What Goes Well With Salmon? Exploring Delicious Side Dishes

Introduction

Salmon is one of the most popular types of fish for its great taste, nutritional benefits, and versatility. It can be cooked in so many different ways, from grilling to baking to poaching. But what goes well with salmon to make a complete meal? In this article, we will explore some delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with salmon.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting is one of the simplest and healthiest ways to prepare vegetables. The high temperatures caramelize the natural sugars in the vegetables, bringing out their sweetness and creating a delicious flavor. Roasting also helps retain most of the vitamins and minerals in the vegetables, making them even healthier.

Some suggested vegetables to roast are carrots, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and squash. For added flavor, you can toss the vegetables with olive oil and herbs or spices before roasting. Some herbs and spices that pair well with salmon include garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, and cumin.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a flavorful, easy-to-make side dish that pairs well with salmon. You can use any type of rice, such as basmati, jasmine, or wild rice. To prepare the pilaf, you simply sauté the rice in butter or olive oil until it’s lightly browned, then add broth and seasonings and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed.

To add flavor to the pilaf, you can add ingredients such as onions, garlic, herbs, nuts, dried fruit, and vegetables. For example, you could add chopped onions, garlic, and parsley, as well as toasted almonds and dried cranberries. These ingredients will give the pilaf a delicious and unique flavor.

Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a highly nutritious grain that is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It has a light, nutty flavor and a fluffy texture, making it a perfect accompaniment to salmon. To prepare the quinoa, simply rinse it, then cook it in boiling water for about 15 minutes. Once the quinoa is cooked, you can let it cool, then add your favorite ingredients to make a delicious salad.

Suggested ingredients to add to the quinoa salad include diced tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, feta cheese, olives, fresh herbs, and a vinaigrette dressing. You can also add other ingredients such as cooked chicken, canned beans, or cooked shrimp. This salad is both nutritious and delicious, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party!

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs beautifully with salmon. They are creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. You can use any type of potato, such as Yukon gold, russet, or red potatoes. To prepare the mashed potatoes, simply peel and cube the potatoes, then boil them until they are tender. Once they are cooked, mash them with butter, milk, and seasonings.

For added flavor, you can add ingredients such as garlic, chives, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, or bacon. You can also add herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, or cumin. These ingredients will give the mashed potatoes a delicious flavor that will complement the salmon perfectly.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilling asparagus is an easy and tasty way to prepare this healthy vegetable. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of the asparagus and gives it a smoky flavor. To prepare the asparagus, simply trim off the woody ends, then toss the spears with olive oil and seasonings. Grill the asparagus on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until it is lightly charred and tender.

You can add flavor to the asparagus by adding ingredients such as garlic, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, or Parmesan cheese. You can also sprinkle it with herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, or paprika. This simple side dish will add a burst of flavor to your salmon dish.

Avocado Salsa

Avocado salsa is a delicious and nutritious topping for salmon. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, and they have a rich, creamy texture. To make the salsa, simply dice up some avocados and mix them with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings. This salsa is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your salmon dish.

You can also add other ingredients to the salsa such as black beans, corn, jalapeños, mango, or pineapple. These ingredients will give the salsa a unique flavor and a bit of sweetness. Serve the salsa over grilled salmon for a delicious and healthy meal.

Conclusion

Salmon is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile fish, and there are so many delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with it. From roasted vegetables to quinoa salad to grilled asparagus with avocado salsa, there are plenty of options to choose from. So the next time you’re looking for something to serve with salmon, try one of these tasty side dishes.

No matter which side dish you choose, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique combinations.