Wondering what to serve with salmon for tonight’s dinner?
Let’s dive into the world of easy, delicious salmon and all the amazing sides for salmon you can choose from!
One of the most versatile and delectable fish gracing dinner tables across the globe, salmon is prized for its rich flavor and impressive nutritional benefits.
This pink-hued marvel has long been a favorite among seafood lovers and health-conscious gourmets alike.
From pan-searing to baking, grilling to poaching, salmon can be prepared in a multitude of ways to suit any culinary preference or occasion.
Begin your salmon journey by exploring the best ways to cook this exquisite fish.
For a quick and easy preparation, pan-searing is the way to go, yielding a delightful crust and tender, flaky interior.
Grilling imparts a delightful smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of seasonings and marinades.
Baking ensures even cooking and allows for the addition of complementary ingredients, while poaching locks in moisture and preserves the delicate nuances of the fish.
No salmon dish would be complete without the perfect side to elevate the entire meal.
Popular pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted or steamed vegetables, and refreshing salads.
For a touch of sophistication, consider adding quinoa, risotto like #36, or couscous to your culinary lineup.
And let’s not forget the endless array of sauces and dressings – from a zesty lemon-dill concoction to a luxurious beurre blanc – that are sure to leave your taste buds begging for more.
So, embark on a culinary adventure with what to serve with salmon, and discover a world of flavors and textures in sides for salmon that will undoubtedly leave you hooked!
With yummy chickpeas and a flavorful dressing, Mediterranean chickpea salad is one of the best salmon sides.
It also complements the taste of salmon.
And thanks to the abundance of chickpeas in the salad, it should keep you full for a long time.
Ingredients include: Chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onion.
Pair up salmon with honey glazed carrots to enjoy a mind-blowing combination of tastes and flavors.
Moreover, bright orange carrots will bring some color to the table.
What’s more, it only takes less than 25 minutes to whip up this salmon side.
Ingredients include: Mini carrots, rosemary, honey, salt, and butter.
Want to add some vegetables to your diet?
Try the cheesy garlic roasted asparagus.
It works exceptionally well with salmon.
The crunchy texture, combined with the cheesy mozzarella, will leave you asking for more.
Ingredients include: Asparagus, olive oil, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, and kosher salt.
Still trying to come up with a meal your guests won’t forget?
Serve salmon with grilled sweet potatoes!
Slathered with a delicious cilantro-lime dressing, grilled sweet potatoes bring a refreshing vibe to the plate when served with salmon.
Ingredients include: Sweet potatoes, cilantro, lime, kosher salt, and olive oil.
Not in the mood for a salad or veggies?
This simple dish is packed with flavor and even your picky eaters, will like it.
The bright flavors of the cilantro and lime perfectly complement the richness of the salmon.
Cilantro lime rice is the perfect accompaniment to grilled salmon.
Plus, the rice helps to soak up all of the delicious juices from the salmon.
Ingredients include: Cilantro, rice, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
What exactly is 50/50 pasta?
Ah, so glad that you asked.
It is 50% spaghetti and 50% zucchini pasta, and it is the best of both worlds.
But we are just getting started with the flavor.
This dish has a simple to make arugula-walnut pesto that is made with garlic, walnuts, arugula, olive oil and parmesan.
You will find yourself making this again and again.
Oh, and as an added bonus, they throw in how to cook the salmon.
Winner Winner Salmon Dinner!
Ingredients include: Clove, walnuts, cherry tomatoes, thyme, and butter.
Wow, isn’t it amazing how such a humble dish like sautéed brussels sprouts can be so utterly delicious!
This recipe blends the savory flavors of goat cheese, crunchy pine nuts, tangy balsamic vinegar, and smooth olive oil with the star of the dish, the humble brussels sprout.
FYI, the goat cheese is optional BUT is it REALLY?
Together, they create a heavenly salmon side that will leave you and your taste buds feeling ecstatic!
Here is a tip on prepping brussel sprouts:
- If you have time, you can soak the brussel sprouts in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes before washing them. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris.
Ingredients include: Fresh herbs, balsamic vinegar, raw pine nuts, extra virgin olive oil, and goat cheese.
Let’s get fired up and grill some asparagus tonight!
If your craving something green and crunchy to go with your salmon dinner, then this is the recipe for you.
Grilled asparagus offers a satisfying snap with every bite, and since it is grilled, they’re infused with a smoky charred flavor.
Fire up that grill and become the chef that your stomach wants you to be.
Ingredients include: Fresh asparagus, sugar, garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Get ready for a taste sensation with these herb roasted potatoes!
This easy-to-prepare side dish is loaded with delicious flavors that will elevate any meal.
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, roasted potatoes will add exciting textures to your meal.
When served as a salmon side, they bring the perfect flavors to the table.
Here are a few tips for making delicious roasted potatoes:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you put too many potatoes in the pan, they won’t cook evenly.
- Shake the pan halfway through cooking to help the potatoes brown evenly.
- If you want crispy potatoes, broil them for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Ingredients include: Red potatoes, parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and olive oil.
This salad is refreshing and bright. It is also hearty so it is a lovely side for salmon.
First, you cook the couscous.
Then you toss it with a lemony dressing and fresh herbs.
The salad is then topped with diced cucumber, tomato, and red onion.
