Salmon is a versatile and healthy protein that deserves equally delicious side dishes to create a complete meal. Whether you’re serving a simple grilled fillet or an elaborate salmon recipe, choosing the right accompaniment can elevate your dining experience.
The best side dishes for salmon strike a perfect balance—they complement the fish’s rich flavor without overwhelming it. Lightly seasoned grains, buttery vegetables, and crisp salads make ideal partners for salmon.
From roasted potatoes to steamed asparagus, the options are plentiful. You can tailor these sides to match your personal taste preferences and the specific salmon preparation you’ve chosen.
1. Garlic Roasted Baby Potatoes
Garlic roasted baby potatoes make a perfect side dish for salmon. The crispy exterior and soft inside complement the tender fish beautifully.
Toss small potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until golden and crispy.
You can customize this dish by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. This simple side dish takes minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
2. Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Steamed asparagus with lemon zest is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. The bright, fresh flavors complement the rich fish without overpowering it.
Trim the woody ends of your asparagus spears and steam them for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. You want them cooked but still with a slight crunch.
Place the asparagus on a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh lemon zest, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a light drizzle of olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
This quick and nutritious side dish takes less than 10 minutes to prepare. It offers a vibrant green color that looks beautiful next to pink salmon.
3. Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Oven-baked sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to regular fries while perfectly complementing salmon’s rich flavor. They bring a nice balance with their sweet and savory taste.
Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices. Paprika, garlic powder, or cinnamon work well depending on your salmon’s seasoning.
Bake them at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. The natural sweetness of these fries pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of your salmon.
These colorful fries add visual appeal to your plate and provide extra nutrients and fiber to your meal.
4. Honey-Roasted Carrots
Honey-roasted carrots make an excellent side dish for salmon. They bring a perfect balance of sweetness that complements the savory flavor of the fish.
Prepare these carrots with just a few basic ingredients: carrots, honey, butter, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Use baby carrots or regular carrots cut into sticks.
Roasting caramelizes the honey, creating a delicious glaze that transforms ordinary carrots. The slight crispness on the outside and tenderness inside offers a satisfying texture contrast to your salmon.
5. Creamed String Beans
Creamed string beans offer a rich and comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with salmon. The creamy sauce creates a nice contrast to the fish’s texture.
Start with fresh green beans that you trim and cut to your preferred length. Blanch them until tender-crisp, then shock in cold water to maintain their vibrant color.
Sauté minced garlic and shallots in butter until fragrant. Add heavy cream, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, then simmer until slightly thickened.
Combine the sauce with your green beans. You’ll have a delicious side that complements your salmon dinner.
6. Tangy Beet Salad
A tangy beet salad makes a perfect side dish for salmon. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of the fish.
Roast or boil fresh beets until tender, then slice them into bite-sized pieces. Toss with a dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey.
Add some crumbled goat cheese for creaminess and chopped walnuts for crunch. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley brighten the flavors.
This colorful side dish tastes great with salmon and adds a vibrant pop to your plate.
7. Garlicky Sautéed Spinach
Garlicky sautéed spinach transforms a simple leafy green into a flavorful side dish that perfectly complements salmon. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Heat olive oil in a large pan, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add fresh spinach leaves in batches, allowing them to wilt down before adding more.
Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The garlic adds a savory punch while the spinach provides nutrients that pair well with the richness of salmon.
You can add red pepper flakes for heat or toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
8. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for salmon. When roasted until crispy on the outside and tender inside, they offer a delightful texture contrast to the flaky fish.
The balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy flavor that complements salmon perfectly. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting at high heat.
Roast them until they’re golden and crispy, then drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. This side dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and will elevate your salmon dinner.
9. Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Quinoa makes a perfect partner for salmon with its nutty flavor and protein-packed profile. For a refreshing side, try a lemon herb quinoa salad that brightens your meal.
Cook quinoa until fluffy, then cool it before mixing. Add cucumber chunks, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for texture and flavor contrast.
Combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped herbs like parsley and dill, and a touch of garlic for the dressing. This light, Mediterranean-inspired dish complements salmon beautifully.
You can prepare this salad ahead of time for busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
10. Farro Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Farro salad brings a delightful chewy texture that pairs perfectly with salmon. This hearty grain has a nutty flavor that creates a satisfying base for a side dish.
Use slow-roasted or balsamic-roasted cherry tomatoes for the best flavor. The roasting process concentrates their sweetness, adding a burst of flavor to the salad.
