When it comes to cooking salmon, many people focus on preparing the fish itself, but what about the sides? A delicious and well-rounded meal starts with a great side dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spice up your usual weeknight routine, these 20 salmon sides recipes are sure to please.
From classic roasted vegetables like garlic butter asparagus and parmesan roasted broccoli, to creative salads like lemon herb quinoa and creamy dill cucumber, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is designed to complement the rich flavor of salmon, making it easy to create a well-rounded meal that will impress your guests or satisfy your family.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, exploring the ingredients, instructions, and tips for cooking success. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you’re sure to find inspiration in these delicious salmon sides recipes.
Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the best of spring’s sweetest vegetable. With only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a delicious side dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the asparagus.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust cooking time based on asparagus thickness and desired level of doneness.
– Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor!
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Brighten up your meals with this refreshing Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or a healthy lunch. This easy-to-make recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the zesty flavor of lemon, herbs, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Add diced red bell pepper, parsley, mint leaves, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss gently.
4. Once quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the bowl. Toss everything together.
5. Garnish with grated lemon zest, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Dill Cucumber Salad
This refreshing salad combines the cooling taste of cucumber with the tanginess of cream and the freshness of dill, making it perfect for hot summer days or as a light side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and chopped dill until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold salad.
Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Sweet and savory, these Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme are a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
3. Add the carrot pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful twist on a classic vegetable side dish, these garlic parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are sure to become a new favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously caramelized and savory snack or side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Herbed Couscous with Lemon Zest
This flavorful side dish combines the lightness of couscous with the brightness of lemon zest and the earthiness of fresh herbs. Perfect for accompanying a variety of meals, this herby couscous is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1 lemon, zested (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the couscous and cover with a clean towel or lid.
3. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
4. Fluff the couscous with a fork, then stir in olive oil, parsley, mint, and lemon zest.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your roasted sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze and a hint of earthy thyme. This simple recipe yields tender, caramelized sweet potatoes that pair perfectly with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sautéed Garlic Green Beans
A classic and flavorful side dish that complements many meals, sautéed garlic green beans are a simple yet impressive addition to any table. This recipe requires just a few ingredients and can be prepared in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, then swirl it around to coat the pan.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the green beans to the pan in a single layer, without overcrowding.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado and Mango Salsa
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and sweet salsa that combines the richness of avocados and the tropical flavor of mangoes. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or chips.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until mostly smooth.
2. Add the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice to the bowl.
3. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the spiciness of chili and the brightness of lime.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lime juice, lime zest, and chili powder until well combined.
3. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush corn with chili lime butter.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lime wedges and salt if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these creamy, savory bites. Fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese fill the caps of sautéed mushrooms, making for a delightful and easy-to-prepare snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove mushrooms from heat and let cool slightly. Stuff each cap with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of peppery arugula. A perfect side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, goat cheese, and roasted beets.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, add a squeeze of balsamic vinegar for an added tang.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (including roasting time)
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries
This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with sweet and tangy cranberries, perfect for a cozy winter evening or as a side dish during the holidays. With its flavorful blend of herbs and spices, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rinsed wild rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the cooked wild rice with a fork and stir in the cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Maple Glazed Butternut Squash
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a hint of maple syrup, perfect for a delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into 1-inch pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the cubed squash to the bowl and toss to coat with the glaze.
5. Transfer the squash mixture to a baking dish and add water.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caprese Orzo Salad
A fresh take on the classic Caprese salad, this orzo-based recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a satisfying and easy-to-make pasta dish. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring orzo and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until orzo is tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Fluff cooked orzo with a fork. Stir in cooked bell peppers, mozzarella cheese, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this Garlic Mashed Cauliflower recipe is a great side dish option for any meal. With the creamy richness of garlic and cauliflower, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with garlic, butter, chicken broth, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. Remove from the oven and mash the cauliflower with a fork until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Zucchini with Lemon Pepper
Elevate your grilled meals with this simple and flavorful recipe that highlights the best of zucchini’s natural sweetness. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and lemon pepper.
4. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice char and tender texture.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with additional lemon juice (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in broccoli, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite pasta dishes or as a healthy side.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli (about 4 cups), cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread broccoli in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the broccoli during the last 2-3 minutes of roasting.
6. Remove from oven and season with garlic powder and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Tomato Basil Farro Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the earthiness of farro and the brightness of basil, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup farro
– 2 cups water
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook farro according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked farro to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Warm Kale and Bacon Salad
Warm Kale and Bacon Salad Recipe
A twist on a classic salad, this warm kale and bacon recipe combines the earthy flavor of kale with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the kale to the skillet in batches, cooking until slightly wilted (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked kale, crispy bacon, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meals with these 20 mouthwatering salmon sides recipes! From classic pairings like roasted asparagus and quinoa salad to sweet potato and maple glazed squash, there’s something for every occasion. Try sautéed garlic green beans or creamy dill cucumber salad for a light and refreshing side dish. For something more substantial, opt for herbed couscous with lemon zest or parmesan roasted broccoli. Whatever the occasion, these recipes are sure to impress!
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