Salmon is a fantastic fish to cook at home. It’s flavorful, versatile, and readily available. Unlike some other types of fish that can be finicky, salmon is quite forgiving and suits a variety of cooking methods, from grilling and roasting to pan-searing and even poaching. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, not having an overly “fishy” taste that some people find off-putting. You might have your favorite salmon recipes down pat, but have you ever paused to consider the best side dishes to accompany it? While almost any vegetable and carb like pilaf or pasta can work, certain pairings truly elevate the meal. Since salmon has a rich, slightly sweet, and fatty profile, it benefits greatly from sides that offer a touch of acidity or tartness. Think dishes with vinegar or citrus-based dressings – but that’s just the beginning. Let’s dive into some of the best Sides To Serve With Salmon that will make your next fish dinner a resounding success.
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Bright and Tangy Salads: Perfect Sides for Salmon
When you’re looking for side dishes for salmon, salads are an incredibly versatile and refreshing option. You can keep it simple with a bed of peppery arugula and creamy avocado, a classic pairing that’s always satisfying. However, don’t be afraid to get a little more adventurous with your salad choices. Forget the old rule about fish and cheese not mixing – salmon actually pairs wonderfully with tangy or sharp dairy, used in moderation. Consider a robust wedge salad featuring creamy blue cheese and crispy bacon crumbles, or a Caesar salad with the salty bite of Parmesan cheese. These bolder flavors cut through the richness of the salmon beautifully.
For a seasonal approach, especially during summer when fresh produce is abundant, opt for salads that incorporate sweet vegetables with a tangy edge. A quinoa salad mixed with summer vegetables and a bright olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing is a fantastic choice.
Corn is another excellent ingredient to pair with salmon. While simple grilled corn can be a bit too sweet alongside salmon, Mexican street corn, or elotes, offers a delightful twist. The creamy, tangy coating of sour cream and mayonnaise, combined with chili powder and Cotija cheese, provides a wonderful counterpoint to the salmon’s richness. Alternatively, try slicing the corn kernels off the cob and creating a vibrant corn salad. Grilled corn salad with herbs, feta, and tomatoes, or a raw corn salad with radishes, cucumber, and shiso, both bring fresh and zesty flavors to complement your salmon.
Panzanella and pasta salads are also excellent, more substantial salad options to serve with salmon. These are not your heavy, mayonnaise-laden pasta salads, but rather bright, vinaigrette-dressed versions. The bread in panzanella or the pasta itself makes the salad heartier and soaks up the flavorful dressing, creating a satisfying side dish that incorporates multiple food groups in one bowl.
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Garlicky Greens: Simple and Flavorful Salmon Sides
For a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish for salmon, consider garlicky greens. Braised or broiled greens, seasoned generously with garlic, are a match made in heaven with salmon. Broiled asparagus, finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of salty cheese like Cotija or Parmesan, is a classic and effortless pairing. Braised asparagus offers a more tender texture, equally delicious and easy to prepare.
While asparagus is perhaps the most common vegetable side for salmon, don’t limit yourself. Bacon-braised green beans bring a smoky depth of flavor that complements salmon beautifully. For a spicy kick, Sichuan-style dry-fried green beans add excitement and complexity. Alternatively, keep it simple and rustic with braised long beans with tomatoes and garlic, a Mediterranean-inspired side that’s both healthy and delicious.
Bitter greens like broccoli rabe, Swiss chard, or collard greens are also fantastic partners for salmon. A quick sauté with olive oil, plenty of garlic, and a touch of lemon juice is all these greens need to become a perfect, salmon-friendly side dish. Their slight bitterness provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the fish.
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Crispy Potatoes: A Textural Counterpoint to Salmon
Given salmon’s smooth and fatty texture, side dishes that offer a textural contrast are particularly welcome. Crispy, golden-brown potatoes are an ideal partner, providing that satisfying crunch that balances the soft flakiness of the fish. Fortunately, mastering crispy potatoes is achievable with the right techniques. Consider ultra-crispy roasted new potatoes, smashed potatoes with their wonderfully craggy edges, or salty herb-roasted new potatoes for classic options.
For an even more indulgent treat, duck fat-fried fingerling potatoes elevate the potato side dish to another level of deliciousness. The duck fat imparts a rich flavor and unparalleled crispiness. If you’re looking for a touch of extra flavor, crispy potatoes cooked in garlic and Parmesan butter are incredibly flavorful and satisfying, adding a cheesy, garlicky dimension that pairs beautifully with salmon. No matter which crispy potato variation you choose, you’ll have a side dish that provides the perfect textural counterpoint to your salmon.
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