Add some crumbled feta or goat cheese for tanginess. The creamy cheese balances the nuttiness of the farro and complements the rich salmon.
Brighten the salad with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs. A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon will tie all the flavors together.
11. Roasted Broccoli with Parmesan
Roasted broccoli with Parmesan makes a delicious and nutritious side dish for salmon. The crispy, golden florets develop a wonderful nutty flavor when roasted in the oven.
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil and minced garlic. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast until the edges become crispy and slightly charred.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top while the broccoli is still hot. The cheese will melt slightly, creating a savory coating that perfectly complements the rich flavor of salmon.
This side dish offers a nice textural contrast to tender salmon and adds vibrant color to your plate.
12. Seasoned Red Potatoes
Seasoned red potatoes make a perfect side dish for salmon. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior create a satisfying texture contrast to the tender fish.
Prepare these potatoes with simple seasonings like garlic, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Toss them in olive oil with your chosen spices before roasting until golden.
Try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor. Red potatoes hold their shape well when cooked, making them ideal for roasting or boiling.
This side dish is both filling and flavorful without overwhelming the delicate taste of your salmon.
13. Edamame with Sea Salt
Edamame with sea salt offers a simple yet delicious side dish for salmon. These young soybeans are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.
Boil the pods for 5 minutes in salted water. Drain them and toss with high-quality sea salt.
The mild, nutty flavor of edamame pairs wonderfully with both plain and teriyaki salmon. For a more substantial option, transform these beans into an edamame salad by adding cucumber, tomatoes, and a light dressing.
Serve edamame warm or chilled depending on your preference and the season.
14. Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic French side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. Fresh green beans are blanched until bright and tender-crisp, then quickly sautéed with shallots.
The dish gets its name from the toasted sliced almonds that add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. Add a bit of butter and lemon juice for extra richness.
This side dish offers a nice contrast to salmon with its light, fresh taste and varied textures. It’s quick to make, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish.
The bright green beans look beautiful on the plate next to a pink salmon fillet.
15. Lemon Risotto with Broccoli
Lemon risotto with broccoli makes a perfect companion to salmon. The creamy texture and bright citrus notes complement the fish beautifully.
The starchy rice creates a luxurious base while the broccoli adds color and nutrients. Lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of both the risotto and salmon.
Customize this side dish by adding Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Cook the broccoli until just tender and fold it in at the end to maintain its vibrant green color.
16. Puy Lentil Salad with Sugar Snap Peas
Puy lentil salad pairs perfectly with salmon, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. The earthy flavor of these small French lentils complements the richness of salmon beautifully.
Add bright, crunchy sugar snap peas to bring freshness and texture contrast. This combination creates a fiber-rich side dish that’s both hearty and light.
Enhance your lentil salad with other vegetables like broccoli or soy beans for extra nutrients. A simple vinaigrette dressing ties everything together.
Serve this salad warm or at room temperature alongside your salmon main dish.
17. Couscous with Fresh Herbs
Couscous makes a light and fluffy side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. It cooks in just minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
To elevate your couscous, add a handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, mint, and dill. These herbs complement the flavor of salmon beautifully.
A light lemon dressing will brighten the dish. Simply mix olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of salt.
You can also add extras like diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts for more texture and flavor. Couscous’s versatility makes it easy to customize based on your preferences.
18. Perfect Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon. The creamy texture creates a perfect contrast to the flaky fish.
To make perfect mashed potatoes, choose starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These types break down easily and create a smoother consistency.
For extra creaminess, add warm butter and milk to your potatoes. A touch of garlic or fresh herbs can complement the salmon’s flavor profile nicely.
The mild flavor of mashed potatoes provides a comforting base that absorbs the fish’s savory juices.
19. Steamed Lemon Broccoli
Steamed Lemon Broccoli is a quick and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon complements the rich taste of salmon. This healthy side dish uses basic ingredients like broccoli, onion, garlic, and lemon.
Beginners can master this recipe with ease. Steaming preserves the broccoli’s nutrients and gives it a tender-crisp texture that contrasts nicely with your salmon’s softness.
Customize this dish by adjusting the amount of lemon or adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
20. Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms make a perfect companion to salmon dishes. The earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the richness of salmon beautifully.
These mushrooms cook quickly in just a few minutes, making them a convenient side dish when you’re short on time. Sauté them in butter with minced garlic until they turn golden brown and tender.
