What to Serve with Pan Fried Salmon (14 Easy Sides)

There’s nothing like a good piece of pan fried salmon.

It’s crispy on the outside, and tender and flakey on the inside.

But what to serve with it?

Some great options to serve with pan-fried salmon are rice, quinoa, couscous, pasta, potatoes, and vegetables. You can also pair it with a salad or soup. For a lighter meal, you could serve it with a simple green salad. If you want something more substantial, you could pair it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

See Also: What to Serve with Pan Fried Fish (15 Easy Sides)

What to Serve with Pan Fried Salmon?

There are many options for what to serve with pan-fried salmon. You can go with a simple salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, you could serve it with rice or quinoa. If you want to get creative, you could try serving it with a fruit salsa or a creamy avocado sauce.

Keep scrolling for more ideas!

Here are 40 tasty side dishes that will perfectly compliment your pan fried salmon:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Who doesn’t like a healthy side dish like roasted Brussels sprouts?

These little gems are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which make them a great choice for those looking to balance out their diet.

Plus, they’re simply delicious when cooked to perfection.

Brussels sprouts can be roasted in a variety of ways, but one of the simplest is to bake them in the oven.

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet.
2. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
3. Then bake them for 25 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
4. Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before serving.

2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The flavor of sweet potatoes go super well with pan fried salmon.

They’re earthy and full of flavor, and they add a touch of sweetness to the dish.

And, they’re a great way to use up some leftover mashed potatoes.

If you’re not a fan of sweet potatoes, you can also try using regular potatoes instead.

Either way, they make for a delicious side dish that will complement the delicate flavor of salmon perfectly.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are classic, easy, and delicious.

But if you’re looking for a side dish to serve with pan fried salmon, you’ll want to try garlic mashed potatoes.

Not only are they delicious, but they also have a bit of a kick from the garlic.

This makes them perfect for those who like their food a little on the spicy side.

And if you’re worried about the garlic flavor overpowering your salmon, don’t worry – you can always add a little more salt or pepper to taste.

Garlic mashed potatoes are a great way to show off your culinary skills, and they’re sure to please everyone at your dinner table.

4. Quinoa Salad

Don’t worry, just because this salad is healthy and nutritious, it doesn’t have to be boring.

Quinoa is a great grain choice for salads because it’s high in protein and fiber, and it has a delicate flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

In this recipe, quinoa is mixed with chopped tomatoes, red onion, and fresh cilantro.

The salad is then dressed with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

This salad is perfect for summertime lunches or as a side dish for salmon.

5. Kale Salad

This salad can be as crunchy as you’d like it to be.

Some people like their kale salad super crispy, while others prefer it more tender.

If you want a salad that’s crispy, try using a citrus vinaigrette.

This dressing is made with grapefruit, honey, and Dijon mustard.

The acidity of the grapefruit will help to break down the kale fibers, resulting in a crunchy salad.

If you’d like your kale salad to be more tender, try using a creamy vinaigrette instead.

This type of dressing uses mayonnaise as the main ingredient and incorporates herbs like parsley and mint. It’s perfect for those who want something light and refreshing.

Regardless of which type of vinaigrette you choose, make sure to top your salad with some fresh diced tomatoes and diced avocado.

6. Arugula Salad

Arugula salad is known for its simplicity and flavor.

It’s a great side dish for pan fried salmon because it has a slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with the richness of the fish.

In addition, arugula is a high-quality leafy green that provides plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Because it’s such a light salad, it’s also perfect for summertime meals.

Simply mix together some fresh arugula, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Serve cold or at room temperature for a refreshing meal that’ll leave you wanting more.

7. Corn on The Cob

Corn on the cob might be one of the most summer-friendly sides you can serve with your pan-fried salmon.

The kernels are soft and sweet, and they go great with the salty, crunchy fish.

In addition, corn on the cob is a great way to get some extra fiber in your diet.

Not to mention, it’s a fun way to show off your culinary skills.

If you’re short on time, try boiling the corn instead of shelling it.

This will cut down on prep time significantly.

Once you’ve boiled the corn, simply remove the kernels from the cob using a fork or your fingers.

