Salmon is a versatile and tasty fish that pairs well with many different side dishes. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing your salmon, the right sides can take your meal to the next level. From veggies to grains, there are lots of options to choose from.

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You can find 25 great side dishes that go perfectly with salmon in this article. These sides range from simple salads to hearty rice dishes. You’ll discover new ideas to try and learn how to make your salmon dinners more exciting. With these tasty options, you’ll never get bored of eating salmon again.

1. Herb-Roasted Potatoes

Herb-roasted potatoes make a perfect side dish for salmon. Cut potatoes into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast at 400°F until golden and crispy on the outside, about 25-30 minutes. The high heat helps create a delicious crust.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the potatoes before roasting. You can also add other vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots to the pan for a complete meal.

2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Garlic mashed cauliflower is a tasty, low-carb side dish that goes well with salmon. You’ll love its creamy texture and rich flavor.

To make it, steam cauliflower florets until tender. Then blend them with garlic, butter, and a splash of milk.

The result is a smooth puree that looks like mashed potatoes but has fewer calories. It’s perfect for those watching their carb intake.

This side dish adds a nice contrast to salmon’s texture. The garlic flavor complements the fish without overpowering it.

3. Lemon Asparagus Risotto

Lemon Asparagus Risotto brings a bright, fresh flavor to your salmon dinner. This creamy rice dish combines the tartness of lemon with the earthy taste of asparagus.

To make it, you’ll sauté onions and garlic, then add Arborio rice. Slowly stir in warm broth and white wine. Cook until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Add steamed asparagus pieces and finish with lemon juice and zest. The result is a luxurious side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon.

This risotto takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s worth the effort for a special meal. You can adjust the lemon to suit your taste preferences.

4. Dill-Infused Quinoa

Dill-infused quinoa makes a tasty and healthy side for salmon. Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then mix in chopped fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice.

The fluffy texture and nutty flavor of quinoa pair well with the rich taste of salmon. The dill adds a fresh, aromatic element that complements the fish perfectly.

This side dish is quick to prepare and packs lots of protein and fiber. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it just before serving your salmon meal.

5. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots make a sweet and colorful side dish for salmon. You can easily prepare them in under 30 minutes.

Start by cutting carrots into evenly sized pieces. Cook them in a pan with butter until they start to soften.

Add honey, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let the carrots simmer until they’re tender and coated in a shiny glaze.

The sweetness of the honey complements the richness of the salmon. The bright orange color of the carrots also looks great on the plate next to the pink fish.

6. Creamy Spinach Orzo

Creamy spinach orzo makes a delicious side dish for salmon. This pasta pairs well with the rich fish, offering a comforting contrast.

To make it, cook orzo in broth for extra flavor. Add cream, garlic powder, and salt to create a silky sauce. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.

You can enhance the dish with mushrooms for an earthy touch. Sauté them before adding the orzo and liquid. The result is a creamy, vegetable-packed side that complements salmon perfectly.

This quick and easy side comes together in about 15 minutes. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but simple.

7. Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Balsamic Brussels sprouts make a tasty side dish for salmon. You can easily prepare them on a sheet pan alongside your fish.

To make this dish, toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F.

The high heat caramelizes the sprouts, giving them crispy edges and a tender center. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements salmon well.

For extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the sprouts before serving. This side dish is both delicious and nutritious.

8. Maple Dijon Roasted Sweet Potatoes

These sweet potatoes are a tasty match for salmon. Cut sweet potatoes into cubes and toss them with olive oil, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.

Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and roast them in a hot oven. The high heat makes the edges crispy while the inside stays soft.

The maple syrup adds sweetness that goes well with the salmon. The Dijon mustard gives a tangy kick that balances the flavors.

You can add some fresh thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. These sweet potatoes are easy to make and will make your salmon dinner even better.

9. Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini

Parmesan-crusted zucchini makes a tasty side dish for salmon. Slice zucchini into rounds and coat them with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs.

Bake the coated zucchini slices in the oven until they turn golden brown and crispy. The cheese adds a savory flavor that pairs well with the mild taste of salmon.

This dish is easy to make and takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You can customize the seasoning to your liking by adding garlic powder, Italian herbs, or red pepper flakes.

10. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad adds a vibrant touch to your salmon dinner. Its earthy sweetness complements the fish perfectly. To make it, toss beet chunks with olive oil and roast until tender.

Let the beets cool, then mix them with fresh greens like arugula or spinach. Add crumbled goat cheese for creaminess. Toss in some toasted walnuts for crunch.

Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey. This colorful side dish not only tastes great but also looks stunning next to your salmon.

11. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

A cucumber and tomato salad is a refreshing side dish for salmon. You can make it quickly with just a few ingredients.

Slice cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, then toss them in a bowl. Add some thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor and crunch.

For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour it over the vegetables and gently stir.

This light salad complements the rich taste of salmon perfectly. It’s cool, crisp, and adds a burst of freshness to your meal.

12. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Garlic butter green beans make a tasty side dish for salmon. You can whip up this simple veggie in just minutes. Start by trimming the ends off fresh green beans.

Sauté the beans in a pan with melted butter and minced garlic. Cook until the beans are bright green and crisp-tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The garlicky, buttery flavor complements salmon nicely. The beans add a fresh crunch to balance the rich fish. This easy side dish works for both casual and fancy salmon meals.

13. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice pilaf makes a great side for salmon. This nutty, flavorful dish adds texture to your meal. You can cook the rice in chicken broth for extra taste.

Try mixing in some veggies like diced onions or bell peppers. Add herbs like parsley or dill for freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors.

This side dish is both healthy and filling. It pairs well with the rich taste of salmon. You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for days.

14. Coconut Jasmine Rice

Coconut jasmine rice makes a tasty side dish for salmon. To make it, combine jasmine rice with coconut milk and water. Add a pinch of salt and cook until the rice is tender.

This rice has a subtle coconut flavor that complements salmon well. The creamy texture pairs nicely with the fish’s flakiness.

You can jazz up your coconut jasmine rice by adding extras. Try mixing in some cilantro, lime zest, or toasted coconut flakes. These additions bring more flavor and texture to the dish.

Coconut jasmine rice works with many types of salmon. It goes great with grilled, baked, or pan-seared fillets. The rice soaks up any sauce or juices from the fish too.

15. Miso Glazed Eggplant

Miso glazed eggplant makes a tasty side dish for salmon. The eggplant soaks up the savory miso flavor, giving it a rich umami taste.

To make it, brush eggplant slices with miso paste mixed with mirin and sugar. Then roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.

The sweet and salty miso glaze pairs well with the mild flavor of salmon. The soft, creamy texture of the eggplant also contrasts nicely with the flaky fish.

You can sprinkle some sesame seeds or green onions on top for extra flavor and crunch. This Japanese-inspired side dish adds variety to your salmon meal.

16. Sautéed Mushrooms

Sautéed mushrooms make a tasty side dish for salmon. You can use button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms for this recipe.

Start by cleaning the mushrooms and slicing them. Heat some butter or olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.

Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender. For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar.

Serve these savory mushrooms alongside your salmon for a delicious meal. The earthy flavors complement the fish perfectly.

17. Roasted Garlic Broccoli

Roasted garlic broccoli is a tasty and easy side dish for salmon. It brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli while adding a savory garlic flavor.

To make it, toss broccoli florets with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 20 minutes.

The broccoli will come out crispy on the edges and tender in the middle. The garlic becomes golden and fragrant, coating the broccoli with flavor.

This side dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a great choice to pair with your salmon.

18. Gruyère and Chive Cauliflower Bake

This tasty side dish pairs well with salmon. It combines creamy cheese with mild cauliflower for a comforting meal.

To make it, you’ll need cauliflower florets, Gruyère cheese, and fresh chives. The cauliflower is steamed until tender, then mixed with a rich cheese sauce.

The dish is topped with more Gruyère and breadcrumbs before baking. It comes out of the oven golden and bubbly.

The nutty flavor of Gruyère complements the salmon nicely. The chives add a subtle onion taste and pop of green color.

This bake is filling enough to be a main dish for vegetarians. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and cheese.

19. Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions add a zesty kick to your salmon dish. They’re easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.

Slice red onions thinly and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Let them sit for at least an hour before serving.

The tangy flavor of pickled onions balances the richness of salmon perfectly. Their bright pink color also makes your plate look more appealing.

You can make a big batch and keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. Use them on salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for other dishes too.

20. Pine Nut Couscous

Pine nut couscous is a tasty and quick side dish for salmon. You can make it in about 10 minutes. Start by toasting pine nuts in a dry pan until golden.

Cook the couscous according to package directions. Fluff it with a fork and mix in the toasted pine nuts. Add some olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped herbs like parsley or mint.

This light and fluffy side complements salmon well. The pine nuts give a nice crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a simple but elegant option that works for both casual and fancy meals.

21. Horseradish Slaw

Horseradish slaw is a zesty twist on classic coleslaw. It pairs perfectly with salmon, adding a crisp texture and tangy kick to your meal.

