13+ Rice Side Dishes for Salmon

Pairing rice with salmon creates a delicious and balanced meal that can please any palate. The right rice side dish not only complements the flavors of the salmon but also brings out the best in both the main and side components.

Finding the perfect rice side dish can elevate your salmon meal to a new level of culinary delight. From simple and savory options to those with a bit more flair, the possibilities are endless. In this article, you’ll discover a variety of rice side dishes that pair excellently with salmon, ensuring your next meal is both satisfying and memorable.

1) Garlic Parmesan Rice

Garlic Parmesan Rice is a great choice to pair with salmon. It’s a simple dish that brings a lot of flavor to your meal.

To start, cook your rice using chicken broth instead of water. This adds extra flavor right from the beginning.

While the rice is cooking, sauté some chopped garlic in a bit of olive oil until it’s golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Once the rice is done, mix in the sautéed garlic along with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt and create a creamy texture.

Finally, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. If you like a bit of zest, squeeze in some lemon juice right before serving.

This dish is delicious and easy to make. It complements the rich taste of salmon perfectly.

2) Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro Lime Rice is a flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon.

First, cook your rice according to the package instructions. Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work well here.

Once cooked, add freshly squeezed lime juice. This gives the rice a bright, zesty flavor.

Next, chop fresh cilantro and mix it into the rice. The cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note.

For an extra touch, you can also add a bit of lime zest. This enhances the lime flavor without making it too overpowering.

Serve the Cilantro Lime Rice warm alongside your salmon. The citrusy, herbal flavors of this rice dish compliment the rich taste of salmon.

3) Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is creamy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with salmon. You’ll need arborio rice, which is ideal because of its high starch content. This gives the risotto its signature creamy texture.

Start by cooking sliced mushrooms in a pan until tender. Next, toast the rice in the pan for about a minute, stirring often.

Gradually add broth to the rice, one ladle at a time. Stir frequently. This helps the rice release its starches and develop the desired creamy consistency.

To finish, you can add a touch of butter and grated parmesan cheese to enhance the flavors. Serve your mushroom risotto alongside your favorite salmon dish.

4) Lemon Herb Rice

Lemon Herb Rice is a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon.

Start by cooking your favorite type of rice, such as white or basmati, according to the package instructions.

While the rice is cooking, finely chop fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives.

Once the rice is ready, mix in the chopped herbs.

Add a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the rice.

You can also include some grated lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

For a richer taste, use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice.

Sauté some minced garlic and diced onion in a little olive oil until soft, then stir them into the rice.

Season the Lemon Herb Rice with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.

Before serving, garnish with a few lemon wedges and a sprinkle of extra herbs.

This refreshing and aromatic rice dish is a delightful complement to your salmon, enhancing its natural flavors.

5) Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon. It features a blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions.

To make Spanish rice, start by sautéing chopped onions and bell peppers in olive oil until they are soft.

Next, add minced garlic and cook for a minute. Stir in uncooked rice and let it toast lightly.

Pour in chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes. Add some salt, paprika, and cumin to taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer until the rice is tender.

For extra flavor, you can mix in some chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving.

Spanish rice adds a nice touch of color to your meal and complements the savory taste of salmon beautifully.

6) Jasmine Rice Pilaf

To make Jasmine Rice Pilaf, start by rinsing your jasmine rice under cold water. This helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.

In a saucepan, heat some butter or oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions or shallots and sauté until they are translucent.

Now, add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir it well, making sure it gets evenly coated with the butter and onions.

Next, pour in chicken broth or vegetable broth. This adds extra flavor compared to using water.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

For added flavor, you can mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving. Your Jasmine Rice Pilaf is now ready to be enjoyed with your salmon.

7) Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad is a great side dish for salmon. It combines the nutty taste of wild rice with fresh and vibrant ingredients.

Start by cooking one cup of wild rice according to the package instructions. After it’s cooked, let it cool.

Add thinly sliced celery and finely chopped red onion to the rice. These veggies add a nice crunch.

Mix in coarsely chopped raisins. They add a bit of sweetness that pairs well with the smoky flavor of salmon.

Create a creamy dressing with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1/3 cup of Greek yogurt, and 2 tablespoons each of Dijon and whole grain mustard. Stir in one tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for extra flavor.

Combine the dressing with the rice and veggies. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature alongside your salmon.

8) Ginger Scallion Rice

Ginger Scallion Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon.

To make this dish, you start by cooking rice. You can use white or jasmine rice for the best results.

In a pan, heat some oil and lightly fry grated ginger until it becomes crispy.

Next, add chopped scallions and cook until they are wilted.

Combine the ginger and scallions with the cooked rice, making sure to mix well.

For extra flavor, you can also add a splash of soy sauce.

Serve the Ginger Scallion Rice alongside a piece of salmon for a simple and delicious meal.

9) Coconut Lime Rice

Coconut lime rice is a flavorful and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon.

Start by cooking your rice in coconut milk instead of water. This will give it a rich, creamy taste.

Add the zest and juice of a fresh lime to the rice as it cooks.

For extra flavor, mix in some chopped cilantro or parsley.

You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top before serving.

This rice dish will add a bright, tropical touch to your meal, enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon.

10) Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut squash risotto is a creamy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. To start, you need butternut squash, rice, onions, garlic, white wine, broth, Parmesan cheese, and seasoning.

