Perfect Sides to Complement Salmon Dishes

Salmon is a versatile and delicious fish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-frying your salmon, the perfect accompaniments can enhance the flavor and create a well-rounded meal. In this article, we will explore a selection of easy and healthy side dishes that will complement the rich and flavorful taste of salmon.

From vibrant salads to savory vegetables and comforting pasta, we’ve got you covered with the best sides to serve with salmon. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, there’s a perfect side dish to suit your preferences.

So, let’s dive in and discover the ultimate sides to complement your salmon dishes!

Key Takeaways:

• Salmon pairs well with a variety of side dishes, enhancing the dining experience.
• Explore easy and healthy options to complement the flavor of the fish.
• Choose from a range of vegetables, grains, salads, and more.
• Experiment with different combinations and flavors to find your perfect pairings.
• Elevate your salmon dinner with the right sides for a well-balanced meal.

Broccolini with Garlic and Lemon Juice

Broccolini’s mild flavor, accentuated with garlic and lemon juice, makes it an ideal side dish to pair with salmon. The combination of savory and tangy flavors complements the rich taste of the fish. Try serving broccolini with a show-stealing main like Alaska Salmon Bake with Pecan Crunch Coating for a delicious and well-balanced meal.

For a simple and flavorful preparation, you’ll need:

• 1 bunch of broccolini
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim the tough ends of the broccolini and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the garlic and lemon juice mixture over the broccolini and toss to coat evenly.
5. Roast the broccolini in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
6. Remove from the oven and serve alongside your favorite salmon dish.

This simple recipe brings out the best flavors of broccolini, allowing it to shine as a delightful side dish for salmon. The garlic adds a savory depth, while the lemon juice brightens the overall taste. The broccolini pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors of the pecan-crusted salmon, creating a memorable dining experience.

Tips:

If you don’t have broccolini on hand, you can substitute with regular broccoli or even asparagus for a similar taste and texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the broccolini before roasting can add a delicious umami flavor and a light golden crust.

Ingredients	Instructions
1 bunch of broccolini	Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2 cloves of garlic, minced	Trim tough ends of broccolini and place on a baking sheet.
Juice of 1 lemon	In a small bowl, whisk together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Extra virgin olive oil	Pour garlic and lemon juice mixture over broccolini and toss to coat evenly.
Salt and pepper to taste	Roast broccolini in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
	Remove from oven and serve alongside your favorite salmon dish.

Crispy Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes

If you’re looking for a delicious and flavorful side dish to accompany your salmon, look no further than crispy Parmesan rosemary potatoes. These crispy new potatoes are sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and aromatic rosemary, creating a delightful contrast to the flaky texture of the fish.

The combination of the salty cheese, fragrant herbs, and tender potatoes adds a crunchy and savory element to any salmon recipe. Whether you’re preparing Baked Dijon Salmon or another mouthwatering salmon dish, these crispy Parmesan rosemary potatoes will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Recipe for Crispy Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes

Ingredients:

• New potatoes
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh rosemary, chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and dry the new potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil, salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped rosemary until evenly coated.
4. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Serve the crispy Parmesan rosemary potatoes alongside your favorite salmon recipe, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Lemon Pepper Green Beans

Fresh green beans seasoned with lemon pepper provide a burst of citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon. The zesty seasoning adds a tangy kick to the tender green beans, complementing the subtle citrus notes often found in salmon recipes. Try serving lemon pepper green beans with Lemon Rosemary Salmon for a refreshing and well-rounded meal.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Green Beans:

• Choose fresh, vibrant green beans for the best flavor.
• Blanch the green beans to retain their crispness before seasoning with lemon pepper.
• Be generous with the lemon pepper seasoning to enhance the citrus flavor.
• For extra tang, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the green beans before serving.

Recipe: Lemon Pepper Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the green beans and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning over the green beans and toss well to coat.
4. Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the lemon pepper green beans alongside your favorite salmon dish.

Servings	Preparation Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
4	10 minutes	10 minutes	20 minutes

Kale, Rice, Avocado, and Red Pepper Salad

This nutrient-packed salad combines the earthy flavors of kale with the creaminess of avocado and the sweetness of red pepper. The combination of the ingredients, along with a flavorful dressing, creates a vibrant and healthy side dish to accompany baked salmon. The salad pairs particularly well with a variety of salmon recipes, such as those with a wasabi/soy sauce glaze or a citrusy marinade.

“The combination of the earthy kale, creamy avocado, and sweet red pepper in this salad creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s a refreshing and nutritious side dish that complements the richness of salmon.” – Chef Sarah Johnson

Thai Peanut Slaw

Looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish to complement your salmon? Look no further than Thai Peanut Slaw. This vibrant salad features a combination of shredded vegetables, a savory peanut dressing, and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts. The Thai-inspired flavors of chili-garlic sauce, fish sauce, and white vinegar create a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy, making it an excellent accompaniment to salmon dishes.

To make this delicious slaw, shred cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers using a mandolin or a sharp knife. In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the flavorful dressing. Toss the shredded vegetables with the peanut dressing until well coated. Top with chopped peanuts for added crunch and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

This Thai Peanut Slaw pairs exceptionally well with salmon recipes that could use an extra punch of flavor. Try serving it alongside Chef John’s Fast Salmon with a Ginger Glaze for a truly unforgettable meal.

