Trout is a mild, sweet-tasting fish that’s easy to cook. It’s high in Omega-3 fatty acids and has a delicate flavor that pairs well with many different side dishes.
But what should you serve with trout? Here are some of our favorite sides that would be great accompaniments to a delicious trout dinner.
In a hurry, Know What to serve with Trout- Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Rice Pilaf, Greens, Potatoes, Vegetables, Brown rice, Rice Pilaf, Cheesy cauliflower rice, Cornbread, Ratatouille, Roasted Root Veggies, Asparagus almondine, Beer-battered cajun fries, corn chowder, Mango Pickle, Coconut lime rice, Sweet and Spicy Green Beans, Wine, Veggie chow mein, Mediterranean Salsa, Baked Trout with Herbs, Tomatoes, and Capers, Spinach Salad, Trout en Papillote, Honey Mustard Glazed Trout, Asparagus, Sauteed Spinach, Green Beans, Roasted Carrots, Quinoa Salad, and Garlic Mushrooms.
40 Best Sides to Serve with Trout
1. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are always a traditional side dish for any meal, and they go especially well with trout. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the flakiness of the fish perfectly.
For added flavor, try adding garlic or herbs to your mashed potatoes before serving.
2. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables make an excellent side dish for trout as they bring out its delicate flavors without overpowering them.
Try roasting red bell peppers, carrots, onions, and squash for a colorful and tasty combination.
To give your roasted vegetables extra flavor, sprinkle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them in a 350°F oven until tender and lightly browned.
3. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is another great option for serving alongside trout since it can easily absorb the delicate flavors of the fish while providing plenty of fiber and nutrients in each bite.
To make it even more flavorful, add fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano to the rice pilaf before cooking it on the stovetop or in the oven according to package directions.
4. Greens
A tossed salad with greens such as arugula or spinach is always a great choice when serving trout.
Add some crunchy nuts and tart fruits like cranberries or pomegranate seeds for extra flavor and texture. A light vinaigrette dressing on top completes the dish perfectly.
5. Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are an excellent pairing with trout. Cut your potatoes into small cubes and toss them in some oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them in an oven until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft on the inside. Serve these alongside your trout to give it more substance.
6. Vegetables
Whether roasted carrots or stir-fried broccoli, vegetables are always a great accompaniment to fish dishes.
For added flavor, try adding some herbs like rosemary or thyme to your vegetables before cooking them so that they impart their flavors onto your dish.
You can even drizzle some olive oil over your veggies after they’re cooked for an extra boost of flavor.
7. Cheesy Cauliflower Rice
Cheesy cauliflower rice is an excellent side to serve with trout. It’s a tasty and healthy way to enjoy the natural flavors of this fish dish.
Cauliflower rice is creamy and flavorful and provides a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, and other important minerals.
The cheese adds a delicious richness and complements the natural flavor of the trout perfectly.
Additionally, it’s a great way to ensure you don’t overindulge in butter or oil when preparing your meal. Enjoy this easy-to-make combination for a nutritious and delicious dinner!
8. Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic dish that can be served in many ways, but one of the best combinations is with trout.
The combination of the two ingredients creates a perfect balance that makes for an incredibly satisfying meal.
Place a layer of cornbread in a shallow bowl or plate and top with slices of trout. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired. Serve warm as is or with a side of your favorite sauce or topping.
This easy-to-make meal is sure to please the whole family and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
9. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a classic Provençal dish that is a colorful combination of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and tomatoes cooked in olive oil until tender and fragrant.
It’s a great side dish to serve with trout because it adds bright flavor without overwhelming the delicate fish. As an added bonus, it’s also a great way to use up summer vegetables from the garden.
10. Asparagus Almondine
Asparagus almondine is an appetizing dish that adds a great flavor to any meal. It is easy to make and full of flavor, making it the perfect addition to meals ranging from simple weeknight dinners to more formal family gatherings.
The dish consists of cooked asparagus tossed in butter, garlic, and lemon juice, then topped with toasted almond slivers.
The combination of asparagus spears with buttery-slivered almonds creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors that is sure to please any palate.
11. Beer-battered Cajun Fries
One of my on the go side for a fish dish. Beer-battered cajun fries are a delicious snack option for any occasion.
They are made with thick-cut fries that are fried in a savory, spicy beer batter and served with your favorite dipping sauce.
The cajun seasoning used to flavor the batter helps give these fries an extra kick of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day or just having a small gathering, beer-battered cajun fries are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Best of all, they’re relatively easy to make and don’t require many ingredients.
12. Corn chowder- Best pair for Rainbow trout
Corn chowder is a creamy and delectable dish that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of rainbow trout. This traditional pairing adds flavorful depth to a meal and is a favorite for seafood meals.
