What to Serve with Blackened Salmon (Ideas)

When it comes to serving blackened salmon, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal to a whole new level. The rich and flavorful taste of blackened salmon calls for complementary accompaniments that enhance its flavors without overpowering them. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy options or healthier alternatives, we’ve got you covered with a variety of delicious side dish ideas.

Key Takeaways:

• Choosing the right side dishes is essential to complement the flavors of blackened salmon.
• Simple and flavorful options like grains, salads, vegetables, and casseroles work well.
• Consider trying a twist on a classic Caesar salad with kale and crispy cheese topping.
• Creole sugar snap peas cooked in a zesty butter sauce add a burst of flavor to the meal.
• A honey mustard grain bowl offers a tangy and protein-packed option for a quick and healthy side.
• Grilled asparagus pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of blackened salmon.
• A refreshing lemon-dill potato salad with a lively vinaigrette is a perfect pairing.

Now that you have an array of options, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal with blackened salmon and these delicious side dishes. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy recipes or healthier alternatives, these ideas will surely enhance your dining experience. Try them out and enjoy the flavorful combination of blackened salmon and its perfect side dish companions.

Kale Caesar Salad

A fancy twist on a classic Caesar salad, this dish features kale and salmon. The crispy and cheesy sprinkle on top adds a delightful crunch. It’s a perfect side dish to enhance the flavors of blackened salmon.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of kale, washed and chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4-6 ounces of blackened salmon fillets, cooked and flaked
• 1 cup croutons
• Caesar dressing
• Pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale, Parmesan cheese, and blackened salmon.
2. Add the croutons and drizzle with Caesar dressing.
3. Toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated.
4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

With its combination of fresh kale, flavorful salmon, and crispy cheese topping, this Kale Caesar Salad is sure to be a hit at your next meal. The kale provides a hearty and nutritious base, while the blackened salmon adds a delicious protein. The crispy cheese topping adds an extra layer of texture and flavor. Whether you’re serving it alongside blackened salmon or as a standalone dish, this Kale Caesar Salad is a tasty and satisfying option.

Creole Sugar Snap Peas

Enhance your blackened salmon dish with the vibrant flavors of Creole Sugar Snap Peas. These tender snap peas are cooked to perfection in a delicious Creole-seasoned butter sauce, creating a delightful side dish that complements the spicy flavors of the salmon. The sauce is infused with zesty seasoning, crunchy almonds, and a hint of orange juice, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

Here’s a quick and easy recipe to prepare Creole Sugar Snap Peas:

1. Ingredients:

• 1 pound of sugar snap peas
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of sliced almonds
• 1 teaspoon of Creole seasoning
• 1 tablespoon of orange juice
• Orange zest for garnish

• 1. Trim the ends of the sugar snap peas and remove any strings.
• 2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• 3. Add the sliced almonds to the skillet and sauté until golden brown.
• 4. Add the sugar snap peas to the skillet and sprinkle with Creole seasoning.
• 5. Cook the snap peas for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are crisp-tender.
• 6. Drizzle the orange juice over the snap peas and toss to coat.
• 7. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh orange zest.
• 8. Serve hot and enjoy alongside your blackened salmon.

Cooking Tips:

For an extra burst of citrus flavor, you can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to the Creole Sugar Snap Peas. The bright acidity will beautifully balance the richness of the butter sauce.

Honey Mustard Grain Bowl

This hearty grain bowl is the perfect accompaniment to blackened salmon. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, it makes for a quick and healthy side dish. The star of this bowl is the easy honey-mustard dressing, which adds a tangy and sweet kick to the dish. The combination of grains, vegetables, and proteins creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

1. Start by cooking your favorite grains like quinoa, brown rice, or farro according to package instructions.
2. While the grains are cooking, prepare the dressing by mixing together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a splash of olive oil.
3. Once the grains are cooked, transfer them to a bowl and toss them with the honey-mustard dressing until well coated.
4. Add your choice of protein to the bowl. Grilled chicken, roasted tofu, or, of course, blackened salmon all work great.
5. Next, add a variety of fresh vegetables for added crunch and nutrition. Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and chopped bell peppers are all excellent choices.
6. Finish off the bowl with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor. Sunflower seeds or toasted almonds work well.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.