Here are some tips for making the perfect lemon and herb couscous salad:
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the couscous. It should be cooked until it is tender but still has a bit of a bite to it.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Basil, mint, and parsley are all good options.
- If you don’t have any Dijon mustard, you can use regular yellow mustard.
- The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredients include: Couscous, dijon mustard, honey, lemon zest, and English cucumber.
Blackened broccoli is broccoli that is cooked quickly at high heat so that the edges get a bit charred and black.
It gives the broccoli a rich and smoky flavor that complements salmon quite well.
Ingredients include: Fresh or frozen broccoli, garlic, olive oil, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
The earthy taste of mushrooms, combined with the savory flavor of butter, will make your taste buds dance with joy.
This is such a simple recipe to create and you only need four ingredients.
You will notice in this recipe that I recommend using a combination of oil and butter.
It may be a bit unonventional but give it a try and decide for yourself.
Quick Tip: When cooking mushrooms, it’s important to not overcrowd the pan and to let them cook without stirring until they are golden brown.
This will help them develop a delicious flavor and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Ingredients include: Mushrooms, butter, olive oil, and water.
13. Caesar Salad
We legit eat Caesar salad about five nights a week.
It is one of our favorite side dishes and pairs with salmon like a boss.
The bright green color of the lettuce looks fresh and inviting, while the creamy dressing adds a smooth texture that coats each leaf.
The croutons are crispy and provide a satisfying crunch.
We debate in our house if it is all about the croutons or all about the dressing.
I am team croutons all the way!
Ingredients include: Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, croutons, romaine lettuce, and mayo.
This cauliflower mash recipe is so fluffy and jammed with flavor that you may not even realize you aren’t eating potatoes.
This recipe surprised me the first time that I tried it.
This is a perfect side dish for salmon.
Give this recipe a try and see for yourself how tasty this can be.
Here are some helpful tips for cooking cauliflower mash:
- Cut the cauliflower into small pieces: Cutting the cauliflower into small, evenly sized pieces will help them cook more quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower: Overcooked cauliflower can become mushy and watery, which can affect the texture of your cauliflower mash.
Ingredients include: Cauliflower, garlic cloves, milk, chives, and seasonings.
This was an accidental recipe that I now can’t get enough of and want it all of the time.
First, you roast some vegetables in the oven.
While they are roasting cook up some farro.
Then mix it all together, and you have an amazing side for salmon.
Fun Fact About Farro:
Farro is an ancient grain that has been around for over 2,000 years.
It was a staple food in ancient Rome and is still widely consumed in Italy today.
Ingredients include: Pearled farro, corn, red wine, carrots, and yellow squash.
Looking for the perfect cocktail to pair with your salmon dinner?
Look no further than the Soju Martini!
This refreshing and elegant cocktail is the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful taste of salmon.
I personally invented this recipe and it is simple and elegant!
Fun Facts About Soju:
Whether you’re a fan of Korean culture or simply looking for a new and unique spirit to try, soju is definitely worth checking out.
Its mild flavor and low alcohol content make it a great choice for both casual and social drinking occasions.
Ingredients include: Soju, dry vermouth, olive brine, olives, and ice.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is both easy to make and packed with flavor.
The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is balanced perfectly with savory ingredients like all-spice, thyme, and butter.
And the addition of cream cheese gives these mashed potatoes a creamy, luxurious texture that’s sure to satisfy.
Be ready to be amazed!
Ingredients include: Sweet potatoes, unsalted butter, half and half, cream cheese, and herbs.
18. Buttered Noodles
Oh my, buttered noodles for the win!
They’re the ultimate go-to side dish if you want something yummy but feel tired.
All you need to do is:
- cook up some noodles
- mix in some butter
- minced garlic
- herbs (whatever we have on hand works!)
Voila!
It is a quick and easy side that is sure to please.
And let’s not forget how amazing it tastes when we pair it with salmon and sautéed mushrooms.
Fun fact about egg noodles:
Egg noodles are a type of pasta made with wheat flour, eggs, and water.
They are known for their yellowish color and soft, slightly chewy texture.
The eggs in the dough give egg noodles a richer flavor and a more tender texture compared to regular pasta.
Ingredients include: Egg noodles, butter, garlic, chicken stock, and parmesan cheese.
If you want to add an Asian flair to your recipe this is an excellent recipe to use as your side for salmon.
The bok choy is seared and covered with a sesame ginger sauce and a garlic soy sauce.
It also calls for green scallions.
Enjoy this one!
Ingredients include: Baby bok choy, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and honey.
20. Black Rice
If you want to have something on the plate that is unique visually and also taste delicious this is the recipe for you.
I recommend serving this with salmon and the boy choy or blackened broccoli.
Ingredients include: Black rice, salt, and water or broth.
These make for an unforgettable side dish for salmon.
These smashed potatoes are made in the air fryer.
They are fast and easy to make.
Our recipe recommends a dipping sauce that would also taste excellent with the salmon.
Ingredients include: Red potatoes, garlic, olive oil, lemon pepper, and salt.
You won’t find a more stylish side dish than this one.
Every time I see them on a plate I can’t help but oohh and ahhh.
This recipe has you cook the potatoes in the air fryer.
So you can have a delish side dish and keep from heating up the house.
