Fish doesn’t go with just any side dish, so finding one that balances well with your meal can be a pain.
People are eating more fish than ever before because it’s super healthy. Besides being loaded with essential nutrients, fish is also low in saturated fat and calories. What’s not to love? And if you have a good collection of side dishes for fish, you’re got dinner on the table in no time.
You want to find side dishes for fish that compliment the flavors of your protein but don’t overpower and take over the whole meal.
When it comes to enjoying a delicious fish dinner, finding the perfect side dish can elevate the entire meal. There are countless options to complement various types of fish, whether it’s a light and flaky white fish or a rich and savory salmon. By pairing the right side dish with your fish, you can create an unforgettable dining experience that is both satisfying and healthy.
With different flavors, textures, and cooking methods, side dishes can add depth and variety to your meal. Fresh ingredients like vegetables, grains, and legumes can play a starring role in these sides. Look for recipes that showcase seasonal ingredients and match the flavor profiles of your chosen fish for a harmonious balance on the plate.
Side dishes can be as simple or as complex as the cook desires, but the key is finding something that complements and enhances the fish. From steamed vegetables and light couscous to creamy risotto and flavorful salads, there’s a perfect side dish for every type of fish. Keep in mind the taste and texture of both the fish and the side, and let your culinary creativity lead you to the perfect pairing.
This list of sides for fish will satisfy any taste buds and come in a variety of textures, flavors, and temperatures.
Now you can serve up your grilled fish or baked fish at parties or get-togethers without having to worry if your sides go well with the meal.
You can go with satiating flavors or something that is healthy and clean. This list gives you the perfect answers to what to serve with fish.
Source: thecookierookie.com
1. Lemon Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
We already covered just how perfectly lemon goes with a good fish dinner, but add some to your broccoli side and the flavors will melt together in your mouth.
To top it off, literally, sprinkle as much parmesan cheese as you can handle and roast your broccoli in the oven for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Even if you don’t like broccoli that much, you can’t deny how well it goes with a premium fish filet.
Source: 40aprons.com
2. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is the perfect side for fish because it’s mildly seasoned, so you still get the flavor without it taking over your palette.
Even though this meal might be lighter in flavor, it’s still a great way to beef up your meal by adding a side that will leave you full after eating.
Combine it with your tilapia or cod and you’ll want to add this staple to your weekly meal plans.
This side is perfect for colder nights when you need something warm to keep you comfortable.
Source: cupcakesandcashmere.com
3. Orange Lime Margarita
Drinks can be sides too, can’t they?
Take your margarita up a level by adding in some orange liqueur to the drink and your guests will be asking for another.
This drink is best paired with a Mexican-inspired fish dish like fajitas or tacos, but you could really serve them with fish sticks and your guests won’t even notice the difference.
Make sure to make an entire pitcher worth unless you want to run to the blender every few seconds.
Source: thechunkychef.com
4. Roasted Greek Potatoes
Fish on its own doesn’t tend to fill up your stomach the way other proteins do, but that’s why a side like roasted Greek potatoes is the perfect compliment.
The unique, and fresh, flavors of Greek food make this side go well with almost any type of fish.
There aren’t a lot of ingredients you have to use, so prepping and getting these cooked in the oven takes almost no time.
What’s even better is there’s hardly any cleanup afterward.
Source: completelydelicious.com
5. Caesar Salad
The Caesar salad has proven itself as one of the best side dishes for fish you can create.
The beautiful mix of fresh greens, parmesan cheese, anchovy flavor, and creamy sauce is good enough to be its own meal.
Combine it with a great fish filet and you’ll be feeling full and healthy at the end of the meal.
The best part? It takes practically no time at all to put together.
Source: wholesomeyum.com
6. Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
Looking to save yourself from eating too many carbs with your fish dish?
This cheesy cauliflower rice makes a perfect companion with fish because it doesn’t stick to your gut as much as regular rice but still fills you up.
The cheesy sauce also makes it just as flavorful as any other dish you could serve.
Packed full of flavor but still good for you, it’s hard not to make this side with your dish every time you’re cooking.
Source: rebelrecipes.com
7. Barley Mushroom Risotto
Looking to upgrade your dinner side dish to match the intimacy of the evening?
This barley mushroom risotto dish is the perfect romantic side to your fish dinner for two.
It looks beautiful and tastes even better. There is nothing quite like a creamy sauce packed with flavor over mushrooms and risotto.
Save this one for a special occasion and impress your significant other for a romantic meal.
Source: spendwithpennies.com
8. French Fries
The English call it fish and chips, but in the US french fries are one of the classic sides to fish.
The crisp outer layer of the fries with the tender and starchy middle takes your fish to another level.
Especially if you are having fried fish for your meal.
Use an air fryer for your fries if you want them to cook a bit faster without using a ton of olive oil.
Source: cleangreensimple.com
9. Roasted Sugar Snap Peas
This is one of those side dishes you can eat as a great snack before meals or right alongside your fish.
The appearance is everything and when you set these on the table, guests will wonder how long they took to make.
Roasting the peas in the oven while they are coated in sugar helps caramelize the outside so they are a sweet, healthy snack.
Source: theviewfromgreatisland.com
10. Tartar Sauce
Who could argue against the tried and true tartar sauce side for fish? The truth is, tartar sauce goes well with any seafood, but fried fish is a must-try.
