Looking for the best side dishes for fish ? Take a look at list of the top 28 side dishes that pair exceptionally well with fish. From nutrient-packed salads and vibrant vegetables to comforting grains and flavorful starches, I’m sure you’ll find what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a gourmet feast, these easy-to-make side dishes will add color, texture, and depth to your fish ensuring a complete and balanced meal.
1 Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
The Perfect Pairing
When it comes to a perfectly grilled fish, nothing beats the simple elegance of grilled asparagus. With a splash of lemon zest, this side dish not only complements the delicate flavors of your fish but also provides a burst of freshness that elevates the meal.
Nutritious and Delicious
Grilled asparagus is both a tasty and nutritious side dish. High in fiber and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it’s a guilt-free addition to your fish dinner.
Personalize Your Asparagus
Don’t hesitate to tweak this side dish to suit your personal taste. Add parmesan cheese for a richer flavor or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2 Couscous Salad
A Vibrant Companion
Couscous salad is a versatile and vibrant side that pairs beautifully with fish. It’s light yet satisfying, and the combination of fluffy couscous with fresh vegetables offers a pleasing contrast of textures.
A Nutrient Boost
This salad is more than just a pretty dish; it’s packed with nutrients, providing a good dose of fiber and vitamins to complement your healthy fish meal.
Customize Your Salad
Feel free to experiment with different veggies, herbs, or even fruits in your couscous salad. The possibilities are virtually endless, ensuring your meal never gets boring.
3 Garlic Roasted Potatoes
A Comforting Classic
Garlic roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs excellently with any fish. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with garlic flavor, these potatoes can make any meal feel like a special occasion.
Nutritious Comfort Food
Despite being a comforting dish, these roasted potatoes also offer a good dose of essential nutrients, including potassium and vitamin C.
Personalize Your Potatoes
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in your garlic roasted potatoes. Add rosemary, thyme, or even smoked paprika for a unique twist.
4 Coleslaw with Apple and Yogurt Dressing
A Crunchy Delight
Coleslaw with apple and yogurt dressing offers a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of fish. The tangy sweetness of the apple and the creaminess of the yogurt dressing make this coleslaw uniquely satisfying.
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Nutritious and Refreshing
This coleslaw is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. The cabbage and apple provide a good dose of dietary fiber, while the yogurt adds a touch of protein.
Make it Your Own
Don’t hesitate to customize this coleslaw according to your preferences. Swap out the yogurt for a vegan mayo to make it dairy-free or add other fruits like pineapple for extra sweetness.
5 Quinoa Pilaf
A Superfood Side
Quinoa pilaf is a fantastic side dish for fish. This superfood, when cooked with vegetables and herbs, creates a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying dish.
Packed with Nutrients
Quinoa is known for its high protein content and the range of essential vitamins and minerals it provides. It’s a wonderful addition to any balanced meal, adding a good dose of fiber and complex carbohydrates.
Versatility is Key
The beauty of a quinoa pilaf lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, or even nuts and dried fruits for a unique twist on this nutritious side dish.
6 Grilled Corn on the Cob
A Summertime Classic
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summertime side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled fish. Its natural sweetness and smoky flavors from the grill complement the delicate flavor of fish beautifully.
Nutritious and Delicious
Corn is more than just a tasty side. It provides valuable nutrients, including fiber and B vitamins, making it a healthful addition to your meal.
Customize Your Corn
Feel free to get creative with your grilled corn. Top it with a sprinkle of chili powder, a squeeze of lime, or a smear of herbed butter to take it to the next level.
7 Sauteed Green Beans with Almonds
A Sophisticated Side
Sauteed green beans with almonds is a sophisticated side that pairs beautifully with fish. The crunch of the almonds and the tenderness of the green beans offer a delightful contrast, while the simple seasonings let the natural flavors shine through.
Power-Packed Nutrition
Green beans are a low-calorie vegetable packed with vitamins and dietary fiber, while almonds add a dose of healthy fats and protein to this side dish.
Make it Your Own
Experiment with different herbs or add a splash of lemon juice for a different flavor profile. This side dish is flexible and easily tailored to your preferences.
8 Baked Sweet Potato Fries
A Healthier Alternative
Baked sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to traditional french fries and pair wonderfully with fish. Their natural sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of your fish.
Nutrient-Rich and Satisfying
Sweet potatoes are known for being a nutrient powerhouse, offering a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Personalize Your Fries
Feel free to experiment with seasonings to suit your palate. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or garlic powder can add an exciting twist to your sweet potato fries.