Serve them hot alongside your pan-fried salmon for an easy and delicious meal.

8. Grilled Asparagus

What can be easier than grilling some asparagus?

It only takes a few minutes on the grill and then you have a delicious side dish ready to go.

And, it’s a healthy vegetable that can be enjoyed without guilt.

If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try serving grilled asparagus with some garlic butter sauce or balsamic glaze.

Either way, this simple side will add flavor and texture to your pan-fried salmon.

9. Green Beans Almondine

If you’re a fan of green beans (check out these canned green bean recipes), you’re going to love this almondine dish.

It’s simple to put together, and it has a delicious, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with pan fried salmon.

The almonds add a nice crunchy texture, and the green beans are cooked until they’re just tender.

They’re also slightly sweet and savory, making them a great choice for a side dish.

In addition, this recipe is dairy-free, so it can be enjoyed by any vegan or vegetarian guests.

1. Simply sauté the onions in a bit of olive oil until they’re translucent, then add the green beans and almonds to the pan.
2. Cook until the almonds are golden brown and the green beans are cooked through.
3. Serve warm with your favorite salmon recipe.

10. Honey Glazed Carrots

When you’re wondering what to serve with pan seared salmon, consider serving some honey glazed carrots.

Honey is a natural sweetener that can add a touch of sweetness to the dish without being too overpowering.

In addition, carrots are a great vegetable choice for those looking for something healthy to eat.

When you pair them with juicy salmon, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

11. Orange-Dijon Roasted Acorn Squash

Acorn squash can be used for many things in the kitchen, but for pan-fried salmon, it’s a perfect choice.

The squash is hearty and meaty, so it provides a satisfying texture and flavor that compliments the delicate flavor of salmon.

Acorn squash also has a natural sweetness that pairs well with the tartness of citrus.

1. To prepare the squash, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the squash into wedges and toss them with olive oil and salt.
3. Then spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. Serve them alongside your pan-fried salmon for a delicious and nutritious meal.

12. Peas and Carrots

Sometimes simplicity is the key to a great meal.

That’s why I recommend serving pan fried salmon with peas and carrots.

Both vegetables are high in fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied longer.

In addition, peas and carrots are both low in calories and cholesterol-free, making them a healthy choice for those watching their weight.

To make this dish even more nutritious, try stirring in some chopped kale or other greens at the last minute.

These additions will give your meal a boost of health-giving vitamins and minerals.

Serve your pan fried salmon with a simple side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for a complete and delicious meal.

13. Ratatouille

Ah, ratatouille, the perfect side dish for pan fried salmon.

This classic French dish is a mixture of sweet and savory ingredients that come together to create a delicious, hearty dish.

Ratatouille is easy to make and can be prepared in just a few minutes.

1. Start by cooking your vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until they are soft and cooked through.
2. Then add in your ratatouille sauce, which can be made with a variety of ingredients.

If you’re looking for something more complex, try adding diced tomatoes or mushrooms.

If you’re feeling really adventurous, even try making your own ratatouille sauce!

14. Roasted Cauliflower

Most people think of cauliflower as a vegetable, but it can also be used as a side dish.

Roasted cauliflower is a delicious way to add some flavor and texture to your pan-fried salmon.

1. First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Then, slice the cauliflower into thin pieces and toss it with olive oil and salt.
3. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, or until tender.
4. Serve the cauliflower warm alongside your pan-fried salmon for an easy and healthy meal.

15. Roasted Portobello Mushrooms

Here’s another thing you can roast, and it’s perfect for serving with salmon.

Roasted portobello mushrooms are hearty and flavorful, and they can easily be transformed into a main course.

1. Start by prepping the mushrooms by removing the stems and slicing them in half.
2. Then, drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until they’re tender.
4. Once they’re done, toss them in a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.

16. Sautéed Spinach

Most people think of spinach as boring, but that’s not always the case.

In fact, sautéed spinach is a great side dish to accompany pan seared salmon.

The bright, fresh flavors of the spinach are a perfect contrast to the rich, oily fish.

And like all things sautéed, the spinach cooks quickly and retains a lot of its flavor.