Although this isn’t going to fill you up like the other sides on this list, the tartar dipping sauce when made from home really elevates your meal.
Dabble a spoonful on top of some crab cakes and you might add these to your weekly rotation.
The best part is you can make a ton and keep it in a jar in your fridge to bust out whenever you have leftovers.
Source: thebrooklyncook.com
11. Ratatouille
Ratatouille became well-known after the cartoon movie by the same name, but this dish deserves its own attention.
Packed full of veggies and tomato sauce, this healthy side to fish pairs perfectly.
Eggplant, squash, and zucchini make up the majority of this dish and you won’t even be able to tell there are that many vegetables inside.
Roast it all in the over to simmer the flavors together and you have a delicious casserole of veggies and tomato sauce to pair with your fish.
Source: buildyourbite.com
12. Papa John’s Garlic Sauce
You probably wouldn’t think what’s good for pizza is automatically going to be good with fish, but that’s exactly what this homemade garlic sauce does for your fish meal.
You’d be surprised at just how well the combination of buttery garlic flavors goes with a meal like fish cakes. Try this garlic sauce with some crab legs and it will blow your mind.
You can dip your fish in the sauce for more control over how much goes with each bite or you can drizzle the sauce over the top.
This is the perfect way to get someone who isn’t a huge fan of fish to give it a try.
Source: acouplecooks.com
13. Dill Sauce
Tartar sauce is the most common dipping sauce for fish, but have you ever tried dill sauce?
This great alternative is delicious when made fresh and pairs well with a nice cut of fish.
You can either throw on the dill before roasting your fish or use it as a dipping sauce after everything is cooked.
Dill sauce is a classier version of tartar, so choose this dipping side for more elegant occasions.
Source: natashaskitchen.com
14. Grilled Moroccan Vegetable Skewers
You might already have tried some healthy veggies with your fish in the past, but these grilled vegetables really make an impact.
Putting the veggies on a skewer not only makes them easier to eat, but you can also throw them on the grill for a great smoky flavor.
These skewers are perfect if you need to save some time because they are very easy to make but taste wonderful.
Source: theviewfromgreatisland.com
15. Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Whipped potatoes are a delicious side for any dish, but whipped sweet potatoes take your meal to another level.
Sweet potato is a perfect side because it’s healthy but tastes just like a sweet dessert.
Throw in a little brown sugar and butter and it will be like having a delicious pie with your fish.
Don’t be afraid to make a larger bowl than normal because you’ll be surprised how fast they go.
Source: taste.com.au
16. Panzanella Salad
Looking for a side dish for fish that is equally as healthy and still packs great flavor?
This Panzanella salad is a great choice because it’s filled with garlic, basil, tomato, onion, and croutons to give a fresh and unique flavor.
The vinaigrette dressing that goes over it ties the entire salad together and even goes well drizzled over the top of your fish!
What makes this dish special is you can make it as a side or you can shred your fish and place it on top.
Source: jillianharris.com
17. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Even if you haven’t had the best experience with Brussels sprouts, this version is sure to please the whole family.
Roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out the complex flavors hiding in these dense veggies.
Top them off with a little salt and pepper and they are good to go for your next dish.
There are few side dishes for fish as easy to make as these Brussels sprouts.
Source: melskitchencafe.com
18. Green Beans
If you’re looking for a healthy side dish for fish that you can easily whip up anytime, then green beans are a great choice.
Canned green beans can go well with your fish dish, but to make it the best you can, you’ll want to head to the store and pick up some fresh ones.
Just make sure to wash them properly ahead of time. The green bean is only as good as it is fresh and clean.
Source: delish.com
19. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are so versatile they can go well with any dish you cook but especially with a good fish recipe.
Lather your mashed potato up with some butter and cream and they will be fluffy enough to dip your fish into. Fried fish even goes well with a little mashed potatoes on the side.
If you prefer a little texture to your potatoes, you can leave them a little chunkier or even leave the skins on for a healthier choice.
This side will take a little more effort to mash up, but when they are done they are more than worth the trouble.
Source: courtneyssweets.com
20. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic that has been around forever and pairs perfectly with a nice cut of fish.
How you make it though has always been controversial. Should you use mayo or vinegar when making your coleslaw?
Following this side dish recipe means you’ll be on the mayo side of the debate, but don’t worry, it will be just as delicious.
Source: peasandcrayons.com
21. Lemon Dressing
No other citrus goes as well with a delicate cut of fish than lemon and now you have an entire dressing to dip or drizzle over your meal.
Simple to make and a wonderful compliment to your favorite fish, this lemon dressing goes well with pretty much any variety of fish you buy.
Make enough for a bowl if you’re eating with the family, because you won’t be able to soak up enough of the dressing with every bite.
Our 25+ PERFECT Side Dishes For Fish (+French Fries)
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 Tbsp. lemon pepper or seasoned salt
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven (or air fryer) to 375°F.
- Wash the potatoes and cut them into desired size for French fries.
- Toss French fries with seasoning and oil.
- Bake for 40 minutes in the oven, turning over after 20 minutes.
Notes
Organize all the required ingredients.
Enjoy the food.
Nutrition
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