Salmon patties are a versatile and flavorful seafood dish, beloved for their simplicity and richness. But for many people, the question arises: What are the best sides for salmon patties? Pairing these seafood favorites with the right sides can enhance your meal, balancing flavors and textures to create a complete, satisfying dining experience.
In this article, we’ll explore classic, creative, and international pairings for salmon patties. We’ll also cover sauces and beverages that perfectly complement the dish. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive guide to elevating your meal into a gourmet experience, no matter the occasion.
Why Choosing the Right Sides Is Important
When serving salmon patties, selecting the right accompaniments can make or break the meal. Salmon has a rich, slightly oily flavor that benefits from sides that bring contrast—whether it’s something light and refreshing or bold and hearty. Pairing your dish with the right sides can balance the richness of the salmon and bring out its best qualities.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a dinner party, choosing the perfect sides can elevate your dish. Classic pairings such as potatoes and vegetables are always a hit. Additionally, creative sauces or fresh salads can offer a refreshing twist.
Classic and Popular Side Dishes to Serve With Salmon Patties
Starches: Potatoes, Rice, and Grains
Starches are a staple side dish that pairs wonderfully with the richness of salmon cakes. Whether you prefer potatoes, rice, or grains, these options add a satisfying, filling element to your meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth, buttery contrast to the texture of salmon patties. They are a perfect comfort food side, especially if you want something rich and hearty to complement your meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: If you prefer something with a bit more texture, roasted potatoes are a great option. The crispy edges add a nice contrast to the softness of the patties, while the savory flavor complements the salmon.
- Rice Pilaf: Light and aromatic, rice pilaf adds subtle flavors without overpowering the main dish. The mild seasoning of rice allows the salmon cakes to be the star of the meal while adding a satisfying base.
- Quinoa or Couscous: For those looking for a healthier, more textured option, quinoa or couscous is a great alternative to traditional starches. Both grains offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with salmon.
Fresh Salads for Contrast
A light, crisp salad is a great way to add freshness and balance to the richness of salmon patties. These salads are simple to prepare and provide a refreshing contrast.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate and complements the savory salmon cakes. The freshness of the greens enhances the flavors of the fish without overwhelming it.
- Coleslaw: Tangy and crunchy, coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the soft texture of salmon patties. The vinegar-based dressing provides a nice acidity that cuts through the richness of the salmon.
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A Mediterranean-inspired cucumber and tomato salad adds bright, fresh flavors to your meal. The light and juicy ingredients offer a refreshing counterpart to the fish.
Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
Vegetables are a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course, including salmon cakes. Whether roasted or steamed, they add color, flavor, and texture to your plate.
- Asparagus: Roasted or steamed asparagus is a simple, elegant side that pairs beautifully with salmon patties. The slightly bitter taste of asparagus complements the richness of the salmon, making it a well-balanced side.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty, caramelized flavor that enhances the savory notes of salmon patties. Their crispy outer layers and tender inside provide a satisfying texture contrast.
- Green Beans: Light and crisp, green beans offer a refreshing and healthy addition to your meal. They can be steamed, sautéed, or roasted depending on your preference, making them a versatile side dish.
Light and Creamy Sauces
Sauces can elevate your salmon patties, adding a new layer of flavor and richness. Whether you prefer a classic tartar sauce or a creamy dill sauce, the right condiment can make all the difference.
- Tartar Sauce: This classic seafood sauce adds a tangy, creamy element to the dish, balancing out the flavors of the salmon. Its combination of pickles, lemon, and mayo provides a burst of flavor.
- Dill Sauce: A light, herby dill sauce offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of salmon patties. The delicate flavor of dill pairs perfectly with seafood.
- Lemon Garlic Aioli: Creamy and citrusy, lemon garlic aioli adds a zesty punch to your salmon cakes. The garlic brings a savory depth, while the lemon brightens the flavors.
Creative and Unique Pairings for Salmon Patties
While classic sides are always a reliable option, sometimes it’s fun to experiment with more unique pairings. Adding a creative side dish can turn a simple meal into a culinary adventure.
Bold and Flavorful Side Dishes
If you want to add a punch of flavor to your meal, consider these bold side dishes that pair wonderfully with salmon cakes.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the savory salmon patties. The crispy exterior and soft interior make them a delightful, unexpected side.
- Cornbread: Cornbread adds a slightly sweet, soft texture to the meal. It’s a great way to incorporate Southern flavors into your dish, providing both comfort and complexity.
- Couscous Salad: A Mediterranean-inspired couscous salad with herbs, lemon, and cucumber adds a refreshing, zesty flavor that complements the fish. It’s light but flavorful, perfect for warm-weather meals.
International Inspirations
Incorporating international flavors into your meal can bring a new dimension to your salmon patties. Here are some globally-inspired sides that work exceptionally well.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: With ingredients like sesame oil, ginger, and soy, this slaw adds an exotic flair to your salmon cakes. The bold flavors of the dressing and the crunchy texture of the slaw provide a unique twist.
- Greek Yogurt and Cucumber Dip: Inspired by tzatziki, this dip offers a creamy, cooling contrast to the rich salmon patties. It’s a simple side but packs a flavorful punch with cucumber and garlic.
- Pineapple Salsa: For a sweet and spicy option, try pineapple salsa. The tropical fruit pairs perfectly with the savory fish, adding sweetness, spice, and acidity in every bite.
Bread and Rolls
Bread is often an overlooked side, but it can be the perfect companion to salmon patties, especially if you’re serving them at a more formal event.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting element to your meal. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce or simply enjoying with the salmon patties.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a classic choice for any meal, and they pair nicely with salmon patties. They help balance out the richness of the dish and are great for creating mini sandwiches.
- Ciabatta or Sourdough: Rustic bread like ciabatta or sourdough adds a hearty texture to the meal. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for a more robust side dish to accompany the patties.
What to Drink With Salmon Patties
Pairing the right beverage with your salmon patties can elevate your meal even further. Here are a few options that complement the flavors of the dish.
Wine Pairings
- White Wine: A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is an excellent choice for salmon cakes. The acidity in the wine helps balance the richness of the salmon.
- Rosé Wine: Rosé is a versatile wine that pairs well with both the richness of the salmon and the brightness of side salads or sauces. It’s a perfect choice for summer meals.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, particularly with lemon, provides a light and cooling contrast to the warm, savory salmon patties.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a hint of lemon adds a bubbly, citrusy element that refreshes the palate.
FAQs
How Do You Keep Salmon Patties From Falling Apart?
The key to keeping salmon patties intact is ensuring you have the right balance of binding ingredients. Eggs and breadcrumbs are typically used to help bind the mixture together. Additionally, letting the patties chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes before frying can help them firm up and hold their shape.
What Sauce Goes Well With Salmon Patties?
Several sauces complement the flavors of salmon patties, including classic tartar sauce, lemon garlic aioli, and creamy dill sauce. These sauces add a layer of richness and brightness that balances the savory notes of the salmon.
Can You Make Salmon Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make salmon patties ahead of time. You can form the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook the patties and reheat them later. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
How Do You Serve Salmon Patties for a Special Occasion?
For special occasions, you can elevate your salmon cakes by pairing them with gourmet side dishes such as roasted asparagus, a quinoa salad, and a sophisticated sauce like lemon dill aioli. Plating the patties with a garnish of fresh herbs or citrus slices also adds a refined touch.
Conclusion
Salmon patties are a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. From classic options like mashed potatoes and green beans to more creative sides such as sweet potato fries and pineapple salsa, there are endless ways to complement the flavors of your salmon cakes. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special event, the right pairings can transform your meal into a gourmet experience.