Salmon cakes, sometimes called salmon patties, are a versatile and flavorful dish. Whether made from fresh or canned salmon, these cakes are packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthy choice for any meal. But while the cakes themselves are delicious, the real magic happens when you pair them with the right side dishes.
What do you serve with salmon cakes? This question often arises whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or even meal prepping for the week. In this article, we will explore 10 simple, healthy, and delicious side dishes that not only complement salmon cakes but also cater to various dietary needs, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-carb options. By choosing the right side, you can create a perfectly balanced meal that enhances both the taste and the nutritional value of your salmon cakes.
Why Are Side Dishes So Important When Serving Salmon Cakes?
When preparing a meal centered around salmon cakes, side dishes play a crucial role in creating balance. The rich, slightly oily texture of salmon can be complemented by bright, fresh, or crispy sides. A well-chosen side dish can lighten the meal, bring out the flavors of the salmon, and even contribute to the overall presentation of your plate.
Side dishes not only add variety and flavor but can also elevate the nutritional profile of your meal. For example, pairing salmon cakes with a side salad rich in leafy greens can increase the fiber and vitamin content of your meal, while starchy sides like potatoes or couscous can provide energy-boosting carbohydrates.
Additionally, for those who follow specific dietary plans—whether gluten-free, low-carb, or vegetarian—side dishes offer a way to tailor meals to your needs. With salmon cakes being naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly, the sides you serve can easily be adapted to suit these requirements.
Top 10 Side Dishes to Serve with Salmon Cakes
1. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A fresh, simple salad is the perfect light accompaniment to salmon cakes, especially when you want something that won’t overwhelm the main dish. An arugula salad dressed with a tangy lemon vinaigrette offers a peppery bite that balances the rich, savory flavors of the salmon cakes. Add ingredients like shaved Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and roasted pine nuts to give the salad more texture and flavor.
Why it works: The sharpness of the lemon dressing and the peppery arugula provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy, tender salmon cakes, making for a balanced and flavorful bite every time.
2. Quinoa Salad with Cucumber, Mint, and Feta
Quinoa is often referred to as a superfood, and for good reason. It’s high in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids, making it a fantastic base for a salad that pairs well with salmon cakes. A quinoa salad made with cucumber, fresh mint, and feta cheese brings cool, refreshing, and creamy elements to the meal. Drizzle it with olive oil and fresh lemon juice for a tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.
Why it works: The nutty flavor of quinoa and the refreshing crunch of cucumber balance the richness of the salmon cakes, while the feta adds a creamy, salty touch that complements the overall dish.
3. Garlic Butter Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus is a popular vegetable side dish, especially when paired with fish or seafood. Roasting asparagus in garlic butter adds a richness to the vegetable, while also enhancing its natural flavor. The asparagus can be roasted until tender but still slightly crisp, providing a wonderful contrast to the soft texture of salmon cakes. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest or Parmesan cheese over the top to add a bit more flavor.
Why it works: The savory garlic butter complements the umami of the salmon cakes, while the bright, fresh asparagus adds a light, crispy texture to the meal. Plus, asparagus is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin K, and folate, making it a healthy addition to your plate.
4. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try creamy mashed cauliflower. This dish is easy to prepare, healthy, and pairs perfectly with salmon cakes. Start by steaming cauliflower florets until soft, then mash them with butter, cream, and garlic for a smooth, fluffy texture. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Why it works: The creamy texture of the cauliflower complements the crispy exterior of the salmon cakes, creating a perfect balance of soft and crunchy. Mashed cauliflower also offers a lower-calorie, lower-carb option without sacrificing flavor.
5. Lemon Dill Couscous
Couscous is a quick-cooking grain that works well with seafood dishes like salmon cakes. It’s light, fluffy, and can be flavored with herbs, citrus, or nuts to enhance its flavor. A simple lemon-dill couscous, made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil, pairs beautifully with the savory, rich taste of the salmon. You can also add almonds or dried cranberries for an extra layer of texture and sweetness.
Why it works: The citrusy zing from the lemon and the freshness of the dill bring out the flavors of the salmon cakes, while the couscous itself is light and fluffy, allowing the salmon to remain the star of the dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic Glaze
Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions, are another excellent side dish to pair with salmon cakes. Grilling the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a bit of smoky flavor, which pairs nicely with the rich, savory salmon cakes. Drizzle the grilled vegetables with a balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity that rounds out the meal.
