Let's be real: baked salmon is a go-to for weeknight dinners (typically fillets of Atlantic or Pacific salmon, a fatty pink-fleshed fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids).
But what do we pair with it?
Too often we end up with the same old boring sides.
We've all had those moments, staring at our perfectly cooked fish, wondering what to serve it with. It's time to break free from the usual suspects!
We can mix it up with side dishes that add flair and excitement. From bright veggies to hearty grains, there's plenty to choose from.
Grab your apron, because we're getting ready to whip up some tasty accompaniments that will make your salmon shine!
Top 13 Side Dishes for Baked Salmon
Here are our top 13 picks for the best side dishes to serve with baked salmon:
1 - Lemon Herb Couscous
Lemon herb couscous is our go-to side dish for that zesty kick. This fluffy grain (made from durum wheat semolina) is quick to prepare and bursts with fresh flavours.
We're talking about a bright squeeze of lemon juice that livens everything up. Add some parsley and thyme, and suddenly it feels gourmet.
It contrasts beautifully with rich dishes like baked salmon, and makes a lovely dessert companion to lemon pound cake dessert pairing ideas.
Perfect for any weeknight dinner!
2 - Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasted root vegetables are like a warm hug on a plate. Think of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes getting all caramelized and sweet.
They've got that earthy flavor (with sweet, caramelized notes) that pairs really well with salmon.
The sweetness from roasting contrasts nicely with the fish. We get a satisfying crunch on the outside while the inside stays tender.
You'll forget those boring sides in no time, and they complement roasted vegetable side dish ideas.
3 - Spinach and Feta Stuffed Tomatoes
Spinach and feta stuffed tomatoes offer a fresh twist on side dishes. The juicy tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) provide a sweet base that goes with the salty, creamy feta perfectly.
We love how the spinach adds a pop of colour and nutrition, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Baked until warm and slightly wilted, every bite is a pop of flavour and pairs well with spinach-stuffed chicken side dish pairings.
4 - Dill Potato Salad
Dill potato salad is that comforting side we all love (made with fresh dill, Anethum graveolens). It's creamy, tangy, and the dill adds a refreshing kick.
We like using tender, slightly waxy potatoes. They hold their shape in the dressing and give a nice texture.
The mayonnaise balances the herbs and spices, creating a well-rounded dish.
This salad goes well with baked salmon, improving the meal without overpowering it and complements sweet potato soup side dish ideas.
5 - Honey Glazed Carrots
Honey glazed carrots are a sweet and savoury side that go well with salmon and harmonize with honey-sriracha chicken side pairings.
They caramelize beautifully when roasted (browning at about 400°F/200°C produces optimal caramelization), giving us a satisfying texture and a bright orange colour. This dish adds a pop of flavour that balances nicely with the fish's richness.
We love how they add both sweetness and a touch of elegance to any plate.
6 - Mediterranean Farro Salad
Farro salad brings a chewy texture and nutty flavour to our plates (farro is an ancient hulled wheat grain). We love how it's packed with bright veggies, adding colour and crunch.
The lemony dressing brightens everything up, making each bite refreshing. It contrasts nicely with the rich salmon, providing a satisfying balance.
The creaminess from feta cheese enriches the dish, while olives introduce a briny kick. This dish has the versatility to shine as a side or stand alone as a meal.
7 - Roasted Green Beans
Roasted green beans are a staple we adore. They bring a satisfying snap with every bite.
When roasted, they get a lovely char that enhances their natural earthy flavor (with a slightly smoky, sweet finish).
We can't forget the seasoning; a sprinkle of salt and maybe some garlic brings them to life.
They go well with rich dishes, adding a refreshing contrast. Simplicity meets bright taste; it's a combo that never disappoints.
8 - Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Parmesan roasted cauliflower is our favourite for a reason. The cheese gives a salty kick while the roasting brings out the veggie's natural sweetness (cauliflower, Brassica oleracea var. botrytis).
We enjoy how it gets crispy on the edges, offering a satisfying crunch.
The buttery flavour pairs nicely with salmon. We get both nuttiness and richness, making every bite enjoyable.
It's a side that surprises with its depth while remaining super easy to whip up.
9 - Avocado and Mango Salsa
We adore avocado and mango salsa. It's bright and refreshing, adding a sweet kick to any dish.
The creaminess of avocado (Persea americana) works harmoniously with the juicy mango, creating a nice contrast.
This salsa brings a vibrancy that lifts baked salmon to new heights. The zesty lime juice cuts through the richness, leaving a balanced flavor that intrigues our senses.
It's a perfect side that brightens up weeknight dinners.
10 - Garlic Butter Mushrooms
Garlic butter mushrooms are a total treat. These little guys bring rich, earthy flavors that pair totally well with salmon.
We love how the buttery goodness enhances the natural taste of the mushrooms. Roasting them gives a nice caramelization that adds sweetness.
The garlic provides a punch without overpowering (use about 2-3 cloves per 8 ounces of mushrooms for balance). It's a simple yet elegant side that rounds out our meal perfectly.
Plus, they're super easy to whip up while the salmon bakes!
11 - Lemon Orzo
Lemon orzo is a bright and zesty side that brings a fresh flair to any meal. The cheerful lemon hits your palate first, followed by the tender, pasta-like orzo, which adds a nice chew.
We love how it enhances baked salmon by offering a contrasting texture and a hint of brightness. Pair it with herbs to improve the flavour even further (try a 1:1 mix of parsley and basil).
It's simple yet packs a tasty twist just when you need it!
12 - Balsamic Roasted Beets
Balsamic roasted beets are a juicy revelation. They offer a sweet tanginess that goes well with savory dishes.
The earthy flavour from the beets (Beta vulgaris) balances well with baked salmon, improving the meal in a whole new way.
These beauties get caramelized edges with roasting, adding depth and texture. We found they add a pop of colour to the plate.
Overall, they're a fresh, bright option we can't resist.
13 - Wild Rice Pilaf
Roasted wild rice pilaf is a total winner. It offers a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with lighter dishes like salmon (wild rice is an aquatic grass, Zizania species).
We love its chewy texture, which improves our plate. The earthy tones come alive when mixed with sautéed onions and herbs.
Just a touch of seasoning improves its appeal. It's a versatile side that can shine on its own or harmonize with other flavours.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
