Salmon patties are a classic comfort food that never seems to go out of style. Also known as salmon croquettes or salmon cakes these crispy savory patties are usually made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. They have a lovely soft and flaky interior encased in a golden, crispy outer coating.
Salmon patties make for a quick budget-friendly dinner. Plus salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making these fish cakes a nutritious choice. While salmon patties taste delicious on their own, the right side dishes can take this meal from great to spectacular.
The key is to pick sides that complement and accentuate the flavors of the patties. You want a combination of flavors, textures, colors and temperatures that work harmoniously together. Here are 10 fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with classic salmon patties.
1. Fresh Salad
A fresh salad is a foolproof side for salmon patties or any fish dish. Salmon patties already have a good amount of healthy fats from the salmon, so a nutrient-packed salad makes an excellent complement. Opt for a mix of leafy greens and chopped veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, radishes, cucumbers, etc.
The medley of crisp textures paired with the soft and flaky salmon patties is incredibly satisfying. A drizzle of lemon vinaigrette provides a tart, citrusy note that brings out the flavors of the fish.
2. Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing with fried fish like salmon patties. Its cool, crunchy texture and sweet, tangy flavor is the perfect counterpoint to hot and crispy salmon patties. The vibrant colors also make for a lovely presentation.
Making coleslaw is easy. Simply shred green and red cabbage and carrots, then dress with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, add minced onions or pineapple chunks.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
While brussels sprouts may have a bad rap, roast them right and they become sweet, crunchy, utterly addictive bites of heaven. Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted at high heat, these mini cabbages caramelize into candied perfection.
The crisp-tender texture combined with nutty, slightly charred flavor complements salmon patties brilliantly. Roasted sprouts add a pop of green that pairs nicely with the golden fish cakes.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
Crisp, tender and nutritious sweet potato fries are an easy and tasty side for salmon patties. Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the salmon. Bake instead of fry for a healthier option. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary and garlic before roasting to add lots of flavor.
For extra oomph, dip in spicy mayo, maple mustard or sriracha aioli. Sweet potato fries look beautiful alongside golden salmon patties.
5. Dinner Rolls
Fluffy, soft dinner rolls are divine for serving salmon patties on, like mini sandwiches! Homemade rolls are worth the effort but store-bought rolls work as well. Brush tops with melted butter or garlic butter before serving.
6. Asparagus and Tomatoes
Asparagus spears and sliced tomatoes drizzled with olive oil make a simple and beautiful salmon pattie side. The green and red pair gorgeously with golden salmon cakes.
Asparagus offers crisp, earthy flavor while the tomatoes provide sweet, juicy bursts. Both veggies contain antioxidants and pack a nutritious punch.
7. Fried Okra
As another classic Southern side, crispy fried okra also pairs fabulously with salmon patties. The contrast of its crunchy breaded exterior and the soft, moist salmon patties is highly satisfying.
Fry okra briefly to maintain its structural integrity. Mix okra pieces with buttermilk, then coat with cornmeal and flour before frying until golden.
8. Cucumber Tomato Salad
A cool cucumber tomato salad is easy to throw together and tastes amazing with hot salmon patties. Simply slice cucumbers and tomatoes and toss with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. The fresh flavors complement fish perfectly.
9. Green Beans
It doesn’t get much easier than steaming or sautéing fresh green beans to serve alongside salmon patties. Green beans offer texture and plenty of vitamins A, C, and K. For extra flavor, top them with grated Parmesan.
10. Roasted Carrots
Roasting carrots caramelizes their natural sugars and turns them into candy-like morsels with a subtle nutty flavor. These sweet, earthy roasted carrots pair wonderfully with savory salmon cakes. Toss carrot sticks or coins in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
So next time you make salmon patties, try pairing them with one of these 10 side dishes for a well-balanced, crave-worthy dinner. With fresh flavors, colors, and textures, these sides will take your humble salmon cakes to new heights.
Salmon Patties – Old Fashioned, Southern Recipe!
FAQ
What sides to serve with salmon patties?
- Mashed Potatoes.
- Sauteed Green Beans.
- Roasted Tromboncino Squash with Yogurt Sauce.
- Tomato-Cucumber Salad.
- Cucumber-Onion Pickles.
- Cole Slaw.
- Creamed Corn.
- Butter Beans and Corn.
What are good side dishes for salmon?
Salmon is a versatile fish, and several side dishes pair well with it. Popular choices include roasted vegetables (like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts), rice (like white rice, rice pilaf, or cilantro-lime rice), and potatoes (baked, mashed, or roasted).
What tastes good on a salmon patty?
Basics, like ketchup and mustard, are always a winning combination when you’re wondering what to serve with salmon burgers. However, the bold taste of grilled sockeye salmon burgers is easy to pair with everything from fresh slaws to herbed sauces to spicy toppings.
What side dishes go with salmon Wellington?
What do you eat with Salmon Wellington? Serve with Spring Greens or Little Gem Salad, French Potato Salad, and Roasted Asparagus! Any greens, potatoes, and veggies make a great accompaniment.