What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Dinner: 15 Delicious Side Dishes

Smoked salmon is a delicacy that deserves to be served with complementary sides that enhance its rich, smoky flavor. With the right pairings, smoked salmon can be the star of a spectacular dinner. This article will explore 15 delicious side dishes that make perfect partners for smoked salmon dinners.

Types of Smoked Salmon

There are a few main types of smoked salmon to keep in mind when planning your meal

• Cold-smoked salmon – Cured and smoked at low temperatures, Has a velvety texture and pronounced smoky flavor

• Hot-smoked salmon – Smoked at high heat. Flaky texture and milder smoke flavor.

• Gravlax – Cured, not smoked. Firm texture and bright citrusy flavor.

The preparation method affects the flavor profile and texture of the fish. Cold-smoked varieties pair well with tangy or creamy sides to balance the strong smoke. Hot-smoked and gravlax have milder flavors that can handle sharper, more robust accompaniments.

15 Side Dishes for Smoked Salmon Dinner

Here are 15 excellent options for smoked salmon dinner pairings:

1. Lemon Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon, garlic, and herbs make a classic pairing. The lemon brightens the potatoes and cuts through the salmon’s richness.

2. Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A simple green salad tossed in a lemon or herb vinaigrette provides a refreshing, acidic counterpoint to rich smoked salmon. Go for a mix of lettuces, fresh herbs, and shredded veggies.

3. Steamed Asparagus

Delicate, verdant steamed asparagus spears underscore smoked salmon’s velvety texture. A drizzle of lemon or hollandaise sauce pulls it all together.

4. Cucumber Salad

Cooling cucumber salad with dill and vinegar or yogurt dressing complements smoked salmon’s richness.

5. Cauliflower Mash

For a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, try an airy cauliflower mash flavored with chives. It pairs nicely without overpowering the salmon.

6. Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty, chewy wild rice or wild rice blends make an elegant bed for smoked salmon. Toss in herbs, lemon, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.

7. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts caramelizes beautifully. Toss with oil, salt, pepper, and herbs before roasting.

8. Tomato Salad

Vine-ripened tomato salad boasts a sweet-tart pop next to rich salmon. Dress with good olive oil, balsamic or sherry vinegar, and fresh basil.

9. Dilled Cucumber and Sour Cream

For an easy cool and creamy side, combine sliced cucumbers, sour cream, lemon juice, dill, and salt & pepper. Let the flavors meld before serving.

10. Garlicky Greens

Sautéed Swiss chard, kale, or spinach with olive oil and garlic makes a quick, healthy side. Wilt the greens just until tender.

11. Herbed Quinoa

Fluffy, protein-packed quinoa complements smoked salmon perfectly. Toss it with lemon juice, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil.

12. Boston Lettuce Salad

For a delicate salad, use Boston or butter lettuce leaves as the base. Top with pickled red onions, fresh dill, and a lemony dressing.

13. Orange and Fennel Salad

Thinly slice fennel bulbs and toss with orange segments, oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a bright, licorice-y salad.

14. Dill Potato Salad

Eggy, mayo-dressed potato salad is even better with lots of fresh dill and a sprinkle of celery seed. Chill before serving.

15. Rye Croutons

For textural contrast, fry up some rye bread croutons in butter or olive oil. Toss with minced parsley or chives if desired.

Perfecting Your Smoked Salmon Dinner

When building your smoked salmon dinner, opt for vegetable-focused sides that are fresh and bright. Prioritize lighter dishes that won’t overwhelm the star salmon flavor. Herbs like dill, parsley, chives, and tarragon make excellent seasoning and garnishes.

Consider the salmon preparation too. Cold-smoked varieties can handle more robust, acidic accompaniments. Milder hot-smoked salmon and gravlax pair better with delicate sides.

With sensational smoked salmon and thoughtfully chosen vegetable pairings, you can create a spectacular dinner that highlights the nuances of this incredible fish. Serve with a crisp white wine and enjoy!

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).