Salmon is a tasty and healthy fish that pairs well with many side dishes.

Rice is a popular choice to serve with salmon due to its versatility and ability to soak up flavors.

There are lots of different ways to prepare rice that can complement salmon perfectly.

You can make your salmon meal more exciting by trying new rice side dishes. This article will give you ideas for 13 tasty rice dishes to serve with salmon.

From simple preparations to more complex recipes, you’ll find options to suit different tastes and cooking skills.

These rice sides will help round out your meal and make your salmon dinners even better.

1. Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf

Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf is a tasty side dish for salmon. To make it, cook white rice in chicken broth for extra flavor.

Add lemon zest and juice to give the rice a bright, citrusy taste.

Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for color and aroma.

Sauté some garlic and shallots before adding the rice for depth. A pat of butter at the end makes the pilaf rich and creamy.

This light and fragrant rice complements salmon perfectly. The lemon brightens the fish while the herbs add freshness.

2. Garlic Butter Rice

Garlic butter rice is a tasty side dish for salmon.

Start by cooking white rice as usual. While it cooks, melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is golden and fragrant.

Once the rice is done, mix in the garlic butter. Add salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

This rice complements salmon well. The rich, garlicky taste pairs nicely with the fish.

It’s easy to make and adds a delicious touch to your meal.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice

Cilantro lime rice adds a zesty kick to your salmon dinner. Cook white or jasmine rice according to package directions.

Once done, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

The bright, fresh flavors complement the rich salmon perfectly. For extra flavor, add a bit of minced garlic or lime zest.

This simple side dish comes together quickly and elevates your meal. You can adjust the amount of cilantro and lime to suit your taste preferences.

4. Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto is a creamy, flavorful rice dish that pairs wonderfully with salmon. The earthy mushrooms complement the rich taste of the fish.

To make mushroom risotto, you’ll need arborio rice. This short-grain rice releases starch as it cooks, creating a creamy texture.

Start by sautéing mushrooms with garlic and onions. Add the rice and gradually stir in warm broth.

The slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb the liquid and develop a velvety consistency.

Finish your risotto with Parmesan cheese and butter for extra richness. The result is a luxurious side dish that enhances your salmon meal.

5. Coconut Jasmine Rice

Coconut jasmine rice makes a delicious side dish for salmon. To make it, rinse jasmine rice and cook it in a mixture of coconut milk and water.

The coconut milk gives the rice a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. For extra taste, you can stir in some shredded coconut at the end.

This rice pairs well with grilled or baked salmon.

The tropical flavors of the coconut complement the richness of the fish. You can garnish the rice with chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

6. Parmesan Garlic Rice

Parmesan garlic rice is a tasty side dish that goes great with salmon. You can make it easily at home.

Start by cooking rice in chicken broth for extra flavor.

While the rice cooks, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Mix the cooked rice with the garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit of butter.

For a crispy top, spread the mixture in a baking dish and sprinkle more cheese on top. Bake until golden and bubbly.

The result is a creamy, cheesy rice with a punch of garlic that complements salmon perfectly.

7. Spanish Yellow Rice

Spanish yellow rice adds a burst of color and flavor to your salmon dish. You can make this tasty side in just a few steps.

Start by sautéing onions, green peppers, and garlic in oil. Add rice, water, and seasonings like saffron or Bijol for that signature yellow hue.

Simmer the rice until tender, then stir in peas and pimentos for extra flavor and color. Let it rest for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork.

This vibrant rice pairs perfectly with salmon, adding a touch of Spanish flair to your meal.

8. Wild Rice with Cranberries

Wild rice with cranberries makes a tasty side for salmon. This dish combines nutty wild rice with tart dried cranberries for a flavorful contrast.

To make it, cook wild rice in chicken broth for extra flavor. Add dried cranberries during the last few minutes of cooking. The cranberries will plump up and soften.

For more texture, mix in some toasted pecans. A touch of butter and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can boost the flavors even more.

This colorful side dish looks great on the plate next to salmon. The mix of textures and sweet-tart taste complements the rich fish perfectly.

9. Saffron Rice

Saffron rice makes a luxurious side dish for salmon. To prepare it, soak a pinch of saffron threads in warm water for a few minutes.

