Salmon is a beloved fish globally, renowned for its rich nutritional profile and versatility in culinary creations. As a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids and other vital nutrients, it’s no wonder why it often takes center stage on plates around the world. Yet, salmon’s true potential is unlocked when paired with an assortment of delectable side dishes that harmoniously complement its robust flavor. In this post, we’ll delve into 38 effortless yet impressive options to amplify your salmon experience and transform it into a truly unforgettable meal.
38 Easy Sides for Salmon
Lemon Garlic Roasted Vegetables
When it comes to preparing salmon, roasting a medley of vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, and carrots in combination with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice can be a fantastic way to add a boost of flavor and nutrients to this already nutritious fish.
Grilled Zucchini
Savoring the harmonious union of grilled zucchini, rich Parmesan cheese, pungent garlic, and a pinch of black pepper, this effortless side dish proves to be a match made in heaven when paired with a delectable salmon course.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The humble creaminess of mashed potatoes proves to be an excellent accompaniment to the delicate flavors of salmon, striking a perfect balance without dominating the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Garlic Butter Mushrooms
A match made in heaven, garlic butter mushrooms offer a trifecta of benefits – they’re an excellent source of protein, a rich provider of fiber, and a treasure trove of essential nutrients that complement the omega-rich goodness of salmon perfectly.
Mango Salsa
A flavorful and revitalizing sweet and tangy mango salsa, infused with the freshness of cilantro, the crunch of red onion, and the zest of lime juice, provides the perfect accompaniment to the richness of salmon, elevating the dish to a delightful culinary experience.
Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Indulge in the harmonious union of flavors by pairing sautéed spinach with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice – a delightfully simple and nutritious option that effortlessly complements the rich taste of salmon.
Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
While traditional French fries can be indulgent, sweet potato fries offer a delightful twist that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a slightly healthier option. When paired with the rich flavors of salmon, this duo creates a match made in heaven.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
When it comes to pairing sides with salmon, few options are as harmonious as roasted Brussels sprouts infused with the rich flavors of crispy bacon, sweet maple syrup, and tangy apple cider vinegar. This delightful combination not only complements the fish’s natural flavor but also adds a satisfying depth to the dish.
Wild Rice Pilaf
A satisfying and aromatic wild rice pilaf, infused with the earthy essence of mushrooms, the pungency of onions, and the freshness of celery, makes for an exceptional accompaniment to salmon.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
The quintessential pairing of grilled corn on the cob smothered in a rich garlicky butter, sprinkled with a pinch of salt and pepper, yields a straightforward yet delectable accompaniment to the bold flavors of salmon.
Quinoa Salad
A symphony of flavors comes together when you combine quinoa salad with cucumber, juicy tomatoes, crumbly feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing, making it an excellent accompaniment to the bold taste of grilled salmon.
Grilled Vegetable Kebabs
The simplicity of grilled vegetable kebabs is undeniable, as the combination of caramelized onions, vibrant peppers, tender zucchini, and earthy mushrooms creates a visually appealing and nutritious accompaniment to dishes like salmon.
Coleslaw
A deliciously crunchy and refreshing side dish, creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing perfectly complements the flavors of grilled salmon.
Lemon Butter Asparagus
A flavorful and nutritious side dish can be effortlessly created by combining asparagus with the trifecta of butter, garlic, and lemon juice. This harmonious trio complements salmon particularly well, making it an excellent pairing option. To prepare, simply blanch the asparagus and then toss it with melted butter, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The resulting dish is not only easy to make but also bursting with a bright and refreshing flavor profile.
Greek Salad
The classic Greek salad, comprising juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, sweet red onion, crumbly feta cheese, and briny olives, takes on a new dimension when paired with the rich flavor profile of salmon. The zesty dressing brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony, making for a delightful side dish that cuts through the richness of the main course.
Oven-Baked Garlic Bread
Indulge in the simplicity of a classic combination as you bake garlic bread infused with butter, pungent garlic, and fragrant herbs to perfection. This delectable side dish effortlessly complements the rich flavors of grilled or baked salmon, making it an ideal accompaniment for your next meal.
Lentil Soup
A comforting and nutritious accompaniment to grilled or baked salmon, lentil soup with carrots, celery, onions, and aromatic spices combines the simplicity of vegetable-based cooking with the richness of a slow-cooked broth.
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Savoring the union of rosemary’s piney essence, rich roasted potatoes, and a trio of aromatic partners – garlic, olive oil, and salt – yields a matchless accompaniment to any salmon dish.
Grilled Pineapple
Sweet and tangy, grilled pineapple with a hint of cinnamon and sugar perfectly balances the flavors of grilled salmon, making it an ideal side dish combination.
