17 Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Tuscan Salmon

Tuscan salmon is a delicious, flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. With its rich, savory flavors, Tuscan salmon calls for sides that can stand up to and complement its taste. From fresh salads to hearty grains, veggies, and more, the possibilities are endless when looking for the perfect pairings.

In this article we’ll explore 17 mouthwatering side dishes that go great with Tuscan salmon. With options ranging from light and fresh to rich and indulgent, you’re sure to find a new favorite pairing for this Italian-style salmon.

What is Tuscan Salmon?

Tuscan salmon refers to salmon that is prepared with traditional Italian herbs and ingredients like garlic, rosemary, sage, and olive oil. The salmon is often pan seared and served with a Tuscan-inspired sauce made with ingredients like wine, tomatoes, olives, and capers.

The end result is a salmon dish that is bursting with the flavors of Tuscany through its blend of herbs and spices. It has a lovely crisp, caramelized exterior while the interior of the salmon remains moist and tender.

Why Pair it With Complementary Sides?

While Tuscan salmon is delicious all on its own, serving it with thoughtfully chosen side dishes can take the meal to the next level. The right sides can enhance the salmon’s flavors and add even more texture, color, and flair to the plate.

Because the flavor of Tuscan salmon is so strong and bold, it goes best with sides that don’t compete with it. Salmon that is rich can be balanced with sides that are light and fresh. Starchy, hearty sides add even more comfort and satisfaction to the meal.

Now let’s explore some specific options! Here are 17 exceptional side dishes to serve with Tuscan salmon

1. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Roasted broccoli caramelizes and takes on a deep, nutty flavor when cooked. Adding grated Parmesan gives it a savory and salty kick that goes well with Tuscan salmon. The lemon adds brightness to cut through the richness.

2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

For a low-carb, vegetable-based side dish, try creamy cauliflower mash loaded with garlic and butter. The Tuscan flavors will feel right at home with this side.

3. Pasta Primavera

A medley of fresh spring vegetables sautéed with pasta makes for a fresh, vibrant accompaniment to the salmon. Favorites like zucchini, tomatoes, spinach and bell peppers work nicely.

4. Risotto

Creamy risotto provides the perfect bed for a piece of Tuscan salmon. The starchiness of the risotto balances the rich fish beautifully. mushroom risotto is an especially good match.

5. Cacio e Pepe Orzo

This simple orzo dish tossed with cheese, butter, and black pepper is rich and indulgent. It’s just the thing to serve alongside Tuscan salmon. The flavors marry very nicely.

6. Potato Gratin

Creamy, cheesy potato gratin is comfort food at its finest. It provides the satisfying carb- and fat-rich accompaniment that Tuscan salmon craves.

7. Tomato & Mozzarella Salad

For a light Italian-inspired pairing, a salad of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, basil, and balsamic reduction ties in perfectly with the Tuscan salmon. The colors and flavors pop beautifully.

8. Hasselback Potatoes

These accordion-cut baked potatoes turn deliciously crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They hold any topping nicely and pair well with rich mains like Tuscan salmon.

9. Lemony Asparagus

Quick-roasted asparagus with lemon zest, olive oil and parmesan is easy to make and tastes fantastic with Tuscan salmon. The lemon brightens things up.

10. Israeli Couscous

Nutty, hearty Israeli couscous tossed with olive oil, tomatoes, spinach and feta makes a delicious Mediterranean-inspired pairing for the salmon.

11. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Shredded and pan-fried Brussels sprouts develop an irresistibly crispy, caramelized exterior. Their sweet, nutty flavor balances the salmon beautifully.

12. Creamy Polenta

Smooth, creamy polenta is the perfect blank canvas for Tuscan salmon. The simple starch soaks up the salmon’s wonderful juices and sauce.

13. Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with fresh, hot garlic bread alongside a great salmon dish. The rich, buttery loaf adds pure comfort and satisfaction.

14. Rice Pilaf

Simple rice pilaf made Tuscan-inspired by sautéing it with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, basil and a dash of red pepper flake ties everything together.

15. Caprese Salad

A classic Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic brings out all the fresh, Italian flavors of the salmon dish.

16. Roasted Vegetable Medley

A medley of oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion adds a rainbow of flavors and textures to complement the salmon.

17. Pesto Pasta

Pasta tossed in a simple pesto sauce makes a quick and tasty pairing for Tuscan salmon. The basil and garlic flavors naturally work well together.

Putting it All Together

The possibilities are endless when it comes to finding the perfect side for Tuscan salmon. Using fresh, seasonal vegetables, whole grains, pasta, rice, salads and more, you can create a beautifully balanced meal.

Keep flavor profiles and textures in mind when selecting your sides. Bright, fresh sides help to cut through the rich salmon flavors. Hearty starches provide comfort and satisfaction alongside the fish.

While the salmon itself only requires a quick pan-sear, look to your sides to add extra flair, color and aesthetic appeal to the whole plate. Opt for fresh, vibrant colors and a mix of textures. Add any final garnishes or sauces just before serving.

Finally, consider the overall balance of nutrition you want from the full meal. Pair lighter sides with heavier mains, and vice versa.

With so many options to choose from, get creative and have fun finding your perfect Tuscan salmon side pairing. The possibilities are endless!