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What to Serve With Barbecued Salmon: 15 Best Side Dishes

Barbecued salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich, smoky flavor. For a invigorating, crisp contrast, try grilled asparagus, simply seasoned with olive oil and salt. Lemon herb rice offers a bright, citrusy counterpoint that balances the richness of the salmon. Quinoa salad, packed with fresh veggies and zesty lemon, adds both nutrition and a delightful crunch. For a comforting touch, garlic mashed potatoes are a creamy favorite. Meanwhile, coleslaw provides a revitalizing, crunchy element that rounds out the meal perfectly. Explore these choices for a truly satisfying dining experience.

Grilled Asparagus

outdoor bbq with friends

Grilled asparagus, with its subtle smokiness and crisp texture, serves as an ideal complement to barbecued salmon.

For an enhanced flavor, consider using a simple asparagus seasoning of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Follow key grilling tips: preheat the grill, arrange asparagus in a single layer, and cook until tender.

This straightforward preparation enhances both the taste and texture of the asparagus.

Lemon Herb Rice

savory lemon herb flavor

Lemon herb rice, with its invigorating citrus notes and aromatic herbs, provides a revitalizing and flavorful side dish that perfectly balances the richness of barbecued salmon.

The addition of citrus zest infuses the rice with a bright, tangy flavor, while fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness.

This harmonious blend of ingredients creates a delightful, complementary pairing that enhances the overall dining experience.

Quinoa Salad

healthy summer dish choice

Another excellent accompaniment to barbecued salmon is a quinoa salad, which offers a nutritious and flavorful option that complements the fish's robust taste.

The health benefits of quinoa, such as high protein and fiber content, make it an ideal side dish.

Flavor combinations like fresh vegetables, zesty lemon, and herbs create a vibrant, satisfying salad that enhances the overall meal experience.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

comforting side dish favorite

Garlic mashed potatoes serve as a comforting and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich taste of barbecued salmon. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the succulent fish, offering a delightful contrast.

Seasoning options, like fresh herbs or a hint of parmesan, can elevate the dish further, making it a versatile and beloved choice for any barbecue meal.

Coleslaw

crunchy cabbage and mayo

Coleslaw provides a revitalizing and crunchy contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of barbecued salmon, making it an ideal side dish for a balanced meal.

Homemade coleslaw offers a fresh taste, and there are numerous coleslaw variations to explore. From classic creamy coleslaw to tangy vinegar-based versions, each adds a unique twist, enhancing the overall dining experience with its crisp texture and vibrant flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

tasty and healthy side dish

Enhancing the crisp texture of coleslaw, roasted Brussels sprouts add a hearty and savory dimension to your barbecued salmon meal.

Tossed in a balsamic glaze and paired with caramelized onions, these sprouts achieve a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Their roasted exterior provides a delightful crunch, making them an ideal accompaniment to the rich, smoky taste of barbecued salmon.

Cucumber Salad

cooling summer cucumber recipe

Why not consider an invigorating cucumber salad to complement the smoky richness of barbecued salmon?

Crisp cucumber paired with a tangy cucumber dressing creates a rejuvenating contrast.

Salad variations can include red onions, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs like dill or mint.

This light, cooling side dish balances the flavors of the salmon beautifully, offering a delightful dining experience.

Sweet Potato Fries

tasty side dish choice

For a heartier accompaniment, consider serving sweet potato fries alongside your barbecued salmon. These fries offer a delightful balance of crispy and sweet, enhancing the savory notes of the salmon.

Experiment with various seasoning options, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to elevate their flavor. Pair them with a range of dipping sauces, from spicy aioli to classic ketchup, for added enjoyment.

Corn on the Cob

juicy kernels of maize

Grilled to perfection, corn on the cob serves as a classic and flavorful complement to barbecued salmon. Using proper grilling techniques, the corn kernels become tender and slightly charred, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Brushed with butter seasoning, the corn achieves a rich, savory taste that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of salmon. This simple yet delicious side dish adds a touch of summer to any meal.

Spinach and Strawberry Salad

delicious and nutritious salad

An invigorating spinach and strawberry salad brings a vibrant and nutritious element to the table, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of barbecued salmon. The leafy greens offer substantial nutritional benefits, while the sweet strawberries create delightful flavor combinations.

This salad not only enhances the meal with its fresh ingredients but also provides a revitalizing contrast, making it a memorable pairing for any barbecue.

Couscous

delicious north african staple

A versatile and quick side dish, couscous provides a light and fluffy complement to the robust flavors of barbecued salmon. Its flavor variations, ranging from lemon zest to herbs, allow for creative pairings.

Preparation tips include using chicken broth instead of water for added depth and fluffing with a fork to maintain its airy texture. Couscous is both simple and satisfying.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

colorful mediterranean pasta dish

Mediterranean Pasta Salad offers an invigorating and lively side dish that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of barbecued salmon. Its vibrant flavor profile, featuring fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, complements the richness of the fish.

With endless ingredient variations, such as adding artichokes or sundried tomatoes, this salad provides customizable options that enhance your meal, creating a delightful and balanced dining experience.

Green Bean Almondine

nutty green bean dish

Green Bean Almondine offers a classic, elegant accompaniment to barbecued salmon. It combines tender green beans with the nutty crunch of toasted almonds. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky taste of the salmon, creating a balanced and refined dish.

Its elegant presentation, with the bright green beans and golden almonds, enhances the visual appeal, making it perfect for any meal.

Caprese Salad

tomatoes mozzarella basil salad

Often celebrated for its simplicity, Caprese Salad provides an invigorating and vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of barbecued salmon.

Fresh tomato slices and creamy mozzarella slices are beautifully paired, topped with aromatic basil leaves.

A balsamic drizzle adds a tangy sweetness, enhancing the dish's rejuvenating quality.

This colorful salad not only delights the palate but also adds a visually pleasing element to your meal.

Can the Same Side Dishes be Served with Barbecued Salmon and Ribs?

Yes, the best side dishes for ribs can also be served with barbecued salmon. Classic choices like coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans complement both meats well. Additionally, grilled vegetables, macaroni and cheese, and potato salad are versatile options that pair nicely with both salmon and ribs.

Ratatouille

cooking rat saves restaurant

Complementing the invigorating Caprese Salad, Ratatouille offers a hearty and flavorful vegetable medley that pairs exceptionally well with barbecued salmon.

Utilizing various cooking techniques, including sautéing and slow-cooking, this dish brings out rich flavors.

For an ideal wine pairing, consider a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir, both of which enhance the dish's vibrant taste and complement the salmon's smoky essence.