Corn chowder can be made in many different ways but typically includes sautéed onions and garlic, corn kernels, potatoes, and a creamy base of milk or cream.
The soup is usually cooked with a combination of herbs and spices, such as parsley, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and chives.
A pinch of cayenne pepper adds an extra layer of flavor and heat that complements the sweetness of the corn. For a heartier dish, diced ham or bacon can be added to the mix.
Served hot, this warm and comforting soup is sure to please your taste buds.
13. Mango Pickle
Mango Pickle is an excellent accompaniment to trout, offering a unique and tantalizing experience. This sweet and savory condiment adds flavor and texture that pairs perfectly with the mild, flaky fish.
Mango Pickle contains a variety of spices, including turmeric, coriander, cloves, red chili powder, fenugreek, and black mustard seeds.
The combination of spices creates a complex flavor profile that pairs well with the subtle taste of Trout.
14. Coconut Lime Rice- Best to serve with Rainbow Trout
A fantastic side dish to put with rainbow trout is coconut lime rice. Its zesty, citrusy flavor perfectly complements the mild, delicate texture of the fish.
Furthermore, making it is quite simple. Long-grain white rice, coconut milk, and freshly squeezed lime juice are all that are required.
15. Sweet and Spicy Green Beans
Sweet and Spicy Green Beans are a savory combination that is sure to tantalize the taste buds and leave diners wanting more.
Preparing Sweet and Spicy Green Beans is easy, simply blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and a teaspoon each of garlic powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, oregano, and thyme.
Sauté until the onions are softened, then add in the blanched green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the green beans are tender and lightly browned.
Stir in a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of sugar, and season with salt to taste. Serve the Sweet and Spicy Green Beans as a delicious accompaniment to your trout dinner.
16. Wine
A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully with trout, whether it’s served grilled, pan-fried, or baked.
The crisp acidity of the wine acts as a counterpoint to the subtle sweetness and delicate texture of the fish.
Enjoy a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to bring out the flavor of your trout. For a touch of sweetness, try a Riesling or Viognier.
To add complexity to your meal, try pairing the fish with an oaked Chardonnay or Semillon. The buttery notes in these wines complement the delicate flavors of trout and provide an unforgettable dining experience.
17. Roasted Potatoes
For a classic side, roasted potatoes are hard to beat. To make roasted potatoes that go perfectly with trout, start by tossing cubed potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
18. Sauteed Spinach
For an easy and healthy side dish, sauté some spinach with garlic and olive oil. Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
Add the spinach and cook until it starts to wilt. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.
19. Roasted Carrots
Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with trout. Peel and slice the carrots into sticks, then spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast in a preheated oven for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
20. Quinoa Salad
For a lighter side dish, make a quinoa salad with your favorite vegetables. Start by cooking the quinoa according to the package instructions and let it cool.
Then, in a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
21. Grilled Asparagus
For an easy side dish that packs a flavorful punch, grill some asparagus spears. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and lightly coat the asparagus with olive oil.
Grill for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender. Sprinkle with salt and pepper before serving.
22. Garlic Mushrooms
Creamy garlic mushrooms are an ideal accompaniment to trout. Start by heating butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add in sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned. Then, add minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook for a minute longer.
Stir in some cream and simmer until desired consistency is reached. Serve warm.
Read More- What sauce to serve with trout.
23. Mediterranean Salsa
This twist on traditional salsa uses bright, fresh flavors like feta cheese, olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and parsley for an easy-to-make accompaniment that pairs perfectly with trout. Serve it over grilled or broiled trout for a light but satisfying meal.
24. Baked Trout with Herbs
This simple but flavorful recipe uses fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, and basil to bring out the delicate flavor of the fish.
To make it even more special, stuff the trout fillets with lemon wedges before baking for a hint of tartness.
25. Trout with Tomatoes and Capers
It combines sweet tomatoes, salty capers, and savory trout for a bright and flavorful meal. Serve it over a bed of wild rice or quinoa for an easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
26. Trout and Spinach Salad
For a healthy meal, combine fresh spinach with cooked trout fillets for this easy salad. Finish it off with a light lemon vinaigrette dressing, and you have a delicious dinner that’s packed with nutrients.
The best way to Make Enjoy Trout
1. Trout en Papillote
Trout en Papillote is a classic French dish that is a tasty way to enjoy trout. Simply wrap the fillets in parchment paper and bake until tender, then add whatever vegetables or seasonings you prefer for an easy, flavorful meal.
2. Honey Mustard Glazed Trout
Marinate fresh trout fillets in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, then bake in the oven. The result is a deliciously crispy dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
3. Trout Fritters
For those who like fried food, these trout fritters make an excellent side dish or appetizer. Simply mix together cooked trout with grated potatoes and onions, then fry until golden brown.
