17 Most Popular Side Dishes to Serve With Fish

caesar salad in a white bowl on a blue background
Photo:

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

When it comes to fish, sides are a must. Unlike other meat-mains, fish tends to be lighter and more mild. So a fresh, flavorful dish on the side is always welcome. Whether you're serving up fresh fish on the grill, baking it from frozen, or pan-frying to perfection, there's a side dish on this list that will make your fish a meal. Still looking for the perfect recipe to serve with one of these top-rated sides? Each side dish is paired with a fish recipe that will make for a no-fail dinner. Read on for some of our most popular side dishes to serve with fish.

01 of 18

Oven-Roasted Asparagus

side view of a square white platter of roasted asparagus, focusing on the tips
Kim's Cooking Now

If you've only ever had unhappy experiences with steamed asparagus, this recipe will change how you feel about asparagus forever. "Salty and savory, the roasting method kills the natural bitterness of asparagus. Try it next to grilled fish or lamb," says recipe creator swedishmilk. It's ready in just 25 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish for Maple Salmon.

02 of 18

Vicki's Hush Puppies

Vicki's Hush Puppies

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

"This Southern favorite makes a great side for seafood," says Vicki C.

03 of 18

Sweet Restaurant Slaw

a white ceramic ramekin of coleslaw made with green cabbage and shreds of carrot
KGora

Coleslaw is the perfect pairing for fried fish (especially this Southern Fried Catfish). "This was absolutely delicious, and I'm not even a huge slaw fan! I used two bags of prepared slaw, and made the dressing as directed. Plenty of dressing. Refrigerated overnight, and plenty of sweet, creamy slaw," says reviewer Saveur.

04 of 18

Easy Zucchini Fritters

Easy Zucchini Fritters
Christina

Reviewer Autumn Heather says, "These were just scrumptious! I had been given a huge zucchini and was looking for something to do with it and found this recipe... My mother pronounced them 'Delicious!' twice! We loved 'em!" This is a great way to sneak in some veggies on the side. When paired with Hudson's Baked Tilapia with Dill Sauce, you have a delicious and well-balanced meal.

05 of 18

Quinoa and Black Beans

Quinoa and Black Beans
Dianne

Quinoa, corn, black beans, and fresh cilantro make this a light and colorful side dish for Veracruz-Style Red Snapper. "This satisfies ALL my requirements for a 'great' recipe! Get a load of this, and I am not exaggerating: It's quick and easy, inexpensive, attractive to look at, delicious, and very very healthy. It travels AND refrigerates well and it can be eaten hot or cold," says reviewer Naomi Witzke.

06 of 18

Broccoli and Tortellini Salad

Broccoli and Tortellini Salad
Molly

Pasta is a classic pairing for seafood, and this top-rated tortellini salad is no different. "I have made this dish over three dozen times (for catered events, family parties, etc.). It always gets raves — no leftovers! As recommended by others, I blanch the broccoli florets for about 30 seconds, plunge into ice water until cooled then drain and dry. The broccoli stays a gorgeous green and is easier to eat," says reviewer TLBRAN. Try serving it with this simple Grilled Salmon.

07 of 18

Baked French Fries

Baked French Fries I
Kim's Cooking Now

These homemade seasoned fries are an easy side dish that everyone at the table will love. "These were phenomenally good! Quick and easy — and much tastier than the frozen variety," says reviewer Serena. Pair them with Heavenly Halibut.

08 of 18

Curried Cashew, Pear, and Grape Salad

Curried Cashew, Pear, and Grape Salad
SunnyByrd

Curried cashews, bacon, pears, and red grapes are tossed with mixed greens in a light vinaigrette. "This is a wonderful salad and very forgiving as you can add almost any fruit to it and it still comes out superb! Try adding mandarin oranges — you won't be disappointed," says reviewer Crystal S. It's a flavorful and crunchy side dish for Alaska Salmon Bake with Pecan Crunch Coating.

