Side Dishes for Salmon: 50+ Delicious Pairings (Plus My Family Favourites!)

Key Takeaways

• Salmon loves bright, acidic flavours – citrus, vinegar, and fresh herbs cut through its rich, fatty profile beautifully
• Match your sides to your cooking method – grilled salmon pairs differently than baked or pan-seared (I’ll show you how!)
• Quick weeknight sides exist – plenty of 15-minute options that don’t sacrifice flavour (essential when you’re feeding four hungry kids!)
• Balance is everything – pair salmon’s richness with light vegetables, or embrace comfort with creamy potatoes (both work, just differently)
• Season matters – asparagus in spring, roasted root veg in winter – I’ll give you the best seasonal pairings when it comes to side dishes for salmon

Introduction

I cook salmon at least twice a week in our house (four kids = lots of omega-3s needed!), and I’ve learned the hard way that the wrong side dishes for salmon can make this gorgeous fish feel a bit… off. Too heavy and it’s overwhelming. Too bland and the salmon’s lovely flavour gets lonely on the plate.

When we first moved to the UK from Boston, I had to completely rethink how I approached salmon dinners. Back home, everything was massive portions and rich sauces. Here, I’ve learned to love the lighter, fresher approach – though I’ll admit, there are evenings when only a proper creamy mashed potato will do alongside a beautiful piece of salmon.

In this post, I’m sharing over 50 side dishes that I’ve actually cooked and served to my family (and various dinner guests who’ve survived my experimental phases!). I’ve organised them in a way that actually makes sense when you’re standing in your kitchen at 5 PM wondering what on earth to serve with that salmon fillet you defrosted this morning. Some are ready in 15 minutes (because life), some are fancy enough for when the in-laws come round (because stress), and all of them have been tested by possibly the toughest critics on the planet: my four children.

I’ll also share why certain pairings work brilliantly (there’s actual science to it!), how to match sides to your cooking method, and which ones you can prep ahead when you’re organised (I’m rarely organised, but when I am, it’s glorious).

Let’s dive in!

Why These Side Dishes for Salmon actually work (The Tasty Science Bit)

Before we get to the recipes, let’s talk about why salmon plays so nicely with certain flavours. Understanding this has genuinely made me a better cook, and it only takes a minute to grasp.

Salmon is quite a rich, fatty fish – which is brilliant for your health (hello, omega-3 fatty acids!) but means it needs mates on the plate that either complement or contrast that richness.

The two main strategies:

1. Bright & Acidic: Think lemon, vinegar, tomatoes, citrus. These cut through the fattiness like a charm and refresh your palate. This is why you’ll see so many salads and citrus-based sides in this post.
2. Fresh & Herbaceous: Dill, parsley, basil, mint – fresh herbs are salmon’s best friends. They add a brightness that balances the fish’s deep, almost earthy flavour.

You can also go the comfort route with creamy potatoes or rice, which embrace the richness rather than cut it. Both approaches work, just for different moods and occasions.

Here’s something I learned after overcooking salmon approximately 47 times: because salmon can dry out if you’re not careful (or if you’re distracted by a toddler’s latest crisis), pairing it with something slightly saucy or creamy helps mask any… textural issues. Not that I’m speaking from experience or anything.

Pro tip from a frazzled Mom: The absolute easiest way to nail a salmon dinner is to choose ONE bright/fresh side (like a salad or asparagus) and ONE comfort side (like potatoes or rice). This gives you balance, variety on the plate, and keeps everyone happy – including the kid who “doesn’t like green things” and the one who “only eats beige food.”

Right, science lesson over. Let’s get to the good stuff!

Quick Weeknight Sides (15-20 Minutes)

These are my go-to sides when it’s a Tuesday evening, I’ve just collected the kids from school, and dinner needs to be on the table before someone has a complete meltdown (them or me, could go either way).

1. Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Butter

Time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Super easy

This is possibly the most classic salmon pairing in existence, and there’s a reason for that – it just works. The asparagus stays crisp and bright, and a squeeze of lemon with a knob of butter makes it feel a bit special without any faff.