And, it’s a healthy option that can help to boost your energy levels.

1. To make this dish, start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Then add in the spinach and cook until it starts to wilted down, about 2 minutes.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

17. Squash Casserole

Casserole is an American classic, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with a salmon dinner.

Not only is this dish hearty and filling, but it also has a delicious pumpkin flavor that will add some extra warmth to your meal.

To make things even easier, try incorporating some of the ingredients into the casserole dish itself.

For example, you could cook the squash in the same skillet that you use for the salmon, or even put it in the oven prepped and ready to go.

This way, all you have to do is layer everything up and bake it until everything is hot and bubbly.

Served with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.

18. Sweet Potato Casserole

I still remember the first time my mom made this dish for me.

I was maybe 10 years old, and I was instantly hooked.

The combination of sweet potatoes, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping is just irresistible.

It’s the perfect side dish for pan-fried salmon.

The sweetness of the casserole complements the rich flavor of the fish, and the two dishes work together to create a well-rounded meal.

Plus, this casserole is super easy to make.

Just bake some sweet potatoes, mash them up with some milk and butter, and top with a mixture of brown sugar, pecans, and bread crumbs.

It’s sure to become a family favorite.

19. Three Bean Salad

As the name suggests, this salad is made up of three different types of beans: black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas.

The beans are simmered in a vinaigrette until they are cooked through, and then they are tossed with fresh greens and roasted red pepper.

The flavors of the beans and pepper are combined beautifully, and the salad is perfect for those who want something hearty but not heavy.

In addition, it’s easy to make – all you have to do is toss everything together in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Then, serve it as is or top it off with grilled salmon or chicken breasts.

20. Tomato Basil Bruschetta

If there’s one thing I know about Italian cuisine, it’s that tomatoes are a must.

And basil?

Well, of course.

See Also: Best Types of Tomatoes for Bruschetta

This recipe combines the two flavors to create a delicious and easy bruschetta topping for pan fried salmon.

1. Start by cutting tomatoes into small pieces and mixing them with fresh basil leaves.
2. Then season the mixture with salt and pepper, and set it aside to enjoy while your salmon is prepping.
3. Simply heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the salmon fillets.
4. Cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.
5. Once they’re done, top the fish with the tomato basil mixture, and serve immediately.

21. Watermelon Feta Salad

If it’s hot outside and you’re in the mood for something refreshing, try serving watermelon feta salad as your side dish.

This recipe is easy to make and is perfect for a summertime barbecue.

1. First, dice up some watermelon and add it to a bowl.
2. Then, add in crumbled feta cheese, diced red onion, and chopped fresh mint.
3. Finally, season the salad with salt and pepper to taste and mix everything together until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.

22. Wheat Berry Salad

How about something different to serve with your pan-fried salmon?

Why not try a wheat Berry Salad?

This dish is packed with healthy stuff.

This combination can help to keep you feeling full for a longer period of time, which is great news if you’re trying to cut down on your calorie intake.

Also, wheat berries are also a good source of protein.

This nutrient can help to build and repair muscle tissue.

When you combine all of these factors, you have a recipe for a nutritious and satisfying salad that will leave your guests wanting more.

23. Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild rice is usually not spoken of in the same sentence as salmon, but there’s a good reason for that.

While both dishes are high in protein and healthy fats, wild rice has a slightly nuttier flavor than regular long grain rice.

It also cooks up fluffy and delicate, making it the perfect Rice Pilaf accompaniment to pan fried salmon.

1. To make this dish, start by cooking the rice according to package instructions.
2. Once it’s done, add a little butter or olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
3. When it starts to shimmer, add in the cooked wild rice and stir until it begins to brown.
4. Then, cook for another 3-4 minutes until the rice is fully coated with butter or oil and heated through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite salmon recipe for a delicious and healthy meal.

24. Sweet Potato Gratin

It’s time to turn on your oven!

This sweet potato gratin is the perfect side dish to serve with pan-fried salmon.

The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy, golden crust is irresistible.

Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip it up in a hurry.

All you need are some thinly sliced sweet potatoes, a layer of cheese, and a final layer of breadcrumbs.