Ingredients include: Russet potatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and parmesan cheese.
23. Baked Beans
If you want a bit of a Southern flair on your plate, then it is hard to do better than with baked beans.
These are sweet, rich, and delicious.
Ingredients include: Canned pork and beans, onion, ketchup, molasses, and bacon.
This is a veggie-rich side dish that is refreshing.
It has black beans, sweet corn, tomatoes, avocado, onion, and a lime dressing.
You could even use this as a relish on top of the salmon.
This recipe opens up a lot of opportunities.
Ingredients include: Avocado, canned black beans, heirloom tomatoes, lime juice, and cilantro.
This is another one of those beautiful side dishes.
If you are having a dinner party and want something spectacular on the table, then I highly recommend that you serve this right in the cast iron skillet.
Ingredients include: Sweet potatoes, Yukon gold potatoes, gruyere cheese, thyme, and half and half.
26. Roasted Radishes
Radishes turn into an entirely different vegetable when they are roasted in the oven.
They mellow out and become so rich in flavor.
They become a bit sweet when they are roasted, and that sweetness tends to complement salmon quite well.
Ingredients include: Radishes, rosemary, garlic, olive oil, and lemon zest.
Andi keeps this wonderfully tart compote on hand year-round.
We bulk buy fresh cranberries during the season when they are on sale (often from Aldi) and then freeze them.
We use this recipe and change up the seasonings depending on the dish. (No rosemary? No problem).
Still, cranberries are so lovely with any kind of salmon that we often add this cranberry-pear sauce even when there are other side dishes.
Not too sweet and not too tangy; I hope you’ll especially try this one as your next side for salmon.
Ingredients include: Fresh cranberries, pears, ginger, rosemary, and maple syrup.
If you are looking for a pasta recipe without cream, this one’s for you.
This pasta is bursting with garlic flavor and has a bit of tang because of the fresh lemon zest added.
It is naturally creamy and tasty.
Ingredients include: Spaghetti, butter, chili flakes, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
29. Coconut Rice
Make restaurant quality Coconut Rice in just minutes with this recipe.
It is the easiest way to spruce up your rice.
It is light, delicious, fluffy, and flavorful.
Ingredients include: Desiccated coconut, Jasmine rice, coconut milk, salt, and green onions.
Green beans are great on their own, so you won’t need a lot of ingredients to make them stand out.
All it takes to make this dish are garlic cloves and seasoning.
It is creamy, tangy, and savory, and it makes for a fantastic pair for any main course.
Ingredients include: Green beans, garlic cloves, olive oil, pepper, and salt.
These roasted potatoes are tossed in Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and seasoning before they are roasted until crisp.
The outside is flavorful and golden brown while the inside is tender.
Ingredients include: Onion powder, garlic powder, chili, Parmesan cheese, and potatoes.
32. Cacio E Pepe
Cacio e Pepe, which translates to “cheese and pepper,” is a classic Roman pasta that is packed with flavor and is a delectable comfort food.
The pasta is mixed with a glossy cheese and pepper sauce that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients include: Pasta, pecorino romano, butter, and pepper.
This salad is filled with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, fresh avocados, and a light lemon dressing.
It is refreshing and incredibly tasty that you can eat it on its own or you can pair it with any main course.
Ingredients include: Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, avocados, and lemon juice.
This lemony kale salad is fresh, flavorful and is kissed with Parmesan cheese.
It is then dusted with crouton crumbs for more texture and pizazz, plus it is a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients include: Kale, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
These carrots are delicious, flavorful, and easy to make on any weeknight.
Since it is roasted, the flavor is naturally brought out and is intensified, making the carrots sweeter.
When you throw in some herbs and garlic, you’ll be in for a unique treat.
What’s more exciting is that you can use the leftovers and make a carrot soup the next day.
Ingredients include: Carrots, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
36. Parmesan Risotto
Don’t let this recipe intimidate you as it is easy to make and it resembles the risotto that you get at fancy Italian restaurants.
You can make this your own by adding mushrooms or scallops to make it more scrumptious.
Ingredients include: Arborio rice, chicken stock, olive oil, garlic, onions, and cheese.
This rich and creamy pesto pasta is mixed with Parmesan cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil.
If you have any leftovers, you can turn them into a delectable salad and pair it with toasted bread.
Ingredients include: Penne pasta, tomatoes, cheese, olive oil, and basil.
Often enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, these noodles are smothered in honey dressing.
It is a bit sweet but still has an overpowering savory taste.
It is an excellent dish to prepare when you want a light side with your main meal.
Ingredients include: Soba noodles, green onions, cilantro, and honey dressing.
Here’s something that will tingle your taste buds.
This Indian-style rice dish oozes with spices and finely chopped vegetables.
It will undoubtedly be your next favorite food.
Ingredients include: Rice, carrot, butter, and salt.
Baked potatoes never looked this gorgeous!
This dish is seasoned with herbs and roasted until golden brown.
It is lightly crisped with a tender center.
It is a fantastic side to serve when you want to impress your guests.
Ingredients include: Potatoes, butter, garlic, rosemary, and salt.
41. Corn On The Co
Sweet, juicy, and beautifully golden, this corn-on-the-cob recipe is a must-try when you have fish or beef for lunch or dinner.
