Elevate Your Fish Dinner: Must-Try Side Dishes that Shine

We all love tucking into a delicious fish dinner—the flaky, tender flesh, the subtle sweetness, and the burst of flavour with every mouthful. But let’s be honest, sometimes the sides can be a bit of an afterthought. Bland potato salad, soggy peas, baked beans, or a limp side salad just don’t do our beloved fish justice!

Here’s the thing: well-chosen side dishes can truly elevate your fish dinner from good to great. They can complement the flavours and textures of the fish, adding excitement and variety to every bite. Imagine fluffy orzo with roasted asparagus tingling your taste buds alongside some pan-fried lemon sole or a creamy lemon risotto embracing the richness of grilled salmon. These are the kinds of “shining” side dishes we’re talking about—dishes that don’t steal the show from the fish but enhance the entire dining experience.

We’re about to explore a range of delectable fish dishes that will become your new go-to favourites. From vibrant veggie delights to hearty grain powerhouses, we’ve got something for everyone. Let’s get started!

Beyond the Basics: Side Dishes for Fish

Matching Flavours and Textures

When choosing your side dish recipe, the key to creating a truly harmonious fish dinner lies in considering the type of fish you’re serving. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate this:

• Mild Matters: Don’t be afraid to go bold with the sides for delicate, flaky fish like cod or tilapia! These lighter fish can handle richer flavours and heartier textures beautifully. Think crispy onion rings, creamy mashed potato with a hint of garlic, or a flavourful couscous salad bursting with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs.
• Rich and Refined: A lighter touch with the sides is ideal for richer fish like salmon or tuna. Think vibrant summer salads with a simple vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or even a whole roasted cauliflower. These lighter accompaniments won’t overpower the inherent richness of the fish, allowing its natural flavour to shine.
• Texture Time: Beyond flavour profiles, consider textures as well. Crispy sides like roasted sweet potato wedges or oven-baked french fries create a delightful contrast with the soft flesh of flaky fish. Conversely, creamy dishes like a classic macaroni cheese or a silky avocado salad pair wonderfully with the firmer texture of grilled salmon or swordfish. By playing with textures, you can add a whole new dimension to your fish dinner. 

Vegetable Delights

Vegetables are a very versatile option for fish side dishes. Their natural sweetness and vibrant colours beautifully complement the delicate flavours of fish, and they offer a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals! Here are just a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Roasted to Perfection: Roasting vegetables is a simple yet incredibly flavourful way to prepare them. Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli take on a new life when roasted in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a touch of your favourite herbs. The natural sweetness of the vegetables intensifies, and the caramelised edges add a delightful smokiness.
• Sautéed and Savoury: For a lighter and quicker option, try sautéing your greens. Spinach, Swiss chard, or kale all cook up in a flash and pair wonderfully with fish. Add a touch of garlic and lemon juice for a simple yet elegant flavour boost, or get creative with spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
• Summer Salads that Sing: When the weather heats up, a refreshing summer salad accompanies a light fish dish. Think chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion tossed with a simple vinaigrette and crumbled feta cheese. This vibrant salad adds a burst of freshness and colour to your plate, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Seasoning and cooking methods are key to unlocking the full flavour potential of your vegetables. A sprinkle of salt and pepper can work wonders, and a drizzle of olive oil helps caramelise them in the oven or pan. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create flavour combinations that perfectly complement your chosen fish.