09 of 18

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower on a black plate
MRSJPVAN2

There are endless ways to cook cauliflower, but this roasted variation has more than 2,000 glowing reviews for a reason. Reviewer naples 34102 says, "This was unlike any cauliflower I have ever eaten — truly special and unique. Whether it's the roasting aspect, or the addition of Parmesan cheese, or the combination of the two, this is a memorable dish, which is saying a lot since after all, this is just cauliflower!" Serve it with Perfect Ten Baked Cod to make this memorable side dish into a memorable meal.

10 of 18

Broccoli with Garlic Butter and Cashews

Broccoli with Garlic Butter and Cashews
Kathy B

This recipe takes steamed broccoli up a notch with a brown sugar, soy sauce, red pepper and garlic sauce. "Loved this — what an interesting flavor! This sauce is so delicious, the cashews aren't even necessary but do use them if you can. I wasn't sure I'd like them but I'm glad I gave them a try because they did add character as well as another layer of flavor. Other than cooking the broccoli for a couple of minutes less than recommended I didn't and wouldn't change a thing," says reviewer naples34102. Give it a try with Salmon with Lemon and Dill.

11 of 18

Roasted Red New Potatoes

Roasted New Red Potatoes with garnish on a white plate
Dianne

It doesn't get much easier than these roasted potatoes — so much so that more than 2,000 people have made this top-rated recipe. Pop it in the oven at the same time as this Baked Flounder with Panko and Parmesan. "We do this ALL the time. It is an excellent, easy and quick side dish for any meat. If you are short on time, zap the potatoes in the microwave for 2-3 minutes and then proceed with the recipe, it will be done in half the time," says reviewer chellebelle.

12 of 18

Sweet and Spicy Greens Beans

Sweet and Spicy Greens Beans
pomplemousse

These green beans are flavored with soy sauce, garlic, chili sauce, and honey for a simple Asian side dish you could serve with Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks. "I've been searching for something like the Szechuan-style green beans I get at the Asian fusion restaurants here in Minneapolis. This one just about hit the nail right on the head," says reviewer Shad Owen.

13 of 18

Asparagus Cashew Rice Pilaf

Asparagus Cashew Rice Pilaf
Christina

Can't decide between a vegetable side dish or rice to go with your fish? This recipes lets you enjoy both. Reviewer Connie K says, "I've been using this recipe for a few months and I like it more every time I make it. I use at least double the amount of asparagus, and increase the amount of cashews. I've taken it to picnics and potlucks, as it is just as good at room temperature as it is hot off the stove. Our family loves this recipe!" Try pairing it with Ginger Glazed Mahi Mahi.

14 of 18

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe
Buckwheat Queen

For a heartier side dish, learn how to make this wildly popular spaghetti recipe that pairs wonderfully with Parmesan Crusted Tilapia Fillets. "This is a classic Italian recipe. My family is from the Italian Alps and use dairy products profusely in cooking. This is a go-to for me when I have leftover pasta," says reviewer ihateliver.

15 of 18

Classic Caesar Salad

caesar salad in a white bowl on a blue background

Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

"I've been using an 'authentic' Caesar recipe for awhile, and this is much, much better (and easier to make). This is going on my list of keepers and will replace any Caesar dressing I make in the future," says reviewer RDZELLMER. The rich anchovy dressing on this classic salad is a beautiful pairing for Capers and Halibut.

16 of 18

Black Bean and Corn Salad II

Black Bean and Corn Salad II
Larkspur

"One of the best recipes on this site. You MUST use fresh lime juice, not that icky stuff in a plastic lime, if you want great flavor. I have made this recipe more times than I can count and there's always half a dozen people at any party who station themselves in front of it and just chow it down all night," says reviewer BINDERSBEE. Make it a meal with some Salmon Patties I.

17 of 18

Creamy Au Gratin Potatoes

cheesy scalloped potatoes in a white and blue dish
lutzflcat

A fan favorite, this recipe has been made by more than 8,000 home cooks! "Creamy, saucy, and delicately flavored potatoes, which are the perfect accompaniment to more robustly seasoned meats," says reviewer naples34102. Try it with Simple Broiled Haddock.

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