Remember to top it with butter and salt to unlock its addicting flavor.
Ingredients include: corn, butter, pepper, and salt.
Amazing for special occasions and simple enough for weeknight dinners, this broccolini dish will make you see broccoli in a different light.
The vegetable is roasted and well-seasoned, and your family will definitely put it in their list of favorite sides.
Ingredients include: Broccoli, lemon, salt, butter, and pepper.
Bring some Asian goodness to your dinner table with this noodle salad with thick peanut sauce.
It is not too sweet, and the crunch of the vegetables and the savory taste of the noodles balance everything out.
It is a great make-ahead dish, and it is fantastic for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients include: Brown rice noodles, red cabbage, crushed peanuts, bell peppers, and cilantro.
44. Garlic Bok Choy
Fresh, crisp and bursting with unexpected flavor, this recipe is guaranteed to be your new favorite side.
Since bok choys are naturally sweet, it goes so well with garlic, pepper, and other seasonings.
Splash some fish sauce or dip it in sweet chili dipping sauce for a more enjoyable eating experience.
Ingredients include: Garlic, shallots, baby bok choys, soy sauce, and chili red pepper.
45. Asian Slaw
This Asian Slaw is sweet, savory, and with satisfying crisp and crunchy vegetables in a flavorful dressing.
Just like the classic coleslaw, the cabbages and carrots are cut nice and thin, and the combination of various textures and colors makes it a beautiful side to serve.
Ingredients include: Green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, onions, and red bell peppers.
Couscous is a dish of small steamed granules of semolina with a nutty flavor.
In this recipe, the taste of couscous perfectly blends with the curry powder and herbs.
This recipe can be doubled as a side, or it can be the main event at your table.
Ingredients include: Couscous, turmeric powder, curry powder, garbanzo beans, and raisins.
47. Sugar Snap Peas
Bright, salty, and delightful, these snap peas are amazing as is.
All you need is to sauté it in oil and butter and sprinkle salt all over it to get that incredible crunch.
Ingredients include: Unsalted butter, snap peas, coarse salt, cayenne pepper, and olive oil.
Turn zucchini into noodles for a fun meal.
It is a great alternative to traditional pasta, and the addition of fresh cherry tomatoes makes it more enticing for your guests.
Remember to add grated Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesier take.
Ingredients include: Zucchini, parmesan cheese, basil, cherry tomatoes, and lemon juice.
49. Sesame Rice
Sometimes, you just need a simple side to flesh out your meal, to bulk it up without too much work, or without adding too many ingredients.
There is nothing more filling and simple as rice, and this toasty rice dish gives your lunch or dinner a much-needed pizzazz.
Ingredients include: Rice, toasted sesame seeds, garlic, soy sauce, and butter.
Crisped and fresh cucumbers with red onions, dill, and handful of other ingredients result in a creamy and light side.
This is a must-try recipe especially for days when you want to prepare something quick and easy.
It is a salad that will impress your guests at picnics, parties, and potlucks.
Ingredients include: Cucumbers, red onions, lemon juice, sour cream, and dill.
51. Shirazi Salad
Shirazi is a Persian cucumber and tomato salad that is filled with herbs and spices and dressed in virgin olive oil and citrus.
Although it does not have lettuce like other salad recipes, the vegetables in this dish are still as nuanced as the classic version.
But what makes it different is that Shirazi is juicier, herb flavored, and has more zing.
Ingredients include: Cucumber, bell pepper, fresh citrus, olive oil, and tomatoes.
52. Zucchini Fries
If you want an alternative to French fries, these Zucchini Fries can be your go-to.
These fries are crispy and cheesy with crusted outside and soft insides.
Once you’ve tasted this recipe, you will never label zucchini as a bland vegetable again.
Ingredients include: Zucchini, parmesan cheese, white whole wheat flour, panko breadcrumbs, and egg whites.
This risotto recipe is comforting and absolutely delicious.
It features caramelized butternut squash and tender vegetables.
Unlike the other risotto dishes, this one calls for brown rice instead of white.
It yields a creamy version full of whole grain goodness.
Ingredients include: Parmesan cheese, garlic, onions, brown rice, and butternut squash.
Peach caprese is a stunning salad that combines the sweet and savory flavors of its ingredients.
If you are a fan of peaches, then this delectable side is the best way to devour them.
To give it a caramelized flavor, sprinkle it with powdered sugar.
Ingredients include: Peach, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and vinegar.
55. Pinto Beans
Pinto Beans are always present at barbecues and get-togethers because they go with almost anything.
It has a mild flavor that is earthy and nutty, and it can be paired with spices like cumin and garlic, and if you want a more spicy take, you can add chili in them.
Once the beans are cooked, the inside becomes soft and creamy while its skin becomes chewy.
Ingredients include: Pinto beans, ham hock, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth.
This salad is tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette and topped with grated cheese.
The chickpeas give it a bit more substance and creaminess, while the fennel gives it a bit of licorice flavor and adds a nice bite to the salad together with the celery.
Ingredients include: Fennel bulb, chickpeas, celery, parsley, and parmesan cheese.
This Horseradish Dill Coleslaw uses a homemade horseradish sauce, a flavorful and spicy sauce that can be served with salmon.
Toss and serve right away or let it sit for a few minutes so all those strong flavors come together beautifully.
