What Does Salmon Go Well With? 21 Delicious Side Dish Pairings

Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish. Rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals, salmon makes a great addition to any meal. But eating salmon on its own night after night can get boring. That’s why it’s important to know what sides pair well with salmon to keep your meals exciting.

In this article we’ll share 21 of the best side dish ideas to serve with salmon. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy veggie side or want something more elaborate like risotto or quinoa salad you’ll find plenty of delicious recipes to try.

Simple Sides for Salmon

If you want something fast and fuss-free opt for these easy vegetable side dishes

• Broccolini – Blanch or roast some broccolini and toss with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and salt and pepper. The mild flavor pairs perfectly with salmon.

• Roasted potatoes – Toss potato wedges with olive oil, Parmesan, rosemary and garlic. Roast until crispy and golden.

• Green beans – Saute green beans in butter with lemon pepper and garlic. The bright, fresh flavor offsets the salmon.

• Bok choy – Quickly saute sliced bok choy in sesame oil and top with soy sauce. Bok choy’s crunchy texture and flavor contrasts the soft salmon.

• Asparagus – Roast asparagus spears coated in olive oil, salt and pepper. Intensify the flavor by grilling or charring the asparagus.

Hearty Salmon Side Dishes

For a more substantial meal, enjoy your salmon with these satisfying sides:

• Quinoa salad – Toss cooked quinoa with sauteed kale, avocado, bell peppers and a tangy lemon dijon dressing. The combination of flavors and textures is delicious.

• Risotto – Make a gourmet mushroom risotto to serve with your salmon. The creamy rice paired with sauteed mushrooms is a luxurious side dish.

• Couscous – Cook couscous according to package directions. Let cool and mix in sauteed zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, peas and fresh herbs.

• Farro salad – Cook farro until al dente and combine with sauteed veggies like onions, mushrooms and peppers. Toss in lemon vinaigrette and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

• Rice pilaf – Saute onion, garlic and orzo in butter or olive oil. Add broth and rice, cooking until fluffy. Finish with fresh parsley.

Bright, Zesty Sides for Salmon

Cut through the rich salmon flavor with fresh, tangy sides:

• Pesto pasta – Toss cooked pasta with basil pesto, lemon zest and peas. The herby pesto and hit of citrus tastes amazing with salmon.

• Cucumber salad – A simple cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar dressing adds a refreshing crunch and bright flavor.

• Tabbouleh – Mix together bulgur wheat, diced tomatoes, cucumber, parsley and mint. Dress with lemon juice and olive oil.

• Coleslaw – For a twist on classic coleslaw, add peanut butter and rice vinegar to the dressing. It’s an irresistible pairing.

• Lime cilantro rice – Cook rice with a few tablespoons of lime juice and chopped cilantro for incredible flavor. The lime cuts through the salmon’s richness.

Creative Salmon Sides

If you want to get adventurous with your sides, try these unique recipes:

• Beet and carrot salad – Roast beets and carrots. Toss with a tangy citrus-ginger dressing and sprinkle with toasted pecans.

• Asian noodle salad – Mix soba or rice noodles with shredded cabbage, carrots, edamame and cilantro. Top with peanut dressing.

• Quinoa tabbouleh – Use quinoa instead of bulgur in tabbouleh for a gluten-free twist. The lemon, herbs and crunch pair perfectly with salmon.

• Cauliflower tabbouleh – For low-carb tabbouleh, pulse raw cauliflower florets in a food processor until rice-like. Then mix in all the classic tabbouleh ingredients.

• Brussels sprouts – Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil, then toss them with Sriracha for some heat.

What to Drink with Salmon

Don’t forget to pair your salmon meal with a delicious beverage! Here are some top drink choices:

• White wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

• Rose – Salmon is a great match for dry rose wines.

• Sparkling wine – Fresh bubbles from a nice Cava, Prosecco or Champagne cut through the salmon’s richness.

• Light beer – Pilsners, wheat beers and pale ales work well.

• Green tea – Brewed hot or iced. The subtle grassy flavor balances the fish.

With so many tasty sides to choose from – like pesto pasta, quinoa salad, creamy risotto, herb-flecked rice and fresh vegetable dishes – you’ll never get bored of salmon again. Varying your sides is the key to enjoying salmon on the regular. Pick a few new recipes and find your favorite pairings!

Salmon is a versatile fish and can be served with a wide variety of sides. Common pairings include roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans, along with grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous. Potatoes, in various forms (mashed, roasted, or baked), are also a popular choice.