Grain Powerhouses

Grains are another fantastic option for side dishes with fish, offering a satisfying and nutritious element to your meal. They add a delightful textural contrast to the soft flesh of fish, and their versatility allows you to create flavour profiles that perfectly complement your chosen protein. Here are a few grain powerhouses to consider:

• Quinoa: Quinoa has become a superstar in the health food world, and for good reason! This ancient grain boasts a fluffy texture and a slightly nutty flavour that pairs beautifully with fish. Cook it simply with water or vegetable broth for a clean base, or infuse it with herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavour punch. Quinoa also absorbs the flavours of your chosen fish beautifully, making it a versatile side dish.
• Couscous: Couscous is a North African staple perfect for whipping up a quick, easy side dish. This tiny, steamed pasta cooks in a flash and offers a light, fluffy texture that complements richer fish like salmon or tuna. It’s incredibly versatile, too—toss it with chopped vegetables and fresh herbs for a vibrant salad, or dress it with a simple lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing accompaniment.
• Wild Rice: Consider wild rice for a more complex flavour and texture experience. This whole-grain beauty offers a chewy bite with a nutty undertone, adding a delightful contrast to the delicate flavour of fish. Wild rice takes a little longer to cook than other grains, but the wait is well worth it. Try pairing it with a simple lemon butter sauce or experiment with bolder flavours like Cajun spice or a touch of smoked paprika.

The beauty of grains lies in their ability to be transformed with just a few simple additions. Herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or basil can add a touch of freshness, while spices like cumin or turmeric introduce a whole new flavour dimension. Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans add a delightful textural contrast, and even a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese can elevate your side dish to a whole new level. 

Must-Try Side Dish Recipes

Now that we’ve explored the wonderful world of side dishes for fish, let’s get cooking! Here are some delicious and easy-to-follow recipes that are guaranteed to elevate your next fish dinner:

Recipe 3: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Look no further than this Mediterranean chickpea salad for a lighter, flavourful side dish that packs a protein punch. It’s bursting with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zingy lemon dressing, making it the perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or baked cod. This dish is delicious and surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

• 1 (400g) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), diced
• 1 handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup (packed) of fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped (for a salty and briny twist)
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (for a burst of tangy sweetness)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chickpeas: If you’re using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water, then cook them according to package instructions until tender. Canned chickpeas offer a convenient shortcut—simply drain and rinse them well.
2. Chop and Prep: While the chickpeas cook (or if using canned), get chopping! Dice the cucumber, red onion, and capsicum. Halve the cherry tomatoes and roughly chop the fresh parsley and mint.
3. Combine and Dress: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled chickpeas, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For an extra layer of flavour and texture, consider adding chopped Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes. This Mediterranean chickpea salad is a refreshing, protein-rich side dish perfect for a light and healthy meal.

As we’ve seen, side dishes are more than just an afterthought when it comes to fish dinners. They can elevate your meal from good to great, adding flavour, texture, and essential nutrients. So, don’t neglect the sides next time you’re whipping up a delicious fish dish! Experiment with the recipes we’ve shared, explore new flavour combinations and discover the endless possibilities.

Leftover Magic: Turning Fish and Sides into Delicious New Meals

Even the most careful meal planning can sometimes result in leftovers. But fear not! Leftover fish and side dishes can be transformed into exciting new meals with some creativity. Here are some tips to help you work your leftover magic:

• Fishy Fritters: Flake leftover cooked fish and combine it with mashed potato (leftover from your creamy lemon risotto, perhaps?), chopped vegetables, and a touch of fresh herbs. Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry until golden and crispy. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delicious lunch or light dinner.
• Salad Sensations: Leftover roasted vegetables and chickpeas from your Mediterranean salad can be chopped and tossed with leafy greens, crumbled feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette for a quick and healthy lunch salad. Leftover fish can also be added for a protein boost.
• Soup-er Transformation: If you have leftover cooked fish and some vegetable broth, you can create a creamy and comforting fish soup. Simply add the fish, chopped vegetables, and your favourite herbs to the broth and simmer until heated. Finish with a swirl of cream or a squeeze of lemon juice, and enjoy!

A Final Note from Manettas Seafood Market

At Manettas Seafood Market, we’re passionate about providing our customers with the freshest, highest-quality seafood. We also believe that a delicious fish dinner deserves equally delicious sides. So, next time you plan a seafood feast, head down to Manettas and let our friendly staff help you choose the perfect fish and all the trimmings you need to create a meal that will tantalise your taste buds!