Then, just pop the whole thing in the oven and let it cook until everything is tender and bubbly.

Serve hot and enjoy!

25. Zucchini Bread

Why not skip the carbs and serve salmon with some of your favorite zucchini bread?

See Also: How To Make Zucchini Bread without Baking Soda

Zucchini bread is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber and vitamins, while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Not to mention, it’s a delicious way to prepare salmon.

Just coat the fish in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper, and then fry it in a little bit of oil until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

Serve the salmon on top of a slice of zucchini bread drizzled with honey or maple syrup.

You won’t believe how good this combo tastes!

26. Oven-Baked Zucchini Chips

This healthier alternative to traditional potato chips is perfect for when you want something crunchy and salty, but don’t want to break the bank.

You can even make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

All you need is some zucchini, a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.

1. Cut the zucchini into small pieces and toss them with olive oil and salt.
2. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 275 degrees for about 30 minutes until they are crispy.
3. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.

27. Baked Zucchini Fries

Here’s yet another healthy alternative to the classic french fry.

Baked zucchini fries are just as crispy and delicious as their deep-fried counterparts, but they’re also much healthier.

Plus, they’re a great way to use up some extra zucchini from your garden.

All you need is a bowl of flour, salt, and pepper.

1. Then, coat the zucchini slices in the flour mixture until they’re fully covered.
2. Next, heat some oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. When the oil is hot, add the zucchini fries and cook until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

28. Zucchini Noodles

Yep, we’ve now officially gone health-mode with this blog post.

But don’t worry, I’m not going to steer you wrong.

In fact, I’m going to show you a great way to enjoy pan fried salmon without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors and textures that make it so special.

One of the best things about pan fried salmon is that you can add pretty much anything to it to make it your own.

That means zucchini noodles!

Not only are they a healthy option, they also add a little bit of creaminess and sweetness to the dish.

1. To make them, simply cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Once they’re done, toss them with olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Then, pan fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown.
4. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible meal.

29. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

An easy way to make broccoli taste amazing and add a little bit of flavor to your salmon is to roast it with garlic Parmesan cheese.

1. First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the broccoli into small florets and spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle the garlic Parmesan cheese over top.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve hot alongside your pan fried salmon for an extra delicious meal.

30. Cauliflower Mash

Sure, you could make mashed potatoes, but why not make this healthier version?

Cauliflower is a great substitute for potatoes, and it has a milder flavor that will complement the taste of the salmon without overpowering it.

1. To make this dish, start by boiling the cauliflower until it is soft.
2. Then, mash it up with some butter, salt, and pepper to taste.

You can serve this cauliflower mash as is, or you can top it with whipped cream, crumbled bacon, or grated cheese if you want to add a little extra flavor and richness.

31. Cauliflower Rice

Cauliflower rice is known for being a healthy substitute for white rice, but it can also be enjoyed as a standalone side dish.

1. When preparing cauliflower rice, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil.
2. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and add it to the pot.
3. Cook the cauliflower rice for about 10 minutes, or until it is tender.
4. Drain the cauliflower rice and rinse it with cold water to cool it down.
5. Then, season it with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the cauliflower rice warm or at room temperature.
7. It can also be served with pan fried salmon as a side dish.
8. To make pan fried salmon with cauliflower rice, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
9. Add the salmon fillets and cook them for about 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
10. Serve the salmon fillets on top of the cauliflower rice and enjoy!

32. Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup

If you’re the kind of person who loves a hot bowl of soup on a cold day, then you’ll love this creamy roasted cauliflower soup.

It’s the perfect blend of rich and delicious, and it can be served hot or cold.

1. To make it, start by roasting the cauliflower until it’s fork-tender.
2. Then, add the soup ingredients (butter, flour, milk, salt, and pepper) to a blender and blend until smooth.
3. Finally, heat the soup gently in a pot on the stove until it thickens slightly.
4. Serve hot or cold for a delicious and comforting meal.

33. Creamed Spinach

If spinach isn’t normally your thing, give it a try with pan-fried salmon.

The delicate flavor of the spinach is perfectly balanced by the smoky, crispy salmon.

And, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients and antioxidants.

1. For this recipe, start by heating some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a piece of paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
4. Then, add in the spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted down.
5. Serve immediately with a dollop of creamy sauce on top.

This easy dish is perfect for any summer BBQ or picnic!

34. Garlic Green Beans

What is it about garlic that makes it such a great addition to pan fried salmon?

Well, for one, it contains a ton of vitamin c.

Additionally, garlic has a strong flavor that pairs well with the delicate flavor of salmon.

Plus, garlic green beans are a great way to add some color and flavor to your plate.

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can substitute it with another herb like tarragon or basil.

Just be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly.

Finally, don’t forget about the salt!

A little bit of salt will help to bring out the flavors in the garlic green beans and salmon.

35. Garlic Grilled Broccoli

Fire up your grill! It’s time to take broccoli to the next level.

By grilling it, you get a nice char on the outside and a juicy, tender interior.

Plus, garlic adds a delicious flavor profile that’s perfect for this healthy side dish.

1. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and brush both sides of your broccoli with olive oil.
2. Then, sprinkle on some salt and pepper, and lay your broccoli on the grill.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the broccoli is charred and slightly charred on the edges.
4. Serve warm topped with minced garlic and crumbled feta cheese.

36. Sauteed Mushrooms with Garlic

Mushrooms go well with pretty much any salmon dinner, but they’re especially delicious when sauteed in a lightly flavored garlic sauce.

If you don’t have any garlic on hand, you can omit it and still have a great dish.

1. Simply sautee sliced mushrooms in a little butter or olive oil until tender.
2. Then, add in minced garlic and some salt and pepper to taste.
3. Once the garlic is fragrant, add in a little white wine or broth to deglaze the pan.
4. Finally, stir in some chopped parsley or dill for garnish.
5. Serve over cooked rice or pasta for a complete and hearty meal.

37. Zoodles Marinara (Zucchini Noodles with Chunky Tomato Sauce)

Don’t miss out on this incredibly delicious side dish that goes great with pan fried salmon.

Zoodles are a type of noodle made from zucchini, and they’re really easy to make.

All you need is a spiralizer or mandoline, and then you can create thin noodles out of the zucchini.

They cook quickly in a skillet, so you can have this dish ready in no time.

1. For the sauce, start by pulsing some garlic, olive oil, and canned tomatoes together in a food processor.
2. Then add some tomato paste for extra depth of flavor.
3. Finally, season it with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once everything is blended together, add in some chicken broth for extra richness.
5. Serve it over cooked zucchini noodles for an easy and nutritious meal that everyone will love.

38. Steamed Broccoli and Carrots with Lemon

I know I’ve mentioned broccoli quite a lot in this article, but it’s really worth it!

Not only is it a great source of fiber and vitamins, but it also tastes fantastic when cooked this way.

1. First, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. When the oil is hot, add the salmon and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli and carrots to the skillet and stir well.
5. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
6. Serve the broccoli and carrots with lemon slices on top for a delicious and healthy meal.

39. Vegetable Fried Rice

Fried rice holds a special place in my heart.

Whether I’m eating it at a Chinese restaurant or making it at home, I love the flavor and texture of this dish.

Fried rice is a great option for those times when you want something hearty but don’t want to sacrifice your diet.

In this recipe, I’ve combined some of my favorite vegetables with rice for a delicious and healthy dish.

1. Start by cooking the rice in a large pot of oil until it’s nice and crispy.
2. Then add in your desired mix of vegetables, and cook until they are tender but not too mushy.
3. Serve hot with a dollop of soy sauce and some chopped green onions for extra flavor.

40. Sweet Potato Fries

Ah, yet another healthy alternative.

You must think I’m losing my mind, but hear me out.

Sweet potato fries are a great way to get your vegetable fix without having to sacrifice taste or texture.

They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and they pair perfectly with salmon.

The best part?

They’re super easy to make.

1. Just preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin fries, then toss them in some olive oil and salt.
3. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, until they are tender and golden brown.
4. Serve alongside your pan fried salmon and you won’t regret it!

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