Salmon is a versatile fish that pairs well with many different kinds of wines. Whether you’re enjoying grilled salmon, smoked salmon, or simply pan-seared filets, there’s a perfect wine to complement the flavors of your dish.
From light and crisp full bodied white wines to richer red wines, here are some great wine pairings for salmon dishes that will really bring out the best in your meal.
Why Salmon Is A Versatile Fish That Pairs Well With Many Different Kinds Of Wines
Salmon is truly a remarkable fish that has the ability to pair well with a wide variety of wines. Whether grilled, poached, or smoked, the versatility of salmon lies in its bold and rich flavor profile. Its high fat content makes it perfect for pairing with a full-bodied red, such as Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon.
On the other hand, a crisp, light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can also complement the delicate flavors of salmon quite nicely. Furthermore, sparkling wines add a refreshing touch to this seafood, elevating the dining experience to a whole new level. From buttery Chardonnays to dry Rosé wines, the options are endless. If you’re looking for an exquisite meal, pairing salmon with the perfect wine is a surefire way to make your palate dance with delight.
Different Salmon Dishes That Pair Well With Wine
Grilled Salmon with Pinot Noir
Grilled salmon is a classic dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, yet packed with flavor that pairs well with Pinot Noir wine. A grilled salmon dish with an herb marinade not only satisfies the cravings but also adds an interesting twist to the dish. When grilling the salmon, be sure not to overcook it. The flesh should be moist and tender, with a light pink color. Serve it with a glass of Pinot Noir for the perfect match.
Smoked Salmon with Chardonnay
You could also try pairing wine with salmon that has been smoked. If you do attempt this a glass of oak aged chardonnay is for sure the way to go. Smoked salmon tends to have a stronger flavor and smoother texture than grilled salmon. Chardonnay is a great choice to pair with smoked salmon as it complements the smoky flavor. Pour yourself a chilled glass of Chardonnay, and serve up this perfectly smoked salmon dish for the whole family to enjoy.
Baked Salmon with Sauvignon Blanc
Baked salmon is a great option for those who enjoy more flavorful and aromatic dishes. Baking salmon with a lemon herb cream sauce not only gives it additional flavor but also the dish an extra dimension. Pair it with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc wine for the perfect way to serve salmon.
Salmon Sushi with Sparkling Wine
Salmon sushi and sparkling wine complement each other well. Raw salmon sushi is a great option for those who perhaps want a lighter meal but still packs a punch. Pair this dish with a glass of sparkling wine like Prosecco or Cava. Light and still with a hint of sweetness, the pairing is a perfect contrast to the savory and slightly salty taste of salmon sushi.
Poached Salmon with Pinot Grigio
Poached salmon is a healthier alternative to other types of salmon dishes. Its delicate texture and mild flavor go well with Pinot Grigio. Poaching salmon in a white wine broth with few herbs enhances its natural flavors and aroma. Serve this dish with a glass of Pinot Grigio for an evening filled with sophistication and decadence.
How Expensive Is A Nice Salmon Dish
The cost of a nice salmon dish often varies depending on the restaurant and the country from which the salmon was sourced. For example, a high-end seafood restaurant in New York City may charge upwards of $40 for a salmon dish, while a more moderately-priced restaurant in the Midwest may only charge around $20. Additionally, if the salmon is brought in from a far-off location, it may be more expensive due to transportation costs. It is important to note that even though salmon dishes can be pricey, they are often worth the cost due to the high quality of the fish and the delectable flavors that accompany it.
How To Keep The Costs Down
One way to keep costs down when ordering salmon dishes is by choosing dishes that incorporate other ingredients. For example, a dish that features salmon as well as rice, vegetables, and sauces may be more affordable than a dish that only features salmon. Additionally, ordering from the appetizer section of the menu can be a great way to try different salmon dishes without breaking the bank.
Try Cooking At Home
Another option for trying salmon dishes is to cook them at home. Though fresh salmon can still be expensive at the grocery store, it is often more affordable than a salmon dish ordered at a restaurant. Plus, cooking at home gives you full control of the ingredients and allows you to experiment with different flavors and cooking techniques.
Final Thoughts About Wine With Salmon
From smoked salmon with Chardonnay to poached salmon with Pinot Grigio, you are sure to find a wine pairing that can bring out the unique flavors and aromas in any type of salmon dish. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant or cooking up something special from home, these tips should help ensure your meal is perfectly paired. Additionally, opting for dishes with other ingredients included may be more cost-effective than ordering an entrée featuring only salmon wine pairings.
While pan-seared filets may benefit from a richer red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, ultimately it comes down to personal preference when choosing which wine pairs best with different types of fish dishes. With so many options available, let your taste buds do the exploring and experiment until you find what works best for you!
