Salmon patties are a classic and versatile dish, perfect for serving at any meal of the day. Their combination of savory salmon, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices makes them flavorful and nutritious. But to create a well-rounded meal, it’s essential to pair your salmon patties with the right side dishes. This guide will walk you through a variety of options for what to eat with salmon patties, covering everything from salads and vegetables to hearty grains and creative comfort foods.
This article will help you choose the best sides to complement the rich and savory flavors of salmon patties, ensuring that your meal is both delicious and satisfying.
Why Side Dishes Are Important for Salmon Patties
Choosing the right side dish can significantly elevate your salmon patty meal. The contrast in textures, flavors, and nutritional value of side dishes can bring out the best in the patties, turning a simple dish into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or more filling and indulgent, pairing your patties with complementary sides will enhance the overall dining experience.
Balanced meals also offer greater nutritional benefits. Pairing salmon patties—which are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids—with nutrient-dense sides like fresh salads or roasted vegetables can provide a well-rounded plate packed with vitamins and minerals. For example, a tomato and cucumber salad offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy texture of the patties. You can try a simple, flavorful version with this cucumber and tomato salad recipe.
If you’re aiming for a more hearty meal, roasted or grilled vegetables are another fantastic option. Vegetables like asparagus and tomatoes add depth of flavor and a rich, smoky profile that complements the savory salmon. The grilling process enhances their sweetness and texture, creating the perfect pairing. Learn more about how to prepare them in this grilled asparagus and tomatoes recipe.
The Best Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
1. Fresh Salads
Salads are an excellent option for pairing with salmon patties. Their crisp texture and fresh flavors offer a light contrast to the rich and hearty patties. Salads are also highly customizable, making them a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and flavors into your meal. Here are a few salad ideas:
- Green Salad: A simple green salad made with spinach, arugula, or romaine can offer a refreshing balance to the richness of salmon patties. Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocados for extra texture and flavor, and drizzle with a light vinaigrette or lemon dressing to brighten the dish.
- Broccoli Salad: For a heartier option, consider a broccoli salad with sunflower seeds, raisins, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crunchy broccoli adds texture, while the sweet and savory flavors of the dressing and toppings provide a delicious contrast.
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing option that complements the savory patties. Combine juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with red onions and a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing. This salad adds brightness to your meal while balancing the rich flavors of the salmon.
2. Coleslaw
Coleslaw is another fantastic side dish that works well with salmon patties. Its creamy, tangy flavor adds depth to the meal, while the crunchy cabbage provides a satisfying contrast to the soft texture of the patties. Here’s a quick recipe for a classic coleslaw:
- Ingredients: Shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Method: Mix the shredded cabbage and carrots with the dressing ingredients (mayonnaise, vinegar, and lemon juice). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a twist, you can add pineapple chunks to your coleslaw to give it a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory salmon patties.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making them a great pairing with salmon patties. The caramelization from roasting adds complexity to the vegetables, while their crisp-tender texture contrasts nicely with the patties. Popular choices include:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Brussels sprouts have a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the richness of the salmon.
- Roasted Carrots: Roasting carrots enhances their natural sugars, giving them a sweet, caramelized flavor. Combine with olive oil, garlic, and thyme for a delicious, fragrant side dish.
Roasted vegetables are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste, making them a versatile choice for any meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a popular and delicious side dish to serve with salmon patties. Their natural sweetness provides a wonderful contrast to the savory patties, and their crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch. Here’s how to make healthier baked sweet potato fries:
- Method: Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, coat them lightly with olive oil, and season with rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bake at 425°F until golden and crispy.
- Serving Tip: Pair with a garlic aioli or sriracha mayo for dipping, adding even more flavor to your meal.
Sweet potato fries are not only tasty but also nutritious, offering a dose of vitamins and fiber that enhances the overall healthiness of your meal.