To make it, mix mayonnaise, horseradish, and Dijon mustard for the dressing. Add vinegar for extra tang and fresh dill for a burst of flavor.

Combine the dressing with shredded cabbage and carrots. You can use a pre-made coleslaw mix to save time. Toss everything together until well-coated.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more horseradish if you like it spicier, or extra mayo if you prefer a creamier slaw. Serve it cold alongside your salmon for a refreshing contrast.

22. Pomegranate Walnut Farro

Farro makes a tasty and nutritious side for salmon. This ancient grain has a nutty flavor and chewy texture. To prepare it, cook farro until tender and mix in chopped walnuts and pomegranate seeds.

The walnuts add crunch and healthy fats. Pomegranate seeds provide bursts of tart sweetness. A light dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs brings it all together.

This colorful dish looks beautiful on the plate next to salmon. The flavors complement the fish without overpowering it. You can serve it warm or at room temperature.

23. Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is a perfect side dish for salmon. You can easily prepare it by cutting the squash into cubes and roasting in the oven.

The natural sweetness of butternut squash complements the rich flavor of salmon. It’s also packed with nutrients and adds a nice color to your plate.

Try seasoning your roasted butternut squash with a bit of honey, ginger, and black pepper. This combination adds warmth and spice that pairs well with salmon.

For a complete meal, consider adding some Brussels sprouts to your roasting pan. The mix of flavors and textures will make your dinner more interesting and satisfying.

24. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. The peppery taste of arugula complements the rich flavor of the fish.

To make the vinaigrette, mix olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Add salt and pepper to taste. This simple dressing enhances the natural flavors of the greens.

Toss the arugula with the dressing just before serving to keep the leaves crisp. For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.

You can also add some sliced almonds or grape tomatoes to give your salad more crunch and color. This quick and easy side dish takes just minutes to prepare.

25. Caprese Salad

Caprese salad makes a great side dish for salmon. It’s light, fresh, and complements the fish well.

This classic Italian salad consists of sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella provide a nice contrast to the salmon’s texture. The basil adds a bright, herbal note that pairs nicely with the fish.

You can easily customize your Caprese salad. Try adding avocado slices or using different types of tomatoes for variety. Serve it chilled or at room temperature alongside your salmon.

Nutritional Benefits of Side Dishes for Salmon

Side dishes for salmon add important nutrients to your meal. They boost vitamins, minerals, and balance out the protein from the fish.

Vitamins and Minerals

Many salmon sides pack a vitamin punch. Leafy greens like kale or spinach give you vitamins A, C, and K. These help your eyes, skin, and blood clotting. Roasted veggies add vitamin C and fiber. This aids your immune system and digestion.

Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice have B vitamins. These keep your energy up and help make red blood cells. Colorful veggies bring different minerals too. Orange sweet potatoes have lots of potassium for heart health. Green broccoli gives you calcium and iron for strong bones and blood.

Balancing Macronutrients

Side dishes balance out your salmon meal. Salmon is high in protein and healthy fats. Adding carbs from grains or starchy veggies makes a complete meal. This mix of nutrients keeps you full longer.

Fiber-rich sides like lentils or Brussels sprouts slow digestion. This helps control blood sugar. Healthy fats in avocado or olive oil-dressed salads pair well with salmon’s omega-3s. Together, they boost heart health and brain function.

Lighter sides like cucumber salad or roasted asparagus add volume without many calories. This lets you eat more food while staying within your calorie needs.

Tips for Pairing Side Dishes with Salmon

Pairing the right side dishes with salmon can enhance your meal. Focus on flavors that complement the fish and use seasonal ingredients for the best taste.

Complementary Flavors

Choose sides that balance salmon’s rich taste. Lemon-based dishes work well, like lemon pasta or roasted veggies with lemon. Garlic and herbs also pair nicely with salmon.

Try light, refreshing salads. A kale and quinoa salad with lemon dressing can be a great match. Avoid heavy, creamy sides that might overpower the fish.

Roasted vegetables are a good choice. Cauliflower with miso or asparagus can add variety to your plate. For starch, consider rice or couscous dishes.

Seasonal Ingredients

Pick sides based on what’s fresh each season. In summer, serve corn on the cob or a tomato salad with your salmon. These light options won’t weigh down your meal.

Fall brings root vegetables like sweet potatoes or squash. Roast them for a warm, comforting side. In winter, try hearty greens like kale or Brussels sprouts.

Spring offers tender vegetables like peas and asparagus. These can be simply steamed or sautéed to pair with your fish. Using what’s in season ensures the best flavors and freshness.