Share 10 sides to pair with your salmon dinner.
Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, making it a popular source of protein in many households. Its versatility and ease of preparation mean it can be cooked in many ways to suit different tastes and occasions.
Whether you’re grilling, broiling, or pan-searing salmon, the right side dishes can bring out its rich flavors, creating a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Today, I’m sharing a collection of 10 healthy sides that perfectly complement salmon, helping you create a delightful dining experience.
10 Healthy Sides for Salmon
1. Roasted Brussels sprouts
The roasted Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with the salmon, providing a crunchy and slightly sweet contrast to the rich flavor of the fish.
Components:
1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 kg of black pepper
1/4 cup grated parmesan (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Spread them evenly in a pan.
Step 4: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Optional: Sprinkle with parmesan before serving.
2. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
This Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic Parmesan is a fantastic side dish that complements the savory flavors of the salmon.
Components:
1 head of cauliflower, cut into pieces
3 tablespoons of olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup grated parmesan
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes until soft and golden.
Step 5: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve hot.
3. Quinoa salad with vegetables
A cool quinoa salad is a perfect side dish for a salmon dinner, adding a light and healthy twist.
Components:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups of water
1 diced cucumber
1 bell pepper cut into cubes
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
3 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook quinoa according to package directions and allow to cool.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion and parsley.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 5: Optional: Sprinkle with feta before serving.
4. Baked sweet potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with salmon.
Components:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Maple syrup frosting
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Spread them evenly in a pan.
Step 4: Bake for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Drizzle the maple syrup over the top and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Spinach sautéed with garlic
This simple and healthy side dish is quick to prepare and complements the salmon beautifully.
Components:
1 kilo of fresh spinach
2 tablespoons of olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the spinach and cook, stirring often, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
6. Grilled asparagus
Grilled asparagus is a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled salmon.
Components:
1 kilo of asparagus, chopped
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the asparagus on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake for 12-15 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Add the lemon juice, stir and serve.
7. Salad with cucumber and tomato
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a salmon dinner.
Components:
1 cucumber, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes and red onion.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt and pepper.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 4: Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
8. Green beans with cranberries and almonds
The full recipe is here!
9. Cauliflower rice
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb side dish that perfectly complements a salmon dinner.
Components:
1 head cauliflower, chopped in a food processor into rice-sized pieces
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Add shredded cauliflower and cook, stirring often, until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper before serving.
10. Cabbage salad
This kale salad recipe is in desperate need of new photos, but it is SO good, I promise.
By incorporating these healthy side dishes, you can create a hearty and delicious meal that brings out the flavors of the salmon. Whether you’re preparing a dinner party or a special occasion, these sides will ensure that your salmon dishes are always a hit.
For more tips and ideas on different ways to cook salmon, check out this guide to different ways to cook salmon. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
ho ho
Gina
