Salmon is a culinary delight that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Its rich flavor and nutritional benefits make it a popular choice for many meals. When it comes to pairing side dishes with salmon, the possibilities are endless. From comforting grains to vibrant vegetables, the options are truly diverse.
Lemon Pasta
When it comes to pairing a side dish with salmon, lemon pasta is an excellent choice. The noodles have a natural affinity for absorbing the flavorful fish flakes, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This comforting meal is ideal for recharging after a long day, as it’s bursting with nutrients and can effortlessly curb even the most ravenous appetites. A sprinkle of capers or freshly ground pepper adds a delightful finishing touch.
Brocollini
Broccolini’s delicate stalks and tender florets set it apart from its more robust broccoli counterpart. When you can get your hands on it, be sure to incorporate it into a dish that complements its subtle sweetness. One such recipe pairs broccolini with salmon, harnessing the power of just a few pantry staples – olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. This harmonious union creates a light and refreshing side dish that will leave you wanting more. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility, as it can be easily adapted to other cruciferous vegetables like kale or broccoli. Steaming broccolini with olive oil and lemon juice does wonders for its texture, softening it just enough to balance the bold flavors of the salmon. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a creative way to enjoy your favorite fish, this recipe is sure to please.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Harvest season brings an abundance of fresh green beans, making them the perfect accompaniment to baked salmon. Not only are they delicious and budget-friendly, but adding a simple green bean side dish to your salmon recipe is a clever move. When it comes to preparing this tasty combination, using fresh green beans is ideal. Simply trim them and you’re ready to go. While frozen or canned options can be used in a pinch, there’s something special about warm, buttery green beans that makes them hard to resist.
Balsamic Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Discovering the art of roasting vegetables can be a game-changer, as it allows for endless creative possibilities in the kitchen. When I share my secret to perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts with friends and family, they’re often surprised by how easily this humble vegetable can be transformed into a flavor sensation. The magic happens when you combine the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the rich, tangy notes of balsamic vinegar – the result is a harmonious balance that will have you reaching for that sheet pan again and again.
Baby Bok Choy
Asian-inspired flavors come alive in this easy-to-make Bok Choy recipe, where the sweet and savory notes of ginger, soy sauce, and garlic mingle with tender greens. Choose from olive oil, sesame oil, or chili oil to add depth to your dish. But that’s not all – the best part is that any leftover Bok Choy can be enjoyed raw in a refreshing salad, making this recipe a quick and satisfying addition to your meal.
Thai Peanut Pasta Salad
Indulge in the revitalizing flavors of this 5-star Thai Peanut Noodle Salad, a plant-based masterpiece that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also boosts your energy levels and promotes overall well-being. To elevate the dish, consider serving succulent salmon filets on top or alongside the noodles. For certain ingredients like edamame, feel free to get creative by making your own or exploring local Asian markets for unique finds. By omitting common non-vegan components like fish or oyster sauce, this recipe offers a refreshing twist on traditional Thai cuisine, allowing you to savor every bite with confidence. This delightful creation is courtesy of simplyrecipes.com.
Stovetop Asparagus with Hollandaise
Transform your asparagus into a decadent side dish with this effortless recipe that combines a blender-based hollandaise sauce with tender, fresh (or frozen) asparagus spears. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – it requires only six ingredients, not counting salt and pepper! The result is a rich, creamy sauce that’s so divine you may struggle to resist the urge to lick your plate clean.
Asian Coleslaw
Infuse your outdoor picnic with a burst of color and texture by serving the Asian coleslaw as a unique side dish. The sesame dressing takes center stage, swapping mayonnaise for healthy fats that elevate the flavor profile. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and dried wakame seaweed adds depth and complexity, balancing sweet, salty, and crunchy notes. With its fresh ingredients, this slaw is just as delicious when prepared ahead of time – in fact, it might even improve with a day’s worth of flavors melding together.
Sundried Tomato Couscous
Incorporating Mediterranean flair into a meal is as simple as combining salmon with lemon herb couscous. This light and airy dish offers a delightful alternative to traditional pasta or rice-based meals, boasting a cooking time of just five minutes. The small, fluffy balls of semolina flour provide a tender texture that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the salmon.To elevate this dish further, consider adding some chopped parsley for a pop of freshness reminiscent of tabouli. Alternatively, mix in sundried tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and crumbled feta for a harmonious blend of complementary flavors. With its Mediterranean essence and ease of preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in any culinary repertoire.
Fast Mushroom Risotto
Risotto, a culinary delight, typically demands precise cooking methods, but this streamlined version minimizes stirring time, allowing you to enjoy it sooner rather than later. The result is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for pairing with salmon. In particular, mushrooms add an earthy flavor that complements the fish nicely, making for a familiar yet unexpected combination.
Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob
When it comes to pairing a side with salmon, grilled or roasted corn on the cob is an unbeatable choice. This herby, buttery topping takes the humble ear of corn to new heights, and you’ll likely find yourself going back for seconds. As a seasonal summer treat, corn is not only delicious but also affordable when purchased fresh or frozen.