9 Grilled Zucchini with Parmesan
A Perfectly Balanced Side
Grilled zucchini topped with parmesan cheese is a simple yet delicious side dish that complements fish beautifully. The smoky, tender zucchini and the rich, salty parmesan create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Light and Nutritious
Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in various vitamins and minerals. Adding parmesan cheese gives a boost of protein and calcium to this light side dish.
Customize Your Zucchini
Try topping your grilled zucchini with different cheeses or herbs. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity.
10 Cauliflower Rice
A Low-Carb Companion
Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb side dish that pairs beautifully with fish. Light and versatile, it provides a canvas for various flavors while keeping your meal light and balanced.
Nutrient-Dense and Satisfying
Despite its light nature, cauliflower is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Transforming it into rice makes for a satisfying side that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Personalize Your Cauliflower Rice
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the cauliflower rice. Try adding a splash of lime juice and chopped cilantro for a Mexican-inspired version, or stir in some coconut milk for a tropical twist.
11 Mango Salsa
A Tropical Twist
Mango salsa provides a refreshing and tropical twist to your fish meal. The sweetness of the mango, the crunch of the peppers, and the tang from the lime create a lively side dish that can make your meal feel like a summer getaway.
Vitamin-Rich and Vibrant
Mangoes are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C. Paired with peppers and onions, this salsa is a colorful and healthy addition to your fish.
Customize Your Salsa
Add some heat with a chopped jalapeno or include some diced avocado for extra creaminess. This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own.
12 Steamed Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic
A Simple yet Satisfying Side
Steamed broccoli with lemon and garlic is a simple yet satisfying side that pairs perfectly with fish. The bright lemon and pungent garlic elevate the earthy flavor of the broccoli, creating a side dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Power-Packed Nutrition
Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The addition of lemon and garlic not only boosts the flavor but also adds to its health benefits.
Make it Your Own
Experiment with other citrus fruits like lime or orange for a different tang, or sprinkle some chili flakes for a spicy kick.
13 Tomato and Cucumber Salad
A Refreshing Companion
Tomato and cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish that complements fish beautifully. It’s light, crisp, and with a simple vinaigrette, the natural flavors of the vegetables shine through.
Bursting with Nutrients
Both tomatoes and cucumbers are rich in various vitamins and minerals, providing a nutrient-dense side that is as healthy as it is delicious.
Customize Your Salad
Feel free to add more veggies to this salad or top it with feta cheese for extra creaminess. You can also experiment with the dressing by adding different herbs and spices.
14 Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
A Quick and Easy Side
Sauteed spinach with garlic is a quick and easy side dish that pairs well with almost any fish. The slightly bitter spinach and aromatic garlic create a pleasing contrast of flavors.
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Nutrient-Rich and Low Calorie
Spinach is known for its high nutrient content, offering a hefty dose of vitamins A, C, K, and iron. Garlic, on the other hand, is known for its many health benefits, making this a super healthy side.
Make it Your Own
Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes to your sauteed spinach for a flavor boost. You can also stir in some toasted nuts for added crunch.
15 Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
A Low-Carb Comfort Food
Garlic mashed cauliflower is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. It’s creamy, garlicky, and pairs well with all kinds of fish.
Nutrient-Packed and Satisfying
Cauliflower is packed with nutrients and fiber, while the garlic adds a good dose of antioxidants. This is a comfort food you can feel good about eating.
Personalize Your Mash
Experiment with different herbs or add some cheese for extra creaminess. This side dish is adaptable to suit your taste buds.
16 Roasted Asparagus with Lemon
An Elegant Side Dish
Roasted asparagus with lemon is an elegant side dish that is simple to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. The tangy lemon perfectly complements the earthy asparagus.
Loaded with Nutrients
Asparagus is a great source of fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K. Adding lemon boosts its vitamin C content and enhances the flavors.
Make it Your Own
Experiment with different seasonings like garlic, parmesan, or chili flakes to enhance the taste of this dish.
17 Greek Salad
A Classic Mediterranean Side
Greek salad, with its refreshing tomatoes, cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, is a classic Mediterranean side that pairs wonderfully with fish.
Nutrient-Dense and Tasty
With a variety of vegetables and the addition of feta cheese, this salad is packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Customize Your Salad
Add olives for a salty kick or include bell peppers for extra crunch. The versatility of a Greek salad allows you to make it your own.
18 Sautéed Mushrooms
A Rich and Savory Side
Sautéed mushrooms are a rich and savory side dish that beautifully complements the delicate flavors of fish. The earthy mushrooms, cooked with garlic and herbs, create a satisfying umami flavor.
High in Nutrients
Mushrooms are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, including B vitamins, selenium, and potassium.
Customize Your Mushrooms
Experiment with different types of mushrooms or add a splash of white wine for a gourmet twist.
19 Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Garlic Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with fish. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts, while the garlic and Parmesan add a depth of flavor.
