10 Healthy Sides for Salmon – The Fitnessista
Sharing 10 sides to go with your salmon dinner.
Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, making it a popular protein source in many households. Its versatility and ease of preparation mean it can be cooked in numerous ways to suit different tastes and occasions.
Whether you grill, bake, or pan-sear salmon, the right side dishes can elevate its rich flavors, creating a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Today, I’m sharing a roundup of 10 healthy sides that complement salmon perfectly, helping you create a delightful dining experience.
10 Healthy Sides For Salmon
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts pair perfectly with salmon, providing a crunchy and slightly sweet contrast to the fish’s rich flavor.
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Roast for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
2. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
This garlic Parmesan roasted cauliflower is a fantastic side dish that complements salmon’s savory flavors.
Ingredients:
1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and golden brown.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
3. Quinoa Salad with Vegetables
A refreshing quinoa salad is a perfect side dish for a salmon dinner, adding a light and healthy touch.
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups water
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 5: Optional: Sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious side dish that pair perfectly with salmon.
Ingredients:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Dizzle of maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. Drizzle maple syrup on top and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
5. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
This simple and healthy side dish is quick to prepare and complements salmon beautifully.
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh spinach
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add the spinach and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
6. Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus is a classic side dish that pairs wonderfully with baked salmon.
Ingredients:
1 lb asparagus, trimmed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of half a lemon
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Toss the asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the asparagus on a baking sheet.
Step 4: Roast for 12-15 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Add the lemon juice, toss, and serve.
7. Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This light and refreshing salad is perfect for a weeknight dinner with salmon.
Ingredients:
1 cucumber, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 4: Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.
8. Green Beans with Cranberries and Almonds
The full recipe is here!
9. Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb side dish that complements a salmon dinner perfectly.
Ingredients:
1 head cauliflower, chopped in a food processor into rice-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Add the grated cauliflower and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper before serving.
10. Kale Salad
This kale salad recipe is in desperate need of new pics, but it’s SO good, I promise.
By incorporating these healthy side dishes, you can create a well-rounded and delicious meal that highlights the flavors of salmon. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these sides will ensure your salmon dishes are always a hit.
For more tips and ideas on different ways to cook salmon, check out this guide on different ways to cook salmon. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
xoxo
Gina
