Salmon is a versatile and delicious protein, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, salmon pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes. From roasted vegetables to light salads, the options are endless. In this article, we’ll explore what goes well with salmon for dinner, offering you a comprehensive list of sides that will elevate your next salmon meal.
Why Pairing Matters
The rich, buttery texture of salmon calls for side dishes that provide balance—whether through contrasting textures, complementing flavors, or adding a fresh element to the plate. To create the perfect dinner, think of pairing salmon with light and fresh ingredients that don’t overpower the dish but enhance its natural flavors.
You can discover more about complementary flavors from experts on pairing salmon with sides and beverages. Below, we break down the best sides to serve with salmon based on flavor profiles and cooking techniques.
Popular Sides for Salmon
1. Vegetable Side Dishes
Vegetables are an excellent companion to salmon as they offer freshness and a wide range of textures. The key here is to roast or lightly sauté your veggies for a crisp, tender bite that pairs well with the fish.
- Garlic Green Beans: These green beans are light, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned with garlic. They pair wonderfully with lemon-seasoned salmon, offering a crisp bite to complement the tender fish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Add some balsamic vinegar to these roasted Brussels sprouts to achieve a caramelized, slightly sweet flavor. The robust texture of Brussels sprouts creates a satisfying contrast to the soft, flaky salmon.
- Asparagus with Parmesan: Asparagus is a classic pairing for salmon. Roast it with garlic and sprinkle some Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. The earthy taste of asparagus and the salty sharpness of Parmesan beautifully complement salmon, especially when grilled.
- Creamy Kale Salad: This salad adds a creamy, rich texture to your plate, balancing out the salmon’s robust flavor. Toss with a light vinaigrette or Greek yogurt dressing to keep things light and flavorful.
2. Grain and Starch-Based Sides
For a heartier meal, grains and starches are the way to go. These sides bring comfort and a satisfying texture that complements the softness of salmon.
- Lemon Rice: Light and zesty, lemon rice lifts the entire meal with its citrus notes. It brightens up the buttery salmon and provides a nice, fluffy texture to contrast the fish.
- Couscous with Herbs: Couscous is a light and versatile side that goes exceptionally well with salmon. Add fresh herbs like parsley and mint to make it stand out. This side is especially perfect when paired with spiced or citrus-glazed salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, quinoa is a perfect side dish for salmon, especially for those following a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-inspired meal. Toss it with vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers to add a fresh crunch.
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes is a fantastic match for honey-glazed salmon. This combination brings both sweet and savory flavors to your plate, ensuring every bite is full of depth.
Light and Refreshing Sides
For those looking to keep things light, especially for lunch or a summer dinner, consider these refreshing sides.
3. Cucumber and Radish Salad
This refreshing salad is a go-to when you want something light yet flavorful. The radishes add a peppery bite, while the cucumbers provide a cooling effect. Toss with a lemon vinaigrette to keep the salad tangy and perfect for balancing the richness of salmon.
4. Asian-Inspired Bok Choy
Bok choy is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an Asian-inspired meal. Lightly sautéed with soy sauce and garlic, bok choy adds a slightly bitter note that goes well with the richness of soy-glazed salmon.
5. Saffron Rice
This fragrant and colorful rice dish is perfect for when you want to elevate your salmon dinner. Saffron brings a luxurious flavor, and its golden hue is sure to make your dish visually appealing. Pair saffron rice with a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean-inspired salmon recipe for best results.
6. Mango Avocado Salad
A tropical twist to your meal, mango and avocado create a creamy, sweet contrast to the savory salmon. This salad is simple to prepare and works particularly well with grilled salmon. Add a drizzle of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Hearty and Comforting Sides
If you’re looking for something more filling, these hearty sides will complement your salmon while ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.
7. Herb-Roasted Carrots
These roasted carrots are an ideal side for salmon, offering a natural sweetness that works well with savory dishes. Roasting the carrots with honey and rosemary adds depth, and the slightly caramelized edges enhance the overall dining experience.
8. Crispy Potatoes with Rosemary
Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, rosemary potatoes are a fan favorite. The earthy rosemary complements the buttery flavor of salmon, and the crispy texture is the perfect contrast to the fish’s tender flakes.
9. Creamy Zucchini Pasta
If you’re craving pasta but want to keep it light, zucchini noodles mixed with a lemon cream sauce are the way to go. This side is rich but doesn’t overpower the salmon, making it a great choice for a dinner party or special meal.
Beverage Pairings with Salmon
To complete your meal, consider pairing salmon with a beverage that complements its flavors. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or prefer something non-alcoholic, the right drink can enhance the experience.
- White Wine: A crisp, light Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is a classic choice for salmon. The acidity in these wines cuts through the richness of the fish, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Light Beer: If you prefer beer, opt for a pale ale or a light lager. These beers have a refreshing finish that balances the fatty texture of salmon.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lime or lemon is both refreshing and palate-cleansing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Vegetables Go Well with Salmon?
Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of vegetables. Popular choices include asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, and roasted carrots. These vegetables can be roasted, sautéed, or served fresh in salads.
What Type of Rice Is Best with Salmon?
Couscous, quinoa, and lemon rice are great choices. These grains bring a light, fluffy texture that complements the tender, flaky salmon.
Can You Serve Pasta with Salmon?
Yes! Light pasta dishes like zucchini noodles or lemon linguine work exceptionally well with salmon. The key is to keep the pasta sauce light to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish.
What Are the Best Flavors to Pair with Salmon?
Citrus, herbs like dill and parsley, and mild spices such as cumin and paprika all work well with salmon. Additionally, sauces like lemon butter or soy glaze enhance the fish’s natural flavors.
Conclusion
When deciding what goes well with salmon for dinner, the possibilities are endless. From light vegetable sides to hearty grain dishes, there’s a side for every type of salmon preparation. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing your salmon, the key is to choose sides that complement the fish without overpowering it. By pairing salmon with the right sides, you’ll ensure a memorable and balanced meal every time.