Packed with Nutrients
Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Personalize Your Brussels Sprouts
Feel free to experiment with other seasonings or add some chopped bacon for a smoky flavor.
20 Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
A Low-Carb Pasta Substitute
Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are a great low-carb substitute for traditional pasta. Light, fresh, and slightly crunchy, zoodles pair beautifully with fish.
Nutrient-Dense and Versatile
Zucchini is a good source of many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Making them into noodles adds a fun and versatile element to your meal.
Customize Your Zoodles
Toss your zoodles in a flavorful sauce, or sauté them with garlic and olive oil. You can also mix in other spiralized vegetables for added color and nutrients.
21 Quinoa Tabbouleh
A Nutrient-Rich Side Dish
Quinoa tabbouleh is a twist on the traditional Middle Eastern salad. The protein-packed quinoa pairs perfectly with the fresh parsley, tomatoes, and tangy lemon dressing, complementing the flavor of fish dishes.
Loaded with Health Benefits
Quinoa is a superfood rich in protein and fiber. Along with the freshness of herbs and vegetables, it creates a nutrient-dense side dish.
Personalize Your Tabbouleh
Feel free to add in some feta cheese, olives, or even chickpeas for added protein. This side dish is adaptable to suit your taste buds.
22 Roasted Root Vegetables
A Versatile Side Dish
Roasted root vegetables are a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with fish. The natural sweetness of the vegetables is brought out by roasting, providing a delightful contrast to the savory fish.
Nutrient-Packed and Delicious
Root vegetables are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Roasting them enhances their flavors while preserving their nutrient content.
Customize Your Roast
Experiment with different types of root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or beets, and season with your preferred herbs and spices.
23 Cauliflower Steaks
A Low-Carb, Vegan Side
Cauliflower steaks are a delicious, low-carb and vegan side that is both satisfying and healthy. Seasoned and roasted until golden, they are a great companion to fish dishes.
Nutrient-Dense and Tasty
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that’s packed with vitamins and fiber. It can easily take on the flavors of the seasonings you choose.
Customize Your Cauliflower Steaks
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like garlic, parmesan, or chili flakes to enhance the taste of the cauliflower steaks.
24 Caramelized Onions and Peppers
A Flavorful Side Dish
Caramelized onions and peppers are a simple, flavorful side that pairs well with fish. The sweetness of the caramelized vegetables complements the savory notes of the fish.
Nutritious and Delicious
Both onions and peppers are high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Caramelizing them enhances their natural sweetness while preserving their nutrients.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to add other vegetables or season with your preferred spices to create a side dish that suits your palate.
25 Mediterranean Couscous Salad
A Fresh and Vibrant Side
Mediterranean couscous salad, with its fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and fluffy couscous, is a vibrant side that pairs wonderfully with fish.
Nutrient-Rich and Tasty
Couscous is a good source of protein and fiber, and when combined with various vegetables, it creates a nutrient-rich side dish.
Customize Your Salad
Add in olives, feta cheese, or chickpeas for added flavor and nutrition. This salad is versatile and adaptable to suit your taste buds.
26 Spicy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
A Sweet and Spicy Side
These spicy baked sweet potato fries bring a balance of sweet and spicy flavors that complement fish dishes exceptionally well. The oven-baked approach keeps them healthier than the traditional fried version.
Full of Vitamins
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin A and fiber, offering a nutritious alternative to regular potatoes.
Customize Your Fries
Feel free to adjust the level of spice or add your favorite seasoning to personalize this dish to your liking.
27 Creamy Polenta
A Comforting Side
Creamy polenta is a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with fish, offering a smooth, buttery texture that contrasts nicely with the flaky fish.
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Rich in Fiber
Polenta, made from cornmeal, is a good source of fiber and can be a satisfying addition to your meal.
Make it Your Own
Add cheese, herbs, or even a touch of garlic to your polenta to enhance its flavor. It’s a very adaptable side.
28 Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Dressing
A Smoky and Creamy Side
Grilled eggplant with tahini dressing combines smoky grilled flavors with a creamy, tangy dressing, making it an interesting side dish to accompany fish.
Loaded with Health Benefits
Eggplant is a high-fiber, low-calorie food that’s rich in nutrients while tahini provides a good amount of healthy fats.
Customize Your Dish
Consider adding a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs to this dish for added color and flavor.
Conclusion
The perfect side dish can truly elevate your fish meal to new culinary heights. This list of the top 28 side dishes for fish dishes offers an array of flavors and textures to suit every palate. Each side dish, with its unique qualities, complements the delicate flavor of fish, while also providing essential nutrients. So why wait? Try these recipes today and discover the joy of creating a perfectly harmonious meal with these delightful accompaniments. Bon appétit!
