25 Irresistible Side Dishes to Pair with Salmon
Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly cooked salmon fillet, only to discover that the sides you've chosen elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing to balance the richness of the fish or a comforting, creamy dish to indulge in, there’s a side to complement every type of salmon preparation.
From roasted vegetables that bring out the fish's subtle flavors to zesty salads that add a pop of freshness, the possibilities are endless.
Let’s not forget the crispy, golden potato dishes that pair so wonderfully with a tender salmon filet.
And for those looking to take it a step further, think of sides that add texture - crunchy slaws, buttery grains, and even tangy sauces.
So, the next time you cook up a salmon, take a moment to explore these amazing side dishes that’ll make your meal unforgettable.
With the right pairing, even the simplest salmon can feel like a gourmet experience.
Delicious Side Dishes to Complement Salmon
The right side dishes can elevate your salmon meal, adding variety and flavor.
Whether fresh, light, or rich, these options perfectly complement the taste of salmon.
Herb-Crusted Roasted Potatoes
Herb-crusted roasted potatoes possess a golden, crispy exterior and a soft interior, making them a perfect accompaniment for any savory dish.
A sprinkle of rosemary and thyme elevates their flavor, while a touch of garlic adds a subtle depth.
Roasting them at high temperatures brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
Their versatility makes them a favorite among many, working well alongside salmon or any other protein.
The added bonus of a Parmesan sprinkle brings even more richness to the dish, enhancing its flavor.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower has the perfect balance of richness and texture, making it a great alternative to mashed potatoes.
It brings a smooth and velvety consistency that complements a variety of main dishes.
Infused with garlic, it strikes a harmonious blend of flavors without being overpowering.
Whether served with fish, chicken, or steak, the dish stands out with its healthy yet satisfying texture.
Its lightness helps to cut through richer meals, offering a refreshing contrast.
You will find it a delightful addition to your dinner table.
Lemon-Infused Asparagus Risotto
Lemon-infused asparagus risotto delivers a fresh burst of flavor that works harmoniously with the creamy consistency of the rice.
The zestiness of lemon adds a bright contrast to the earthiness of asparagus, making each bite an exciting experience.
Slow cooking the rice allows it to absorb the flavors deeply, resulting in a velvety texture.
This dish becomes a standout, enhancing any main course with its balance of tang and creaminess.
The addition of white wine and broth rounds out the rich flavors, bringing the dish to life.
Quinoa with Fresh Dill
Quinoa with fresh dill provides a light and nutty texture that is both satisfying and flavorful.
The quinoa itself has a mild, slightly earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the aromatic dill.
A squeeze of lemon adds a citrusy lift that brightens the dish.
High in protein and fiber, quinoa offers both health benefits and great taste.
It complements both grilled and roasted meats, making it an ideal side for salmon or chicken.
This dish showcases the perfect marriage of wholesome ingredients and refreshing flavors.
Sweet Honey-Glazed Carrots
Sweet honey-glazed carrots add a subtle sweetness that elevates the natural flavor of the vegetables.
A drizzle of honey brings a caramelized finish, making them tender and rich in flavor.
A squeeze of lemon balances the sweetness, creating a fresh contrast.
These carrots are easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients to shine.
Their bright color adds vibrancy to the plate, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.
The honey glaze creates a shine that makes these carrots irresistible to both the eye and the palate.
Creamy Spinach and Orzo
Creamy spinach and orzo combine the richness of spinach with the soft, comforting texture of orzo pasta.
A creamy base coats the pasta and greens, making each bite smooth and indulgent.
The spinach wilts down perfectly, adding a touch of color and nutrition to the dish.
This side is a great option for pairing with salmon or any lighter protein.
The creamy sauce envelops the orzo, creating a dish that feels both satisfying and elegant.
The blend of textures makes for a perfectly comforting side dish.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts bring a savory depth that complements the natural earthiness of the sprouts.
Roasting them at high temperatures gives them a crispy outer layer while keeping the insides tender.
The tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar adds a rich glaze that enhances their flavor.
This dish creates a lovely balance of savory and sweet, making it a great side for any roasted meats or fish.
