The 30 Best Side Dishes for Salmon
We don’t like to play favorites, but we’ll admit that salmon holds a special place in our heart—especially on weeknights. It’s delicious, easy to prepare and, oh, those omega-3s! Plus, our favorite fish is totally versatile, as it can be prepared to fit almost any flavor profile. Even so, it’s tough to decide what to serve with the main course. Here are 30 tasty side dishes for salmon that never get old.
1. Winter Citrus and Pomegranate Salad
Salmon is high in healthy fats, so a tart salad always works well to cut through its richness.
2. Roasted Parmesan Pesto Potatoes
Contrast salmon’s silky texture with this crispy side, courtesy of Coterie member Maria Lichty.
3. Cauliflower Rice
Keep it super healthy with a scoop or two of cauliflower rice. (It’s especially good with teriyaki or miso-glazed salmon.)
4. Asparagus Caesar Salad
Salmon and asparagus is a classic pairing. This easy recipe also includes lemon juice for a little extra freshness.
5. Cranberry Pecan Quinoa Salad with Honey-Orange Dressing
The leftovers make an enviable desk lunch for the next day.
6. Make-Ahead Farro and Brussels Sprouts Salad
We’re all about roasted sprouts, but sometimes fresh and crunchy is the way to go.
7. Vegan Slow-Cooker Detox Coconut Soup
This Thai-inspired soul-warmer boasts glass noodles, fresh herbs, scallions, bean sprouts and more.
8. Sweet Potato Bulgur Salad
Bulgur's nuttiness pairs beautifully with salmon, and we have Coterie member Gena Hamshaw to thank for this guy.
9. Crispy Green Bean "Fries"
No messy frying required—your oven's got it covered.
10. Miso Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Mmm, salmon paired with an Asian-inspired glaze? Invite us over, please.
11. Asparagus Salad with Farro, Arugula and Edamame
Peppery arugula cuts salmon's richness while farro and edamame add texture.
12. Chilled Cucumber Salad
On a hot night, all we crave is some poached or grilled salmon and this crisp, cool salad.
13. Asian Broccoli Salad with Peanut Sauce
Another winner for a soy- or ginger-glazed salmon recipe.
14. Autumn Couscous Salad
Who doesn’t love Israeli couscous (aka the big pearled kind)? Thanks Coterie member, Heidi Larson.
15. Kale and Wild Rice Salad
Think leafy greens, whole grains and creamy goat cheese for good measure. Thanks, Coterie member Maria Lichty.
16. Grilled Corn with Spicy Aioli
This twist on a classic will change summer patio dinners forever.
17. 15-Minute Lemony Broccolini Pasta
This quick pasta is one of our go-to weeknight meals, but it works just as well as a side.
18. Easy Garlic Roasted Bok Choy
This low-maintenance side roasts in the oven while you prep your main dish.
19. Citrus, Fennel and Avocado Salad
Salmon + avocado = healthy fats dream team.
20. Tabbouleh Salad
Salmon pairs perfectly with Mediterranean flavors. Try this fresh, herbaceous salad and toasted pita with your fish.
21. Warm Sesame Noodle Salad
Warning: You’ll want to put the peanut butter dressing on *everything*.
22. Coconut Creamed Spinach
This beauty is free of dairy and totally vegan, thanks to coconut milk.
23. ‘Everything Bagel’ Cauliflower Rolls
Yup, cauliflower can officially do anything.
24. Apple, Grape and Pecan Pasta Salad
Might we suggest pairing this picnic favorite with hemp- and walnut-crusted salmon?
25. Brussels Sprouts with Crispy Pancetta-Garlic Breadcrumbs
Any veggie topped with pancetta and butter is a veggie we can get behind.
26. Corn and Tomato Salad with Feta and Lime
Hi, summer. This refreshing side is destined for your first barbecue.
27. Overstuffed Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle-Lime Yogurt
Sweet potatoes, black beans, avocado and Greek yogurt? Bring on the healthy fats.
28. Grilled Mango Salsa
Spoon it right onto the salmon or serve it on the side with tortilla chips.
29. Rainbow Vegetable Skewers
The trick is sticking to one veggie per skewer, so all the pieces cook at the same speed.
30. Herby Shoestring Fries
When in doubt, fries are always a crowd pleaser—especially when they’re tossed in fresh rosemary.
Food Editor
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- Studied English and writing at Ithaca College