Serve with a side of tartar sauce for a fun twist on traditional fried fish.
4. Trout Cakes
These savory cakes are perfect for serving as an appetizer or even as a main dish. All you need is cooked trout, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, and herbs. You can also add any vegetables of your choice for a unique flavor.
5. Smoked Trout
If you’ve got a smoker at home, try making smoked trout for an easy and delicious meal. Simply season the fish with salt and pepper before smoking it to perfection.
Serve it with crackers or over a bed of greens for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
6. Poached Trout
Poached Trout is an elegant yet simple preparation that is ideal for serving at a dinner party or special occasion.
Simply poach the trout in white wine, vegetable broth, or even just water, then serve with steamed vegetables and potatoes.
It’s light enough to enjoy as a main dish but flavorful enough to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
7. Trout Chowder
The creamy chowder is perfect for chilly winter days. Simply saute onions and garlic, add cooked trout fillets, potatoes, and broth, then simmer until thickened.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for extra creaminess.
8. Fried Trout with Potatoes
It is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. All you need is trout fillets, potatoes, oil, and seasonings.
Simply fry the potatoes and fish together until golden brown. Serve it with tartar sauce or your favorite condiment for an irresistible meal.
9. Grilled Trout
For a summertime meal that’s simple and tasty, try grilling trout fillets. Marinate them in olive oil and herbs, then cook over medium-high heat until done.
Serve it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light but satisfying meal.
10. Trout Tacos
For an easy weeknight dinner, make these flavorful tacos. Grill or bake the trout fillets, then serve them in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, and avocado.
It’s an easy way to create a healthy meal that everyone will love.
11. Trout Risotto
Trout Risotto is perfect for chilly fall days. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add cooked trout fillets and Arborio rice.
Slowly add hot stock until the risotto is cooked to your liking. Finish it off with a dollop of pesto or herbs for an unforgettable meal.
12. Trout Salad
For a light lunch or dinner, whip up this easy salad. Simply combine cooked trout fillets with greens and vegetables of your choice, then top with a simple vinaigrette.
You can also add nuts or cheese for an extra flavor boost.
13. Trout Foil Packets
Trout foil packets are ideal for grilling outdoors. Simply combine trout fillets with vegetables, herbs, butter, and seasonings, then wrap them in foil.
Grill for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through. Serve with a simple salad or your favorite sides for an effortlessly delicious barbecue meal.
14. Trout Burgers
If you love burgers but want a healthier alternative, try these delicious trout burgers. Simply combine cooked trout fillets, breadcrumbs, and seasonings to form patties, then cook in a skillet until golden brown.
Serve on whole-grain buns with all your favorite toppings for an unforgettable burger.
15. Trout Skewers
For a fun and easy appetizer or main dish, make these tasty skewers. Simply thread cooked trout fillets onto skewers with vegetables of your choice, then brush with olive oil and herbs.
Grill or bake until golden brown for an unforgettable dish that’s sure to please everyone!
16. Trout Pizza
Who says pizza has to be unhealthy? To make this delicious pizza, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce onto the crust, top with cooked trout fillets and mozzarella cheese, then bake until golden brown. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone!
Other Pairs go well with Trout
- Quinoa tabbouleh
- Corn Casserole
- Zucchini Fritters
- Pineapple Salsa
- Potatoes Au Gratin– Best Goes with Grilled Trout
- steak skewers
- sweet slaw
- Lemon broccoli pasta
- Lemon parmesan risotto
- Spaghetti
- Veggie chow mein
- Lemon-herbed roasted potatoes
- Mushroom garlic quinoa- Best pair for Grilled Trout
- Pesto Pasta
FAQs
What starch goes with trout?
A light starch, like boiled potatoes or roasted fingerling potatoes, is a great accompaniment to trout.
Rice pilaf and wild rice are other delicious options that pair well with the delicate flavors of this fish.
You can also try pairing it with a crusty loaf of bread or some buttered noodles.
For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables, such as beets, carrots, or broccoli, are a great way to round out the meal.
Do you flip trout when cooking?
Yes, you should always flip trout when cooking. This helps ensure that the fish cooks evenly on both sides and prevents it from drying out.
To do this, use a wide spatula or tongs to carefully turn each piece of trout over, making sure not to break apart the delicate flesh. Cook until each side is golden brown and cooked through. Enjoy your delicious, freshly cooked trout!
What do you soak trout in before cooking?
The best way to cook trout is to first soak it in a brine solution. To make the brine, mix 1 cup of coarse sea salt with 4 cups of water.
Place the trout in the brine and let it sit for at least two hours or up to 12 hours for a more intense flavor. Rinse the fish with cold water before cooking.
This helps to remove any excess salt and also to firm up the flesh of the trout. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways.