Ingredients include: Carrots, cabbage, dill,
horseradish, and pickle relish.
This lemon butter sauce is the perfect way to add a touch of flavor to your favorite salmon dinners.
It’s easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients.
Plus, it’s versatile and can be used on a variety of foods, from fish to chicken to vegetables.
So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some flavor to your meal, give this lemon butter sauce a try!
Ingredients include: Unsalted butter, white wine, lemon juice, parsley, and shallots.
This recipe for Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that is perfect for a weeknight salmon dinner.
The sauce is made with sun-dried tomatoes, half-and-half, and Parmesan cheese, and it is tossed with cooked linguine and spinach.
The dish is then topped with additional Parmesan cheese and served immediately.
Ingredients include: Linguine, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, half and half, and parmesan cheese.
Looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to enjoy this summer?
Look no further than our Soju Cape Cod!
This easy-to-make drink is made with soju, cranberry juice, and lime juice, and it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a backyard barbecue to a night out on the town.
Give our Soju Cape Cod a try, but if here’s our Soju Martini if that’s more your style.
Ingredients include: Soju, cranberry juice, simple syrup, lime, and ice.
This zucchini corn salad is the perfect summer side dish.
It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor from the zucchini, corn, tomatoes, and herbs.
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything together in a bowl and you’re good to go!
So fire up the grill and make this zucchini corn salad for your next barbecue.
Your guests will love it!
Ingredients include: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, corn, and scallions.
Our green beans recipe is easy to customize to your liking.
You can add other herbs or spices to the green beans before roasting, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes.
This recipe is a great way to use up wilted green beans.
If you have green beans that are starting to get a little bruised-looking, you can roast them in the oven to revive them.
Just trim the ends of the green beans and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Roast them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly crispy.
This recipe is a great way to add some color and flavor to your meal.
The green beans will turn a bright green color when they are roasted.
They will also have a slightly crispy texture and a savory flavor.
Ingredients include: Green beans, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and parmesan cheese.
I asked Bard AI if it thought it would enjoy eating this recipe if it were human, and here’s what it said:
As a language model, I do not have taste buds, so I cannot say for sure if I would enjoy eating this recipe. However, I can tell you that it looks delicious! The combination of the sweet honey and the tangy balsamic vinegar sounds like it would be a perfect match for the cabbage. I also like the idea of adding some thyme to the dish for a touch of freshness. Overall, I think this recipe would be a hit with both humans and AIs alike.
Ingredients include: Green cabbage, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and thyme.
I think that most kids don’t “like” vegetables because of the way they are cooked. I grew up with steamed everything, so nothing had any flavor.
Clearly cooking has everything to do with flavor, and the seasoning just becomes an added bonus.
Plus, the Italian seasoning here and parmesan will help this side dish for salmon become a family favorite.
Ingredients include: Carrots, broccoli, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and parmesan cheese.
65. Homemade Salsa
Salsa is a flavorful and colorful (and spicy, if you’re spicy) condiment that can be served with salmon.
Try making this salsa with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice.
Ingredients include: Roma tomatoes, purple onion, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic.
66. Garlic Herb Rice
I’m a fan of flavorful rice, and I don’t often take the time to do it EXCEPT when I’m making salmon.
This Garlic Herb Rice pilaf recipe is winning, y’all.
Thyme and rosemary together with the garlic are going to be an amazing side for grilled or poached salmon, for sure.
Ingredients include: Rosemary, thyme, garlic salt, jasmine rice, and chicken broth.
This is the way to really add flavor to crisp coleslaw.
It’s not mayo-drenched; it has just enough to keep the moisture locked in.
And let’s talk about how celery salt is the unsung hero in the spice cabinet.
If you’re grilling out, this is a divine option for what to serve with salmon.
Ingredients include: Green cabbage, purple cabbage, red onion, jalapenos, and celery salt.
I pan-fry or poach my salmon a lot of the time just because it’s fast and easy to watch.
Since learning the hard way about overcooking salmon, I’ve also found that a creamy dill sauce like this one hides a few imperfections in case my salmon came out a skosh too dry.
Dill and lemon are a match for salmon that can’t be beat, so try this easy recipe.
Ingredients include: Dill, sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sea salt.
Garlic lovers, unite.
The four ingredients in this easy recipe are going to make you shout for joy.
Make sure to save a bit of the pasta water when you drain it, because you will need it to help create a saucy emulsion so it sticks to the spaghetti better.
A great option if you’re craving a simple pasta side dish for salmon.
Ingredients include: Spaghetti, garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil.
70. Cucumber Gimlet
Mm, a smooth and refreshing cocktail is always welcome, especially if you’re adding a couple of heavy starches to your salmon dinner.
You’ll need to make our cucumber-infused gin a couple of days in advance before putting this simple cocktail together, but that’s easy peasy.
Ingredients include: Cucumber infused gin, simple syrup, lime juice, cucumber, and blueberries.
A southern comfort for most picnics, potlucks, holiday gatherings and the like, it’s also a pretty nice addition to grilled salmon.
This classic macaroni salad is completely customizable: more veggies? Check.
Add some cooked chicken or ham? Sure.
I make this one a lot and doctor it up every which way, but this is an excellent base version of the classic.
