Want to know what the best side dishes are to go with fish? This guide will help you out. There are lots of different kinds of sides to go with fish. These range from traditional ones like french fries and coleslaw to healthy ones like sautéed spinach and green beans.
Any seafood dish goes well with these, like poached fish, salmon, fish tacos, and more! Tomato Poached Fish Baked Salmon
Fish is a lean, healthy protein that makes for a light yet satisfying meal However, when it comes to choosing sides to serve alongside your fresh catch, the options can seem endless The key is to pick sides that will complement rather than overwhelm the delicate flavor of the fish. Here are some of the best side dish ideas to serve with white fish, salmon, tuna and more.
Choosing Sides that Complement the Fish
When deciding what makes a good side dish for fish, keep these tips in mind
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Focus on lighter sides Fish has a delicate texture and flavor, so heavy, creamy sides like mac and cheese or loaded mashed potatoes can overpower it Opt for lighter vegetable dishes, grains and salads instead.
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Add color. Fish tend to be neutral in color, so use sides as an opportunity to add vibrant colors to your plate. Bright red tomatoes, orange carrots, green beans and deep purple eggplant are all great options.
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Think fresh and bright. Fish tastes best with fresh produce. Choose sides with lots of crisp, bright vegetables to balance the fish. Citrus flavors like lemon or lime also pair well.
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Consider texture. Sides that contrast the soft flakiness of fish help make the meal more interesting. Crunchy veggies, toasted nuts or crispy roasted potato wedges complement fish perfectly.
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Keep it simple. Fish is the star of the show rather than the sides. Let the fresh catch shine by keeping sides simple, letting their natural flavors come through.
10 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Fish
From roasted veggies to fresh salads and more, here are 10 delicious side dish ideas to serve with any type of fish fillet or seafood:
1. Oven-Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is a classic side for fish. Roasted in the oven, asparagus gets lightly caramelized and develops a sweet, nutty flavor. Its green color and snappy texture make it the perfect complement. Simply toss spears in olive oil, salt and pepper and roast until tender. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top to accentuate the flavors.
2. Hushpuppies
These savory cornmeal fritters pair deliciously with a fish fry. Hushpuppies get their signature crunch from frying up balls of cornmeal batter in hot oil. They provide a crispy, corn-y contrast to flaky white fish. Serve with a sprinkle of salt or dip in melted butter.
3. Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw
With its fresh crunch and bright vinegar flavors, coleslaw is a classic fish pairing. For your own homemade version, thinly slice cabbage, carrots and onion. Toss the veggies with mayo, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper and a bit of sugar. The sweet and tangy flavors offset rich fish beautifully.
4. Zucchini Fritters
Swap starchy potato fritters for lighter, crisp zucchini fritters. Grate zucchini and mix with eggs, flour, parmesan, herbs and sautéed onions. Scoop batter into small cakes and pan fry until browned. Serve atop a tangy yogurt sauce for a tasty fish side.
5. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Protein-packed quinoa and beans, mixed with corn, peppers and onion make the perfect hearty salad for fish tacos or bowls. Dress this fiber-filled side with lime juice and cilantro. The light, fresh flavors won’t overshadow seafood one bit.
6. Pasta Salad with Veggies
Chilled pasta salads pair wonderfully with fish since they won’t weigh down the meal. Toss cooked pasta shells or rotini with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers and your favorite Italian dressing. The pasta soaks up the tangy flavors. Serve chilled or at room temp.
7. Oven Fries
For a crisp, oven-baked version of French fries, cut Russet potatoes into wedges, toss with oil and roast at high heat until browned. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. These oven-baked fries provide the perfect crunchy, starchy accompaniment to fish without deep frying.
8. Fruit and Nut Salad
A light, refreshing fruit salad balances flaky fish well. Mix together cubed melon, berries, citrus segments, grapes and pomegranate arils for a naturally sweet medley. Toasted nuts like almonds or pecans add crunch. Drizzle with a touch of honey and lime dressing.
9. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Wedges of sweet potato roasted until caramelized and tender provide a flavorful, vitamin-packed side for fish. Toss potatoes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper to infuse them with a savory kick that enhances the fish.
10. Rice Pilaf
Simple rice pilafs soaked in savory broth pair perfectly with fish. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then add rice and chicken or veggie broth to cook. Finish off the pilaf with lemon and herbs. Fluffy, flavored rice completes the meal nicely.
Complement Your Fish Fillet Perfectly
Fish comes in endless varieties, so you can always find creative, delicious sides to serve alongside your fresh catch. Focus on bright, light sides that won’t overpower the fish. Tangy slaws, crispy fritters, roasted veggies and fresh salads all make fantastic pairings. Use these suggestions to round out your next fish dinner flawlessly.
So the next time you’re preparing a meal with fish as the main star, don’t let side dish indecision lead to the same boring rice or potatoes. Try out a new vegetable dish, salad or grain instead to beautifully complement seafood. With the right accents, you can craft a well-balanced, flavorful fish-focused feast.
How to Make Ahead and Store
You can make a lot of these fish side dish recipes ahead of time and put them in the fridge or freezer for up to three days. Simply check the individual recipes for full storing instructions and details on how to make ahead.
Delicious Side Dishes for Fish
These are some of my favorite tasty side dish recipes to serve with seafood. I’ll usually pick one based on the type of fish that I’m preparing:
- Fish tacos are amazing with these black beans.
- Grilled salmon calls for some Roasted Sweet Potatoes.
- Fish sticks go well with french fries (don’t forget the tartar sauce!).
- But I really want to serve my sous vide salmon with this Lemon Risotto, which is rich and creamy.
- And fish cakes are great with Vinegar Slaw.
With these easy side dishes and one of these tasty fish sauces, you’re sure to have a delicious and healthy dinner! It’s great for a quick weeknight meal or a dinner party. Baby Potatoes with Butter & Herbs is an elegant, classic way to serve new potatoes. Light on the butter, heavy on the herbs!.
What To Serve With Fish (Side Dish Recipe Ideas)
What is the best side dish for fish?
These are the 25 best side dishes for fish. Choosing the best dish depends on the type of fish. Mild white fish like cod pairs well with bright and punchy sides. Others like salmon have a stronger flavor. So you don’t want to overpower the fish. I also like to serve fish with a tasty sauce. Here are some of my faves:
Is it good to eat fish?
Fish is one of the healthiest foods on earth. It is loaded with important nutrients such as protein and vitamin D. Fish is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are very essential for body and brain growth and development. Some fish are high in mercury, which is related to brain developmental problems. Eating fish lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish may combat depression. Fish and fish products are the best sources of vitamin D. Eating fish has been linked to reduce the risk of type 1 diabetes and several other autoimmune diseases. Eating fish protects vision in old age, preventing age-related macular degeneration(AMD).
What are the best sides for seafood?
Try one of our best sides for seafood – these parmesan baked green beans are the best! Place the green beans in a large mixing bowl and toss with the olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
Should you eat fish on a side?
When it comes to fish, sides are a must. Unlike other meat-mains, fish tends to be lighter and more mild. So a fresh, flavorful dish on the side is always welcome. Whether you’re serving up fresh fish on the grill, baking it from frozen, or pan-frying to perfection, there’s a side dish on this list that will make your fish a meal.