Recipe Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss until well coated.
4. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts on top of the slaw.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Sheet Pan Roasted Veggies

Roasting a variety of vegetables on a sheet pan is a simple and delicious way to create a colorful and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. The combination of roasted veggies and salmon creates a well-rounded and nutritious meal. One recipe that works particularly well is a combination of beets, carrots, and onions dressed in a tangy citrus-ginger vinaigrette. The earthy-sweet flavors of the roasted vegetables enhance the mild taste of Cedar Planked Salmon or any other salmon dish you choose.

Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Sheet Pan Roasted Veggies:

Ingredients:

• 2 large beets, peeled and cut into thin wedges
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
2. In a large bowl, combine the beets, carrots, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, grated ginger, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the citrus-ginger dressing over the vegetables and toss again to ensure they are well-coated.
5. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a sheet pan.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring once or twice during cooking.
7. Remove from the oven and serve alongside your favorite salmon dish.

Enjoy the vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and nutritious qualities of these sheet pan roasted veggies as a perfect side dish for your salmon dinner. The combination of the roasted vegetables and the mild taste of salmon is a match made in culinary heaven!

Creamy Lemon Pesto Pasta

Looking for the perfect side dish to complement your salmon? Look no further than this delectable creamy lemon pesto pasta. With its comforting and filling qualities, this pasta pairs beautifully with the mild flavor of salmon, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

The star of this dish is the creamy sauce, infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon and basil. The tanginess of the lemon adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the sauce, while the fragrant basil provides a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile. The creamy texture of the sauce creates a luscious coating on the pasta, allowing every bite to be as delicious as the last.

To prepare this Italian-inspired pasta, start by cooking your favorite pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the creamy lemon pesto sauce by combining fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of salt and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour the creamy lemon pesto sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat. The pasta will absorb the flavors of the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of creaminess, citrus, and herbaceousness.

When serving this dish alongside salmon, consider pairing it with recipes like Baked Salmon II, where the flavorful pasta acts as a delightful counterpoint to the richness of the fish. The creamy lemon pesto pasta adds a burst of freshness to each bite, allowing the flavors of the salmon to shine through without overpowering them.

So, the next time you’re planning a salmon dinner, don’t forget the perfect side dish—the creamy lemon pesto pasta. Its comforting creaminess, bright citrus notes, and aromatic basil will take your meal to the next level and leave your guests asking for seconds.

Garlic Butter Mushrooms

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful side dish to accompany your salmon dinner, look no further than garlic butter mushrooms. These sautéed mushrooms add a savory element that perfectly complements the delicate flavor of salmon. With their rich caramelization and buttery goodness, garlic butter mushrooms are sure to enhance your dining experience.

Preparing garlic butter mushrooms is a breeze, taking under 15 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a generous amount of butter.
2. Add finely minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
3. Toss in your favorite mushrooms (such as cremini or button mushrooms) and cook until they become tender and golden brown.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme for added flavor.
5. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick.

These garlic butter mushrooms pair well with a variety of salmon preparations, whether you’re grilling, baking, or searing your fish. The earthy umami flavors of the mushrooms create a delightful contrast to the flaky and delicate texture of salmon.

“The combination of sautéed garlic mushrooms and salmon is a match made in culinary heaven. The rich, buttery mushrooms elevate the flavor profile of the fish, creating a decadent and satisfying meal.” – Chef Julia

For a complete salmon dinner, serve the garlic butter mushrooms alongside your favorite salmon recipe and a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The possibilities are endless!

Tasty Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few ways to add even more flavor to your garlic butter mushrooms:

• Add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar during the cooking process to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the cooked mushrooms for a cheesy twist.
• Top the mushrooms with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.

Salmon Preparation	Recommended Mushroom Variation
Pan-seared salmon	Mushrooms with white wine and parsley
Grilled salmon	Mushrooms with balsamic vinegar and thyme
Baked salmon	Mushrooms with Parmesan cheese and chives

Experiment with these variations or create your own unique twist on garlic butter mushrooms to suit your taste preferences. The key is to let the robust flavors of the mushrooms complement and enhance the natural goodness of the salmon.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect sides to serve with salmon can enhance your dining experience and create a well-balanced meal. From broccolini with garlic and lemon juice to crispy Parmesan rosemary potatoes, lemon pepper green beans, and Thai peanut slaw, there are countless options to choose from. These side dishes, whether you prefer vegetables, grains, or salads, will complement the rich and flavorful taste of salmon and take your dinner to a whole new level.

Experiment with different combinations and flavors to find your favorite pairings. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-frying your salmon, these side dishes will add depth and variety to your meal. Broccolini’s mild flavor, Parmesan and rosemary potatoes’ crunchiness, the tanginess of lemon pepper green beans, the vibrant and healthy kale, rice, avocado, and red pepper salad, the refreshing Thai peanut slaw, the earthy-sweet flavors of sheet pan roasted veggies, the creamy lemon pesto pasta, and the savory garlic butter mushrooms are all fantastic choices to accompany your salmon.

By incorporating these delicious side dishes, you can create a memorable dining experience that showcases the versatility of salmon and satisfies all taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to explore different culinary combinations and unleash your creativity in the kitchen. With the right side dishes, your salmon dinner will be a guaranteed success!

FAQ

What are some perfect sides to complement salmon dishes?

Some perfect sides to complement salmon dishes are broccolini with garlic and lemon juice, crispy Parmesan rosemary potatoes, lemon pepper green beans, kale, rice, avocado, and red pepper salad, Thai peanut slaw, sheet pan roasted veggies, creamy lemon pesto pasta, and garlic butter mushrooms.

Source Links

• https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/best-side-dishes-salmon/
• https://www.aheadofthyme.com/25-side-dishes-for-salmon/
• https://www.southernliving.com/food/side-dishes/salmon-sides