What Side Dishes Are Good with Salmon? 25 Delicious Options to Try

Salmon is one of the most versatile and healthy proteins out there. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids protein vitamins and minerals, salmon can be prepared in endless ways – baked, grilled, pan-seared, poached, you name it. No matter how you cook your salmon, having the right side dishes makes all the difference in completing the meal. The good news is that salmon pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides.

In this article, we’ll explore 25 delicious side dish options that are sure to perfectly complement salmon fillets. From light salads and crunchy veggies to hearty grains and pastas there’s something for every preference and occasion.

Balancing Flavors, Textures and Colors

The key to picking good side dishes for salmon is to balance flavors, textures and colors. Salmon’s rich and smooth texture calls for sides that provide contrasting crunchiness. At the same time, you want to avoid sides that overpower salmon’s delicately mild, slightly briny flavor.

When it comes to texture, aim for sides that offer crispness like salads, roasted or sauteed veggies and grains. For flavor, sides with bright citrus, herbs and spices add nuance without dominating the salmon. Visually, vibrantly colored sides also make for an appealing plate.

25 Delicious Side Dishes for Salmon

Without further ado, here are 25 fantastic side dish ideas to serve with salmon:

1. Lemon Pasta

A quick lemon cream sauce brightens up pasta and complements salmon perfectly. The tart and creamy pasta combined with flaky salmon makes a satisfying meal.

2. Buttery Garlic Green Beans

Blanched green beans sauteed with garlic, lemon and butter is a fast, easy side that highlights the fresh, crisp beans.

3. Roasted Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and Parmesan is a comforting, savory side.

4. Lemon Butter Broccolini

Steamed broccolini tossed in lemon butter sauce is an elegant but simple side.

5. Thai Noodle Salad

Chilled rice noodles with shredded veggies and zesty peanut dressing provides great crunch and bright flavor.

6. Baby Bok Choy

Quick-cooked bok choy sauteed with garlic, ginger and soy is a healthy, tasty option.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roasted until caramelized and crispy provide the perfect crunch factor.

8. Cilantro Lime Rice

Fresh cilantro and lime give rice a flavorful kick that pairs well with salmon.

9. Asparagus with Hollandaise

Tender roasted asparagus spears topped with rich, lemony Hollandaise sauce is a fancy yet easy side.

10. Asian Coleslaw

A crunchy rainbow slaw in a tangy rice wine vinaigrette provides color and crunch.

11. Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Arborio rice cooked with mushrooms and Parmesan is a luxurious, filling side.

12. Lemon Herb Couscous

Fluffy Israeli couscous with cucumber, tomato and lemon vinaigrette offers bright flavor.

13. Sautéed Sugar Snap Peas

Blanched sugar snap peas sauteed with butter or oil make a crisp, versatile side.

14. Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey and brown sugar glazed roasted carrots are sweet and delicious.

15. Lemon Roasted Red Potatoes

Potatoes roasted with lemon, garlic and rosemary are ultra-flavorful.

16. Parmesan Broccoli

Broccoli roasted with Parmesan is a kid-friendly, cheesy option.

17. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Wedges of cinnamon-spiced sweet potatoes are a satisfying and healthier option than white potatoes.

18. Balsamic Roasted Baby Carrots

Petite carrots roasted with a balsamic glaze are intensely sweet and tangy.

19. Pesto Zucchini Noodles

Spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in pesto sauce make a lighter alternative to pasta.

20. Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus roasted with lemon juice and zest is a fast, fuss-free side.

21. Sesame Rice

White or brown rice seasoned with toasted sesame oil adds nutty flavor.

22. Cucumber Dill Salad

Chilled cucumber rounds tossed in sour cream, vinegar and fresh dill offer brightness.

23. Rice Pilaf with Dried Fruit and Nuts

Nutty rice pilaf with oranges, dried fruit, almonds and warm spices is unique and tasty.

24. Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic Butter

Meaty, garlicky mushrooms offer richness to balance the salmon.

25. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Char-grilled corn on the cob is classic summer and pairs well with grilled salmon.

Finding Your Favorite Salmon Sides

Mix and match different textures, flavors and colors from this list of 25 side dishes to find your perfect pairings with salmon. Play around with roasted, grilled, sautéed and raw preparations along with herbs, spices, citrus and other flavor boosters. With so many options, you can enjoy salmon for dinner again and again without getting bored!

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.

Salmon pairs well with a wide variety of flavors and ingredients. Common complements include citrus, dill, garlic, and herbs like parsley, oregano, and thyme. Sweet fruits like berries, mango, and pineapple also complement salmon, offering a unique and delicious pairing.