Why it works: Asparagus has a slightly vegetal, fresh flavour that doesn’t compete with the salmon, and the lemon butter echoes the citrus you’ve probably got on the salmon itself.

Mom hack: Buy pre-trimmed asparagus. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive, but on a weeknight, those 3 minutes you save are worth their weight in gold.

Equipment: Large pot for steaming or microwave-safe dish

2. Garlic Green Beans

Time: 12 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Sauté green beans with garlic, a splash of olive oil, and season well. Chuck in some toasted almonds if you’re feeling fancy (or if you’ve actually remembered to buy them).

Why it works: Green beans have a satisfying snap and the garlic adds depth without overwhelming the salmon.

Mistake I made: Don’t steam the beans until they’re mushy. They should still have a proper bite to them – nobody wants sad, soggy beans.

3. Simple Rocket Salad with Balsamic

Time: 5 minutes | Difficulty: Couldn’t be easier

Rocket (arugula if you’re reading this from the States!), good olive oil, balsamic vinegar, shaved parmesan. Done.

Why it works: The peppery rocket stands up to salmon’s rich flavour, and balsamic’s sweet acidity is magic.

Family note: My kids call this “the spicy salad” and pull faces, but they’ll eat it if I let them pick out the parmesan pieces. Choose your battles, right?

4. Garlic Butter Tenderstem Broccoli

Time: 8 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Tenderstem broccoli (or broccolini) pan-fried with butter and garlic. Sometimes I add chilli flakes if the kids aren’t eating it. Or even if they are, because I need some excitement in my life.

Why it works: Tenderstem is elegant, quick-cooking, and the slightly charred bits are delicious.

Prep-ahead tip: You can trim the broccoli in the morning and keep it in a bowl of cold water in the fridge.

5. Buttery New Potatoes with Herbs

Time: 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Baby new potatoes, boiled until tender, drained, then tossed with butter and whatever fresh herbs you have lying about (parsley, chives, dill all work brilliantly).

Why it works: Creamy potatoes are comfort food that balance salmon’s richness without overwhelming it.

Time-saving hack: Use a microwave! Microwave-safe bowl with a lid, add potatoes and a splash of water, 8-10 minutes on high. They’re perfectly done and you haven’t used a pot.

6. Cucumber Salad with Dill

Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 min to chill if you have time) | Difficulty: Very easy

Thinly sliced cucumber, white wine vinegar, a touch of sugar, salt, and loads of fresh dill. This is so refreshing and cuts through rich salmon like a dream.

Why it works: Cool, crisp, acidic – everything rich salmon needs.

Make-ahead winner: This actually gets better after sitting for a few hours, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

7. Sautéed Courgettes (Zucchini)

Time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Sliced courgettes, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper. That’s it. Sometimes simple is best.

Why it works: Courgettes are mild and slightly sweet, letting the salmon shine.

Kid-friendly note: My pickiest eater will actually eat courgettes if they’re cut into rounds and slightly browned. Presentation matters!

Fresh & Light Vegetable Sides

These are perfect for spring and summer, or when you want something that feels healthy and vibrant alongside your salmon.

8. Classic Caprese Salad

Time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, balsamic. Italian simplicity at its finest.

Why it works: The acidity of tomatoes and balsamic cuts richness beautifully.

Serving: 150-200g (5-7 oz) per person as a side

9. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Time: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, roasted until they burst. Absolutely divine and so easy.

Why it works: Roasting concentrates the tomatoes’ sweetness and acidity, making them an ideal salmon companion.

Mom win: Kids love these because they’re sweet and “pop” in your mouth. Sometimes describe them as “tomato candy” and everyone’s happy.

10. Honey-Roasted Carrots

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Carrots, honey, butter, thyme, roasted until caramelised. Sweet, savoury, and gorgeous.

Seasonal note: Best in autumn and winter when carrots are at their peak.

Recipe note: 500g (1 lb) carrots, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons butter

11. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Time: 5 minutes | Difficulty: Very easy

Fresh spinach wilted with garlic and olive oil. Squeeze of lemon at the end.

Why it works: Mild, nutritious, doesn’t compete with salmon.