Use any type of mushrooms you prefer—cremini, button, or shiitake all work well. For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice near the end of cooking.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving to brighten up the dish.
21. Radicchio and Carrot Crunchy Salad
This vibrant salad combines the bold, slightly bitter crunch of radicchio with sweet, colorful carrots. The contrasting flavors create a perfect balance that complements salmon beautifully.
To make this salad, thinly slice fresh radicchio and julienne or grate crisp carrots. The purple and orange colors make for an eye-catching presentation on your plate.
Add toasted hazelnuts and capers for extra texture and flavor depth. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey helps mellow the radicchio’s bitterness while enhancing the natural sweetness of the carrots.
This refreshing side dish offers a welcome crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender texture of salmon.
How to Pair Side Dishes with Salmon
Pairing the right side dishes with salmon enhances the entire meal experience. The best combinations balance flavors while considering cooking methods and nutritional aspects to create a complete, satisfying meal.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Salmon has a rich, distinctive flavor that works well with both contrasting and complementary sides. Acidic sides like lemon-dressed greens or vinegar-based salads cut through salmon’s richness, creating balance.
Texture contrasts are equally important. Crispy roasted potatoes or crunchy vegetables provide a satisfying counterpoint to salmon’s tender flakiness.
Consider these texture combinations:
- Creamy + Firm: Pair creamy mashed potatoes with firm, perfectly cooked salmon
- Crunchy + Flaky: Serve crisp green beans or asparagus with flaky salmon fillets
- Chewy + Tender: Match chewy whole grains like farro or quinoa with tender salmon
Sweet elements like honey-roasted carrots can highlight salmon’s natural sweetness. Herbs like dill, parsley, and rosemary enhance without overwhelming.
Considering Cooking Methods
Your salmon cooking method should influence your side dish choices. Grilled salmon pairs beautifully with other grilled items like vegetables or corn on the cob.
For baked or roasted salmon, consider:
- Roasted potatoes or vegetables (can cook at the same temperature)
- Rice or quinoa (prepare while salmon bakes)
- Fresh salads (provide temperature contrast)
Pan-seared salmon works well with quick-cooking sides like sautéed spinach or zucchini. This allows you to prepare the entire meal efficiently using similar cooking techniques.
Poached salmon benefits from light, fresh accompaniments like cucumber salad or steamed vegetables that complement its delicate texture.
Nutritional Complementarity
Creating a nutritionally balanced plate enhances both satisfaction and health benefits. Salmon provides excellent protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so focus on sides that contribute complementary nutrients.
Complex carbohydrates like brown rice, quinoa, or sweet potatoes provide energy and fiber. These help create a meal with sustained energy release.
Vitamin-rich vegetables are essential partners. Dark leafy greens offer iron and vitamin K, while colorful vegetables add antioxidants and additional vitamins:
- Broccoli (vitamin C, fiber)
- Asparagus (folate, vitamin K)
- Kale (vitamins A, C, and K)
For a completely balanced meal, aim for a protein (salmon), complex carbohydrate (grain or starchy vegetable), and at least one non-starchy vegetable on your plate.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve salmon and its side dishes greatly impacts the overall dining experience. Thoughtful presentation enhances flavors and makes meals more appealing to both the eye and palate.
Creating a Harmonious Plate
When arranging salmon with side dishes, think about color contrast and balance. Place your salmon as the centerpiece, then position side dishes around it in a way that creates visual appeal.
Try using the clock method: position protein at 6 o’clock, starchy sides at 10 o’clock, and vegetables at 2 o’clock. This creates a well-balanced, visually pleasing arrangement.
Consider these tips for an attractive plate:
- Use white or light-colored plates to make colorful foods pop
- Add a small garnish like fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or edible flowers
- Drizzle sauces in artistic patterns rather than flooding the plate
- Vary heights on the plate for dimension (stack vegetables or prop salmon against rice)
Portion Size Recommendations
For a well-balanced salmon dinner, follow these portion guidelines:
Main protein (salmon): 4-6 ounces per person (about the size of your palm)
Starchy sides: ½ cup cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta; or one medium potato
Vegetables: 1-1½ cups, whether roasted, steamed, or in salad form
For special occasions, you might increase portions slightly.
When you serve multiple sides, reduce individual portion sizes to prevent overwhelming plates.
Presentation affects perceived portion size.
Artfully arranged smaller portions often feel more satisfying than larger, messily plated ones.