Creamy Avocado Salad
A deliciously simple yet nutritious side dish, this creamy avocado salad combines the freshness of crisp lettuce, the sweetness of juicy cherry tomatoes, and the tanginess of balsamic vinegar and rich olive oil, making it an ideal accompaniment to grilled or baked salmon.
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad, characterized by its harmonious union of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic vinegar, serves as an ideal accompaniment to balance out the richness of a succulent salmon dish, delivering a refreshing and light culinary experience.
Sweet Corn Salad
A match made in heaven – the sweetness of sweet corn salad perfectly complements the smokiness of grilled salmon, all thanks to its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crunch of bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes provides a delightful contrast to the tangy dressing that ties everything together.
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Indulge in the simplicity of sautéing green beans with a hint of pungency from minced garlic, followed by a gratifying sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. The resulting dish is not only a delicious accompaniment to any meal but also a satisfying crunch that will leave you craving for more.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game by glazing carrots with a harmonious blend of honey, a hint of butter, and a dash of sweetness, yielding a delightfully balanced side dish that’s sure to please the palate.
Baked Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food, creamy baked macaroni and cheese with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping, proves to be an excellent accompaniment to a flavorful salmon dish. The velvety texture of the pasta and the cheesy goodness meld beautifully together, creating a delightful side that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Balsamic Roasted Red Potatoes
Treat your taste buds to the harmonious union of roast red potatoes with the bold flavors of balsamic vinegar, fragrant rosemary, and pungent garlic. This tangy and aromatic side dish is sure to elevate any meal.
Cucumber Dill Salad
Combine the simplicity of sliced cucumbers with the elegance of fresh dill and the richness of a yogurt-based dressing to create a harmonious blend that not only quenches your thirst but also delights your palate as a revitalizing side dish.
Sesame Ginger Noodles
Combine cooked noodles with a harmonious blend of sesame ginger sauce, crunchy scallions, and nutty sesame seeds to create a delectable Asian-inspired side dish that will elevate your meal.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in the rich flavors of a creamy spinach and artichoke dip, perfectly paired with crunchy tortilla chips or warm bread for a satisfying side that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Mashed Cauliflower
When it comes to pairing a delicious salmon dish with a satisfying side, many people turn to the classic comfort food of mashed potatoes. However, for those looking to reduce their carb intake or explore new flavors, there’s a tasty alternative that’s just as indulgent: mashed cauliflower with butter and cream. By blending roasted cauliflower florets with rich dairy products and a hint of savory butter, you can create a creamy, comforting side dish that complements the flaky fish perfectly.
Pesto Pasta
Elevate your meal with a harmonious blend of cooked pasta, rich basil pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes. The combination is nothing short of magical, as the pungent flavors of the pesto meld seamlessly with the juicy tomatoes, creating an aroma that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Lemon Rice
Elevate your side dishes by cooking white rice with a burst of citrus flavor. Simply add a sprinkle of lemon zest and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the cooking water, allowing the bright and tangy flavors to infuse into the rice.
Roasted Beet Salad
Indulge your senses with the harmonious union of roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This vibrant and earthy side dish is sure to delight, as the natural sweetness of the beets is balanced by the richness of the cheese and the satisfying crunch of the nuts.
Grilled Eggplant
Transform the humble eggplant into a flavorful and aromatic side dish by grilling slices coated with a mixture of olive oil, Italian herbs, and a hint of smokiness. The resulting medley of textures and tastes will transport your senses to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Couscous with Cranberries and Almonds
A refreshing and crunchy side dish can be achieved by combining fluffy couscous with the sweet and tangy flavors of dried cranberries, the satisfying crunch of sliced almonds, and a zesty citrus dressing, resulting in a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that is both light and nutty.
Tomato and Mozzarella Skewers
For a simple yet flavorful side dish, thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves together on toothpicks or bamboo skewers. To add an extra layer of sophistication, drizzle the assembled kebabs with a rich balsamic glaze, reminiscent of Italy’s culinary heritage.
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Transform broccoli into a savory, satisfying side dish by tossing its florets with olive oil and a copious amount of grated Parmesan cheese. The resulting combination yields a delightful balance of crunchy texture and rich, melted flavor.
Baked Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform your salmon dishes with these delectable 38 easy-to-make side dishes! Start by stuffing mushrooms with a blend of spinach, artichoke, cream cheese, and Parmesan, then bake until they’re golden brown and bubbly. When you’re done, you’ll be left wondering how you ever settled for ordinary meals. With roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or hearty soups to choose from, there’s a perfect accompaniment waiting for your salmon dish. So go ahead, get cooking, and watch as these simple yet flavorful sides elevate your culinary experience to new heights.