Salmon patties are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any meal. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. However, no meal is complete without the right side dishes to accompany it. That’s what we’ll explore in this article. Whether you want a light, fresh vegetable dish, a comforting starch, or a delicious sauce, there are plenty of options to pair with your salmon patties.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at various sides, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to refreshing salads and creative sauces, to elevate your salmon patties into a complete and balanced meal.
If you’re looking to make your patties without breadcrumbs, check out these breadcrumb substitutes for salmon patties.
Vegetables that Go Well with Salmon Patties
Vegetables are a healthy, colorful, and flavorful way to round out your meal. They add freshness and balance to the richness of salmon patties. Let’s start with some delicious vegetable side dishes that complement the taste and texture of your salmon patties.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a fantastic choice to serve alongside salmon patties. The process of roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, adding a rich and slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory taste of salmon patties.
- Broccoli: When roasted, broccoli develops crispy edges and a deep, earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender salmon patties. Simply toss the broccoli in olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt, then roast until golden.
- Asparagus: Asparagus, with its slightly bitter taste, balances out the richness of the salmon patties. Roasting or grilling asparagus brings out its best flavors. A drizzle of lemon juice over the top adds brightness.
- Bell Peppers: Roasted bell peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor that works well with the fish. Their vibrant colors also make the plate visually appealing.
Green Beans with Bacon
For something heartier, green beans with bacon is an excellent side dish to serve with salmon patties. The crispness of the green beans combined with the smoky, salty flavor of bacon complements the fish beautifully. You can sauté the green beans with garlic and olive oil, then toss them with crispy bacon pieces for a savory, crunchy side dish.
The combination of green beans and bacon creates a contrast in texture that enhances the overall meal, making it feel more indulgent without overpowering the flavors of the salmon patties.
Fresh Salads
A light, refreshing salad is another great option that goes well with salmon patties. The crisp textures and tangy flavors of a salad can help balance the richness of the salmon patties.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons provides a fresh and crunchy contrast to the soft salmon patties. The creamy dressing adds richness that complements the flavors of the fish.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool, refreshing cucumber salad, dressed with vinegar and dill, adds a bright and tangy flavor to your meal. The crispness of the cucumbers pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the salmon patties.
Find more fresh salad ideas here.
Starches That Pair with Salmon Patties
Starches are a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal, and they pair wonderfully with salmon patties. in terms of starches? Let’s explore some classic options.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are one of the most popular sides to serve with salmon patties. The creamy, smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy exterior of the patties. You can enhance the flavor of your mashed potatoes by adding garlic, herbs, or even a little sour cream for tanginess.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roasted garlic mashed into creamy potatoes adds an extra layer of savory flavor that works well with the richness of salmon patties.
- Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can be mixed into the mashed potatoes to give them a fresh, vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Much like salmon patties, meatloaf pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes. Find out what’s good with meatloaf for more hearty meal ideas.
Rice and Quinoa
For a lighter side dish, rice or quinoa are excellent options. Both grains are neutral in flavor, allowing the salmon patties to shine. You can serve them plain or dress them up with herbs, spices, or even coconut milk for added flavor.
- Coconut Rice: This rice is cooked in coconut milk, giving it a slightly sweet and creamy flavor that contrasts nicely with the savory salmon patties.
- Quinoa: A healthy alternative to rice, quinoa is light and fluffy, with a slightly nutty taste. It’s high in protein and pairs well with the rich flavors of salmon.
French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, french fries or sweet potato fries are the way to go. The crispy texture of the fries complements the softness of the salmon patties, creating a delightful contrast.
- French Fries: Classic golden fries are always a hit. They add a crunchy, salty element to your meal that pairs well with the richness of the salmon patties.
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a sweeter and healthier option, try sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness provides a nice contrast to the savory salmon patties, while the crispy exterior adds texture.
For an extra indulgent side, pair your salmon patties with crispy fries. Check out what makes Raising Cane’s fries so delicious.
Creative Sauces to Serve with Salmon Patties
Sauces play a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of your dish. The right sauce can elevate salmon patties by adding richness, freshness, or a tangy kick. when it comes to sauces? Let’s dive into some flavorful options that will take your salmon patties to the next level.
1. Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a classic pairing with seafood, and it works exceptionally well with salmon patties. Made with a base of mayonnaise, chopped pickles, capers, and lemon juice, this sauce adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the rich taste of the salmon. The acidity of the lemon and pickles cuts through the fattiness of the fish, while the creaminess of the mayonnaise balances out the crispy texture of the patties.
Pro Tip: For an added twist, you can mix in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to give the sauce a burst of freshness. If you want a spicier kick, add a little horseradish or hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Avocado Salsa
For a lighter and more refreshing option, avocado salsa pairs perfectly with salmon patties. This salsa is made from ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. The creamy avocado gives the salsa a rich texture, while the lime juice adds a bright, zesty note. This salsa adds freshness and a hint of acidity to the dish, making it perfect for balancing the richness of the salmon patties.
