When it comes to serving salmon cakes, choosing the right side dishes can elevate the meal and create a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, there are plenty of delicious options that pair perfectly with these savory seafood delights.
1. Lemon-Dill Sauce
A classic accompaniment to salmon cakes is a tangy and refreshing lemon-dill sauce.
The bright citrus flavor of the lemon complements the richness of the salmon, while the aromatic dill adds a delightful herbal note. To make this sauce, simply combine mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Serve it alongside your salmon cakes for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Mixed Green Salad
To lighten up your meal and add some freshness, serve salmon cakes with a simple mixed green salad.
Toss together baby spinach or lettuce leaves with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onions. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or a light lemon dressing for a zesty touch. The crispness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the tender salmon cakes.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are an excellent choice to serve alongside salmon cakes.
The caramelization that occurs during roasting enhances their natural sweetness and brings out their flavors. Consider roasting colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs such as thyme or rosemary. The combination of roasted veggies and savory salmon cakes will make for a satisfying meal.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A comforting side dish that pairs exceptionally well with salmon cakes is garlic mashed potatoes. Creamy and flavorful, these potatoes are a perfect complement to the robust taste of the salmon.
To prepare them, simply boil peeled and diced potatoes until tender. Drain them and mash with butter, garlic cloves, milk, salt, and pepper. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes will nicely balance the crispy exterior of the salmon cakes.
5. Quinoa Pilaf
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional starches, consider serving salmon cakes with quinoa pilaf.
Quinoa is a protein-packed grain that cooks up fluffy and has a slightly nutty flavor. Prepare it as you would cook rice, using vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. For extra taste and texture, mix in sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, and herbs like parsley or cilantro.
6. Steamed Asparagus
For an elegant side dish that complements salmon cakes beautifully, steamed asparagus is an excellent choice.
The tender-crisp texture of asparagus pairs well with the softness of the salmon cakes. Simply steam the asparagus spears until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drizzle them with melted butter or olive oil and season with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious accompaniment.
In Conclusion
The next time you prepare salmon cakes for your meal, consider these delectable side dishes to enhance your dining experience. From tangy lemon-dill sauce to roasted vegetables or creamy garlic mashed potatoes, there’s something for every palate. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing and enjoy a satisfying meal that is both visually engaging and bursting with flavors.