When you take a bite, the caramelized edges provide a satisfying crunch.
This side dish adds a pop of flavor to your plate.
Maple-Dijon Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Maple-Dijon roasted sweet potatoes provide a perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
The maple syrup caramelizes during roasting, giving the sweet potatoes a rich, golden exterior.
A hint of Dijon mustard cuts through the sweetness, providing a sharp contrast that brightens the flavor.
The dish is incredibly easy to prepare and adds a delightful color to your plate.
The sweetness of the potatoes works wonderfully with grilled meats, particularly salmon.
You will appreciate how these roasted potatoes enhance your dinner experience.
Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Bites
Parmesan-crusted zucchini bites are a perfect bite-sized treat, offering a crispy exterior and tender interior.
A mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese coats the zucchini, creating a flavorful crust.
These zucchini bites bake up golden and crunchy, with the cheese providing a savory element.
The mild flavor of zucchini complements the richness of the Parmesan, making for a balanced side dish.
Ideal for pairing with light meals like salmon, they bring texture and flavor together in each bite.
It’s a simple yet elegant side that’s sure to please.
Roasted Beetroot Salad
Roasted beetroot salad brings earthy sweetness and vibrant color to your meal.
The roasted beets blend perfectly with fresh greens, creating a nutritious and flavorful salad.
The addition of goat cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the earthiness of the beets.
Toasted walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, and a drizzle of honey brings a touch of sweetness.
This salad looks stunning on the plate, with its vivid red hues contrasting beautifully with the greens.
It makes an elegant side dish for any roasted entrée.
Refreshing Cucumber & Tomato Salad
Refreshing cucumber & tomato salad adds a light, crisp component to your meal.
The cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are the perfect combination for a refreshing side.
Red onions offer a sharp contrast, while the light dressing brings everything together.
It’s the ideal side dish to balance a richer entrée like salmon.
This simple salad is incredibly easy to prepare and adds a burst of freshness to your plate.
You’ll love how the tangy dressing enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Garlic Butter Sauteed Green Beans
Garlic butter sautéed green beans bring a burst of savory flavor with every bite.
The green beans are sautéed until tender-crisp, and the garlic butter mixture adds a rich, aromatic layer.
This quick dish is incredibly simple but packs a punch when paired with grilled or roasted proteins.
The fresh green beans retain their crunch, offering a delightful texture contrast to the buttery sauce.
Perfect for any casual or formal meal, this side adds sophistication with minimal effort.
You will appreciate how easy and delicious it is.
Fragrant Wild Rice Pilaf
Fragrant wild rice pilaf combines nutty, chewy wild rice with a medley of fresh vegetables.
The rice absorbs the flavors of the broth, creating a savory base.
A squeeze of lemon brightens up the entire dish, while herbs like parsley or dill add a burst of freshness.
The texture of the rice adds a nice contrast to softer dishes, and it works wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood.
This pilaf is both healthy and filling, making it a great side for hearty meals.
You’ll enjoy how the wild rice brings added flavor and texture.
Coconut-Infused Jasmine Rice
Coconut-infused jasmine rice brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor to your meal.
The creamy texture of the coconut milk adds richness, while the jasmine rice retains its delicate fragrance.
This simple dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins, adding depth and flavor.
The coconut flavor is not overpowering but adds just enough to complement the richness of the fish.
It’s easy to make and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This rice offers a tropical twist to your meal, bringing new dimension.
Miso-Glazed Roasted Eggplant
Miso-glazed roasted eggplant has a rich, savory flavor thanks to the miso glaze.
The eggplant soaks up the sweetness and saltiness of the glaze as it roasts, creating a perfectly caramelized exterior.
The tender flesh of the eggplant contrasts beautifully with the miso coating, creating a satisfying bite.
This Japanese-inspired dish adds a unique flavor profile to your meal, making it a standout side.
The umami flavor complements salmon and other fish dishes perfectly.
You’ll find that the miso glaze adds another level of richness.
Sauteed Mushrooms with Garlic
Sautéed mushrooms with garlic provide a rich, earthy side dish that enhances the flavor of any meal.
The mushrooms absorb the garlic butter, giving them a savory depth of flavor.
