasted veggies is to use high heat. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then toss your veggies with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Spread onto a baking sheet and roast in the oven until golden brown and tender.

Roasting Tips

For even cooking, make sure all your veggies are cut into similar sizes. Also, be sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet so they don’t steam instead of roast. Finally, keep an eye on your veggies while they’re roasting so they don’t burn.

Roasted Veggie Recipes

Try these delicious roasted veggie recipes to pair with your salmon:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
• Garlic-Herb Roasted Carrots
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Thyme
• Honey-Mustard Roasted Parsnips
• Lemon-Garlic Roasted Asparagus

Conclusion

No matter what kind of salmon dish you’re making, there’s a side dish to go with it. From roasted potatoes and quinoa salad to roasted veggies and carb-friendly sides, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. When selecting sides for your salmon dish, consider your dietary needs and preferences, as well as the flavors and textures you’d like to include. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will love.