Quantity note: You need loads of fresh spinach – it reduces down to almost nothing. Plan for 200g (7 oz) per person.

12. Grilled Courgettes and Peppers

Time: 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Especially good if you’re grilling the salmon anyway – chuck the veg on the grill too!

Seasonal: Perfect for summer when courgettes and peppers are abundant.

13. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Halved Brussels sprouts, roasted until crispy, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Why it works: The caramelisation and balsamic sweetness make Brussels sprouts actually delicious (I know, I was shocked too).

Seasonal: Best in autumn and winter.

Kid warning: Mine still won’t touch these, but dinner party guests go mad for them.

Comforting Potato & Starch Sides

Sometimes you just need something cozy and substantial alongside your salmon. These are those times.

14. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy-Medium

The ultimate comfort side. I make mine with butter, cream, and a ridiculous amount of black pepper.

Why it works: Creamy, buttery potatoes embrace salmon’s richness rather than fighting it. Perfect for winter dinners.

Recipe: 900g (2 lbs) potatoes, 100ml (3.5 fl oz or ~1/2 cup) double cream, 50g (1.75 oz or ~3.5 tablespoons) butter

Equipment: Good potato masher or ricer for lump-free results

15. Hasselback Potatoes

Time: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Medium

These look impressive but are actually quite simple. Slice potatoes thinly but not all the way through, drizzle with butter and oil, roast until crispy.

Dinner party winner: These look so fancy that people think you’ve really tried. (I won’t tell if you don’t.)

16. Roasted New Potatoes with Rosemary

Time: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

New potatoes, olive oil, rosemary, salt, roasted until golden and crispy.

Why it works: Crispy potatoes + herb-roasted flavour = happiness.

Prep-ahead: Can be parboiled earlier in the day, then just roast when you need them.

17. Sweet Potato Wedges

Time: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Sweet potatoes, olive oil, paprika, roasted until crispy on the edges.

Why it works: Natural sweetness plays beautifully against salmon’s savoury richness.

Kid-approved: Most children love sweet potato wedges. It’s basically vegetable chips.

Recipe: 2 large sweet potatoes, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika

18. Gratin Dauphinois

Time: 1 hour | Difficulty: Medium

Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and garlic, baked until golden. This is proper indulgence.

Best for: Special occasions, Sunday dinners, when you want to impress

Make-ahead: Can be assembled in the morning and baked when needed.

Warning: This is rich on rich. I only serve this with simply-prepared salmon (like grilled or baked with lemon) to avoid flavour overload.

19. Crushed New Potatoes with Mint

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Boil new potatoes, crush them lightly with a fork, dress with olive oil, mint, and lemon zest.

Why it works: The textural contrast (crispy bits and creamy bits) is divine, and mint is surprisingly lovely with salmon.

Seasonal: Best in spring when new potatoes and fresh mint are everywhere.

20. Potato Salad with Dill

Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time) | Difficulty: Easy-Medium

Mayo-based or vinegar-based, both work with salmon. I prefer the German-style vinegar version as it’s lighter.

Make-ahead winner: Tastes better the next day, so perfect for planning ahead.

Bright Salads & Slaws

These add crunch, freshness, and acidity – everything salmon loves!

21. Classic Coleslaw

Time: 10 minutes (plus 20 min to chill) | Difficulty: Easy

Shredded cabbage and carrot with a tangy dressing. Sounds basic, but it’s brilliant with salmon.

Why it works: Crunchy, acidic, refreshing – cuts through richness perfectly.

Make-ahead: Gets better after sitting, so make it in advance.

22. Asian-Style Slaw

Time: 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Red cabbage, edamame, carrots, sesame dressing. Particularly good with soy-glazed or teriyaki salmon.

Flavour matching: Save this for Asian-style salmon preparations.

23. Greek Salad

Time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Very easy

Cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, olives, olive oil, oregano.

Why it works: Mediterranean flavours love Mediterranean fish like salmon!

Serving: Works beautifully with grilled salmon in summer.

24. Arugula (Rocket) and Parmesan Salad

Time: 5 minutes | Difficulty: Very easy

Peppery rocket, shaved parmesan, lemon dressing. Simple and sophisticated.