As they cook, the mushrooms release their moisture, creating a tender texture that complements any protein.
This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
The garlic adds a fragrant, aromatic element that makes this side even more irresistible.
It’s a simple yet elegant addition to any meal.
Roasted Garlic and Broccoli
Roasted garlic and broccoli make a flavorful and healthy side dish for any meal.
The garlic infuses the broccoli with a savory aroma as it roasts, adding depth to the flavor.
The high heat helps the broccoli achieve crispy edges while maintaining a tender interior.
This dish is simple to prepare and pairs wonderfully with everything from salmon to chicken.
The roasted garlic provides a rich, comforting flavor that brings out the best in the broccoli.
You will enjoy how it complements your main course.
Gruyere & Chive Cauliflower Bake
Gruyère & chive cauliflower bake adds richness and creaminess to the naturally mild cauliflower.
The cauliflower is enveloped in a savory cheese sauce, and the Gruyère brings a nutty depth of flavor.
Topped with breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, this dish forms a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
The fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.
This dish is satisfying enough to stand alone as a vegetarian option or pair beautifully with any protein.
Tangy Pickled Red Onions
Tangy pickled red onions bring a burst of acidity that cuts through rich and fatty dishes.
The vinegar-based marinade gives the onions a sharp, tangy flavor that is both refreshing and bold.
Their bright pink color adds a pop of color to your plate, making them not just flavorful but visually appealing.
Pickled red onions are versatile, pairing well with everything from salads to roasted meats.
The tangy kick they provide helps balance out heavy flavors in a meal.
You’ll find that they make any dish even more delightful.
Pine Nut-Studded Couscous
Pine nut-studded couscous brings a light, fluffy texture that complements a variety of main dishes.
The couscous is perfectly cooked, with each grain remaining separate and light.
Toasted pine nuts add a crunchy, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon bring brightness to the couscous.
It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that works well with fish, poultry, or vegetables.
The pine nuts offer a satisfying contrast to the fluffy couscous, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Spicy Horseradish Slaw
Spicy horseradish slaw adds a zesty twist to a classic coleslaw.
The sharp flavor of horseradish and the tang of Dijon mustard give the slaw an exciting kick.
The cabbage and carrots provide a fresh crunch, while the creamy dressing brings everything together.
The slaw is a great way to balance out richer meals, adding both texture and flavor.
You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less horseradish, tailoring it to your preference.
This slaw adds a unique flavor profile to any meal.
Pomegranate & Walnut Farro Salad
Pomegranate & walnut farro salad combines the nutty chewiness of farro with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds.
The walnuts provide a crunchy texture, while the light dressing enhances the dish’s fresh flavors.
The salad is both healthy and hearty, making it a great side for any roasted or grilled meats.
The sweetness of the pomegranate bursts in each bite, creating a refreshing contrast.
The farro adds an earthy depth that makes the salad both satisfying and filling.
This side dish is full of flavor.
Roasted Butternut Squash Medley
Roasted butternut squash medley brings a sweet, earthy flavor to your meal.
Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, making it tender and slightly caramelized.
The dish is perfect for adding color and warmth to any plate.
You can season the squash with a touch of honey or cinnamon for added richness.
This medley pairs wonderfully with both savory and sweet dishes, making it incredibly versatile.
Its hearty texture and flavor make it a comforting side that completes any meal.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a light and peppery bite that is complemented by a tangy dressing.
The peppery arugula is balanced by the brightness of lemon, creating a refreshing contrast.
The lemon vinaigrette is simple but adds a burst of flavor to the salad.
You can also add Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs to elevate the dish even further.
This salad is quick to prepare and perfect for accompanying any rich entrée.
You’ll appreciate the balance it provides to heavier meals.
Classic Caprese Salad
Classic caprese salad brings together fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil in one vibrant dish.
The tomatoes offer juiciness, while the mozzarella adds a smooth, creamy texture.
A drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil adds richness to the salad.
The flavors come together beautifully, making it a light and satisfying side for salmon or any other protein.
The bright green basil leaves provide a pop of color and fresh aroma.
It’s a simple dish that never fails to impress.