When it comes to planning a delicious dinner, salmon cakes are a fantastic choice. These flavorful patties made from fresh salmon not only provide a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids but also offer a versatile canvas for various side dishes.
Whether you prefer something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, there are plenty of options that pair perfectly with salmon cakes. Let’s explore some delicious ideas to complement your salmon cakes for dinner.
1. Lemon-Dill Sauce
If you’re looking for a bright and tangy accompaniment to your salmon cakes, a homemade lemon-dill sauce is an excellent choice.
To make this zesty sauce, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the citrusy flavor of lemon and the freshness of dill will perfectly complement the richness of the salmon cakes.
2. Fresh Salad
A refreshing salad is always a great choice to serve alongside salmon cakes.
You can create a simple green salad by tossing together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onions. For added texture and flavor, consider including some toasted pine nuts or crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle your favorite vinaigrette over the salad just before serving to keep it light and refreshing.
3. Roasted Vegetables
If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, roasted vegetables make an excellent choice.
Tossing vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant in olive oil and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary before roasting them in the oven will bring out their natural sweetness and enhance their flavors. The caramelized edges of the roasted vegetables will provide a delicious contrast to the tender salmon cakes.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For a classic and comforting side dish, garlic mashed potatoes are an ideal choice.
Boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash them with butter, warm milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. The creamy and garlicky mashed potatoes will create a delightful combination with the crispy exterior and flaky interior of the salmon cakes.
5. Grilled Asparagus
If you’re planning a summer dinner or simply enjoy grilling, grilled asparagus is an excellent option to serve alongside your salmon cakes.
Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, sprinkle them with salt and pepper, then grill them over medium-high heat until they are slightly charred and tender. The smoky flavor of the grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with the savory taste of the salmon cakes.
6. Quinoa Salad
For a nutritious and filling option, consider serving a quinoa salad alongside your salmon cakes.
Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or mint, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The lightness of the quinoa salad will complement the richness of the salmon cakes perfectly.
With these fantastic options available for pairing with salmon cakes for dinner, you can create a memorable meal that is both delicious and visually appealing. Whether you prefer light and refreshing flavors or hearty accompaniments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy alongside these tasty fish patties.
