If you’re wondering what to serve with your branzino (or Mediterranean sea bass), you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, I list 12 of the most popular side dishes for branzino.
In a rush? Here’s the short answer.
The best side dishes to serve with branzino are Greek lemon potatoes, Mediterranean chopped salad, and onion rings. Other salad options include a kale and quinoa salad, a Greek salad, or a mango slaw. If you want a vegetable side, go for something simple like grilled bok choy or roasted tomatoes.
Ready? Let’s jump right in.
Lemon rice
Lemon rice is a more vibrant alternative to plain rice.
The zesty citrus flavors complement the sweet branzino fish wonderfully, and you’ll have a substantial meal that doesn’t feel heavy.
Plus it’s really easy to make. You only need 5 ingredients.
Psst… long grain rice is best for this recipe, but if you prefer sticker texture, go for short grain rice.
Mediterranean chopped salad
If you’re flavoring your branzino in the classic Mediterranean way with fennel and tomatoes, it’s only right to do the meal justice by serving it alongside a Mediterranean salad.
Bright and refreshing, this chopped salad will be a colorful addition to your dining table.
And it has a tangy mustard and lemon dressing that pairs well with the slightly sweet flavor of your branzino.
Check out the full recipe here.
Greek lemon potatoes
Golden brown, slightly crispy on the outside, and soft and fluffy on the inside, these roasted potatoes are irresistible.
The potatoes are cooked in broth, which infuses them with loads of flavor and keeps them nice and moist.
The end result is halfway between mash and a roast potato (sound weird I know, but it’s true).
These Greek lemon potatoes might take a bit of time, but they’re well worth it.
Roasted tomatoes
Sometimes the simplest sides are the best, and these roast tomatoes are too sweet to turn down.
They look great on the plate, and it’s as easy as popping some tomatoes in the oven.
I like to use on-the-vine tomatoes because it adds a little sophistication to the meal.
Spend with pennies has a quick recipe for roasted tomatoes with balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. YUM!
Want something a bit more involved… try a ratatouille.
Onion rings
How about a crunchy side for your branzino?
You’ll get a beautiful clash of two textures: delicate, soft fish contrasted with the satisfying bite of a crispy onion ring.
I like to cook my onion rings using an air fryer. You can use a lot less oil without compromising on the flavor.
Check out lemon tree dwelling for a simple recipe. She suggests lots of interesting variations, such as a spicy breading with cayenne pepper.
Grilled bok choy
If you’re already firing up the grill for your branzino, make things easier for yourself and grill some bok choy too.
Grilled bok choy is both fresh and smoky at the same time, and it’s perfect for a mild fish because it’s not overpowering.
Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this quick grilled bok choy.
Psst… I also really like grilled zucchini or asparagus with branzino.
Kale and quinoa salad
Looking for a green salad to pair with your delicate branzino?
Look past the classic arugula or lettuce-based salads and try out this kale and quinoa salad instead.
Packed with protein and nutrients, it will leave you feeling full without being overwhelming.
Jenn’s recipe for this salad is a must-try, along with kale and quinoa it’s got chickpeas, broccoli, and red pepper.
Garlic mashed potatoes
Do you have a go-to side dish?
For me, it’s this garlic mashed potato recipe. It goes with everything!
And it’s convenient for busy days, but you can also dress it up for fancy dinners or any special occasion.
For example, if you want to add some Mediterranean flavors to it you can mix in some Greek yogurt (like in this recipe).
Preserved lemon gremolata
This classic Italian condiment will be a fine addition to your branzino feast.
It’s bursting with flavor and will look amazing drizzled over the white, flaky fish.
The sauce is made with parsley, preserved lemons, olive oil, and some chili flakes for a kick of heat (how much you decide!).
What are you waiting for? Fancy up your meal with Sylvia’s fast recipe.
Potato and spinach salad
When you’re serving light fish for dinner, a flavorful salad is a must.
Potato salads are perfect for summer, but the mayonnaise can be too heavy for fish.
Instead, I’d go for something like this warm potato salad with spinach and feta.
The feta adds creaminess to the dish and the spinach adds more earthy notes.
Recreate Fotini’s recipe for your next summer party.
Mango slaw
One of the best things about branzino fish (otherwise known as Mediterranian seabass) is that you can flavor it however you want.
And a popular option is with some Asian flair (think soy sauce, chili, and ginger).
And a great Asian side is mango slaw. It’s sweet, so will balance out any spicy marinade on the fish.
Plus it will make a great Instagram picture!
Traditional Greek salad
Delicate branzino is practically begging for a Greek salad on the side.
And this traditional Greek salad is low in carbs, colorful, and loaded with healthy veggies.
Place a slice of crusty bread on the plate to mop up all the juices, and you have a tasty meal.
Psst… make this salad slightly ahead of time so you can give the flavors time to meld.
The best side dishes for branzino
- Lemon rice
- Mediterranean chopped salad
- Greek lemon potatoes
- Roasted tomatoes
- Onion rings
- Grilled bok choy
- Kale and quinoa salad
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Preserved lemon gremolata
- Potato and spinach salad
- Mango slaw
- Traditional Greek salad

What To Serve With Branzino
Ingredients
- 1 portion branzino
Instructions
- Prepare your branzino according to your favorite recipe.
- In the meantime, choose one of the following sides to serve alongside it.
- Side dishes include: lemon rice, Mediterranean chopped salad, Greek lemon potatoes, roasted tomatoes, onion rings, grilled bok choy, kale and quinoa salad, garlic mashed potatoes, preserved lemon gremolata, potato and spinach salad, mango slaw, and traditional Greek salad.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!