Ingredients include: Elbow macaroni, celery, red onion, mustard, mayo, and green bell pepper.
72. Sauteed Kale
Kale has been riding the fence between “YAY IT’S HEALTHY!” and “Ew, I don’t want any kale” in the foodie world.
Kale is a remarkably versatile veggie and we don’t give it enough credit for all the ways it absorbs and holds all kinds of delicious flavors.
This sauteed kale recipe brings in our favorites: garlic, red pepper, vinegar, and it all gets soft and wonderful in the hot pan.
The chewy, tough green veg in this recipe transforms into a lovely side dish for salmon, and the bitterness dissipates.
Ingredients include: Kale, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and garlic.
This recipe is making me hungry.
If you love buttery mushrooms but just not sure on the cauliflower, let the cauliflower florets simmer and take in all that garlicy richness before serving.
If you still have an aversion to cauliflower after eating this recipe, I’d be very surprised.
I don’t always have the dry white wine around, so I’ll add a teaspoon of white vinegar to sub in, with a ratio of 3:1 wine to vinegar.
Ingredients include: Cauliflower, cremini mushrooms, thyme, unsalted butter, and dry white wine.
Check out this photo—these delicious parmesan crusted asparagus look like the best fries on the planet.
Dredged in a seasoned flour and then deep fried, wow, I could probably eat the whole pan.
Note the sided cookie sheet they use to do the dredging—great tip when working with long foods.
Ingredients include: Asparagus, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, parmesan cheese, and seasoned salt.
This one is an easy way to feed four or more people who would eat vegetables but not necessarily choose them, if you know what I’m saying.
It reminds me of green bean casserole with the fried onions baked on top, but this has cheese and uses frozen bags of veggies.
It looks really good, rich, and I’m going to say it now: the cheese and fried onions are NOT cancelling out all of the vegetable goodness in the dish.
Ingredients include: Frozen mixed vegetables, swiss cheese, French-fried onions, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream.
76. Melting Potatoes
A friend made these Melting Potatoes for us at Christmas time to go with the homemade Beef Wellington.
The Beef Wellington took ALL DAY to make, but these luscious melting potatoes did not, thank goodness.
They are truly melt in your mouth.
Ingredients include: Russet potatoes, unsalted butter, vegetable oil, chicken stock, and thyme.
Does Dolly ever do anything the wrong way?
Add this mayo-forward slaw to your salmon if you really like lots of fresh, cold vegetables with a hot main meal.
The dill pickles are an interesting touch.
Ingredients include: Mayonnaise, cabbage, carrots, red bell peppers, and dill pickles.
Slather me in heavy cream and butter, and I’m just so happy.
If you are a fan of rich sauces too, this tomato cream sauce is going to knock your socks off.
It’s homemade and happy-making, but you will need a food processor for a quick pulse of the sun-dried tomatoes and fresh garlic.
Add this perfect sauce over pasta, veggies, or just the salmon itself.
Ingredients include: Sun-dried tomatoes oil, sage, thyme, vegetable stock, and heavy cream.
My first thought about this recipe is that we’re adding chunks of squash to pasta, but this is making the butternut squash INTO the pasta.
So think of it like zoodles, but orange squash instead.
It’s baked in the oven and then tossed in a simple parsley, oil and parm.
If you don’t have a spiralizer, I think you could use a vegetable peelers and make the squash into wide noodles.
Squash is a naturally light and delicious addition to salmon, so this should be good.
Ingredients include: Butternut squash, olive oil, parsley, parmesan cheese, and salt.
I recommend this cocktail a lot, and not just because it’s our recipe.
This cocktail has the simple ingredients of lemon, vodka, soda, and a bit of orange liqueur to have before, during, or after your salmon dinner.
Citrus is a delicious perk to anything salmon, so let us know if you like this cocktail.
Ingredients include: Vodka, orange liqueur, soda water, lemon juice, and sugar.
Mayo isn’t for everyone, and this potato salad is an opportunity to have a hearty side for salmon without the mayo dunk.
Add this to grilled or hot smoked salmon.
It uses Greek yogurt to keep it moist, with fresh dill keeping it real.
Ingredients include: Yukon gold potatoes, celery, dill, green onion, and lemon juice.
Especially if teriyaki salmon is on the menu, this recipe is an aromatic Asian-style side dish for salmon.
I highly recommend everyone add sesame oil to their spice cabinet arsenal since it’s so dramatically different from other “standard” oils.
Use fresh spinach for this and in a few moments you’ll have greens that really stand out (and if you’re sick of salad, this one’s for you).
Ingredients include: Spinach, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onion, and sesame seeds.
I think the reason why sprouts are either loved or hated is because of their strong flavor.
They don’t mess around.
This recipe creates brussels that are hearty, filling, and are best dry roasted in the oven with lots of seasoning and salt.
Ingredients include: Brussels sprouts, garlic powder, olive oil, parmesan cheese, and salt.
84. Greek Lemon Rice
I love rice with salmon, and this Greek Lemon Rice just is so pretty, sweet-smelling, delicious and uplifting.
You’ll use the zest and juice of the lemon, so stock up on whole ingredients for this recipe.
I usually rinse rice four or five times before cooking, but they recommend that you soak it.
