Pair Grilled Salmon With A Fruity Salad For Balanced Flavor

You've grilled your salmon to perfection — now what to serve alongside it? According to Florida's Sunseeker Resort Executive Chef Kory Foltz, when it comes to culinary matches, citrus is at the top of the list. The richness of salmon pairs exceptionally well with anything fresh and acidic, says Foltz. "Salmon pairs with so many sides, but my favorite is a nice grilled salmon with a citrus based salad," he said. "Something with great textures, colors, fresh flavors to balance against the hearty grill cooking method." 

Needs ideas? Try a tangy, creamy mixed citrus salad with sliced blood oranges, avocado, feta, and pistachio or opt for a greener choice filled with tangerines and arugula. Slice the salmon into bite-sized pieces and toss directly into your salad for a healthy on-the-go lunch, or simply serve it on the side. 

For added aroma, skip the salad approach and throw a few slices of grapefruit and oranges on the grill (just a few minutes should get you caramelized edges on the fruit). In the summer, grilled peach and watermelon are also tasty options. This approach conveniently allows the fruit to preserve more of its nutrients and can create a uniquely smokey flavor. Just remember when preparing your meal that protein and produce handle seasoning differently.

A citrus slaw offers the same bright, punchy touch. To make it, combine shredded or thinly sliced cabbage and carrots, cilantro, freshly squeezed orange juice and zest, olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, and honey. Similarly a classic pico de gallo with a citrus touch from navel oranges produces a rejuvenating blend. Shred up your salmon with forks, heat a few tortillas, and layer in your slaw or salsa for a refreshing and hearty fish taco dinner.

For a more Asian-inspired take, try combining home-squeezed orange juice, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. You can also opt to slice up your favorite citrus fruit and layer it onto your salmon to allow the flavors to combine while roasting. And if you aren't sure how to most optimally cook salmon, 10 to 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is a safe bet. Optionally, try baking the filets for 10 or so minutes followed by broiling for two minutes for a crispy, caramelized finish. Plus, you can learn from the experts on the top mistakes made when cooking salmon — and how to avoid them.