Why it works: Rocket’s peppery bite balances salmon’s richness.

25. Quinoa Salad with Herbs

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy-Medium

Cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, herbs, lemon dressing. Filling and nutritious.

Why it works: Quinoa is light enough not to overwhelm, but substantial enough to make a meal.

Meal prep: Quinoa salad keeps for days, so great for batch cooking.

Recipe: 200g (7 oz or 1 cup) quinoa, makes enough for 4-6 servings

Grains & Rice Dishes

When you need something a bit more substantial to round out the meal.

26. Lemon Herb Rice

Time: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest, parsley, and a bit of butter.

Why it works: Light, fragrant, doesn’t compete with salmon.

Recipe: 300g (10.5 oz or 1.5 cups) long-grain rice, zest of 1 lemon, handful of parsley

27. Wild Rice Pilaf

Time: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Wild rice with toasted nuts, dried cranberries, and herbs. Nutty and sophisticated.

Best for: Autumn and winter dinners, dinner parties

Make-ahead: Reheats beautifully, so you can make it ahead.

28. Coconut Rice

Time: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Rice cooked in coconut milk. Subtly sweet and creamy – particularly good with Asian-glazed salmon.

Flavour matching: Save for Thai or Asian-inspired salmon dishes.

29. Orzo with Peas and Mint

Time: 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy

Orzo pasta, peas, mint, lemon, parmesan. Fresh and springy.

Seasonal: Best in spring when peas are sweet and mint is fresh.

30. Couscous with Roasted Vegetables

Time: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy-Medium

Couscous with roasted courgettes, peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

Why it works: Mediterranean flavours, substantial but not heavy.

Impressive Dinner Party Sides

When you’re trying to look like you know what you’re doing (even if you’re secretly panicking).

31. Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Time: 20 minutes | Difficulty: Medium

This is proper fancy, but worth it for special occasions.

Make-ahead: Asparagus can be prepped ahead; make hollandaise just before serving.

Warning: Hollandaise can split if you’re not careful. I’ve made it successfully exactly 3 times. But when it works, people think you’re a culinary genius.

32. Truffle Mac and Cheese

Time: 35 minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Indulgent, rich, and absolutely delicious. Just a drizzle of truffle oil transforms regular mac and cheese.

Serving note: Small portions! This is rich alongside salmon.

Best with: Simply-prepared salmon to balance the richness.

33. Ratatouille

Time: 45 minutes | Difficulty: Medium

Classic French vegetable stew. Beautiful, colourful, and impressive.

Make-ahead winner: Tastes even better the next day.

Seasonal: Best in summer when courgettes, aubergines, and tomatoes are abundant.

34. Beetroot and Goat Cheese Salad

Time: 40 minutes (mostly roasting time) | Difficulty: Medium

Roasted beetroot, goat cheese, walnuts, leaves, balsamic dressing.

Why it works: Earthy sweetness, creamy cheese, crunchy nuts – textural wonderland.

Prep-ahead: Roast beetroot ahead of time, assemble when needed.

35. Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad

Time: 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy-Medium

Grilled peaches, burrata cheese, rocket, balsamic. Stunning and summery.

Seasonal: Only works in summer when peaches are ripe and gorgeous.

Dinner party gold: This looks absolutely beautiful on the plate.

Pairing Sides by Cooking Method

Here’s something that took me ages to figure out: different salmon cooking methods pair better with different sides!

For Grilled Salmon:

• Fresh salads (won’t heat up your kitchen more)
• Grilled vegetables (same cooking method)
• Cold potato salad
• Slaws

For Baked Salmon:

• Roasted vegetables (can go in the oven together)
• Hasselback potatoes
• Gratin dauphinois
• Roasted cherry tomatoes

For Pan-Seared Salmon:

• Quick sautéed greens
• Mashed potatoes (while salmon rests)
• Sautéed courgettes
• Garlic green beans

For Poached Salmon:

• Light salads
• Cucumber salad
• New potatoes with herbs
• Asparagus

Seasonal Pairing Guide

Spring

• Asparagus (it’s in season!)
• New potatoes with mint
• Peas and broad beans
• Fresh herb salads
• Baby spinach

Summer

• Grilled vegetables
• Fresh tomato salads
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber salad
• Grilled peaches with burrata

Autumn

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Honey-roasted carrots
• Wild rice pilaf
• Beetroot and goat cheese salad
• Sweet potato wedges

Winter

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted root vegetables
• Gratin dauphinois
• Hearty grain salads
• Braised winter greens

More Brilliant Sides (Because 35 Isn’t Enough!)

36. Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini

Time: 30 minutes | Why it works: Nutty, slightly sweet, gorgeous texture

37. Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic

Time: 10 minutes | Why it works: Earthy richness complements salmon

38. Grilled Aubergine (Eggplant)

Time: 20 minutes | Best for: Mediterranean-style salmon dishes

39. Panzanella (Bread Salad)

Time: 15 minutes | Seasonal: Summer tomato season

40. Fennel and Orange Salad

Time: 10 minutes | Why it works: Bright, citrusy, slightly anise flavour

41. Roasted Radishes

Time: 20 minutes | Unexpected: Roasting mellows their bite

42. Barley Risotto

Time: 35 minutes | Best for: Dinner parties, hearty winter meals

43. Charred Corn Salad

Time: 15 minutes | Seasonal: Summer sweet corn

44. Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Salad

Time: 35 minutes (mostly roasting) | Make-ahead: Excellent prepared in advance

45. Garlicky Kale

Time: 10 minutes | Nutritional powerhouse: Pairs brilliantly with salmon

46. Braised Leeks

Time: 25 minutes | Elegant: Perfect for dinner parties

47. Roasted Parsnips with Honey

Time: 35 minutes | Seasonal: Autumn and winter star

48. Tabbouleh

Time: 15 minutes | Fresh: Herb-packed, Mediterranean delight

49. Sugar Snap Peas with Butter

Time: 5 minutes | Quick: Perfect weeknight side

50. Warm Lentil Salad

Time: 30 minutes | Filling: Makes the meal more substantial

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best side dish for salmon?

The absolute best side dish for salmon depends on how you’re cooking it and the season, but if I had to choose one versatile winner, I’d say steamed asparagus with lemon butter. It’s classic for a reason – quick to prepare, complements salmon’s richness without overwhelming it, and works with any salmon cooking method. The bright acidity from the lemon cuts through the fish’s natural oils beautifully, while the butter adds a touch of indulgence. Plus, it looks elegant on the plate without requiring any real skill to prepare, which is essential when you’re a harried Mom trying to get dinner on the table!

What flavours go well with salmon?

Salmon pairs brilliantly with bright, acidic flavours like lemon, lime, and vinegar, which cut through its rich, fatty profile. Fresh herbs are also salmon’s best friends – dill is the classic choice, but parsley, basil, chives, and mint all work wonderfully. I’ve found that garlic, ginger, and soy sauce create a delicious Asian-inspired combination, while capers, tomatoes, and olives give you that Mediterranean vibe. For a bit of sweetness, honey, maple syrup, or balsamic glaze are gorgeous. The key is balancing salmon’s richness with something that either contrasts (bright and acidic) or complements (creamy and buttery) – both approaches work brilliantly.

What vegetables go best with salmon?

Asparagus is the undisputed champion and pairs beautifully with salmon in any season. Other excellent choices include green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts (roasted until crispy), courgettes, and spinach. For something more substantial, roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or beetroot are lovely. In summer, grilled courgettes, peppers, and cherry tomatoes are gorgeous, while winter calls for heartier options like roasted cauliflower or braised leeks. I’ve learned that the best vegetable sides for salmon are those that don’t compete with the fish’s delicate flavour but instead provide a fresh, bright contrast or a comforting, earthy complement.

Can I serve pasta with salmon?

Absolutely! While it’s not a traditional pairing in British cooking, pasta works wonderfully with salmon. Light options like orzo with peas and herbs or a simple lemon butter pasta are brilliant choices that won’t overwhelm the fish. Creamy pasta dishes can work too, but I’d keep them lighter – think mascarpone rather than double cream. My Italian friend Elena (whose recipes I adore) does a stunning salmon pasta with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil that my family requests constantly. The key is keeping the pasta relatively light and fresh so it complements rather than competes with the salmon.

