What to Serve with Cedar Plank Salmon? 13 Best Side Dishes

This cooking method (roasting salmon on a cedar plank - salmon cooked on a thin aromatic cedar board that imparts smoky, resinous notes) is a total win when we want that smoky flavor without firing up the grill. We all know that fish can sometimes be a bit boring, but not when it's beautifully roasted on cedar.

Picture this: a tangy glaze, a sprinkling of herbs, and a piece of salmon that's practically begging for a sidekick. We've all faced the side dish dilemma, right?

What goes with what?

We've got our go-to fave sides that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, grab your cedar plank and let's get to those killer side options that pair like a charm with our delicious fish feast!

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Top 13 Side Dishes for Cedar Plank Salmon

Here are our top 13 side dishes to serve with cedar plank salmon:

1 - Lemon Dill Rice

We have to talk about lemon dill rice. This side dish is a total flavour bomb (bright citrus and grassy dill notes).

The zesty lemon brightens everything up, while the dill adds a fresh, herbaceous kick.

It's so simple to whip up and goes well with anything that comes off that cedar plank. The combination of citrus and herbs brings everything to life.

We love serving it alongside salmon for that citrusy burst (related: lemon pound cake side ideas).

2 - Grilled Asparagus with Lemon

Grilled asparagus with lemon is a side dish we can't resist. It's fresh, zesty, and crunchy.

The asparagus gets a beautiful char from the grill, which adds a smoky flavor we love (a Maillard reaction-driven char on the tips).

Lemon juice drizzled on top creates a sharp, bright contrast. Each bite is a pop of freshness.

Toss in some olive oil and salt for that perfect seasoning.

It complements our cedar plank salmon like a dream (also works with grilled salmon side pairings).

3 - Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes

Roasted garlic parmesan potatoes are a side dish we can't resist. They're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside (crispy skin, tender starchy interior).

The garlic hits you right away, adding bold flavor. The parmesan creates a cheesy goodness that takes this side to the next level.

Toss in some olive oil and seasoning, and we're in heaven.

They bring a comforting vibe to our meal, especially with cedar plank salmon (paired well with roasted vegetables side pairings).

4 - Mango Avocado Salsa

Mango avocado salsa is a flavor fiesta. We love the sweet mango mixed with creamy avocado.

Each bite is refreshing and bright.

The crunch from fresh cilantro adds an herbaceous kick. Juicy lime juice ties everything together with a zesty punch (fresh lime provides bright acidity).

This salsa is perfectly balanced, making it an ideal companion for our cedar plank salmon (also pairs with mango salsa chicken side ideas).

It's bright, bold, and utterly irresistible!

5 - Quinoa with Cranberries and Almonds

Mango avocado salsa brings a tropical vibe to any meal. We can't get enough of that sweet mango and creamy avocado combo.

It's a refreshing mix of flavours, perfect by itself or as a topping (with chewy quinoa, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds).

Cilantro adds a nice crunch and freshness. A squeeze of lime juice brightens everything up.

Every bite feels like a mini vacation.

This salsa makes our cedar plank salmon even more exciting. It's a must-try on our dinner table!

6 - Herb Butter Corn on the Cob

Herb butter corn on the cob is summer on a plate. Nothing beats that sweet crunch when we bite into fresh corn (fresh corn kernels contain natural sugars that caramelize when cooked).

We love slathering it in a fragrant herb butter.

The butter melts into the kernels, giving them a rich, savory taste. Adding garlic and herbs takes it to another level.

Each nibble is a simple pleasure that goes perfectly with our cedar plank salmon.

It's a must-have at any BBQ or dinner (also pairs with butter chicken side ideas).

7 - Mediterranean Cucumber Salad

Grilled asparagus with lemon is a plate of zingy goodness. This side is bright and crunchy, and the grill gives it a perfect char.

The lemon juice adds a sharp kick that wakes everything up. Tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt, it's hard to resist going back for more.

We love how it pairs with just about anything, especially cedar plank salmon (cool cucumbers and salty feta contrast rich fish).

8 - Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables are our go-to for hearty comfort. These veggies turn sweet and caramelised in the oven (as sugars break down and brown).

We love how they get that crispy edge while staying tender inside.

Tossing in a mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes adds a rainbow of colours and flavours. It's a simple blend of earthy sweetness and roasting magic.

These veggies sit perfectly next to cedar plank salmon, creating a delicious plate!

9 - Steamed Green Beans with Almonds

Roasted root vegetables are a true flavor fiesta (roots concentrate sugars and develop caramelized edges when roasted). These beauties caramelize in the oven, turning sweet while keeping that crispy bite.

We usually toss together carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes for a colorful mix.

The mix gives us a lovely earthy sweetness and a hint of nuttiness from roasting. They're the perfect partner for our cedar plank salmon, creating a well-rounded plate every time.

You can't go wrong with this side.

10 - Farro Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Farro salad with cherry tomatoes is a must-try. It's nutty with a chewy texture that keeps us coming back for more (farro is an ancient wheat with a naturally nutty flavor).

The burst of sweet cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing element that brightens each bite.

Dressing it with olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic takes the flavors to another level. The combination of grains and veggies makes it a winning side dish for our cedar plank salmon.

11 - Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Garlic mashed cauliflower is pure comfort on a plate.

It's creamy, rich, and has a lovely garlic punch (pureed cauliflower makes a lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes). We love how it's lighter than traditional mashed potatoes, making it a smart swap without compromising flavor.

The smooth texture makes this side irresistible to any carb lover.

Dressing it with butter and a sprinkle of pepper enhances everything. Pair it with cedar plank salmon for a meal that's both tasty and satisfying.

12 - Spinach Strawberry Salad

Spinach strawberry salad is a refreshing blend that surprises us every time. The sweet strawberries pop against the earthy spinach, creating a fantastic balance (strawberries add acidity and natural sugars).

Toss in some feta for creamy richness and walnuts for that pleasant crunch. The vinaigrette ties it all together with a tangy twang.

This salad is great as a light side or a main dish on warm days, keeping our meals bright and lively!

13 - Balsamic Glazed Brussel Sprouts

Balsamic glazed brussel sprouts are a tasty side we can't resist. They're roasted to a crispy perfection, with that satisfying crunch when you bite in.

The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze dances with the earthy flavor of the sprouts (reduced balsamic becomes syrupy and balances bitterness). We love how each piece is coated, creating an irresistible combo that pairs effortlessly with any main dish.

These bites add an exciting twist to our dinners!