Pro Tip: You can also add some finely diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. This avocado salsa not only complements salmon patties but also adds a beautiful, vibrant color to the plate.
3. Garlic Aioli
If you want something richer and more indulgent, garlic aioli is a great option. Made from a blend of garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and olive oil, this sauce brings a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor to your salmon patties. The garlic enhances the savory notes of the salmon, while the creamy aioli adds moisture and richness to each bite.
Pro Tip: For a Mediterranean twist, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a touch of saffron to your aioli. You can also try a roasted garlic version for a deeper, caramelized garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the fish.
4. Lemon Dill Sauce
Another sauce that goes well with salmon patties is lemon dill sauce. This sauce is light, tangy, and herbaceous, making it a perfect companion for seafood dishes. The combination of fresh dill and lemon juice creates a bright, zesty flavor that enhances the natural taste of salmon without overpowering it.
Pro Tip: You can make this sauce with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier, tangy base. Add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra depth and complexity. This sauce is especially great for summer meals, offering a refreshing, cool contrast to the warmth of the salmon patties.
5. Honey Mustard Sauce
For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, honey mustard sauce is a fantastic option. This sauce is made with Dijon mustard, honey, and a splash of vinegar. The sweetness from the honey balances the sharpness of the mustard, creating a smooth and tangy sauce that complements the savory flavors of the salmon patties.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce. This will add a hint of spice that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the fish.
6. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce (Tzatziki)
If you’re looking for a light and refreshing sauce, cucumber yogurt sauce, also known as tzatziki, is a great match for salmon patties. Made with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like mint or dill, this sauce offers a cool, tangy, and herbaceous flavor that contrasts nicely with the warm, crispy salmon patties.
Pro Tip: Tzatziki is not only a great sauce but can also be used as a dip or spread for serving the patties. The creaminess of the yogurt combined with the crunch of the cucumber makes this sauce a versatile option.
7. Spicy Sriracha Mayo
For those who love a bit of heat, spicy Sriracha mayo is the perfect choice. This sauce combines mayonnaise with Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and a hint of garlic to create a creamy, spicy condiment. The heat from the Sriracha adds a bold kick to the salmon patties, while the mayo keeps the sauce smooth and rich.
Pro Tip: You can adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding more or less Sriracha, depending on your preference. A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty touch to balance the heat.
8. Dijon Mustard Sauce
If you prefer a sauce with a sharper bite, Dijon mustard sauce is a great pairing for salmon patties. This sauce combines the tanginess of Dijon mustard with cream or yogurt, creating a smooth, rich flavor that enhances the savory notes of the salmon.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a touch of acidity. This will help balance the rich, fatty nature of the salmon patties.
Light and Fresh Side Dish Options
Sometimes, a lighter side dish is the best way to balance out a rich meal. when you want something fresh and light? Here are a few ideas.
Summer Pasta Salad
A chilled pasta salad filled with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and peppers is a perfect light side dish for salmon patties. The tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing flavor, while the crisp vegetables provide texture and balance.
This dish works well in warm weather and adds a touch of brightness to your meal, making it feel more balanced and less heavy.
Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables are a great way to add a tangy, acidic element to your meal. Pickles, pickled onions, or pickled carrots add a sharp, crisp contrast to the recipes, cutting through the richness of the fish. The acidity of the pickled vegetables helps cleanse your palate and keeps the meal feeling light and fresh.
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Grilled and Roasted Accompaniments
Grilled or roasted sides add depth of flavor and a bit of smokiness to your meal. Here are some delicious grilled and roasted options.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a sweet and smoky side dish that pairs beautifully with recipes. The natural sweetness of the corn complements the savory salmon, So while the charred edges from the grill add a nice smoky flavor.
You can enhance the corn by brushing it with butter and sprinkling it with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.
Roasted Garlic Bread
For a side dish with a bit of crunch, roasted garlic bread is the perfect choice. The crispy, texture of the roasted garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch to the meal, while the garlic butter provides a rich, savory flavor that complements the salmon patties. The garlic enhances the overall dish without overpowering the subtle flavors of the fish.
Roasting the bread gives it a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender, creating a perfect balance of textures to enjoy with the recipes.
Conclusion: What Goes Well with Salmon Patties?
The answer depends on your taste and what you’re looking for in your meal. Roasted vegetables like broccoli and asparagus add freshness and balance. For a comforting side, mashed potatoes or crispy fries are great options. If you prefer lighter sides, fresh salads and pickled vegetables are perfect.
Sauces can elevate the dish too. Tartar sauce, avocado salsa, or garlic aioli add moisture and flavor to the patties. Each sauce brings a unique taste to complement the salmon.
In the end, there are plenty of choices. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, these sides and sauces will make your recipes patties shine. Try different combinations and enjoy the delicious variety!
For more ideas on making delicious salmon patties, try this salmon cakes recipe.