Anyone who has ever enjoyed a perfectly seared salmon patty knows that the star of the show deserves nothing less than a great supporting cast. That’s where side dishes come in. They not only go well with salmon patties, they take the experience to a whole new level.
Salmon patties are a versatile and budget-friendly main dish that can be dressed up or down with a variety of tasty side dishes. Their mild flavor and flaky texture make salmon patties an ideal base for creative pairings. Whether you want to complement the fish with something fresh and light or rich and hearty there’s an endless array of sides that will bring out the best in your salmon patties.
In this article I’ll share 31 of my favorite side dish recipes to serve with salmon patties. From crispy fries to cool salads and creamy dips, these sides will take your salmon patty meal from boring to brilliant.
Light and Fresh Sides for Salmon Patties
Here are some great choices if you want something bright and cool to go with your salmon cakes:
1. Coleslaw
Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing is a classic pairing. The vinegar cuts through the oiliness of fried salmon patties. Make a simple creamy coleslaw or a zesty vinaigrette-based version.
2. Cucumber Salad
A cucumber salad with sliced onions, dill, and a vinaigrette offers a nice crunch and plenty of fresh flavor. Pickled cucumbers also pair well.
3. Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy homemade croutons, and a rich creamy dressing make an indulgent Caesar salad the perfect side for salmon patties. It balances the oily fish.
4. Green Salad
A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, shredded carrots, and your favorite homemade salad dressing is easy to throw together. The acidic dressing cuts the richness.
5. Fruit Salad
Fresh summer fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and pineapple make a sweet and vibrant fruit salad ideal for serving with salmon patties. The sweetness contrasts the savory fish.
6. Pasta Salad
Chilled pasta salads with veggies and a homemade dressing are tasty potato salad alternatives. Try an Italian-style pasta salad with olives, tomatoes, and Italian dressing.
7. Potato Salad
A classic Southern potato salad made with boiled potatoes, hard boiled eggs, sweet pickles, celery, onion, and mayo is a familiar favorite alongside salmon patties. The starchiness complements the fish.
8. Tabouli
Tabouli is a salad from the Middle East that is made with olive oil, tomato, parsley, bulgur, and lemon juice. It makes a refreshing and protein-packed side for salmon cakes.
Hearty Sides for Salmon Patties
If you’re looking for something more filling and substantial with your salmon patties, consider these satisfying sides:
9. Rice Pilaf
When you mix white or brown rice with seasonal vegetables and make a rice pilaf, it gives the dish texture and heartiness. The rice soaks up any leftover sauce or oil.
10. Quinoa
Fluffy quinoa tossed with sauteed peppers and onions makes a super healthy and protein-rich side dish for salmon patties. Quinoa also works well in a salad.
11. Beans
Serving salmon patties with cooked beans, like black beans or white beans, adds fiber. Try beans seasoned with garlic and cumin.
12. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or Brussels sprouts caramelize when cooked to create a sweet, hearty side. Toss veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.
13. Sauteed Greens
Sauteed spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or other greens in olive oil and garlic add nutrients without overpowering the salmon flavor.
14. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a no-brainer pairing with salmon patties. Potatoes are a blank canvas that soak up flavor.
15. Baked Potatoes
Baked russet or sweet potatoes make a lower-carb alternative to mashed. Top baked potatoes with butter, sour cream, cheese, or bacon.
16. Mac and Cheese
For ultimate comfort food, serve your salmon patties with ooey-gooey homemade macaroni and cheese. The cheese sauce adds decadence.
17. Dinner Rolls
Warm dinner rolls with butter are perfect for dunking into any leftover sauce or gravy from your salmon patties. Rolls make the meal feel extra homey.
Vegetable Sides for Salmon Patties
If you want a veggie-focused side, these options add color and nutrients:
18. Sauteed Green Beans
Quick-sauteed green beans tossed in olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs give a pop of green. Green beans have a satisfying crunch.
19. Buttery Carrots
Glazed carrots bathed in a honey butter sauce are sweet and irresistible. The bright orange color livens up the plate.
20. Roasted Broccoli
Baked broccoli roasted with olive oil, garlic, and breadcrumbs gets crispy and caramelized for the perfect crunch.
21. Sauteed Squash
Saute zucchini, yellow squash, or other summer squash varieties in olive oil with fresh herbs and garlic for a quick veggie side. The mild flavor complements salmon.
22. Creamed Spinach
Chopped spinach cooked in a creamy Parmesan sauce makes an indulgent accompaniment for the salmon patties. The green color heightens the presentation.
23. Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper gets nice and crispy around the edges. The elegant vegetable dresses up a casual salmon patty meal.
24. Sauteed Corn
Saute fresh sweet corn with bell peppers and green onions for a quick corn side full of summer flavor.
25. Roasted Cauliflower
Cauliflower florets roasted with spices like cumin, paprika, and cayenne become caramelized and fragrant. Roast cauliflower and broccoli together for a medley.
Starchy Sides for Salmon Patties
If you prefer a starchy side dish with your salmon cakes, these recipes fit the bill:
26. Creamed Corn
Creamed corn made with fresh or frozen corn, cream, and butter is rich and irresistible. The sweet corn balances the salmon’s briny flavor.
27. Cornbread
Moist cornbread muffins offer a hint of sweetness and plenty of crunch with salmon patties. Add some diced jalapenos for a kick.
28. Corn on the Cob
Buttery grilled corn on the cob lets the sweet corn flavor shine. Eat it right off the cob for an interactive dining experience.
29. Fried Okra
Crispy fried okra provides a nice crunch in contrast to the soft salmon patties. The light breading soaks up any leftover sauce.
30. Hushpuppies
Savory hushpuppies fried up golden brown are ideal for dunking into tartar sauce. Cornmeal gives them great texture.
31. Air Fryer Fries
Crispy
Roasted Eggplant Dip
Roasted eggplant dip is a flavorsome Mediterranean dipping sauce, where smoky eggplant and aromatic spices blend elegantly.
Soft Dinner Rolls
These soft dinner rolls are pillowy and golden, boasting a buttery aroma thats simply irresistible. They are the perfect side dish for salmon patties because they have a soft inside and a slightly crispy outside.
Salmon Patties – Old Fashioned, Southern Recipe!
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