When it comes to preparing a delicious and nutritious meal, choosing the right side dishes to serve alongside your main course can make all the difference. This is especially true when it comes to baked salmon, as pairing the right side dish can help enhance the flavors of the fish and provide a well-rounded meal. In this article, we’ll explore some classic, creative, and healthy side dishes that are perfect for serving with baked salmon.
Classic Side Dishes for Baked Salmon
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a classic and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with baked salmon. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor. Some vegetables that work well for this dish include carrots, asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower. Simply toss them in some olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and golden brown.
2. Rice Pilaf
Another classic side dish that pairs well with baked salmon is rice pilaf. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Start by sautéing some onion and garlic in a little bit of butter, then add in your rice and cook until the rice is lightly toasted. Next, add in some chicken broth and simmer until the rice is cooked through. You can add in additional ingredients like mushrooms, peas, or herbs to add more flavor and texture.
3. Steamed Asparagus
Asparagus is a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. Steaming asparagus is an easy and quick way to prepare it. Simply steam the asparagus until it’s tender, then season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. You can also drizzle some olive oil or melted butter over the asparagus to add some extra flavor.
4. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Start by boiling some potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them with butter, milk, and salt until they’re smooth and creamy. You can add in additional ingredients like garlic, herbs, or cheese to add more flavor.
5. Lemon Wedges
Finally, a simple but classic side dish to serve with baked salmon is lemon wedges. Squeezing a fresh lemon wedge over the fish just before serving can add a bright and refreshing burst of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
Creative Side Dishes for Baked Salmon
1. Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
If you’re looking for a creative and healthy side dish to serve with baked salmon, consider making a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables. Quinoa is a nutritious and protein-packed grain that pairs well with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Toss the vegetables and quinoa with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and honey for a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy.
2. Cucumber and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and creative side dish to serve with baked salmon is a cucumber and avocado salad. This dish is simple to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. Chop up some cucumbers and avocado and toss them with some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. Drizzle with a simple dressing made from olive oil, lime juice, and salt, and you’re ready to serve.
3. Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan Cheese
Grilled zucchini with parmesan cheese is a flavorful and easy side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. Simply slice some zucchini into thin rounds, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill the zucchini until it’s tender and lightly charred, then sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese. You can also sprinkle with some chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added flavor.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re looking for a fun and creative side dish to serve with baked salmon, consider making sweet potato fries. Sweet potatoes are a healthy and flavorful alternative to regular potatoes, and they’re easy to prepare. Simply cut the sweet potatoes into thin wedges, toss them with some olive oil and spices, and bake in the oven until they’re crispy and golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and delicious side dish.
5. Broiled Grapefruit with Honey
For a creative and unexpected side dish to serve with baked salmon, try broiled grapefruit with honey. This dish is easy to prepare and requires just a few ingredients. Simply slice a grapefruit in half, sprinkle with a little bit of sugar and honey, and broil in the oven until the top is lightly caramelized. Serve the broiled grapefruit alongside the baked salmon for a unique and flavorful side dish.
Healthy Side Dishes for Baked Salmon
1. Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad
Broccoli and cauliflower salad is a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. These cruciferous vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, and they’re easy to prepare. Simply chop up some broccoli and cauliflower florets and toss them with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. You can also add in additional ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
2. Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a healthy and sweet side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C and bromelain, which can help aid digestion. Simply slice a fresh pineapple into rings, brush with some honey or maple syrup, and grill until lightly charred. Serve the grilled pineapple alongside the baked salmon for a refreshing and healthy side dish.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a healthy and flavorful side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. These cruciferous vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness. Simply toss the Brussels sprouts with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until they’re tender and golden brown.
4. Carrot and Beet Salad
Carrot and beet salad is a healthy and colorful side dish that pairs well with baked salmon. Carrots and beets are both packed with vitamins and minerals, and they’re easy to prepare. Simply shred some carrots and beets and toss them with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. You can also add in additional ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
5. Mixed Berry Salad
Finally, a healthy and refreshing side dish to serve with baked salmon is a mixed berry salad. Berries are packed with antioxidants and are a good source of fiber, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Simply toss some mixed berries with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. You can also add in additional ingredients like chopped nuts or fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
When it comes to serving baked salmon, choosing the right side dishes can help enhance the flavors of the fish and provide a well-rounded meal. Whether you opt for classic side dishes like roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes, creative dishes like sweet potato fries and broiled grapefruit with honey, or healthy dishes like roasted Brussels sprouts and mixed berry salad, there are plenty of options to choose from.
By considering the flavors of the salmon and choosing side dishes that complement those flavors, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that your guests will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking for your family, incorporating one or more of these side dishes for baked salmon is a great way to add variety and interest to your meal.
Remember that the key to a successful meal is balance, so be sure to include a mix of healthy and indulgent dishes, as well as different textures and flavors. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and delicious meal centered around baked salmon and its perfect side dishes.