What to Serve with Salmon (30 Sides That Go Well with Salmon)

When I cook salmon, I always get excited about the endless possibilities for what to serve alongside it.

Salmon is one of those rare proteins that works with just about anything — from light, fresh vegetables to hearty grains, buttery pastries, or even a glass of crisp wine. Its naturally rich, slightly sweet flavor makes it versatile enough to stand out on its own, but also a perfect canvas for complementary sides.

The real fun comes in deciding what mood you’re going for. Do you want a refreshing salad to keep things light, or maybe a warm, cozy grain that makes the meal extra satisfying?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of my favorite pairings for salmon, organized by category, so you can mix and match to create the perfect meal.

What to Serve with Salmon

What’s great about salmon is that it complements almost any type of food, no matter what you’re in the mood for. From light and wholesome sides to rich, comfort-style pairings, you can always find something that fits your taste or dietary preferences.

Some great options include roasted vegetables, fluffy grains like quinoa or rice, crisp garden salads, buttery pastries, and flavorful sauces. And of course, the right beverage can tie it all together.

Now, let’s explore each category and the best pairings to serve with salmon.

Vegetables

One of the easiest and healthiest ways to round out your salmon dish is by pairing it with vegetables. Their freshness and texture balance salmon’s richness, and many can be prepared in just a few minutes.

• Roasted Asparagus – Its slightly charred, earthy flavor contrasts beautifully with salmon’s buttery taste. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for 10–12 minutes until tender.
• Garlic Roasted Broccoli – The crisp edges and garlicky aroma make this a flavorful side that doesn’t overpower salmon. Spread florets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle garlic powder, and roast at 425°F until golden.
• Sautéed Spinach – Light, nutrient-dense, and quick to cook, spinach adds freshness to a salmon meal. Sauté in olive oil with a touch of garlic until just wilted.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots – The natural sweetness of carrots pairs nicely with salmon’s savory notes. Steam or roast them, then drizzle with a mix of honey and butter for a glossy finish.
• Grilled Zucchini – Its smoky, tender slices make a simple but satisfying side for salmon. Brush with olive oil, season lightly, and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.

Grains

If you’re craving something more filling, grains are a perfect complement to salmon. They soak up sauces, add texture, and make the meal feel heartier without stealing the spotlight from the fish.

• Quinoa – Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture pair wonderfully with salmon while adding extra protein. Cook it in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for more depth.
• Wild Rice – Earthy and slightly chewy, wild rice balances salmon’s richness with a hearty bite. Simmer in broth until tender, then fluff with a fork before serving.
• Brown Rice – A wholesome staple that’s both filling and versatile. Steam or boil until fluffy, then season with herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
• Couscous – Light and fluffy, couscous is a quick grain that absorbs sauces and flavors easily. Prepare it by pouring hot broth over the grains and letting it sit covered for 5 minutes.
• Barley – With its chewy texture and nutty flavor, barley adds a rustic touch to a salmon plate. Cook it low and slow in broth until tender, then stir in fresh herbs.

Salads

When you want to keep things fresh and light, salads are an excellent partner for salmon. They add crunch, color, and brightness to balance out the fish’s richness.

• Crisp Garden Salad – A mix of lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds refreshing crunch that brightens up salmon. Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a simple dressing.
• Greek Salad – The combination of feta, olives, cucumbers, and tomatoes brings bold, tangy flavors that pair well with grilled or baked salmon. Drizzle with olive oil and oregano to tie it together.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad – Sweet berries and tender spinach create a fresh, vibrant side that complements salmon’s savory notes. Add a balsamic glaze or poppy seed dressing for extra flavor.
• Caesar Salad – Creamy dressing, crisp romaine, and crunchy croutons add richness and texture that stand up well to salmon. For a twist, top it with shaved Parmesan and lemon zest.
• Quinoa Salad – Light yet filling, quinoa salad with cucumbers, herbs, and a citrusy dressing adds both protein and freshness to a salmon meal. Chill before serving for the best flavor.

Pastries

I have to admit, this is my favorite category. There’s just something about pairing salmon with a warm, flaky pastry that makes the meal feel extra special. Pastries add a cozy, indulgent touch that contrasts beautifully with salmon’s tender texture.

• Buttery Croissants – Soft, rich, and flaky, croissants make salmon perfect for brunch or a light lunch. Slice one open and fill it with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and herbs for a café-style treat.
• Savory Puff Pastry Tarts – Crisp and golden, puff pastry works wonderfully as a base for baked salmon topped with cheese, spinach, or caramelized onions. Bake until the pastry puffs and turns golden brown.
• Herbed Biscuits – Soft and buttery with hints of rosemary or thyme, biscuits add a comforting, homestyle feel to a salmon dinner. Serve them warm straight out of the oven with a pat of butter.
• Cheese Danish – The sweet-savory balance of cream cheese filling complements salmon beautifully, especially smoked salmon. Warm them slightly before serving to bring out the richness.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Fluffy inside with a golden, garlicky crust, these are a simple yet satisfying pastry side. Brush with butter and bake until lightly browned.

Sauces & Condiments

No salmon meal is complete without a sauce or condiment to tie everything together. The right drizzle or dip can highlight salmon’s natural richness or bring a refreshing contrast.

• Lemon Butter Sauce – Rich and tangy, this classic pairing enhances salmon’s flavor without overpowering it. Melt butter with lemon juice and zest, then spoon over baked or pan-seared salmon.
• Dill Yogurt Sauce – Light and refreshing, this creamy sauce balances salmon’s richness with a cool, herby touch. Mix Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, and garlic for a quick dip.
• Teriyaki Glaze – Sweet and savory, this glaze adds a bold Asian-inspired twist to salmon. Simmer soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger until thickened, then brush over grilled salmon.
• Pesto – Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of herby richness that pairs especially well with roasted or grilled salmon. Spoon over the top or serve on the side for dipping.
• Honey Mustard Sauce – Sweet with a little tang, this sauce works beautifully with both baked and pan-seared salmon. Whisk honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until smooth.

Related: Sauces for Your Grilled Salmon at Home

Beverages

The right drink can elevate your salmon dish from simple to memorable. Whether you’re hosting dinner or enjoying a quiet meal, a good beverage pairing completes the experience.

• Crisp White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances salmon’s flavor with refreshing acidity. Chill before serving for the best pairing.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus – A light, alcohol-free option that refreshes the palate between bites. Add slices of lemon or lime for extra zest.
• Green Tea – Its subtle earthiness pairs well with lighter salmon dishes, especially when grilled or steamed. Brew gently to avoid bitterness.
• Rosé Wine – Fruity and slightly floral, rosé complements salmon without overwhelming it. Serve chilled alongside salads or pastries.
• Craft Beer (Pale Ale) – With mild hops and crisp carbonation, pale ale is a fun, casual pairing with baked or grilled salmon.

Related: Pairing Wine with Salmon

Summary

Salmon’s versatility is what makes it such a joy to cook and serve. The best part is that you can mix and match based on your mood, the season, or the occasion — whether that’s a light summer dinner, a cozy family meal, or a special weekend brunch.

Excited to cook salmon? Make your meal even more memorable by choosing Wild Sockeye Salmon or Wild King Salmon from Alaskan Salmon Company. Sustainably sourced and packed with rich flavor, it’s the perfect choice to pair with your favorite sides.