Best side dishes to serve with grilled fish?

[dimi_pat]

Now that the weather is getting warmer, I’ve been grilling fish more often, usually things like branzino, salmon, or whole dorade with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. The fish itself always turns out great, but I feel like I fall into the same side dishes every single time and could use some new ideas.

I usually do something simple like roasted potatoes or a Greek salad, which I love, but I’m curious what everyone else likes serving alongside grilled fish. Do you prefer lighter sides that let the fish stand out, or more filling dishes to make it a complete meal?

I’m especially interested in traditional Greek combinations if anyone has favorites. Things like horta, gigantes, rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or even dips and spreads. I’d love ideas that feel fresh, summery, and Mediterranean without being too heavy. What side dishes do you always come back to with grilled fish?

 

[Rízes Hellenic Genealogy]

Dandelion greens, just be careful you pick them from the side of a highway. The ones in your yard may have pesticides and you don't want them.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I always come back to lighter Greek sides with grilled fish because I like letting the fish stay the star. Horta is probably my favorite, especially with lots of lemon and good olive oil. It feels simple but somehow completes the meal.

I also love ladera-style vegetables in summer, especially green beans or briam served at room temperature. Grilled zucchini and eggplant with skordalia on the side can be really good too if you want something with more flavor. Another underrated one is lemon rice with fresh dill and parsley instead of a heavier pilaf.

If I’m grilling whole fish, I’ll sometimes just do crusty bread, fava, capers, sliced tomatoes, and a cold glass of white wine. That combination feels very Greek summer to me and never gets old.