10 Minute Sugar Snap Peas with Lemon
Savoring the sweetness of sugar snap peas is a treat, whether enjoyed raw or in a salad. However, cooking them can make the pods more palatable and easier to chew. This effortless recipe yields a nutritious and easy-to-make side dish that’s sure to please. Elevate its flavor by sprinkling freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top – you might be surprised at how quickly it disappears. For added crunch, consider topping with sliced almonds.
Honey Glazed Carrots
When it comes to pairing a side dish with salmon, honey glazed carrots are an undeniable winner that’s sure to leave everyone craving more. The shredded carrots’ natural sweetness is amplified by the glaze, making it a perfect match for a fresh salad. If you’re looking to streamline prep time, this recipe also works beautifully with frozen carrots. In just three easy steps – whipping up the sauce, cooking the carrots, and finishing with a drizzle – you’ll have a mouthwatering accompaniment that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Stovetop Garlic and Parmesan Broccoli
Indulge in the nutritional powerhouse that is broccoli, with its whimsical tree-like appearance. One can’t help but be charmed by its versatility. For a delightful twist, cook it with a rich garlic and parmesan sauce, a combination sure to delight even the most discerning palates. This delectable treat is so appealing, picky eaters will find themselves going back for seconds – and maybe even thirds!
Marinated Beet and Red Onion Salad
When it comes to make-ahead chilled beet salads, this particular recipe truly shines when paired with salmon. Allow the basic mixture to sit for at least four hours, and then create a speedy pickle that will elevate the dish to new heights. The best part? This salad will remain fresh-tasting and healthy for weeks, thanks to its heart-healthy beets and bold flavor. Serve it atop a bed of fresh greens or directly on top of the salmon for a truly impressive presentation.
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots are incredibly versatile, requiring minimal effort to create a wide range of flavors. With as few as two or three ingredients, you can craft a delicious and healthy snack that suits your family’s taste buds. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or savory, the possibilities are endless. Feel free to mix things up by adding other vegetables to the pan for a colorful medley, or enjoy them on their own. With such versatility at your fingertips, it’s no wonder roasted carrots have become a staple in many kitchens.
Sweet Potato Medallions
When it comes to serving fish, a side dish that’s both familiar and exciting can make all the difference. That’s where Sweet Potato Medallions come in – they’re a game-changer for kids and adults alike. By baking or broiling the sweet potatoes into coin-shaped medallions and seasoning them until crispy on the outside and fluffy within, you’ll create a delightful accompaniment to your fish. The best part? These golden treats are just as tasty on their own as they are dipped in ketchup, mayo, or sour cream – a versatility that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Pesto Zoodles
With the right equipment, such as a spiralizer, whipping up pesto zoodles is a breeze! Alternatively, you can find precut zoodles or simply slice them into long and thin strands. While making your own pesto from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience, having jarred pesto on hand can also be a convenient option when you’re short on time. Zoodles offer a nutritious and low-calorie alternative to traditional pasta dishes, packing more nutritional value into each bite than some other popular salmon accompaniments.
Sesame Rice
When it comes to pairing rice with salmon, the nutty flavors of sesame rice are a match made in heaven. This recipe is perfect for creating a Japanese-inspired meal, complete with grilled salmon and a steaming bowl of miso soup. The addition of sesame seeds not only adds a delightful crunch but also provides essential minerals like zinc, copper, and manganese. Serve your sesame rice alongside your favorite salmon dishes, and don’t be afraid to get creative – add some dried seaweed or sliced green onions on top for an extra burst of flavor. The best part? You can enjoy it with chopsticks or not, whichever way you prefer.
Baked Lemon Asparagus with Parmesan
The dish boasts a visually appealing presentation, with vibrant lemon slices garnishing tender green asparagus spears that have been expertly roasted to achieve a perfect balance of crunchiness and softness. This roasting technique allows for the natural sweetness of the asparagus to meld beautifully with the citrusy brightness of the lemon and the richness of cheesy undertones. Furthermore, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy and low-calorie option that’s incredibly easy to prepare.
Rice Pilaf with Raisins
In many European countries, rice pilaf paired with fish is a beloved combination. But what about combining these two ingredients with fruit? The sweetness of apples and raisins adds an unexpected twist to this classic dinner option. This particular recipe offers a holiday-inspired flavor profile, featuring notes of cinnamon and allspice. For a savory yet still sweet alternative, try substituting Italian or Mediterranean seasoning.
Cucumber and Dill Salad (Gerkensalat)
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of a traditional German side dish that will have you and your loved ones embracing healthier habits. This versatile salad is more than just a plate of greens – its unique flavor profile can be tweaked to suit any taste, whether it’s swapping out dill for fennel or opting for rice vinegar over apple cider vinegar. The result? A deliciously diverse culinary experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Final Words
Savor the flavors of these delightful recipes with your loved ones. Share in the joy and share your thoughts with us!