This honey mustard grain bowl is not only delicious but also provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. It’s a complete meal in itself and is perfect for any time of the day.

Whether you’re looking for an easy salad dressing, a tasty protein-packed meal, or a flavorful side dish, this honey mustard grain bowl has got you covered. It’s versatile, customizable, and can be ready in just 20 minutes. Enjoy it alongside your favorite blackened salmon for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Grilled Asparagus

If you’re grilling your salmon, why not throw some vegetables on the grill too? Grilled asparagus is a great option. Medium-sized asparagus works best on the grill. It pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of blackened salmon.

Grilling asparagus not only adds a delicious charred flavor but also gives it a tender-crisp texture. Follow these best grilling tips to get that perfectly grilled asparagus:

• Choose seasonal medium-sized asparagus for the best flavor and texture.
• Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
• Place the asparagus directly on the grill grates and cook for about 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
• Remove from the grill and serve as a delightful side dish with your blackened salmon.

Grilled asparagus not only adds a pop of vibrant green to your plate but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber. It’s a perfect way to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your meal.

Benefits of Grilled Asparagus:

Grilled asparagus is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here are some key reasons why you should include grilled asparagus in your meals:

1. High in antioxidants: Asparagus is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against harmful free radicals.
2. Excellent source of fiber: Grilled asparagus contains a good amount of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
3. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Asparagus is loaded with essential vitamins such as vitamin A, C, E, and K, along with minerals like folate and potassium.
4. Low in calories: Grilled asparagus is a guilt-free side dish, as it is low in calories but high in flavor.
5. Heart-healthy: Asparagus contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

So, fire up your grill and savor the taste of grilled asparagus alongside your blackened salmon. It’s a winning combination that will impress your taste buds and boost your nutritional intake.

Lemon-Dill Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to serve with blackened salmon, look no further than this delightful Lemon-Dill Potato Salad. The combination of tangy lemon and aromatic dill creates a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich and spicy flavors of the salmon.

The star of this dish is the refreshing vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, and chopped dill. The vinaigrette brings a zesty and tangy element to the creamy potato salad, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Aside from its perfect pairing with blackened salmon, this Lemon-Dill Potato Salad can also be enjoyed as a standalone dish or served as a side with other grilled meats or sandwiches. Its versatile nature makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of baby potatoes, boiled until tender
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Once the baby potatoes are cooked and tender, let them cool down.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Halve or quarter the cooled baby potatoes and place them in a large bowl.
4. Pour the lemon-dill vinaigrette over the potatoes and gently toss until well coated.
5. Refrigerate the potato salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the potato salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Enjoy this refreshing and tangy Lemon-Dill Potato Salad alongside your blackened salmon or other favorite dishes.

Conclusion

When it comes to serving blackened salmon, the options for delicious and healthy side dishes are endless. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing salad, flavorful vegetables, hearty grains, or creamy potato dishes, there is something to suit every palate. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find the perfect pairing for your blackened salmon.

By incorporating these quick and easy recipes into your meal planning, you can elevate the flavors of your blackened salmon and enjoy a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The combination of the rich and smoky flavors of the salmon with the freshness of the sides creates a truly incredible dining experience.

So next time you’re preparing blackened salmon, consider trying out some of the blackened salmon side dish ideas mentioned in this article. Whether it’s the zesty Kale Caesar Salad, the zingy Creole Sugar Snap Peas, the tangy Honey Mustard Grain Bowl, the smoky Grilled Asparagus, or the refreshing Lemon-Dill Potato Salad, you’re sure to find a pairing that will leave you craving for more. Enjoy the delicious and healthy sides that complement your blackened salmon and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.