Ingredients include: Dill, lemon, chicken broth, turmeric, and basmati rice.
85. Guacamole
Guacamole is a creamy and flavorful dip that can be served with salmon.
Try making guacamole with avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime.
I wish I could tell you how to know if avocados are ripe, but it is definitely a trick I have yet to learn.
I either get lucky or I don’t.
Ingredients include: Avocados, hot sauce, garlic, jalapenos, and salt.
Ooo they had me at creamy and cheesy.
I love cooked broccoli a lot, and if you have people to feed who like it only when it’s disguised with eggs, cheese, and cream, here you go.
Reviews say to make sure the broccoli is very dry after blanching it, or it can make the results a bit runny.
Ingredients include: Broccoli, butter, flour, swiss cheese, and eggs.
Here are some tips for making the best apple cranberry almond coleslaw:
- Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the slaw.
- Choose tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Use dried cranberries.
- Toast the almonds for the slaw before adding them to the dressing.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Serve the slaw chilled.
Ingredients include: Greek yogurt, apples, dried cranberries, almonds, and honey.
This is a nice thick, dark sauce that’s not quite teriyaki but has that depth of flavor that goes so well with salmon.
Mmm, don’t skimp on the cook time, just don’t let it burn.
Fresh garlic is key, but IN A PINCH, the stuff in the jar will work, too.
Ingredients include: Soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and cornstarch.
Alrighty, now we’re talking! This has for-realsies spaghetti laced with crisp hazelnuts, tender, rich acorn squash, sage, and more!
Not so much a health food as it is a comforting plate of deliciousness with squash in it, I’m here for this one.
Pair it up with salmon for an amazing, hearty meal, but you can go meatless and this will make a main dish all by itself!
Ingredients include: Acorn squash, milk, hazelnuts, sage, and parmesan.
90. Cucumber Martini
Remember that cucumber-infused gin I told you about?
Of course, we made it count with yet another refreshing cocktail (see the Cucumber Gimlet too: #70).
Here’s another option, especially if you are more of a martini kind of guy (or girl).
Ingredients include: Cucumber, dry vermouth, cucumber infused gin, and ice.
Asparagus seems to go great with seafood and fish as a general rule, but what to serve with salmon?
Wow -chef’s kiss-
Ingredients include: Asparagus, prosciutto, ground black pepper, and olive oil.
I love this salad.
Loaded Wedge Salad is a simple device for getting bacon and delicious dressing into a meal.
And no tossing: Cut a head of lettuce into chunks, drizzle, garnish, serve. Done.
Ingredients include: Iceberg lettuce, grape tomatoes, radishes, bacon, and balsamic glaze.
93. Braised Celery
This is a new one; I love celery when it’s cooked into pot pies and chicken soup and such, but I’m SO not a fan of it raw.
But check this Braised Celery out: it’s become tender in the braising, cutting that bitterness.
Then with added seasoning and broth, this is an economical way to add a crisp side to salmon.
Ingredients include: Celery, onion, parsley, sea salt, and chicken broth.
This Japanese Zucchini recipe looks like a tender, succulent side dish, if you ask me.
I find Asian-inspired recipes to be so forgiving and easy to make, I’ve got this one saved.
Add a nice bowl of this next to your poached salmon.
Ingredients include: Sweet onion, zucchini, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and red pepper flakes.
This is a gorgeous recipe!
Do you love eggplant?
Thick slices are grilled here, and salted prior to going on the heat to draw out the bitterness.
Lots of tips for helping you get these right.
Ingredients include: Eggplants, garlic, oregano, parsley, and olive oil.
This vegetarian comfort food is an aromatic masterpiece, with lots of flavor.
It uses eggs to bind everything together, but you can leave them out entirely.
It just may not taste as rich.
This recipe has us pre-cooking the quinoa and squash to help ensure that it cooks into a delightfully delicious casserole once it comes out of the oven and we don’t risk chewy vegetables and grains.
This sounds like an amazing side for salmon but sounds delicious all on its own, too.
Ingredients include: Butternut squash chunks, quinoa, garlic, sage, broth, and shallot.
Coleslaw mix makes this sound kind of pedestrian, but it’s saving you an extra step, which I find always welcome.
There are plenty of delicious ingredients that give this recipe that Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients include: Banana pepper rings, black olives, lemon juice, coleslaw mix, and feta cheese.
This Lemon pepper sauce is a buttery delight, a classic salmon accompaniment that can be served spooned over fish when it’s done cooking, or during a light poaching of salmon on the stove top.
Try making this lemon pepper sauce with ingredients you have on hand, so if you don’t have fresh thyme, oh well.
Just break out the dried thyme from the pantry.
Ingredients include: Garlic, thyme, lemon juice, pepper, and salt.
Yummo.
Ditch the pasta and pull up this recipe to cook up something delicious and buttery to go along with a salmon of any kind.
Is there anything parmesan CAN’T do??
Ingredients include: Zucchini, butter, spinach, salt, and garlic.
100. Green Tea Cocktail
This fruity and refreshing Green Tea Cocktail is perfect for a summer day.
It gets its name from its color and refreshing flavor, but it doesn’t actually contain any green tea.
This cocktail is made with Jameson whiskey, Peach Schnapps, and Sweet N Sour, and it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Be warned, though, this cocktail is so light and refreshing that you’ll be tempted to down it like a glass of tea.