5. Dinner Rolls or Bread
A soft, warm dinner roll or freshly baked bread can complement your salmon patties beautifully. Bread helps to round out the meal and adds a comforting element to the plate. Some bread options to consider include:
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are ideal for soaking up any sauces or dips served with the salmon patties. They add a comforting, hearty component to the meal.
- Brioche Buns: If you’re serving your salmon patties in sandwich form, brioche buns are a great option. Their slightly sweet flavor and soft texture enhance the overall experience.
- Sourdough Bread: For a more rustic option, a slice of toasted sourdough bread can complement the rich flavors of the patties and provide a satisfying crunch.
Whether you choose to serve the bread on the side or as part of a salmon patty sandwich, this addition will make the meal more filling and comforting.
6. Grilled Asparagus and Tomatoes
Grilled asparagus and tomatoes are a light, fresh option that pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavor of salmon patties. The grilling process adds a slight char and enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Here’s how to prepare this side dish:
- Toss asparagus and cherry tomatoes in olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Grill for about 10 minutes, until they are tender and slightly charred.
The vibrant green and red colors of this side dish not only add visual appeal but also contribute a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. For more ideas on how to prepare this delicious pairing, check out this grilled asparagus and tomatoes recipe.
7. Fried Okra
For a Southern-inspired twist, serve your salmon patties with fried okra. The crispy texture of the okra contrasts perfectly with the tender patties, adding a crunchy element to the meal. Here’s a quick recipe for frying okra:
- Slice fresh okra into bite-sized pieces.
- Coat in a cornmeal batter, seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Fried okra offers a unique flavor and texture, making it a fun and flavorful addition to your salmon patty meal.
8. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For a more indulgent side dish, roasted garlic mashed potatoes are an excellent choice. The creamy, buttery texture of the mashed potatoes complements the crispy exterior of the salmon patties, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s how to make them:
- Method: Boil potatoes until soft, then mash them with butter, cream, and roasted garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This classic comfort food is perfect for those looking for a more filling meal. The rich, creamy potatoes balance the lightness of the salmon, making for a well-rounded dish.
9. Rice Pilaf or Quinoa
For a healthy, grain-based side dish, try serving salmon patties with rice pilaf or quinoa. Both grains provide a light, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the patties. Here’s why these grains work well:
- Rice Pilaf: A savory rice dish made with herbs, vegetables, and broth. The buttery, slightly nutty flavor complements the richness of the salmon.
- Quinoa: A protein-rich superfood that is light and fluffy. Quinoa can be mixed with vegetables, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.
These grain options are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a healthy choice to accompany your salmon patties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a good side dish for salmon patties?
Some of the best side dishes for salmon patties include fresh salads, roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, and coleslaw. These sides balance the flavors and textures, making for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
Can you eat salmon patties for breakfast?
Yes, salmon patties can be served for breakfast! Pair them with poached eggs, avocado toast, or even include them in a breakfast sandwich for a protein-packed start to your day.
What sauces go well with salmon patties?
Popular sauces to serve with salmon patties include tartar sauce, lemon-dill yogurt, garlic aioli, and sriracha mayo. These sauces enhance the flavors of the patties and add an extra layer of taste to the meal.
What’s a healthy side for salmon patties?
Healthy sides for salmon patties include grilled vegetables, quinoa, fresh salads, and roasted vegetables. These options are rich in nutrients, making for a balanced and healthy meal.
Can you pair salmon patties with pasta or noodles?
Yes! Light pasta dishes, such as lemon-garlic pasta, pair wonderfully with salmon patties. The lightness of the pasta allows the salmon flavors to shine through, creating a satisfying meal.
Conclusion: Perfect Pairings for Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing like a salad or something hearty like mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries, there’s no shortage of delicious side options to choose from. By pairing your salmon patties with complementary flavors and textures, you can create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
For more ideas and inspiration, be sure to explore other salmon-based recipes like this ultimate salmon cakes recipe, or discover creative ways to use sauces with this burger sauce guide. Happy cooking!