Cook basmati rice according to package directions, adding the saffron-infused water. The rice will turn a beautiful golden color and have a subtle floral aroma.

For extra flavor, you can add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt. Some cooks like to stir in slivered almonds or raisins for texture and sweetness.

Serve your saffron rice alongside grilled or baked salmon for an elegant meal. The delicate flavors complement each other nicely without overpowering the fish.

10. Turmeric Rice with Almonds

Turmeric rice with almonds is a tasty and colorful side dish for salmon. To make it, cook basmati rice with turmeric powder for a bright yellow color.

Add toasted sliced almonds for crunch and flavor. You can also mix in some raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness.

Season the rice with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

This vibrant rice pairs well with grilled or baked salmon.

11. Ginger Fried Rice

Ginger fried rice adds a zesty kick to your salmon dinner.

Start by cooking rice as usual. Let it cool completely.

Heat oil in a pan and fry minced ginger until fragrant. Add the cooled rice and stir-fry until hot.

Mix in some soy sauce, green onions, and a dash of sesame oil.

The ginger’s warmth complements the rich salmon perfectly.

You can also toss in some diced vegetables for extra color and nutrition. Serve your ginger fried rice hot alongside your salmon for a tasty meal.

12. Basmati Rice with Spinach

Basmati rice with spinach makes a tasty side for salmon. Cook basmati rice according to package directions. While it cooks, sauté some chopped onion and garlic in olive oil.

Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Mix the spinach mixture into the cooked rice.

Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

For extra flavor, you can stir in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.

The nutty basmati rice pairs nicely with the earthy spinach and rich salmon. This green-flecked rice dish adds color and nutrition to your plate.

13. Mint Pea Rice

Mint pea rice is a refreshing side dish that pairs well with salmon. To make it, cook your favorite rice according to package instructions.

While the rice cooks, prepare the peas. You can use fresh or frozen peas. Steam them until tender.

Mix the cooked rice and peas together. Add chopped fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. A small pat of butter can add richness if you like.

This light, flavorful rice dish is perfect for spring and summer meals with salmon.

Nutritional Benefits of Rice and Salmon

Rice and salmon make a powerful pair when it comes to nutrition. These foods pack a punch of essential nutrients that can boost your health in many ways.

Health Benefits of Brown Rice

Brown rice is a whole grain packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains more nutrients than white rice because it keeps the bran and germ layers. These layers hold most of the grain’s nutrition.

Brown rice gives you:

• Fiber for better digestion • B vitamins for energy • Magnesium for heart health • Selenium to fight cell damage

Eating brown rice may help control blood sugar levels. It can also lower your risk of heart disease. The fiber in brown rice keeps you full longer, which can help with weight control.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Salmon

Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are key for your body and brain to work well.

Omega-3s in salmon can:

• Lower inflammation in your body • Boost brain function and memory • Reduce risk of heart disease • Improve eye health

Salmon also gives you high-quality protein. This helps build and repair tissues in your body. The fish is rich in vitamin D, which keeps your bones strong.

Eating salmon twice a week can greatly improve your health. It’s an easy way to get important nutrients your body needs.

Pairing Rice Textures with Salmon

Rice texture plays a big role in how well it pairs with salmon. The right rice can make your salmon dish even better. Let’s look at how to pick the best rice and add flavor.

Choosing Between Sticky and Fluffy Rice

Sticky rice clings together and soaks up sauces well. It’s great with glazed or saucy salmon. Try short-grain white or sushi rice for sticky options.

Fluffy rice has separate grains. It’s good for lighter salmon dishes. Long-grain white rice or basmati work well here.

For a mix of textures, use medium-grain rice. It’s a bit sticky but still fluffy.

Match your rice texture to your salmon cooking style. Grilled salmon pairs nicely with fluffy rice. Baked salmon in sauce goes well with sticky rice.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

Add herbs and spices to your rice to complement the salmon.

Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives work great. They add a pop of color too.

For spices, try lemon zest, garlic powder, or onion powder. These flavors go well with most salmon recipes.

Make cilantro lime rice for a tasty twist. Cook your rice first. Then mix in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of salt.

Don’t forget about aromatics.

Cook your rice with sliced ginger or garlic cloves. This adds subtle flavor that won’t overpower the salmon.