But don’t do it! This is a sipping cocktail for sure.
Ingredients include: Jameson whiskey, peach Schnapps, Sprite, lemon, and sweet and sour mix.
This arugula salad recipe is easy to make and only requires six ingredients.
It is a great side dish to have on hand when you are short on time.
To make the salad, simply toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Top with Parmesan cheese and serve.
The salad is best served fresh.
Ingredients include: Arugula, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
102. Mushroom Rice
Cooked with the lid off, this is going to allow the rice to really absorb all these delicious flavors as it cooks, just be sure to not set the heat too high.
Lots of mushrooms in this savory rice side dish for salmon.
We’re big mushroom fans, so here is our post on washing mushrooms.
Ingredients include: Cremini mushrooms, vegetable stock, basmati rice, onion, and unsalted butter.
The bottom line
Salmon is a delicious and versatile fish that can be served with a variety of sides.
There are a few fun things to serve with salmon, like cheesy garlic roasted asparagus, lemon parmesan kale salad, grilled sweet potatoes, and so much more.
Did you find something delicious to serve with salmon from this epic list of sides for salmon?
Share our list on your facebook and other socials and let everyone know what you liked the best!
More About Salmon
- Salmon Salad Recipes
- Canned Salmon Recipes
- Leftover Salmon Recipes
- Sauces For Salmon
- Salmon With Lemon & Dill
- How To Reheat Salmon
- How To Tell If Salmon Is Bad
- What Does Salmon Taste Like?
102 Sides For Salmon🍴
Wondering what to serve with salmon? Discover a world of many flavors and textures from our list of 102 easy sides for salmon.
Ingredients
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Honey Glazed Carrots
- Cheesy Garlic Roasted Asparagus
- Grilled Sweet Potatoes
- Cilantro Lime Rice
- 50/50 Spaghetti With Walnut Pesto
- Sautéed Brussels Sprouts
- Grilled Asparagus
- Herb Roasted Potatoes
- Lemony Herb Couscous
- Blackened Broccoli
- Sauteed Mushrooms
- Caesar Salad
- Garlic Cauliflower Mash
- Farro Salad With Roasted Vegetables
- Dirty Soju Martini Cocktail
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- Buttered Noodles
- Seared Ginger Garlic Bok Choy
- Black Rice
- Smashed Red Potatoes
- Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
- Baked Beans
- Black Bean & Corn Salad
- Cheesy Herb Potato Gratin
- Roasted Radishes
- Cranberry-Pear Compote
- Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta
- Coconut Rice
- Green Beans With Garlic
- Potatoes With Parmesan Garlic & Herbs
- Cacio E Pepe
- Cucumber Tomato Avocado Salad
- Lemon Parmesan Kale Salad
- Garlic & Herb Roasted Carrots
- Parmesan Risotto
- Penne Pesto Pasta
- Soba Noodle Salad
- Carrot Rice Pilaf
- Garlic Hasselback Potatoes
- Corn On The Cob
- Lemon Butter Broccolini
- Thai Noodle With Peanut Sauce
- Garlic Bok Choy
- Asian Slaw
- Curried Couscous Salad
- Sugar Snap Peas
- Zucchini Noodles With Pesto
- Sesame Rice
- Creamy Cucumber Salad
- Shirazi Salad
- Zucchini Fries
- Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto
- Peach Caprese Salad
- Pinto Beans
- Fennel Salad Recipe With Chickpeas
- Horseradish Dill Coleslaw
- Lemon Butter Sauce
- Linguine With Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
- Soju Cape Cod Cocktail
- Zucchini Corn Salad
- Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
- Honey Balsamic Pan-Seared Cabbage Steaks
- Roasted Broccoli & Carrots
- Homemade Salsa
- Garlic Herb Rice
- Spicy & Sweet Jalapeno Coleslaw
- Creamy Dill Sauce
- Spaghetti Aglio E Olio
- Cucumber Gimlet
- Classic Macaroni Salad
- Sauteed Kale
- Garlic Butter Mushrooms & Cauliflower
- Peach Caprese Salad
- Swiss Vegetable Medley
- Melting Potatoes
- Dolly Parton’s Coleslaw
- Tomato Cream Sauce
- Butternut Squash Pasta
- Lemon Vodka Cocktail
- Dill Potato Salad
- Korean Seasoned Spinach
- Smashed Brussel Sprouts
- Greek Lemon Rice
- Guacamole
- Broccoli Cheese Bake
- Cranberry, Almond & Apple Slaw
- Honey Garlic Sauce
- Brown Butter Acorn Squash Pasta
- Cucumber Martini
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
- Loaded Wedge Salad
- Braised Celery
- Japanese Zucchini
- Garlic & Herb Grilled Eggplant
- Quinoa & Butternut Squash Casserole
- Mediterranean Slaw
- Lemon Pepper Sauce
- Spinach Parmesan Zucchini Noodles
- Green Tea Cocktail
- Easy Arugula Salad With Lemon
- Mushroom Rice
Instructions
- Did you pick your favorites from our list of What To Serve With Salmon?
- It will be hard to choose just one; we have many options!
- Grab a friend or family member and an apron, and start cooking.
- If you love it, don’t forget to share where you got it!