Just like Brie cheese, a food that I wrote about in a previous article, salmon is a versatile and beloved ingredient.
Its rich, buttery flavor and tender texture make it a favorite for most, and today I am here to tell you how I like to pair salmon with other foods for a “Wow” effect.
I am sharing 20 tasty ideas below that range from classic to innovative, to help you enjoy salmon in both traditional and well established ways, but also new ones.
IMPORTANT: I recommend using only wild / caught salmon instead of aquaculture salmon (farmed) as the former is healthier and better for you. But the truth is mostly the same.
Now, let’s get started and see what goes with salmon – check out all my suggestions below, I am sure you will find at least a new favorite!
1. Lemon and Dill
The classic combination of lemon and dill brings out the freshness of salmon. This combination always brings a refreshing zest that I find irresistible.
Ideal for a light spring lunch or as a refreshing dinner option.
2. Creamy Avocado
Pair salmon with avocado for a creamy and healthy twist. Great in salads or as a topping for grilled salmon.
Great in a nutritious brunch salad or as a healthy dinner topping. I love how the avocado’s richness perfectly complements the salmon’s texture.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Try salmon with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a nutritious and colorful meal.
Roasting vegetables with salmon is my go-to for a healthy, satisfying meal. Perfect for a hearty and colorful dinner that the entire family will love.
4. Sweet Chili Glaze
Add some sweetness and heat with a sweet chili glaze. It’s perfect for baked or grilled salmon.
Suitable for a flavorful dinner party dish. The sweet and spicy glaze adds an exciting twist that’s always a hit.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce
A cool cucumber yogurt sauce can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich taste of salmon.
Refreshing for a summer meal or a light lunch. This cool and tangy sauce is a summer favorite of mine.
6. Mango Salsa
The mango salsa’s tropical flavor is perfect for when I want something fresh and zesty. Top your salmon with a vibrant mango salsa for a tropical and tangy flavor burst.
Excellent for a tropical-themed brunch or dinner.
7. Garlic Butter
Simple yet flavorful, garlic butter enhances the natural taste of salmon, especially when grilled or pan-seared.
Ideal for a comforting dinner, especially in colder months. Garlic butter adds a comforting, rich flavor that’s perfect for cozy evenings too.
8. Soy Sauce and Ginger
For an Asian twist, marinate your salmon in soy sauce and ginger. This brings a savory depth to the fish.
I simply adore the depth and warmth this Asian-inspired marinade brings.
9. Honey Mustard
Brush salmon with honey mustard for a sweet and tangy crust, ideal for baking. Honey mustard brings a sweet and tangy twist that my family loves.
10. Capers and Onions
Add capers and onions for a Mediterranean touch. This works best with smoked salmon.
Suitable for a sophisticated brunch or as part of a charcuterie board. I adore the Mediterranean vibe this brings to smoked salmon.
11. Pesto
Spread pesto on salmon before baking for a herby and nutty flavor. Ideal for an Italian-themed dinner.
12. Maple Syrup Glaze
A maple syrup glaze offers a sweet and slightly smoky flavor, perfect for oven-baked salmon. Great for a cozy weekend dinner.
13. Horseradish Sauce
Serve salmon with a horseradish sauce for a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the fish. Perfect for a bold-flavored dinner or special occasion.
14. Balsamic Reduction
Drizzle balsamic reduction over grilled salmon for a gourmet touch. Suitable for a gourmet dinner experience.
15. Teriyaki Sauce
Marinate salmon in teriyaki sauce for a sweet and salty Japanese-inspired dish. Ideal for an Asian fusion dinner.
16. Cajun Spices
Season salmon with Cajun spices for a Southern twist that’s both spicy and savory. Great for a spicy, flavorful dinner.
17. Parmesan Crust
Create a crispy parmesan crust for a delightful contrast in textures. Perfect for a decadent dinner or entertaining guests.
18. Feta and Spinach
Combine feta and spinach for a Greek-style stuffed salmon. Suitable for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
19. Orange Glaze
An orange glaze provides a sweet citrus flavor, complementing the fatty richness of salmon. Ideal for a citrusy, fresh dinner.
20. Creamy Dijon Sauce
Finish with a creamy Dijon sauce for a classic French-inspired pairing. Creamy Dijon sauce is always my choice for a classic, elegant salmon dish.
Bonus combinations for Salmon (main side dishes)
If you want something a bit more complex than the relatively basic pairings I’ve recommended above, I have them for you below.
Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: Quick and simple, roasted asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt makes for a healthy and flavorful side that complements the fattiness of salmon.
- Garlic Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic adds a punch of flavor and a wealth of nutrients, making it an ideal companion for salmon.
Grains
- Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad, mixed with veggies and a light dressing, offers a nutritious and hearty side that pairs beautifully with salmon’s richness.
- Rice Pilaf: A well-seasoned rice pilaf can absorb the flavors of salmon while adding a comforting texture and taste to the overall dish.
Potatoes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a smooth and rich side that balances out the flakiness of salmon. Speaking of which, read this too: Can You Freeze Baked Potatoes?
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes, roasted to perfection, add a sweet and earthy flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory taste of salmon.
Salads
- Cucumber Dill Salad: A refreshing cucumber dill salad, dressed in vinegar and oil, offers a crisp and cool side that cuts through the richness of salmon.
- Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the salmon without overpowering it.
Unique Combinations
- Avocado Salsa: Avocado salsa, with its creamy texture and zesty flavor, adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the salmon dish.
- Lemon Herb Couscous: Couscous seasoned with lemon and herbs provides a fluffy and flavorful base that enhances the natural flavors of salmon.
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Conclusion
When it comes to pairing sides with salmon, the choices are plentiful, but not all combinations do justice to this versatile fish.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, sweet and tangy, or rich and savory, there’s a pairing here to satisfy your palate.
But selecting the right side dishes can elevate your salmon meal from good to unforgettable – and that’s exactly what you will do if you choose any of my top recommendations above.
And now – over to you. Do you like to pair salmon with other tasty goodies? Let us all know by sharing your thoughts down below! Or just continue exploring amazing food pairing in my previous article where I have talked about what goes on a Charcuterie Board.