First, roast the butternut squash. Cut it in half, remove the seeds, and coat it with olive oil. Roast it at 325°F for about 40 minutes until tender.

While the squash roasts, heat some oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the rice and cook for about one minute to toast it.

Pour in white wine and stir until absorbed. Gradually add hot broth, stirring continuously until the rice is cooked and creamy. This process usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes.

Once the rice is ready, stir in roasted butternut squash, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until everything is well combined and the risotto is thick and creamy.

This risotto not only offers a rich texture but also a slightly sweet and nutty flavor from the butternut squash, making it an excellent complement to your salmon dish.

11) Fried Rice with Vegetables

Fried rice with vegetables is a fantastic side dish for salmon. It combines the hearty flavor of rice with the fresh taste of mixed vegetables. Start by heating some olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.

Add diced red onion and bell pepper to the pan and sauté for about five minutes. Once the vegetables are lightly browned, lower the heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.

Next, push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add whisked eggs to the empty side. Scramble the eggs until they’re fully cooked, then mix them with the vegetables. Now, add cooked rice to the pan and stir everything together.

Cook the fried rice for a few more minutes until the rice starts to get crispy. Season it with soy sauce and a pinch of salt to taste. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a splash of sesame oil before serving.

This fried rice pairs wonderfully with salmon, adding a nutritious and flavorful element to your meal.

12) Turmeric Rice

Turmeric rice is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon. The bright yellow color comes from turmeric, a spice known for its earthy and slightly bitter taste.

Start by rinsing one cup of basmati or jasmine rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, making the rice fluffy.

In a pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one teaspoon of ground turmeric and stir for a minute to release its aroma.

Pour in the rinsed rice and stir until each grain is coated with the turmeric-infused oil. Add two cups of water or chicken broth for extra flavor. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover the pot and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and you may want to garnish it with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch. Turmeric rice adds color and depth of flavor to your salmon dish, making your meal both tasty and visually appealing.

13) Saffron Rice

Saffron rice is a wonderful side dish to serve with salmon. The distinct taste of saffron adds richness to the rice, making it a perfect match for the flavors of salmon.

To prepare saffron rice, start by soaking a few saffron threads in warm water. Let them sit for a few minutes to release their color and aroma.

In a pot, sauté some chopped onions in olive oil until they become translucent. Add the rice and stir it to coat the grains with oil.

Pour in the bloomed saffron water along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Just before serving, fluff the rice with a fork. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.

By following these steps, you can create a saffron rice dish that will elevate your salmon meal.

Why Rice Makes a Great Side for Salmon

Rice pairs well with salmon because it complements the fish’s texture and flavor. It adds nutritional value and offers versatile flavor combinations.

Nutritional Benefits

Rice provides essential nutrients that pair well with salmon’s health benefits.

Brown rice is a good source of fiber and magnesium, which help in digestion and muscle function. White rice supplies quick energy from its carbohydrates, making it ideal for active individuals.

Wild rice is rich in antioxidants and protein, contributing to heart health. These nutrients balance out salmon’s omega-3 fatty acids, creating a well-rounded meal.

Together, rice and salmon provide a filling, nutritious meal that supports overall health and well-being.

Flavor Combinations

The mild taste of rice allows it to absorb the flavors of the spices and herbs used in the dish, enhancing the salmon.

Using coconut milk and cilantro with jasmine rice creates a tropical flavor that pairs nicely with grilled salmon. Parmesan cheese and broccoli can be mixed into rice for a creamy, savory side that enhances baked or roasted salmon.

For bold flavors, add chopped garlic, onions, or shallots to your rice. These ingredients add depth and richness, making the meal more delightful.

In summary, rice’s versatility in flavors and textures makes it a perfect match for salmon, offering endless delicious possibilities.

Choosing the Right Rice

Pairing the perfect rice with your salmon can make a big difference. Factors like the type of rice you choose and how you cook it are key to achieving the best results.

Types of Rice

Selecting the right type of rice is essential. Brown rice is a sturdy choice with a nutty flavor that complements salmon well. It’s also high in fiber. If you prefer something more delicate, basmati rice is aromatic and light, providing a subtle counterpoint to rich salmon dishes.

Wild rice offers a unique texture and flavor, making it a standout side. For a creamy option, consider risotto rice like arborio, which can be flavored with herbs and cheese to enhance your meal. Jasmine rice is slightly sticky and fragrant, perfect for slightly sweet or spicy salmon dishes. Other options like black rice add color and a chewy texture, making your plate visually appealing and nutritious.

Cooking Methods

Getting the cooking method right is just as important. For fluffy and separate grains, use the absorption method: boil your rice in water until it’s all soaked up. Steaming keeps the rice’s nutrients intact and gives it a light, airy texture. Pilaf method involves sautéing the rice in oil before adding water or broth, infusing it with extra flavor.

Pressure cooking is quick and helps retain the rice’s nutrients. Boiling is straightforward and good for all types of rice. For an added depth of flavor, cooking rice in chicken broth or vegetable stock instead of water can make a big difference. Adding fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, at the end brightens up your rice and pairs perfectly with salmon.

Enhancing Rice Dishes

Adding herbs, spices, and vegetables can make your rice side dishes even more delicious and nutritious. These enhancements bring unique flavors and textures that pair perfectly with salmon.