14 Easy Summer Sides to Pair with Salmon (2024)

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Now, let's delve into the intricacies of the article on salmon and its delectable pairings with various veggie side dishes. The author presents an array of enticing options, each designed to complement the richness of salmon while celebrating the flavors of summer. Here's a breakdown of the concepts mentioned in the article:

1. Creamy Cucumber Salad:

   • This refreshing side dish features cucumbers and red onions dressed in a creamy mixture of dill and white-wine vinegar.
   • The author emphasizes enjoying the salad the day it's prepared to maintain its freshness and prevent ingredients from turning watery.

2. Cauliflower Rice:

   • The article introduces a creative twist on rice by pulsing cauliflower in a food processor, transforming it into a rice-like texture.
   • The cauliflower rice is then turned into an herbed pilaf, providing a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.

3. Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots:

   • Roasting carrots in the oven enhances their inherent sweetness, while garlic and Parmesan add a savory flavor profile.
   • This easy side dish brings out the best in carrots, creating a delicious accompaniment to salmon.

4. Roasted Broccoli & Cauliflower:

   • The author suggests roasting broccoli and cauliflower with just the right amount of seasonings to achieve a perfect balance of flavors and a slight char from the oven.

5. Air-Fryer Corn on the Cob:

   • A simple method for cooking sweet corn in the air fryer, smothered in butter, salt, and pepper, or any preferred spice blend.

6. Spinach Salad with Ginger-Soy Dressing:

   • A spinach salad inspired by Japanese steakhouse salads, tossed with a spunky ginger dressing, offering a light and flavorful option for pairing with salmon.

7. Air-Fryer Zucchini:

   • Zucchini crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, with a creamy and soft interior and a crispy exterior. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and tang.

8. Vinaigrette Coleslaw:

   • A versatile coleslaw recipe that can be made with broccoli slaw mix instead of traditional coleslaw mix, providing a crunchy and tangy side dish.

9. Air-Fryer Asparagus:

   • Utilizing the air fryer to crisp up tender asparagus, offering a simple and quick side dish that pairs well with salmon.

10. Lemon-Garlic Green Beans:

    • Tender-crisp green beans flavored with shallots, garlic, and tangy lemon, providing a simple yet flavorful green bean side dish.

11. Steamed Broccolini with Creamy Lemon-Caper Sauce:

    • Elevating simple steamed broccolini with a bright and herby sauce inspired by the classic French sauce gribiche.

12. Air-Fryer Carrots:

    • An easy air-fryer carrot recipe featuring a touch of brown sugar and spices, with Parmesan cheese adding a savory note.

13. Air-Fryer Sweet Potatoes:

    • Crisped sweet potatoes from the air fryer, enhanced with ground sumac for tanginess or substitutable with paprika for a delightful spice mix.

14. Charred Sugar Snap Peas with Sesame-Chili Sauce:

    • Sugar snap peas are charred in a skillet to achieve a flavorful and slightly burnt edge, complemented by a sesame-chili sauce.

These diverse side dishes not only showcase a variety of cooking methods but also demonstrate a keen understanding of flavor combinations, making them perfect companions for your next salmon feast.