What sides go with grilled salmon?

Grilled salmon loves sides that are fresh and won’t heat up your kitchen further! I always opt for salads (Greek salad, coleslaw, or a simple rocket and parmesan salad), cold sides like potato salad or cucumber salad, or other grilled vegetables that can go on the barbecue alongside the salmon – courgettes, peppers, and asparagus all grill beautifully. In summer, a fresh tomato and mozzarella salad is perfect, or try an Asian-style slaw if you’ve glazed the salmon with teriyaki or soy sauce. The beauty of grilling is that it adds so much flavour to the salmon, so your sides can be quite simple and let the fish shine.

How do I make a complete balanced meal with salmon?

Creating a balanced salmon meal is easier than you might think! Salmon itself is packed with protein and healthy omega-3 fats, so you’ve already got that covered. Add one serving of vegetables (about 80-100g or 2.8-3.5 oz per person) – this could be steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a fresh salad. Then include a complex carbohydrate like new potatoes, rice, quinoa, or sweet potato (about 150-200g or 5-7 oz cooked weight per person). This combination gives you a nutritionally complete plate with protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and carbs. For reference, a portion of salmon is typically 100-150g (3.5-5.3 oz) per person. The NHS recommends we eat at least two portions of fish a week, including one oily fish like salmon, so you’re doing brilliantly for your family!

What are the quickest sides to make with salmon?

When you’re racing against the clock (story of my life with four kids!), the absolute quickest sides are simple salads – a rocket and parmesan salad takes literally 5 minutes. Steamed asparagus or green beans are done in 8-10 minutes, and sautéed spinach with garlic takes about 5 minutes. Microwave baby potatoes in 8-10 minutes, then toss with butter and herbs. If you’ve got slightly more time (15 minutes), cucumber salad or a quick coleslaw are brilliant and actually taste better if you make them in the morning before the chaos begins. For the truly desperate evenings, I’ve served salmon with just a bag of salad leaves dressed with good olive oil and balsamic – and nobody complained!

Can I make sides ahead of time for a salmon dinner?

Yes, and this is an absolute lifesaver for dinner parties or when you’re trying to look more organised than you actually are! Potato salad, coleslaw, and cucumber salad all taste better when made ahead – I often prep these the morning of or even the day before. Roasted beetroot can be done in advance and assembled into a salad when needed. Grain salads like quinoa or wild rice pilaf keep beautifully and can be made 2-3 days ahead. For warm sides, you can prep vegetables in the morning (trim asparagus, chop broccoli, etc.) and store them in the fridge ready to cook. Gratin dauphinois can be assembled hours ahead and just popped in the oven when needed. The only things I wouldn’t make ahead are delicate green salads (they’ll wilt) and any sides with fresh herbs (which lose their oomph after a few hours).

Conclusion

Right, that’s quite a journey through side dishes for salmon isn’t it? I’ve given you over 50 options, from quick weeknight lifesavers to impressive dinner party showstoppers, and hopefully somewhere in there you’ve found a few that sound delicious to you.

The beautiful thing about salmon is how incredibly versatile it is. You can dress it up for a special occasion with gratin dauphinois and asparagus with hollandaise, or keep it simple on a Tuesday with steamed green beans and new potatoes. Both meals are equally valid, and both are delicious.

My biggest piece of advice after cooking salmon approximately 843 times (give or take): don’t overthink it. Choose one fresh/bright side and one comfort side, and you’ll have a balanced, delicious plate that everyone will enjoy. Match your sides to the season when you can (asparagus in spring, roasted root veg in winter), and you’ll always be working with ingredients at their peak.

And remember, if dinner doesn’t go perfectly to plan – if the salmon’s a bit overdone or you forgot to buy the asparagus – there’s always tomorrow. That’s the joy of cooking regularly; you get endless opportunities to try again.

What’s your favourite side to serve with salmon? I’d love to hear what works for your family!

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