12 Side Dishes That Pair Perfectly With Salmon

Salmon is one of those proteins that never feels out of place on the table. It’s rich, flavorful, and versatile enough to handle everything from quick weeknight meals to special dinners. But here’s the thing: the right side dish can make salmon shine even brighter. Whether you lean toward crisp vegetables, hearty grains, or fresh salads, the goal is balance. You want something that complements without overpowering. These 12 side dishes hit that sweet spot, giving you simple, reliable pairings that always work.

1. Roasted Asparagus with Lemon

Asparagus and salmon share a natural harmony that feels effortless. Roasting asparagus brings out a nutty depth while keeping its bright character. A light squeeze of lemon over the spears adds just enough acidity to cut through salmon’s richness. The beauty here is in the simplicity. You don’t need fancy seasoning or extra sauces. Just olive oil, salt, pepper, and a hot oven do the trick. It’s a side that cooks in under 15 minutes, which lines up perfectly with salmon’s quick cooking time.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

When you want comfort with salmon, garlic mashed potatoes always deliver. The creamy, buttery texture offers a satisfying base that lets the fish stay center stage. Roasted garlic adds a mellow sweetness that lifts the potatoes without making them heavy. A good trick is whipping in a splash of warm milk or cream for extra smoothness. The result is hearty but never overwhelming. It’s the kind of side that works just as well with a casual baked salmon as it does with a seared filet.

3. Quinoa Salad with Herbs

Quinoa makes a smart partner for salmon because it’s light but filling. When tossed with fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro, it brings a bright, refreshing contrast to the fish. Adding cucumbers, tomatoes, or a simple vinaigrette turns it into a full, balanced side dish. Quinoa also packs a protein boost, which pairs nicely if you’re looking for a healthier angle. This salad tastes great warm or chilled, making it versatile for both weeknight dinners and meal prep lunches.

4. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Spinach wilts quickly in a pan, which makes it one of the fastest sides you can pull together. A little olive oil and a clove of garlic are all it takes to transform it into something flavorful. The greens give you a soft, earthy counterpoint to salmon’s rich texture. For extra depth, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This is a dish you can make in minutes while your salmon rests, and it feels fresh every single time.

5. Brown Rice Pilaf

A simple brown rice pilaf is a quiet but effective side for salmon. Cooking the rice in broth instead of water adds flavor without fuss. Stirring in sautéed onions, celery, or mushrooms gives the dish a little more personality. Brown rice’s nutty undertones naturally complement salmon’s flavor, while its firm texture holds up well next to the fish. It’s hearty but not heavy, which makes it an easy weeknight staple. Leftovers also reheat beautifully for the next day’s lunch.

6. Cucumber Dill Salad

Cucumber and dill are a classic pairing with salmon for a reason: they bring freshness and balance. Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with dill, red onion, and a light vinegar dressing create a crisp, cooling side. It cuts through salmon’s fattiness and adds a refreshing bite. The salad can be made ahead, and it even gets better after sitting in the fridge for a bit. If you want a no-cook, low-effort side that feels elegant, this is it.

7. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Carrots roasted with a touch of honey create a side that’s both sweet and savory. Their natural sugars caramelize in the oven, which plays nicely with salmon’s richness. A sprinkle of thyme or rosemary adds a subtle herbal layer that keeps the dish from feeling too sweet. The glaze isn’t heavy, so the carrots still taste like themselves. They add color to the plate and bring a balanced flavor that works with nearly any salmon preparation, from grilled to baked.

8. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad can be surprisingly good next to salmon. The creamy dressing, crunchy romaine, and Parmesan all bring textures and flavors that balance the fish. Adding homemade croutons gives the salad extra body, making it feel like more than just greens on the side. If you want a slight twist, use kale instead of romaine for a heartier version. This pairing feels restaurant-worthy but is easy to make at home, which makes it a reliable go-to.

9. Lentil Stew

For something heartier, lentil stew is an excellent partner. Lentils simmered with onions, carrots, and celery create a rich base that feels grounding next to salmon. The earthy flavors of lentils give you a satisfying contrast without stealing the spotlight. A splash of vinegar at the end brightens the whole dish. This is the kind of side you’d reach for when the weather cools down and you want something filling yet wholesome alongside your salmon.

10. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts roasted until crisp bring a bold, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with salmon. The slight bitterness of the sprouts balances the fish’s richness, while the crispy edges keep each bite interesting. Tossing them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan makes them even more addictive. They cook quickly at a high heat, so they can easily share oven space with your salmon. It’s a side that feels both rustic and sophisticated.

11. Couscous with Vegetables

Couscous is one of those sides that soaks up flavor beautifully. Cooking it in broth and tossing in roasted vegetables like zucchini, peppers, or cherry tomatoes creates a colorful, well-rounded dish. Couscous has a light, fluffy texture that doesn’t compete with salmon but complements it instead. It’s a dish that feels effortless but looks polished, which makes it a great choice for when you’re cooking for guests or want a complete meal without extra effort.

12. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are a timeless trio, and they happen to work beautifully with salmon too. A drizzle of balsamic reduction ties everything together. The salad feels light but flavorful, offering just enough acidity and freshness to balance the richness of the fish. It’s especially good during tomato season, when everything tastes at its peak. This side requires no cooking, just a bit of assembly, which makes it one of the easiest yet most satisfying pairings.