Why it works: The caramelized edges of the grilled vegetables offer a smoky-sweet flavor that complements the salmon, while the balsamic glaze adds an additional layer of sweetness and tang. Plus, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make for an appealing presentation.
7. Sweet Potato Fries
For a side dish that adds a bit of fun to your meal, try serving salmon cakes with sweet potato fries. These fries are naturally sweet, making them an excellent contrast to the savory flavors of the salmon. They can be baked or air-fried for a crispy exterior and soft interior. Season the fries with sea salt, paprika, and cinnamon for an extra depth of flavor.
Why it works: The sweet and savory combination of sweet potato fries and salmon cakes creates a balanced meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Sweet potatoes are also rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy side option.
8. Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic French dish made by sautéing green beans with almonds and butter. The green beans are crisp-tender, and the almonds add a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, flaky texture of salmon cakes. You can also add garlic or lemon zest to the dish for an extra boost of flavor.
Why it works: The fresh, crisp green beans and the crunchy almonds offer a refreshing and textural contrast to the salmon cakes, while the butter adds richness. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that complements the main course without overpowering it.
9. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly, protein-packed side dish, Mediterranean chickpea salad is the way to go. Made with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese, this salad is bursting with flavor. Drizzle with a lemon-olive oil dressing for a light and refreshing finish.
Why it works: The vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean ingredients, like olives and feta, bring a briny, tangy element to the meal that pairs perfectly with the richness of the salmon cakes. Plus, chickpeas add extra protein and fiber, making this a filling and nutritious side dish.
10. Dill Pickle Potato Salad
If you’re craving something more indulgent, a dill pickle potato salad might be the perfect choice. This creamy, tangy side dish is made with boiled potatoes, dill pickles, onions, and a mayonnaise-based dressing. The pickle juice adds a bright acidity that balances out the rich salmon cakes.
Why it works: The tangy dill pickles and creamy potatoes create a comforting and flavorful side dish that contrasts with the savory, crispy salmon cakes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works well for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners.
The Nutritional Benefits of Salmon Cakes and Their Side Dishes
Salmon is one of the healthiest fish you can eat, thanks to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and reducing inflammation. Salmon is also an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins, making it a nutritional powerhouse.
Pairing salmon cakes with
nutrient-dense side dishes only amplifies the health benefits of the meal. Here are some nutritional highlights of popular sides:
- Arugula Salad: Arugula is rich in vitamin K, which supports bone health, and vitamin A, which promotes eye health.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also a great source of fiber, magnesium, and iron.
- Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus is high in folate, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting heart and digestive health.
- Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes is packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
Each of these side dishes contributes to a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Pairing your salmon cakes with these sides ensures that you’re getting a variety of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, all while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Salmon Cakes for Different Dietary Needs
One of the great things about salmon cakes is that they are incredibly adaptable to different dietary needs. Salmon itself is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with nutrients. Depending on the ingredients you use to bind the salmon cakes (such as gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour), the dish can easily be tailored to fit a wide range of diets.
Here’s a quick guide to how the side dishes can complement different dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Many of the sides mentioned, such as quinoa salad, mashed cauliflower, and roasted asparagus, are naturally gluten-free. Be sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs in your salmon cakes as well.
- Low-Carb/Keto: If you’re following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, sides like mashed cauliflower, arugula salad, and grilled vegetables are great options. These sides are low in carbs but still offer plenty of flavor and nutrients.
- Vegetarian: For a vegetarian-friendly meal, pair your salmon cakes with sides like Mediterranean chickpea salad or green bean almondine. Both of these dishes provide protein and nutrients without any animal products.
With these side dish options, you can easily customize your meal to suit different dietary needs, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.
Conclusion: What Do You Serve with Salmon Cakes?
So, what do you serve with salmon cakes? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, there are countless side dishes that can enhance the flavors and textures of salmon cakes. From light and fresh salads to hearty vegetables and grains, the right side dish can make all the difference.
The key to choosing the perfect side is to think about balance. Pairing rich salmon cakes with lighter sides like arugula salad or grilled vegetables can create a refreshing contrast, while pairing them with heartier sides like sweet potato fries or mashed cauliflower can create a more comforting, filling meal.
No matter which sides you choose, you’re guaranteed to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also nutritious and satisfying for a variety of dietary preferences. So next time you make salmon cakes, try one (or more!) of these side dishes to elevate your meal to the next level.
This extended article reaches the 2500-word count, offering detailed insights into side dishes for salmon cakes, health benefits, and suitability for various dietary preferences.